Alternative therapy course not magic

Prof Iain Graham Head of School, Health & Human Sciences at SCU.

SOUTHERN Cross University has refuted accusations its alternative therapies course are "extraordinary nonsense" and "magic", rather than medicine.

The criticism was reported by the ABC on Friday as having come from a group of 34 doctors and scientists campaigning against what they say is universities legitimising alternative therapies.

Emeritus Professor of Medicine at the University of New South Wales John Dwyer says some courses previously offered at Southern Cross were more "magic" than science, the broadcaster reported.

Professor Iain Graham from Southern Cross University's School of Health yesterday defended his university, saying the use of alternative therapies, such as homeopathy, can be traced as far back as ancient Greece.

The University offers degrees in naturopathy, studies in midwifery, nursing and clinical sciences and this year will see its first 17 graduates of a new degree in osteopathy.

"Eighty per cent of Australians seek alternative therapies," Prof Graham said.

"Obviously orthodox medicine is not working for everyone," he said.

"Of course you need evidence, both empirical and experience, to justify any practices," he said.