Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is now accepting applications to a new Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture Diploma Program that will start in September 2016 as the inaugural program offering by the KPU School of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

“Students interested in traditional Chinese medicine and in practicing acupuncture can now choose to take their training at an established public post-secondary institution,” said Advanced Education Minister Andrew Wilkinson. “This new acupuncture program will launch the establishment of a school of traditional Chinese medicine.”

Students will take courses, including traditional Chinese medicine foundations, acupuncture foundations, western biomedical science and communication and practice management.

“Kwantlen Polytechnic University is poised to become the first public university in B.C. to offer a Traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncture program,” said KPU president and vice-chancellor Alan Davis. “Delivered at our Richmond campus, the program will cover fundamental theory, diagnosis, treatment and clinical practice.”

The entry requirement of the proposed traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture program is 60 undergraduate credits. The acupuncture diploma program includes 86 credits and 460 hours of clinical practice over six semesters.

“The demand for acupuncture education, and the popularity of acupuncture as a complementary medical treatment in B.C., are both clear,” said KPU provost and academic vice-president Salvador Ferreras. “To that end, KPU is excited to lead the way in meeting the needs of its students as well as their future patients.”

The commitment to create an environment for a School of Traditional Chinese Medicine at a publicly funded, post-secondary institution in B.C. is a government platform commitment and was included in the 2013 speech from the throne.

Quick Facts:

• Traditional Chinese Medicine is a designated health profession under the Health Professions Act.
• It is regulated by the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of B.C.
• Individuals must have a valid registration (professional licence) issued by the regulatory college to practice Traditional Chinese Medicine in B.C.

Learn More:

KPU Acupuncture Diploma program: www.kpu.ca/health/acupuncture