Bachelor Of Traditional Chinese Medicine at KPU - Kwantlen Polytechnic University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-08-07

Program overview

The Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (BTCM) is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to practice as Acupuncturists and Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners. This program spans 10 semesters, allowing students to graduate with a Bachelor Degree upon completion. The curriculum is recognized by the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists (CTCMA) in British Columbia, ensuring that graduates meet the academic requirements for licensure. Students have the option to exit the program after 6 semesters with a Diploma in Traditional Chinese Medicine – Acupuncture, or continue to complete the full program. The BTCM program emphasizes a deep understanding of both Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medical practices, preparing graduates for a successful career in the evolving healthcare landscape.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine program is structured to provide a thorough education in Traditional Chinese Medicine over a span of 10 semesters. Key features of the program structure include:

Completion of a Diploma in Traditional Chinese Medicine – Acupuncture after 6 semesters.
Continuation to 10 semesters for a Bachelor Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Integration of both theoretical and practical components, ensuring a well-rounded education.
Focus on TCM theory, practice, philosophy, herbal treatment, and advanced acupuncture.
Opportunities for applied practice and practice management courses.

Students are encouraged to maintain a minimum grade of 'C' in all required courses to ensure successful progression through the program. This structure not only prepares students for licensure but also equips them with the skills needed to operate their own practices effectively.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine program offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning journey:

Hands-on practice through supervised practicums, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
Opportunities to engage in advanced studies and research, fostering critical thinking and evidence-informed practice.
Integration of Eastern and Western medical philosophies, providing a comprehensive understanding of healthcare.
Access to experienced faculty members who guide students through their academic and practical training.
Collaboration with healthcare professionals, enhancing networking and career opportunities.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Acupuncturist: Provide acupuncture treatments to patients, helping to alleviate pain and promote healing.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner: Utilize TCM principles to diagnose and treat various health conditions.
Herbalist: Specialize in the formulation and application of herbal remedies based on TCM practices.
Health Consultant: Advise clients on holistic health practices, integrating TCM with lifestyle changes.
Practice Owner: Establish and manage a private practice, offering TCM services to the community.

These career options reflect the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make significant contributions to the healthcare field in Canada.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2025-08-07

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, the following academic requirements must be met:

Successful completion of a recognized Acupuncture/Traditional Chinese Medicine Diploma (or equivalent).

Once students have received a conditional offer of admission and before final admission to the program is granted, they must submit the following:

Canadian CPR Health Care Provider or Basic Life Support (Note: CPR certification must remain current throughout the program).
An acceptable Criminal Record Check through the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General's Criminal Records Review Program within 6 months prior to the start of the program.
International applicants are required to provide a Criminal Record Search with the Vulnerable Sector from their country of origin.
Immunization Record Form reflecting required immunizations as per Practice Education Guidelines for BC. Note: Practice Education Guidelines (PEG) for BC outline immunizations for vaccine preventable communicable diseases required by students for participation in practice experiences. KPU Faculty of Health is required to comply with these requirements. Students that are unvaccinated may not be able to be accepted into the program. Students who are accepted into the program will also be required to maintain immunizations as per the PEG.

Admission selection will be determined by the date of qualification.

Applicants that have completed a recognized Acupuncture/Traditional Chinese Medicine Diploma, or who are practicing Registered Acupuncturists, may be provided with advanced standing.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For any clarification and support regarding these requirements, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

To apply for the Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through one of the following accepted tests:

KPU English Placement Test (EPT) with placement into ENGL 1100
Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL): Score of 70 or higher with no sub score less than 60, taken within the last two years from the term of admission
Duolingo English Test: Score of 110 or higher, taken within the last two years from the term of admission
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic Test: overall band of 6.5 or higher, with a minimum 6.0 in each band, taken within the last two years from the term of admission
Pearson Test of English (PTE): Score of 61 or higher, taken within the last two years from the term of admission
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): iBT 88 or higher, with no sub score less than 20, taken within the last two years from the term of admission
Accuplacer: Reading score of 260, Writing score of 250 and WritePlacer Essay score of 6, or higher, taken within the last 2 years from the term of admission

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!