University Diploma - Traditional Chinese Medicine - Acupuncture at KPU - Kwantlen Polytechnic University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-08-07

Program overview

Program Overview

The Traditional Chinese Medicine – Acupuncture diploma is a full-time program offered at KPU’s Richmond campus. This unique program is the first of its kind in British Columbia, blending ancient Chinese philosophy with modern Western biomedical science. Students will acquire essential skills to thrive in the acupuncture and Chinese medicine industry, preparing them for a rewarding career in this field.

Program Structure

The Traditional Chinese Medicine – Acupuncture diploma is designed as a 2-year accelerated program that consists of 6 semesters of full-time study. The program has one intake per year, which occurs in the Fall (September). Students will engage in a variety of courses that cover theoretical knowledge, diagnosis, treatment, and clinical practice. Additionally, select courses in Mandarin are included, providing students with an advantage in clinical settings.

Key features of the program structure include:

Full-time study format
Hands-on experience through a student teaching clinic on campus
Supervision by certified practitioners, acupuncturists, or Doctors of TCM
Guidance from the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners & Acupuncturists (CTCMA)

Featured Experiences

The Traditional Chinese Medicine – Acupuncture diploma offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning process:

Hands-on training in a student teaching clinic, allowing students to practice patient care in a live clinical environment.
Supervision by experienced instructors who are certified practitioners in the field.
Integration of both ancient Chinese practices and modern biomedical science in the curriculum.
Opportunities to learn Mandarin, which is beneficial for clinical interactions.

Career Options

Graduates of the Traditional Chinese Medicine – Acupuncture diploma can pursue various career paths in Canada, including:

Acupuncturist: Provide acupuncture treatments to patients, helping to alleviate pain and promote healing.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner: Utilize a holistic approach to health, incorporating herbal medicine and acupuncture.
Clinical Supervisor: Oversee student practitioners in clinical settings, ensuring quality care and adherence to standards.
Health Educator: Teach patients about the benefits of acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine practices.
Wellness Consultant: Advise clients on lifestyle changes and alternative therapies to improve overall health and well-being.

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

Visit KPU - Kwantlen Polytechnic University official website

Last updated on 2025-08-07

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the University Diploma in Traditional Chinese Medicine - Acupuncture program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, the following academic requirements must be met:

Students must achieve a minimum grade of 'C' in all required courses with Standard Grading.
A grade of MAS is required in all courses with Mastery Grading.
Students must complete all program courses in each semester before they can continue to the next semester.
Re-entry into the program will be based on seat availability and approval by the program Chair.

International applicants are required to provide the following:

A Criminal Record Search with the Vulnerable Sector from their country of origin.

Additionally, students must submit the following documents before final admission is granted:

Canadian CPR Health Care Provider or Basic Life Support 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.
Immunization Record Form reflecting required immunizations as per Practice Education Guidelines for BC. Note: Students that are unvaccinated may not be able to be accepted into the program.

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 University Diploma in Traditional Chinese Medicine - Acupuncture at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English. The following English language tests and their respective requirements are accepted:

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 of 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!