Bachelor of Health Science (BHSc) major in Chinese Medicine (Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine)

Summary

This four-year Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine) Degree covers both Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine, is approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) and recognised nationally and internationally. It follows a full-time study 4-year pathway over a period of 144 teaching weeks and comprises a total of 480 credits spread between Levels 5, 6 and 7 on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Students who successfully complete 3 years out of our 4 years Bachelor of Health Science Degree in Chinese Medicine are conferred with the Bachelor of Health Science Degree in Acupuncture and are eligible to become Accident Compensation Corporation’s (ACC) registered acupuncturists.

The aim of the Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine) Degree is to produce graduates who exercise a range of capabilities that enable them to practice their discipline safely and effectively within New Zealand’s cultural, healthcare and regulatory contexts. Graduates employ the principles of reflective practice, making use of the relevant techniques and resources to manage, advise and contribute to the care of patients with a range of health problems. Graduates will be aware of the limitations of their scope of practice, will contribute to the wider healthcare community in New Zealand and will be able to effectively manage their own professional and personal development.

Our three-year Bachelor of Health Science (Acupuncture) Degree (which is a part of our Bachelor of Health Science – Chinese Medicine Degree) is also approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority and recognised nationally and internationally. It follows a full-time 3-year pathway over a period of 108 teaching weeks and comprises a total of 360 credits spread between Levels 5, 6 and 7 on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

Graduates of this qualification:

• Employ a comprehensive understanding of the theory and application of Chinese Medicine or Acupuncture, and of the traditional and contemporary uses of Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine and Tuina to contribute to the diagnosis, treatment and management of a range of patients and conditions.
• Provide appropriate care and management to a range of patients, including advice on lifestyle and health maintenance, as effective members within the healthcare community in New Zealand.
• Practise within the legislative framework that applies to healthcare in New Zealand, ensuring that the rights of patients and their families are respected.
• Understand and identify contraindications and limitations to the application of Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine and Tuina.
• Analyse and interpret a range of patient health issues from the perspective of Western Medical Science and where necessary, incorporate this into their care plans or appropriately refer patients to other health practitioners.
• Employ strong and clear communication skills with patients and their carers, including obtaining informed consent prior to commencing treatment.
• Make and maintain appropriate patient records.
• Understand the principles and practice of small business management and of working in or setting up and maintaining a small practice.

Demonstrate commitment and capability to engage in reflective practice and lifelong learning.

Employment Outcomes

On successful completion of either qualification, graduates can:

• Be self-employed in Chinese Medicine or Acupuncture Clinics
• Be an Acupuncturist or a Chinese Medicine Practitioner in an established Chinese Medicine Clinic or multi-disciplinary Clinic

Further Study

• A Master’s Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine and/or Acupuncture
• Post Graduate Qualifications in either discipline