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Acupuncture

A close-up of an acupuncture treatment in progress, showing a practitioner wearing gloves carefully inserting thin needles into a patient's shoulder. The patient wears a black tank top.

Launch your career in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture. In three years, gain hands-on clinical skills to assess, diagnose and treat clients. Prepare for a rewarding role in health care, promoting balance and well-being.

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Home / Learn / Programs List / Acupuncture
Credential
Ontario College Advanced Diploma
Duration
Six semesters
Start Date(s)
September (Fall)
Locations
Belleville
Open to
International Students
Domestic Students
CIP Code
51.3301

Find your career

Acupuncturists work in a range of health care and wellness settings, from private clinics and rehabilitation centres to spas and athletic therapy clinics. Prepare for a rewarding career promoting accessible, holistic care for diverse populations: 

  • Support community well-being through TCM-based assessment, diagnosis and treatment. 
  • Help clients manage pain, reduce stress and improve overall health. 
  • Collaborate with health care professionals such as occupational therapists, physiotherapists, chiropractors and naturopaths. 
  • Integrate multiple healing modalities into your practice, including acupuncture, bodywork and nutritional therapy. 

Loyalist’s Acupuncture program provides comprehensive, quality education that meets the professional competencies set out by the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (CTCMPAO). 

Is it for you? 

Acupuncture may be a good career fit if you: 

  • Want a career helping others. 
  • Are empathetic and attuned to others’ needs. 
  • Have steady hands and a calm, reassuring presence. 
  • Are open-minded and embrace both traditional and modern health care practices. 

How you'll learn

Please note: This program is delivered on a continuous basis, so you’ll graduate in less time. You’ll study for six consecutive semesters with no break.

 

Experiential learning

Develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to confidently provide care within the TCM acupuncturist scope of practice:

  • Start practising your skills from semester one in a holistic learning environment, continuously refining and building confidence in your skills before treating the public in a clinical setting.
  • Blend theory with practice – alongside hands-on training, study TCM theory and biosciences, ensuring concepts integrate across multiple courses.
  • Gain interprofessional experience collaborating with students in Loyalist’s Occupational Therapist/Physiotherapist Assistant and Massage Therapy programs.
  • In semester four, gain real-world experience working alongside experienced acupuncturists during a clinical placement.
  • Our curriculum emphasizes biosciences, evidence-based practice and collaborative health care, preparing you to meet regulatory standards while thriving in today’s evolving health care field.

Courses

TCMA1001 Acupuncture Professional Identity

Students examine the foundations of what it means to be an Acupuncturist and the responsibilities that come with the profession. They discuss the historical framework and evolution of the practice of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) over the centuries to its current position as a regulated health profession. Students evaluate the regulatory standards of TCM acupuncture and examine the ethical considerations, professional conduct and scope of the acupuncturist’s role. They identify and compare the responsibilities of acupuncturists with other healthcare practitioners to recognize the value of interprofessional collaboration. Students distinguish the historical, cultural and professional principles that guide the ethical practice of acupuncture.

TCMA1005 Anatomy & Physiology 1

Course description not available

COMM1048 College Writing Skills

This course focuses on writing and research skills required for successful completion of college-level studies. The course will promote development and improvement of research and writing skills that can be applied to students’ chosen programs of study.

TCMA1003 Jing Luo / Points 1

Students delve into the intricate network of Jing Luo (channels and collaterals) and the acupuncture point system within the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) framework. They understand and demonstrate how to locate and select appropriate acupoints based on point categories for presenting patient complaints and diagnoses. Students integrate biomedical knowledge for comprehensive patient evaluation to ensure safe and effective treatment strategies. Students implement acupuncture treatment approaches aligned with TCM principles while prioritizing safety, ethics, and patient well-being.
Co-requisite: TCMA 1005, TCMA 1XAF

TCMA1000 Traditional Chinese Medicine Foundations

Students develop analytic and evaluative skills as they explore foundational TCM theories, including Yin/Yang, Eight Principles, Zang/Fu, Five Elements, Qi, Blood, and Body Fluids. They interpret disease pattern diagnosis through holistic frameworks like the Eight Principles, six stages, four levels of disease, and the San Jiao concept. Students employ ethical conduct and communication skills, ensuring patient well-being and upholding professional behaviours to align with our goal to produce socially responsible acupuncture professionals in a collaborative and patient-centered healthcare environment.

TCMA1004 Tui Na 1

Students develop practical skills for the application of Tui Na techniques within the context of an acupuncture treatment. They demonstrate and adapt individual Tui Na techniques for the hands-on treatment of the Jing Luo system. Students refine their tactile sensitivity and develop a nuanced understanding of how to apply various techniques to different areas of the body. Students demonstrate the foundational Tui Na skills necessary for the application of TCM therapeutic massage in acupuncture treatment.
Co-requisite: TCMA 1005, TCMA 1XAF, TCMA 1XAH

TCMA1002 Yang Sheng 1 - Dao Yin and Qi Gong

Students explore how Yang Sheng (health preservation) is an integral aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), playing a vital role in fostering holistic well-being. They demonstrate how Dao Yin and Qi Gong exercises utilize breath control, movement, and meditation to cultivate the flow of Qi and promote physical and mental harmony. Students integrate foundational movement practices for both their own health preservation and for patient well-being.

TCMA1009 Acupuncture Jurisprudence and Safety

Students analyze and appraise professional regulations and their application to the safe and legal practice of acupuncture in Ontario. They discuss and evaluate the profession’s scope of practice and code of ethics, infection prevention and control and the management of potentially dangerous clinical situations while prioritizing patient needs. Students interpret and apply the professional standards to safely navigate complicated interpersonal and interprofessional clinical scenarios in adherence with both the Jurisprudence and Safety programs established by the professional regulatory body (CTCMPAO).
Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAG

TCMA1006 Anatomy and Physiology 2

Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAK

TCMA1011 Jing Luo / Points 2

Students continue exploring the Jing Luo (channels and collaterals) network and the acupuncture point system within the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) framework. They understand and demonstrate how to locate and select appropriate acupoints based on point categories and point-specific functions as appropriate for presenting patient complaints and diagnoses. Students discover the deeper connections of the Jing Luo system and its application to illness progression and treatment. They integrate biomedical knowledge for comprehensive patient evaluation to ensure safe and effective treatment strategies. Students implement acupuncture treatment approaches aligned with TCM principles while prioritizing safety, ethics, and patient well-being.
Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAK, TCMA 1XAI, TCMA 1XAF

TCMA1008 Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnosis

Students evaluate and apply fundamental TCM theories to TCM assessment and diagnostic methodologies. They utilize TCM assessment and diagnostic skills to interpret patient conditions in the creation of TCM diagnosis and treatment principles. Students translate diagnostic insights into comprehensive treatment principles and planning appropriate to individualized patient conditions. They implement tailored TCM treatment principles, ensuring a nuanced approach to address individual patient needs and therapeutic goals.
Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAF

TCMA1007 Tui Na 2

Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAJ, TCMA 1XAH
Co-requisite: TCMA 1011

GNED1100 Becoming a Global Changemaker

This Loyalist College graduate attributes course will help shape your perspectives, broaden your understanding of important issues affecting our societies today, and equip you with invaluable knowledge and skills that will inform your ability to influence your community in a meaningful and impactful way. By exploring topics such as cultural competency, Indigenous education, entrepreneurship, sustainability, health and wellness, and ecological literacy, you'll be equipped with a powerful toolkit that extends far beyond the classroom.

TCMA2003 Acupuncture Safety Lab

Students assess and coordinate appropriate management of potentially dangerous situations utilizing simulated clinical scenarios. They will adapt treatment plans based on various safety concerns, including standard infection prevention and control to the management of dangerous and urgent situations. Students will demonstrate the critical thinking required to appropriately manage complicated and evolving situations that may pose the risk of harm to themselves and patients in a clinical setting.
Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAM, TCMA 1XAQ

TCMA2004 Acupuncture Techniques 1

Students adapt their theoretical knowledge and palpation skills into needling skills of the acupuncture points. They employ precautions, including aseptic needling technique and obtaining informed consent, to ensure patient comfort and safety in the application of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) modalities. Students adapt their practical skills to include microsystem needling, moxibustion, and gua sha techniques to develop competence in TCM techniques required for the treatment of all body regions. Students integrate the knowledge and skills required for safely performing acupuncture and modalities in a clinical practice setting.
Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAQ, TCMA 1XAS, TCMA 1XAP
Co-requisite: TCMA 2XAJ

TCMA1012 Introduction to Clinical Practice

Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAM, TCMA 1XAS, TCMA 1XAN, TCMA 1XAP, TCMA 1XAQ
Co-requisite: TCMA 2003

TCMA2002 Orthopaedics and Traumatology

Students explore Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles and treatment methods applied to musculoskeletal conditions and injuries. They practice (conduct) comprehensive physical examinations, including standardized orthopedic and specialized tests, to evaluate prevalent conditions affecting the spine, pelvis, knees, ankles, shoulders, elbows, and wrists. Students formulate a differential diagnosis and treatment plan that includes integrated TCM and conventional medicine approaches to address specific musculoskeletal conditions and injuries.
Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAM, TCMA 1XAP, TCMA 1XAS, TCMA 1XAN
Co-requisite: TCMA 2003

TCMA1010 Pathophysiology

Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAM

GNED General Education Elective

General Education Courses

TCMA2007 Acupuncture Techniques 2

Prerequisite: TCMA 2XAJ, TCMA 2XAK

TCMA1013 Acupuncture Therapeutics 1

Course description not available

WKPL2092 Clinical Placement 1

Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAU, TCMA 2XAK, TCMA 2XAE
Co-requisite: TCMA 1XAV, TCMA 2XAM, TCMA 2XAP

TCMA2005 Health Assessment

Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAR, TCMA 1XAQ, TCMA 2XAE

TCMA2006 Research Methods

Course description not available

TCMA1014 Yang Sheng 2 - Qi Gong

Course description not available

TCMA3001 Acupuncture Therapeutics 2

Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAV, TCMA 2XAM, WKPL 2092
Co-requisite: TCMA 3XAA

WKPL3029 Clinical Placement 2

Prerequisite: WKPL 2XAR
Co-requisite: TCMA 3XAB

TCMA3002 Interprofessional Collaborative Practice

Prerequisite: WKPL 2092, TCMA 2XAM

TCMA3000 Pharmacology

Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAR, TCMA 2XAJ

TCMA2000 Traditional Chinese Medicine Nutrition and Introduction to Herbal Medicine

Prerequisite: TCMA 1XAP

TCMA3003 Acupuncture Therapeutics 3

Prerequisite: TCMA 3XAB, WKPL 3029

TCMA2001 Case-Based Application

Prerequisite: TCMA 3000, TCMA 3001, WKPL 3029
Co-requisite: TCMA 3003, TCMA 3005

WKPL3030 Clinical Placement 3

Prerequisite: WKPL 3XAF, TCMA 3XAA, TCMA 3XAB, TCMA 2XAA, TCMA 1XAW, TCMA 3XAE
Co-requisite: TCMA 2XAC, TCMA 3XAG, TCMA 3XAI

TCMA3005 Comprehensive Review

Prerequisite: TCMA 3XAA, TCMA 3XAB, WKPL 3029
Co-requisite: TCMA 2XAC, TCMA 3XAG

TCMA3004 Practice Management

Prerequisite: TCMA 2XAJ

*Courses subject to change.

Additional courses information

Please note that the program of study details for this program are currently under review. Please check back to this page for updates.

Admission Requirements

Required academic preparation 

OSSD/OSSGD or equivalent, including these required courses:

  • Grade 12 English (ENG4C or ENG4U or equivalent)
  • Grade 11 or 12 Biology (SBI3C, SBI3U or SBI4U or equivalent)

OR

Additional requirements

  • Standard First Aid and CPR HCP certification prior to semester three  
  • Vulnerable Sector Check – completed through the police services of residence and not a third-party provider  
  • Medical requirements, including immunization records and laboratory blood tests  
  • Respiratory Mask Fit certificate  
  • Co-op work permit (international students)

Academic upgrading

Are you missing admission requirements? Discover how Career and College Prep at Loyalist can help you get started on your journey.

International students

Learn more about admission requirements for international applicants and how to apply. Please note that this program requires English language proficiency (high IELTS 6.5 with no band under 6.0.).

Costs

Approximate Costs (2025-26)

  • Domestic Tuition: $6,407.42 (three semesters)
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees: TBC
  • Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies.

Paying for college 

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.

Approximate Costs (2025-26)

  • International Tuition: $19,585.34 (three semesters)
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees: TBC
  • Mandatory Health Insurance: TBC
  • Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies.

Paying for college 

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.

Further study

Pathways and university transfer

What’s next? Build on the knowledge and skills you learned in the Acupuncture program by continuing your academic journey. Return to Loyalist to complete a diploma or receive credit recognition for your Loyalist studies when pursuing a degree at a university. Explore pathway opportunities.

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