The Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) provides graduates with the necessary education to practise as an AHPRA-registered Chinese medicine practitioner. The degree is accredited by the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia in all three divisions of registration: Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine and Chinese Herbal Dispensing.
New students initially focus on the fundamental theories underpinning Chinese medicine and biomedical science. As their knowledge deepens, clinical practicum becomes an increasingly important source of learning. By graduation, all students have completed 900 hours of clinical observation and practice under the supervision of registered practitioners with many years’ experience.
Course Structure
The course is broken into eight semesters, with each semester including four units of study if competed full-time. Please refer to the Course Structure page for information about the specific units that comprise the degree.
Course Learning Outcomes
Course learning outcomes are aligned to the requirements of the Australian Qualification Framework Level 7 and to the professional capabilities of Chinese medicine accreditation standards. At the conclusion of the Bachelor of TCM, graduates will be able to:
Demonstrate a broad understanding of the theories and principles of Chinese Medicine, including acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and Chinese herbal dispensing.
Critically review and analyse, consolidate, and synthesise relevant Chinese Medicine knowledge, ethics, and professional standards.
Apply and adapt knowledge and skills appropriate to the safe delivery of Chinese medicine.
Exercise critical thinking and informed judgment in identifying health problems, planning, and applying appropriate Chinese medicine treatments.
Utilise appropriate and effective communication skills when engaging with clients, and other healthcare professionals.
Demonstrate capacity for continuing professional development as a Chinese Medicine practitioner.
Career Opportunities
The Bachelor of TCM is fully accredited by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Graduates are eligible for professional registration, which allows them to use the following professional titles in Australia: Acupuncturist, Chinese Herbal Dispenser, Chinese Herbal Practitioner, Chinese Medicine Practitioner or Oriental Medicine Practitioner.
Many graduates of the course enter private practice as primary health practitioners, either self-employed in private practice or as a member of a team in a clinic that offers a range of therapies. Others may undertake Chinese medicine research, become involved in education, product development, management and sales roles in pharmaceutical and herbal companies, provide healthcare advice and consultancy online, or work in other healthcare agencies.
SITCM actively engages with local businesses, private clinics, and health services in the remedial massage and healthcare sectors. Our goal is to introduce our students and graduates to potential job opportunities available both during their course of study and after graduation.