ACUPUNCTURE AND MOXIBUSTION AND TUINA

As modern medicine increasingly values holistic and non-invasive therapies, the major of Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina is gaining popularity among international students. Studying this field in China offers access to authentic traditional medical knowledge and opens up diverse career opportunities both locally and globally.

Program Overview

Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina is a vital branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), integrating classical TCM theories with hands-on therapeutic techniques. This major focuses on training clinical professionals skilled in non-pharmacological therapies such as acupuncture, moxibustion, and tuina (therapeutic massage). 

Graduates are equipped to contribute to disease treatment, prevention, health maintenance, and rehabilitation, with a solid foundation in TCM and essential knowledge of modern medicine.

Educational Objectives

The program aims to cultivate high-quality, application-oriented professionals who:

• Possess strong humanistic values, scientific thinking, and professional ethics;
• Master the fundamental theories and practical skills of acupuncture and tuina;
• Are proficient in treating common and frequently occurring diseases using acupuncture and tuina techniques;
• Have a sound understanding of modern medical knowledge, lifelong learning capabilities, and innovative potential;
• Are qualified for roles in clinical care, prevention, health services, and rehabilitation.

Graduation Requirements

Graduates should demonstrate the following competencies:

• Solid knowledge of humanities, natural sciences, and scientific research methods;
• Proficiency in the theories, knowledge, and techniques of acupuncture and tuina, along with basic medical and clinical knowledge;
• Familiarity with national healthcare policies, laws, and regulations;
• Understanding of psychology, medical ethics, and humanistic care;
• Knowledge of general practice, preventive medicine, and infectious disease control;
• Awareness of industry trends and professional demands;
• Understanding of major academic schools and theoretical developments in the field;
• Strong professional values, ethics, and teamwork skills;
• Ability to apply acupuncture and tuina in the prevention and treatment of common conditions;
• Effective communication with patients and families, and capability in health education;
• Ability to read classical medical texts and modern literature, and use information technology for professional development;
• Basic research skills, critical thinking, and innovation;
• Commitment to self-improvement and lifelong learning;
• Legal awareness and the ability to protect patients' and their own rights.

Duration and Degree Awarded

• Program Duration: 5 years, with a flexible system ranging from 4.5 to 7 years
• Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina degree

Core Courses

• Fundamentals of Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Diagnostics of TCM
• Meridians and Acupoints
• Acupuncture and Moxibustion Techniques
• Acupuncture Therapy
• Tuina Manipulation Techniques
• Tuina Therapy
• Internal Medicine of TCM
• Orthopedics and Traumatology of TCM
• Human Anatomy

Research Directions

• Acupuncture treatment of common and frequently occurring diseases
• Application of tuina in rehabilitation
• Combined acupuncture and tuina therapy for chronic diseases
• Mechanisms and basic research of acupuncture and tuina
• Integration of modern technology in acupuncture and tuina

Career Prospects

Graduates can pursue careers in:

• TCM hospitals and TCM departments of general hospitals
• Community health centers and local clinics
• Health and wellness institutions
• Research institutes and universities specializing in TCM
• Private practice, such as opening TCM clinics or rehabilitation centers

Related Majors

• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine
• Rehabilitation Therapy
• Clinical Medicine

Top Universities Offering Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina Programs in China

1. Beijing University of Chinese Medicine
2. Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
3. Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine
4. Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine
5. Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine