TCM ACUPUNCTURIST DIPLOMA PROGRAM

We Are Now Accepting New Students!

View The Curriculum

CURRICULUM

ACUPUNCTURIST DIPLOMA PROGRAM

Full Program Curriculum

 

This curriculum spans three years (twelve terms) and combines foundational biomedical sciences with the theory and clinical application of Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture. Each term lists the courses offered, a brief description of course content, and the associated credit and contact hours.

YEAR 1 — FOUNDATIONS

Term 1 (180 Hours)

Course

Description

Credits

Hours

ANAT-101 Human Anatomy I

Introduces the structure of the human body, covering the skeletal, muscular, and integumentary systems with an emphasis on terminology and surface landmarks relevant to clinical practice.

4

40

PHYS-101 Human Physiology I

Surveys the function of major organ systems, including musculoskeletal, nervous, and cardiovascular physiology, establishing the biomedical foundation for later clinical coursework.

4

40

TCM-101 History & Foundations of TCM

Traces the historical development of Traditional Chinese Medicine and introduces its core philosophical concepts, including Yin-Yang, the Five Elements, and Qi theory.

4

40

MED-101 Medical Terminology

Builds a working vocabulary of Western medical terms, prefixes, suffixes, and root words used in clinical documentation and interprofessional communication.

2

20

ETH-101 Professional Ethics

Examines the ethical principles, standards of conduct, and legal responsibilities that govern the practice of acupuncture and Oriental medicine.

2

20

CLIN-101 Clinical Observation I

Provides guided observation of licensed practitioners in a clinical setting to introduce students to patient interaction, clinic flow, and treatment protocols.

2

20

Term Total

18

180

 

Term 2 (190 Hours)

Course

Description

Credits

Hours

ANAT-102 Human Anatomy II

Continues the study of human structure, focusing on the nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, and endocrine systems in preparation for pattern-based diagnosis.

4

40

PHYS-102 Human Physiology II

Extends physiological study to the digestive, renal, reproductive, and endocrine systems, linking biomedical function to TCM organ correspondences.

4

40

TCM-102 TCM Diagnostics I

Introduces the Four Examinations of TCM diagnosis — observation, listening/smelling, inquiry, and palpation — as tools for assessing patient patterns.

4

40

ACU-101 Acupuncture Theory & Point Location

Covers the theory of channels and collaterals and trains students to accurately locate acupuncture points on the fourteen primary meridians.

3

30

CNT-101 Clean Needle Technique

Teaches safe, sterile needling procedures and infection-control standards required for competent and hygienic acupuncture practice.

2

20

CLIN-102 Clinical Observation II

Builds on introductory clinic observation with increased focus on intake procedures, treatment planning, and practitioner-patient communication.

2

20

Term Total

19

190

 

Term 3 (200 Hours)

Course

Description

Credits

Hours

PATH-201 General Pathology

Studies the mechanisms of disease, including inflammation, injury, and cellular dysfunction, to build a biomedical framework for clinical assessment.

4

40

TCM-201 Pattern Differentiation

Develops skills in identifying TCM patterns of disharmony through Zang-Fu, Eight Principle, and Qi/Blood/Fluid differentiation methods.

4

40

ACU-102 Acupuncture Therapeutics I

Applies point selection and needling techniques to the treatment of common conditions, integrating theory with hands-on practice.

4

40

BMED-201 Bio-Medicine I

Introduces Western clinical medicine concepts, common disease presentations, and diagnostic reasoning relevant to integrative practice.

4

40

CLIN-201 Clinical Practicum I

Places students in a supervised clinic setting to begin performing intake, assessment, and basic treatment under practitioner supervision.

4

40

Term Total

20

200

 

Term 4 (210 Hours)

Course

Description

Credits

Hours

PHARM-201 Pharmacology

Reviews major classes of pharmaceutical drugs, their actions, interactions, and relevance to patient safety in an acupuncture practice.

3

30

DIAG-201 Western Physical Assessment

Trains students in Western physical examination techniques, vital signs, and clinical assessment skills used to evaluate patient health status.

4

40

ACU-201 Acupuncture Therapeutics II

Expands therapeutic point protocols to address a broader range of musculoskeletal and internal conditions.

4

40

TCM-202 Treatment Principles

Teaches the formulation of individualized treatment strategies based on pattern differentiation and established TCM treatment principles.

4

40

CLIN-202 Clinical Practicum II

Increases hands-on clinical responsibility, with students conducting supervised treatments and refining case management skills.

6

60

Term Total

21

210

Year 1 Total: 78 Credits | 780 Hours

YEAR 2 — CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT

Term 5 (210 Hours)

Course

Description

Credits

Hours

HERB-301 Herbal 1

Introduces individual Chinese herbs, their properties, actions, and safe clinical application.

4

40

TCM-301 Internal Medicine I

Covers TCM diagnosis and treatment of internal medicine conditions affecting the respiratory and digestive systems.

4

40

ACU-301 Acupuncture Therapeutics III

Refines advanced point combinations and needling strategies for complex and chronic clinical presentations.

4

40

NUTR-301 Chinese Diet Therapy

Explores the energetic properties of food and dietary recommendations used to support treatment within a TCM framework.

3

30

CLIN-301 Clinical Internship I

Begins the internship sequence, giving students expanded responsibility for patient care under direct clinical supervision.

6

60

Term Total

21

210

 

Term 6 (210 Hours)

Course

Description

Credits

Hours

HERB-302 Formula 1

Introduces classical herbal formulas, their composition, modifications, and clinical indications.

4

40

TCM-302 Internal Medicine II

Continues the study of internal medicine, addressing conditions of the cardiovascular, urinary, and endocrine systems from a TCM perspective.

4

40

ACU-302 Advanced Acupuncture

Presents specialized acupuncture techniques and styles beyond core protocols for treating complex cases.

4

40

AUR-302 Auricular Medicine

Covers ear acupuncture theory, point mapping, and treatment applications as an adjunct therapy.

3

30

CLIN-302 Clinical Internship II

Continues supervised internship training with increasing patient caseload and treatment planning autonomy.

6

60

Term Total

21

210

 

Term 7 (210 Hours)

Course

Description

Credits

Hours

GYN-401 Gynecology

Addresses TCM and biomedical approaches to women’s health, including menstrual, reproductive, and hormonal conditions.

4

40

PED-401 Pediatrics

Covers assessment and treatment considerations specific to infants and children, including pediatric-appropriate techniques.

3

30

DERM-401 Dermatology

Examines the TCM and biomedical treatment of common skin conditions and their underlying patterns.

3

30

TCM-CS401 Clinical Case Studies

Uses real and simulated patient cases to strengthen diagnostic reasoning and treatment-planning skills.

4

40

CLIN-401 Clinical Internship III

Advances internship training with greater emphasis on independent case management under supervision.

7

70

Term Total

21

210

 

Term 8 (220 Hours)

Course

Description

Credits

Hours

ORTHO-402 Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

Focuses on the assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries, sports-related conditions, and orthopedic pain syndromes.

4

40

NEURO-402 Medical Neuro-Acupuncture

Introduces neuroanatomy-based acupuncture approaches for neurological and pain-related conditions.

4

40

ELEC-402 Electroacupuncture

Teaches the theory, equipment, and clinical application of electrical stimulation combined with acupuncture needling.

3

30

AUR-402 Advanced Auricular Therapy

Builds on foundational ear acupuncture with advanced protocols for pain, addiction, and stress-related conditions.

3

30

CLIN-402 Clinical Internship IV

Expands clinical responsibility further, preparing students for near-independent practice under supervision.

8

80

Term Total

22

220

Year 2 Total: 85 Credits | 850 Hours

YEAR 3 — PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

Term 9 (200 Hours)

Course

Description

Credits

Hours

ONC-501 Oncology Support

Explores the supportive role of acupuncture and TCM in managing cancer treatment side effects and improving patient quality of life.

3

30

GER-501 Geriatrics

Addresses the unique physiological and treatment considerations involved in caring for older adult patients.

3

30

RES-501 Evidence-Based Practice

Teaches students to locate, evaluate, and apply current research literature to inform clinical decision-making.

4

40

CASE-501 Integrated Case Studies

Integrates TCM and biomedical knowledge through complex, multi-system patient case analysis.

4

40

CLIN-501 Senior Clinical Internship

Provides senior-level supervised clinical training with expanded diagnostic and treatment responsibilities.

6

60

Term Total

20

200

 

Term 10 (200 Hours)

Course

Description

Credits

Hours

BUS-601 Practice Management

Covers the business fundamentals of operating a clinical practice, including finances, marketing, and staffing.

3

30

JUR-601 Jurisprudence

Reviews the laws and regulations governing the licensure and practice of acupuncture and Oriental medicine.

2

20

SPEC-601 Clinical Specialties

Surveys specialized areas of clinical practice, allowing students to deepen knowledge in focused treatment domains.

5

50

ACU-401 Advanced Point Combinations

Develops sophisticated point-combination strategies for treating complex, multi-pattern clinical cases.

4

40

CLIN-601 Senior Clinical Internship II

Continues senior internship training with a focus on refining independent clinical judgment.

6

60

Term Total

20

200

 

Term 11 (210 Hours)

Course

Description

Credits

Hours

BOARD-701 Board Examination Review I

Begins structured review of core content areas in preparation for national board licensing examinations.

5

50

SPEC-701 Advanced Integrated Medicine

Explores the integration of TCM with conventional medical approaches for comprehensive patient care.

4

40

GRAND-701 Clinical Grand Rounds

Presents and discusses complex clinical cases in a collaborative, seminar-style format to sharpen clinical reasoning.

4

40

CLIN-701 Senior Clinical Internship III

Provides advanced supervised clinical practice as students approach entry-level practice readiness.

8

80

Term Total

21

210

 

Term 12 (210 Hours)

Course

Description

Credits

Hours

BOARD-702 Comprehensive Board Review

Completes intensive review across all board examination domains to prepare students for licensure testing.

5

50

CAP-702 Clinical Integration

Consolidates clinical skills through capstone-level integration of diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient management.

4

40

CLIN-702 Final Clinical Internship

Serves as the culminating clinical experience, with students functioning at a near-independent practitioner level under supervision.

10

100

PROF-702 Professional Transition

Prepares graduating students for licensure, career planning, and the transition into professional practice.

2

20

Term Total

21

210

Year 3 Total: 82 Credits | 820 Hours

PROGRAM SUMMARY

Year

Hours

Credits

Year 1

780

78

Year 2

850

85

Year 3

820

82

TOTAL

2450

245

 

No prerequisite required

Hybrid Program

Price: $26,995

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TCM Acupuncturist Diploma Program?

The TCM Acupuncturist Diploma Program is like a complete roadmap taking you to ancient healing. It teaches students the principles and practices of Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture. The program covers meridian theory, diagnosis methods, treatment planning, and hands-on techniques. Students gain the knowledge and practical skills needed to begin a rewarding career in holistic healthcare.

Who can enroll in the TCM Acupuncturist Diploma Program?

Individuals who want to build a career in Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture can enroll in this program. This program is also valuable for healthcare professionals who wish to expand their skills. It provides structured learning and practical training opportunities through online classes.

What will I learn during the program?

Traditional Chinese medical beliefs are introduced to students. They are aware of meridian pathways, acupuncture point locations, patient assessment procedures, and therapeutic methods. To boost students’ confidence, the curriculum includes practical instruction. This program provides graduates with the skills required to apply their knowledge in clinical practice.

Does the program include hands-on training?

Indeed, a key element of the program involves practical training. Students engage in supervised learning activities that enable them to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-life situations. Students can learn the right methods through practical experience. Students gain credibility and get equipped for careers in traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture.

How does Traditional Chinese Medicine support patient care?

Traditional Chinese Medicine focuses on restoring balance within the body. Practitioners use acupuncture and other techniques to support overall wellness. They encourage natural healing processes. This holistic approach considers the physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors that may influence a person’s health and well-being.

Is this program suitable for working professionals?

Yes, the program is designed to support students with busy schedules. The learning format helps many professionals continue working while studying. Flexible educational options allow students to gain valuable knowledge and skills. Students do not have to put their careers or personal responsibilities on hold during training.

What career opportunities are available after graduation?

Graduates may pursue careers in acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. However, it depends on local regulations and licensing requirements. Many choose to work in wellness clinics, multidisciplinary healthcare settings, or private practice. The skills learned can open doors to a variety of healthcare and wellness opportunities.

Why choose International Medical Arts Institute for acupuncture training?

International Medical Arts Institute focuses on practical education, experienced instruction, and student success. Our program combines traditional knowledge with modern educational methods. Students receive support throughout their learning journey. They gain valuable skills that can help them grow professionally and confidently.

How long does it take to complete the diploma program?

Program length may vary depending on the curriculum structure and study schedule. Students receive a comprehensive education that balances theory with practical training. The program is designed to provide enough time for skill development. It helps students progress steadily toward their professional goals.

What makes Traditional Chinese Medicine different from other healthcare approaches?

According to traditional Chinese medicine, the body is a networked system. It does not just rely on symptoms. The goal of this therapeutic strategy is to find underlying disorders that could have an impact on health. It assists professionals in developing customized treatment programs that promote overall wellness and sustainable health objectives.

What are the charges for diplomas, certificates and other documents

The Administrative Document Fees are as follows:

Diplomas and certificates are included in the tuition fee. For the lengthier programs, the Official Transcript is also Included in the tuition fee. 

  • Standard Administrative Letter / Recommendation (enrollment, completion, confirmation, etc.) — $50 CAD
  • Replacement / Reconstructed Transcript (archived records, manual preparation, mark verification, formatting, etc.) — $100 CAD
  • Additional Replacement Transcript Copies requested at the same time — $25 each
  • Additional Replacement Diplomas requested — $50 each / Certificates – $20 each
  • Rush Processing (if available) — additional fee applies
  • Mailing diplomas and certificates $60 / Mailing certificates $30

IMAI'S TCM ACUPUNCTURIST DIPLOMA PROGRAM

Course Dates
Course Dates

Program Schedule Overview

The Winter 2026 Medical Neuro-Acupuncture Diploma Term runs January through April in a hybrid format that combines weekly online lectures with mandatory in-person practicum weekends.

 

Class Structure

Weekly Classes: Wednesdays

  • First Day of Class (Practicum) Saturday, January 17, 2026
  • First Regular Weekly Class (Online): Monday, January 19, 2026

  • Last Regular Weekly Class (Online): Thursday, April 9, 2026

  • Last Days of Class (Practicum) April 18–19, 2026

*No Classes Friday March 13 - Friday March 20

Schedules may change, and we will notify all students in advance.

Class Structure

Weekly Classes: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays​

*No Classes*
Friday March 13 - 20

Schedules may change, and we will notify all students in advance.

In-Class Practicums
• January 17–18
• February 21–22
• March 21–22
• April 18–19

JANUARY 2026

Why Enroll in the Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncturist Diploma Program?

Key Benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine Program

Practical Application of TCM in Modern Healthcare

Comprehensive Curriculum in the
TCM Acupuncturist Diploma Program

Medical Neuro-Acupuncture

TCM Theory and Acupuncture

Understanding Yin-Yang, the Five Elements, and the Emotions

Diagnostic Techniques: Pulse and Tongue Reading, Shen, Body Pain, Conditions

Advanced Specializations in the
Traditional Chinese Medicine Program

Electro-Acupuncture: Modern Technology Meets Tradition

Cupping Therapy: Ancient Techniques for Modern Healing

Specialized Focus Areas

TCM and Modern Practices

Medical Neuro-Acupuncture

Evidence-Based Research in TCM

Continuous Professional Development

Humanitarian Outreach

Building a Professional Network in TCM

Collaboration and Community

Preparing for a Successful Career

Frequently Asked Questions:
TCM Acupuncture Diploma Program

Medical Neuro-Acupuncture

Terms and Conditions

HOW TO ENROLL:
PAYMENT PLANS + FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
TCM Acupuncturist Diploma Program

IMAI’s TCM Foundation curriculum embraces Ontario, B.C. and U.S. curriculum models. Upon successful exam completion, students can treat clients using acupressure, cupping, electro and auricular therapy. It is also a good building starting point for advanced education. This program starts in September 2024 and is available to Healthcare Practitioners, Secondary School/University Graduates, Mature and *International Students. Call us for more information

Choose your path to healing and well-being.