Chinese Medicine

Program Description: Bachelor of Chinese Medicine (Honours)

The Bachelor of Chinese Medicine (Honours) at Hong Kong Baptist University offers students a comprehensive education in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), integrating Eastern medical philosophies with modern scientific approaches. The programme is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in the fundamental theories of Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, Tui Na (Chinese therapeutic massage), and dietary therapy, alongside contemporary biomedical sciences. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, laboratory practice, clinical training, and research projects, students develop the necessary skills to become competent practitioners of Chinese medicine.

The curriculum covers a wide array of subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, diagnostics, and therapeutics from both Chinese and Western perspectives. Emphasis is placed on understanding the holistic nature of health and disease, the principles of Yin-Yang and Five Elements theory, and the prevention of illness through lifestyle and dietary modifications. Students are also introduced to modern research methodologies to critically evaluate and contribute to the scientific advancement of Chinese medicine.

The programme provides extensive clinical training in affiliated hospitals and TCM clinics, where students gain hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced practitioners. This practical component ensures that students can integrate theoretical knowledge with real-world clinical skills, preparing them for professional practice or postgraduate studies.

In addition to traditional TCM practices, the programme encourages multidisciplinary learning, promoting an understanding of integrative medicine approaches and the latest innovations in healthcare. Graduates will be qualified to register as Chinese Medicine Practitioners in Hong Kong upon meeting statutory requirements, enabling them to deliver holistic patient care that combines traditional methods with modern medicine.

The Bachelor of Chinese Medicine (Honours) aims to nurture skilled professionals who can contribute to the healthcare sector, promote the sustainable development of Chinese medicine, and enhance public health awareness. With a focus on research, clinical excellence, and ethical practice, this programme paves the way for a rewarding career in a growing field that bridges ancient traditions and cutting-edge science.

Academic Qualification

1. A bachelor of Chinese Medicine or Pharmacy in Chinese Medicine degree; or
2. Equivalent qualifications in Chinese medicine or Chinese pharmacy; or
3. Be registered Chinese medicine practitioners in Hong Kong who have passed the Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Practitioners Licensing Examination; or
4. Be registered Chinese medicine practitioners in Hong Kong with provision of training certificate in Chinese medicine or relevant disciplines and passed the admission assessment to be conducted by the School of Chinese Medicine, HKBU.

Applicants with qualifications listed in (b), (c) or (d) above may be required to pass an assessment conducted by the Programme Management Committee.

Language Proficiency Requirement

Applicants must have:

1. Obtained Grade E or above in Chinese Language and Culture in the Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination; or

2. Obtained a bachelor’s degree with Chinese language as the primary medium of instruction in the major courses; or
3. Passed the Chinese language test arranged by the School of Chinese Medicine, HKBU.

The Government offers financial assistance in the form of non-means-tested loan to all students.  The beneficiaries are expected to repay their loans within a specified period after graduation. Scholarships are bestowed upon selected recipients including new students on the basis of academic merits and other criteria stipulated by the donors. 

The Bachelor of Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive undergraduate programme offered by Hong Kong Baptist University, designed to equip students with a thorough understanding of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) principles, diagnostic techniques, herbal medicine, acupuncture, and postural therapy. This programme emphasizes combining classical TCM theories with modern scientific approaches, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for professional practice or further study in the field of Chinese medicine. The curriculum typically includes foundational courses in Chinese medicine theories, Chinese herbology, acupuncture and moxibustion, Chinese massage (Tuina), health assessment and diagnosis, as well as general biomedical sciences like anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology to provide students with a well-rounded scientific background.

Students will engage in a variety of practical training sessions and clinical placements at affiliated teaching hospitals and clinics, gaining hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced practitioners. This practical component is integral to developing clinical skills and understanding patient care within the framework of Chinese medicine. The programme may also include modules on TCM ethics, legal aspects, and contemporary issues affecting the practice of Chinese medicine globally and locally.

The duration of the programme is normally four years, and graduates are eligible to apply for registration and licensing to practice Chinese medicine upon completion, subject to meeting the relevant regulatory requirements of Hong Kong SAR. The programme aims to produce graduates who can contribute to the integration of traditional Chinese medicine into mainstream healthcare, promote holistic and patient-centered care, and support the development of TCM research and innovation. Graduates may find employment opportunities in Chinese medicine clinics, hospitals, wellness centres, research institutions, or may pursue postgraduate studies in related fields. The program is also aligned with the broader goal of fostering cross-cultural understanding of medical systems and promoting the global recognition of Chinese medicine as an effective healthcare modality.