Acupuncture is the first Complementary and Alternative Medicine which has been approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and is commonly used in pain management nowadays. Acupuncture is no more a myth to everyone – by running a search on the keyword ‘acupuncture’ from Google, you may get more than 1 billion results. However, the study of acupuncture not only learning the use of thin fine needles, but it also includes the underlying theory which guides the use of acupuncture, the diagnosis methods of Chinese medicine, moxibustion (a heat therapy by burning mugwort leaves), and cupping (one of the ancient therapies using animal horn/cup to treat illnesses). The International Medical University (IMU)’s Centre for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CCAM) started offering a 2½ years Master of Science in Acupuncture (MSA) programme since September 2018 with the first cohort graduating in June 2022. The MSA programme at IMU provides training in acupuncture for both Allopathic and Chinese medicine. it provides a comprehensive understanding of the classical and theoretical foundations of the field of acupuncture from an integrative and holistic perspective.
| A student from this programme, Liu Chian Yong, said “Learning traditional Chinese medicine is an eye-opener. The knowledge gained is beyond what I have expected. Integration of acupuncture to conventional treatment will benefit patients the most.” |  |
The programme is designed jointly with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SHUTCM) and accredited by Malaysian Qualification Agency (MQA). In addition, it is the first and only acupuncture programme fully taught in English in Malaysia. Students have also free access to the IMU’s library and online resources, use of contemporary digital technologies and flexible learning options.
| Another student of this programme, Goh Chin Loen, said “Memorable course. Proud to be first cohort of MSc in Acupuncture students in IMU, leading me to have the ability in performing acupuncture as a pain treatment for the benefit of patients.” |  |
The programme is designed for part-time working professionals with the respective flexible options. It includes of 12 + 2 (selective) modules in 7 semesters with a total of 42 credit hours to be delivered over a period of 2½ year. Duration of each module is approximately 18 weeks including 18 weeks (divided into 2 semesters, 9 weeks/semester) of compulsory on-site activities in IMU Chinese medicine clinic. The fifth cohort of the programme is starting in September 2022.
YS Yeoh Seen
After completion of MSc in Acupuncture, how about the career? Please advise.