MSc Chinese Herbal Medicine

This professional MSc Chinese Herbal Medicine entry course is designed for acupuncturists who want to extend their practice repertoire to include the other major system within Chinese medicine. The course is also suitable for Chinese herbal medicine practitioners wishing to gain an advanced academic award.

Course Overview

This theoretical and clinical professional entry training in Chinese herbal medicine is contextualised within the legal, ethical and inter-professional framework of the UK. The aim of the course is the modification of classic formulae to create new formulae which address complex patterns of illness. Phytochemistry and pharmacokinetics are integrated into the understanding of the energetic interactions of herbs. The educational philosophy that underpins this course is that of experiential and self-directed, reflexive learning, that develops intellectual and research skills at Masters level. Staff and students will develop an academically critical approach to literature and practice through action learning, peer support and case study in order to critically evaluate emergent knowledge.

The University Polyclinic is the primary focus of the course spread over the whole year and acts as the focus of professional development. The Polyclinic and dispensary in the University is a busy central London facility which attracts a wide range of patients. Highly experienced clinical tutors will supervise students supporting the link between theory and practice. By starting this course, you are joining a world-wide community of individuals actively engaged in lifelong learning and research in to Chinese medicine.

Download the postgraduate prospectus

Accreditation

Accreditation with the European Herbal Traditional Practitioners Association (EHTPA) was granted in 2006. Successful completion of the course leads to eligibility to apply for membership of the Register of Chinese Herbal medicine (RCHM). Overseas students should check that this course meets the requirements of the appropriate professional bodies in their home country.

Course Structure

Chinese Herbal Medicine Advanced Clinical Practice (contains research project)
Chinese Herbal Medicine Bianbing
Chinese Herbal Medicine Bianzheng
Chinese Herbal Medicine in the UK
Chinese Herbs and Formulae
Critical Inquiry in Practice
Critique and Review

Mode of Study

The course can be studied 1 year full-time (attendance on Mondays and Wednesdays) or 2 years part-time (attendance on Mondays in the first year).

All students will attend an intensive three day planning module at the beginning of the course. The course runs over an extended year from mid-September to mid-August and there will be some field trips.

Entry Requirements

A UK degree in Chinese Medicine: Acupuncture, such as the BSc (Honours) CM: Acupuncture course offered by Westminster University, or equivalent. Read more information on how equivalent courses will be assessed.

Knowledge and application assessments may be required which show Higher Education skills and language fluency sufficient to enable you to benefit from postgraduate level study. These will include evidence of research, critiquing, the skills of academic writing and IT; reflective practice and communication skills; and a collaborative and integrated approach to working.

If your first language is not English you should have an IELTS score of at least 6.5 in all components (or equivalent). During the induction stage of the course, students who do not have English as their first language will complete Academic English screening, and any resulting recommended Academic English support activity.

If you are already a practitioner of Chinese herbal medicine and wish to upgrade your qualification to Masters level, and you meet the criteria above, you may be able to apply for Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning which will exempt you from relevant modules (up to a maximum of 50%).

Applications are expected from the following professional groups:

British Acupuncture Council or equivalent professional body for acupuncturists with degree level entry requirements either in the UK or overseas

Members of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine or equivalent who wish to upgrade their academic skills to Masters level

Fees 2010/2011

Full-time UK/EU fee - £5,250
Full-time Overseas fee - £10,400
Part-time UK/EU fee (per 20 credit module) - £575
Part-time Overseas fee (per 20 credit module) - £1,155

Further information on fees, scholarships and bursaries

Course Team

Alan Treharne, Chinese Herbal Medicine Course Leader

A.Treharne@westminster.ac.uk

For any enquiries about admissions please contact the Admissions Office
Tel: +44 (0)20 7911 5883
Fax: +44 (0)20 7911 5079
E-mail: cav-admissions@westminster.ac.uk

University of Westminster