Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) has made history by launching Canada’s first Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) degree, marking a significant milestone in the country’s educational landscape. This groundbreaking program, approved by the Government of British Columbia, is the first of its kind to be offered at a public post-secondary institution in Canada and represents a major step forward in the integration of traditional healing practices into the mainstream healthcare system.
A Pioneering Program for Future TCM Practitioners
The new Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine at KPU is designed to equip students with the comprehensive skills and knowledge required to become registered TCM practitioners. This degree builds on the success of KPU’s existing diploma in Traditional Chinese Medicine – Acupuncture, which has been offered since 2016. The new program extends this foundational training into a full five-year bachelor’s degree, offering students a more in-depth education in TCM theory, herbal treatments, acupuncture, and integrated patient care.
KPU’s program stands on par with similar degrees offered at prestigious universities in China, Australia, and New Zealand. Graduates of this program will not only be eligible to practice as registered TCM Practitioners but also have the opportunity to pursue advanced studies at these internationally recognized institutions.
Addressing the Growing Demand for Holistic Healthcare
The introduction of this program comes at a time when the demand for holistic healthcare options is on the rise, particularly in British Columbia. Lisa Beare, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, emphasized the importance of this initiative in meeting the growing labor market demand for TCM practitioners. She highlighted that this program not only expands healthcare options for residents but also ensures the professionalization and standardization of TCM practices in the province.
B.C. Premier David Eby also underscored the significance of this program, noting that it will ensure higher professional standards for TCM practitioners, ultimately protecting patients who seek these alternative healthcare options. The program aligns with the province’s broader goals of offering diverse care options and enhancing the interdisciplinary understanding within the healthcare workforce.
A Comprehensive Educational Experience
Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine program at KPU will undergo rigorous training that combines theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience. The curriculum includes courses in TCM philosophy, herbal medicine, acupuncture, and patient management. A key component of the program is the clinical training that takes place in KPU’s on-campus TCM clinic, where students will develop and apply their diagnostic and treatment skills under the supervision of experienced practitioners.
Dr. John Yang, the program chair, highlighted the program’s comprehensive approach, which prepares students to handle complex patient care needs. This training is particularly crucial as the population continues to grow and age, increasing the demand for qualified TCM practitioners who can complement conventional healthcare services.
Inspiring the Next Generation of TCM Leaders
The launch of the Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine program has been met with enthusiasm from both current students and faculty. Caldwell Lever, a student in KPU’s diploma program, praised the university’s supportive and inclusive learning environment, which has been instrumental in his academic and personal growth. He expressed confidence that the new bachelor’s degree will inspire and nurture the next generation of TCM practitioners, positioning them as leaders in their field.
A Bright Future for TCM in Canada
As the first program of its kind in Canada, KPU’s Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of TCM education and practice in the country. With its strong focus on professional standards, comprehensive training, and alignment with global educational standards, this program is poised to produce highly skilled practitioners who will meet the growing demand for holistic healthcare across British Columbia and beyond.
The first cohort of students is expected to begin their studies in September 2025, marking the beginning of a new era in Canadian healthcare education. As TCM continues to gain recognition and acceptance within the broader healthcare system, KPU’s pioneering program will undoubtedly contribute to the professionalization and growth of this ancient healing tradition in the modern world.
article citations
Government of British Columbia
Kwantlen Polytechnic University