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featured Sep 2 - Sep 2, 2028
Tuition
$22,639
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Tuition
$7,697
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Tuition
$17,332
Scholarships available
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Sep 2 - Dec 19, 2025
Tuition
$17,500
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Sep 2 - Sep 2, 2029
Tuition
$18,000
Scholarships available
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Jan 6 - Jan 6, 2028
Plus 3 other start datesMay 5 - May 5 2028
Sep 2 - Sep 2 2028
Jan 5 - Jan 5 2029
Tuition
$24,000
About
Acupuncture
Explore the art, philosophy and ancient practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) by enrolling in Canada’s best acupuncture schools and courses. Learn about acupuncture’s role in holistic health, the meticulous and delicate skill of needle insertion, and how to foster energy balance, while restoring harmony in the body.
Acupuncture is a component of traditional Chinese medicine involving the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body with the goal to balance the flow of “qi,” or vital energy. These strategic points, also known as acupuncture points, correspond with the meridians or channels where energy flows through the body. By stimulating these points using needles, practitioners are able to support healing for a large number of illnesses–from digestive and respiratory, to the neurological and emotional. Studies even suggest a strong link between acupuncture and improved fertility, for example.
On a daily basis, acupuncturists engage their patients in holistic consultation to learn about their pain points and possible contributing factors such as diet, level of stress, emotional state, and more. After gaining a comprehensive view of the patient’s lifestyle, the practitioner will then perform a diagnostic assessment by leveraging TCM principles, such as pulse and tongue diagnosis. Besides administering acupuncture treatments, practitioners may also prescribe herbal medicine, and educate patients on lifestyle changes and stress management.
According to Job Bank data, there is a shortage of qualified professionals in the field of natural healing, including acupuncturists. From 2022 to 2031, there is a forecasted 36,000 new job openings in the field, with only 28,300 available to fill the roles.
Acupuncturists typically pursue diploma programs that range from three to four years, and there are also master’s and doctoral degrees available depending on the student’s interests and preferences.
For example, a shorter diploma program might cover the foundations of TCM theory, where students will learn about the body’s energetic systems, meridians, and qi flow, while additional study may dive deeper into topics such as Chinese Dietary Therapy and Herbal Medicine. Meanwhile, doctoral programs will consist of substantial clinical work, pharmacology, research, as well as studying Chinese medicine classic texts. Whichever educational path students choose, programs will provide a balance between theoretical learning and hands-on training.
Based on nearly 400 Canadian acupuncturist salaries reported on Indeed, acupuncturists in Canada earn an average of $97,823 annually. Entry-level practitioners may start at $55,000 and can work their way up to $120,000 at the top end. Job Bank notes that 85 percent of TCM practitioners are self-employed, so earnings will depend greatly on the skills, expertise, and reputation of the acupuncturist, as well as the market demand and geographic location of the practitioner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What knowledge and skills do you need to become an acupuncturist?
Generally speaking, acupuncturists need to be well-versed in both the practical and theoretical aspects of acupuncture technique and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and should also have a deep understanding of physiology, human anatomy, and pathology.
As empathetic and strong communicators, acupuncturists should also have excellent active listening skills in order to gather a holistic view of the patient’s medical history, while being able to explain treatment plans clearly.
They’ll also need many hours of clinical training in order to build competency in TCM diagnostic techniques, such as tongue and pulse diagnosis, and possess strong fine motor skills in order to administer precise needle insertions. As critical thinkers, practitioners should be able to adjust treatment plans depending on how the patient responds and progresses.
If the acupuncturist has plans to establish a private practice, they should also have business acumen and financial management skills in their toolkit.
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Is acupuncture considered a good career in Canada?
Yes, acupuncture is a recognized profession that’s regulated in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and Newfoundland–and is considered a good career in Canada due to its rising popularity.
It’s also a flexible career, where practitioners will have the choice to work in a variety of environments–including: medical clinics, private practice, wellness centers, and public health centers. Acupuncturists can also opt to specialize in areas such as sports medicine, women’s health, or pain management–choosing a path that aligns with their passions and interests.
Acupuncturists can also choose if they want to work part-time or full-time, and even on a consultative basis–which allows practitioners to pursue their passion as a career well into their senior years.
Also, as acupuncture is a holistic healing-focused practice where professionals are able to help others, it can be a fulfilling and rewarding career path.
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Is acupuncture in high demand?
Yes, acupuncturists and Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners are projected to be in high demand in Canada. From 2022 to 2031, there is an estimated shortage of 7,700 qualified practitioners of natural healing available to fill 36,000 available job openings.
Globally, acupuncture is also growing in popularity, especially for patients seeking treatment for pain relief. In fact, a 2021 World Health Organization report reveals that acupuncture is the most popular traditional medicine practice globally.
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How do I become an acupuncturist in Canada?
Acupuncturists interested in practicing in Canada usually pursue a three or four year diploma program. For example, at Pacific Rim College, the shortest program offered is the Diploma of Acupuncture–which can be completed in six semesters. While the majority of students finish the program in three years, they can also choose to study all six semesters continuously and complete it in two years.
Worth noting is that advanced study options, such as master’s and doctoral degrees, are also available depending on the student’s interests, and specialized area of study.
After completing their program of choice, professionals can then apply for the Pan-Canadian Registration Exam. Upon successful completion, they’ll be eligible to practice anywhere in the country.
Also worth noting is that registration may be required for professionals based in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and Newfoundland and Labrador, so it’s worth researching local regulatory authorities and their requirements.
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What qualifications do you need for acupuncture?
To pursue a career in acupuncture, professionals will need a combination of education, examinations, clinical training, and licensing.
For education, acupuncturists typically complete a three to four year diploma program from institutions recognized by the regulatory authority in the province they’re residing in–although there are also master’s and doctoral degrees available for further study.
Beyond studies in Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, hands-on, clinical training is integral to an education in acupuncture, and practitioners are required to log a specific number of clinical hours to prove they’ll be able to practice safely and effectively.
Upon completing their education and logging enough clinical hours, practitioners then need to successfully complete qualifying examinations. The Pan-Canadian Registration Exam allows professionals to practice acupuncture anywhere in Canada.
Acupuncturists practicing in Canada also need to be registered, or licensed with their province’s regulatory authority, especially if they’re based in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Finally, some provinces may also require practitioners to acquire national certifications. For example, from the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of British Columbia (CTCMA), which establishes the standards for practice in the province.