Doctor of TCM Program (5 Years)

The 5-Year Doctor of TCM Program at Royal Pacific Institute prepares students with the comprehensive theoretical knowledge and advanced clinical skills required to practice as Doctors of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Dr.TCM) in British Columbia.

Building upon the foundational studies of acupuncture and herbal medicine, this program offers extensive training in internal medicine of TCM, gynecology, pediatrics, orthopedics, dermatology, and classic TCM texts. Graduates will be equipped to challenge the licensing examination of Dr.TCM and pursue advanced professional opportunities in Canada and internationally.

Royal Pacific Institute offers an authentic TCM learning environment, led by experienced instructors with extensive clinical and academic backgrounds in China and Canada.

With small class sizes and individualized support, students benefit from personalized guidance and optimal opportunities for practical experience in the student clinic.

• Total Program Hours: 3,420 hours (2,370 instructional hours + 1,050 clinical practice hours)
• Credits: 193 credits
• Duration: 5 academic years (10 terms)
• Credential Awarded: Diploma
• Schedule: Full-time, with three intakes per year (January, May, and September)
• Study Mode: Students may choose to complete the program on a full-time or part-time basis to accommodate diverse scheduling needs.

• TCM theory, acupuncture techniques, Chinese herbal medicine, internal medicine of TCM, diagnostics, prescription theory, classical TCM literature, and integrative medicine;
• 150 hours of clinical observation in Year 2;
• 330 hours of supervised clinical practice in Year 3;
• 330 hours of supervised clinical practice in Year 4;
• 240 hours of supervised clinical practice in Year 5, with progressive focus on advanced diagnosis, treatment planning, and comprehensive case management.

In-person, but some courses are available both in-person and live online.

Instruction is available in English or Chinese to accommodate diverse student needs.

• Attend full-time classes (20+ hours per week)
• Complete all required coursework and clinical training
• Pass academic assessments and clinical evaluations

• High school diploma or equivalent; or mature student status (19 years or older).
• International applicants are welcome.

Note: According to current CCHPBC policy, students who have not completed at least two years of recognized post-secondary education at the time of licensing application may need to sit the licensing examination in Alberta, Ontario, or Quebec to practice in British Columbia.

Graduates of the program are eligible to apply for licensure as Doctors of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Dr.TCM) in British Columbia and other Canadian provinces.

They may pursue careers as:

• Licensed Doctors of TCM
• Practitioners in integrative health clinics
• Specialists in advanced acupuncture and herbal therapies
• Wellness consultants
• Educators in TCM institutions
• Health care collaborators in multidisciplinary and holistic settings

• Tuition per term (15 weeks): CAD $4,400
• Tuition per academic year (two terms): CAD $8,800
• Additional costs: Approximately CAD $500 per year for textbooks, workshops, and registration fees (not included in tuition).