Health

Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine)

CRICOS 102914J

What is a Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine)?

A Chinese Medicine course provides the understanding and practical skills needed to treat acute and chronic illnesses using Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture and other techniques. The course is designed to meet all three divisions of Chinese Medicine practitioner registration including acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and Chinese herbal dispensing.

Throughout this four-year degree, you’ll develop your knowledge and practical skills in treating acute and chronic illnesses through Chinese medicine techniques and herbal remedies. The course is designed to meet all three divisions of Chinese Medicine practitioner registration, including acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and Chinese herbal dispensing, and is approved by the National Australian accreditation body TEQSA (Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency) and AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency).

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Learning outcomes

Learn how to safely apply acupuncture, and prescribe and dispense Chinese herbs to treat a variety of diseases.
Explore the relationship between the mind, body and spirit.
Discover the practical application of ancillary techniques for the clinical practice of acupuncture.
Learn to apply techniques such as cupping and moxa therapy.

Download course guide Start online application

Study mode

On campus, Blended

Campus locations*

Melbourne

Student

Domestic

International

Course duration

4 years full time, part-time options available

Start date

19 Feb 2024

3 June 2024

16 Sep 2024

View all key dates

Fees & scholarships

Learn more

This is an AQF Level 7 course delivered by Torrens University Australia Ltd.

*For more details on international student study options.

Learn from specialists in their field

Our academics understand where the industry is heading and will guide you on your learning journey.

The highest level of practical experience

Develop your skills and access the latest technology at our student-led clinic with real clients. Graduate with confidence and experience.

Tap into our knowledge

Our heritage with Southern School of Natural Therapies and Australasian College of Natural Therapies ensures you’re learning from decades of experience.

When you study with us, you’ll get hands-on practical experience in world-class clinics making a difference to real patients.

Career opportunities

This course will prepare you to confidently start practising Chinese Medicine in your community.

Potential career paths

Chinese Medicine Practitioner
Average salary: $61,000 - $89,000
Research and Development Officer
Average salary: $82,000 - $111,000
Entrepreneur TEST
Average salary: $129,500
Product Developer
Average salary: $97,504 - $182,500

Subjects and units

Each subject involves 10 hours of study per week, comprising 3 hours of facilitated study and 7 hours self-directed study.

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Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4

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Requirements

These eight core subjects must be completed.

Core subjects

Biological Foundations | BFD105A

Biological Foundations explores the biological building blocks which make up the human body from the chemical level up to the cellular level. These essential chemistry concepts will assist with building relevant links to the study of human physiology in later subjects. The subject then explores the foundational studies in biochemistry which includes the structure and function of carbohydrates, proteins, enzymes, lipids, DNA and RNA. The concepts of gene expression and regulation are discussed in addition to the cellular membrane structure and transport through the membrane. The study of the biology of the human cell concludes this subject and upon completion equips students to commence study at the tissue level of structure and physiology subjects.
Understanding Health | HWEL2002A

This subject provides students an introduction to the diversity of health theories and initiatives to improve health outcomes. Students will engage with key concepts including human right to health, social determinants of health, equality, equity and vulnerability. An introduction to Australia’s health system and intersectoral action will also be provided.
Chinese Medicine Foundations | CMF101

This subject introduces the fundamental philosophies and principles of Chinese Medicine (CM). It provides a solid and detailed account of the theory of Chinese medicine that can be used as a foundation for the further understanding of later subjects in the CM course. This introduction to Chinese Medicine explores the concept of yin and yang theory, wu xing theory, the functions of the organs and vital substances, as well as the causes, development and progression of diseases.
Human Structure & Physiology 1 | HSP101A

Human Structure & Physiology 1 introduces the basic concepts and terminologies required to study and understand the structure and function of the human body. This subject will build on the biological foundations by exploring the interaction and organisation of cells, tissues and organs which forms a basis to study the physiological integration of key body systems. The maintenance and regulation of the internal environment by homeostasis at a system level will be key to students understanding disruption and disease in later subjects. Key physiological and functional processes such as movement, metabolism, oxygenation and protection will be discussed, with body systems including the integumentary, musculoskeletal, respiratory and cardiovascular system the focus of this subject. This subject will provide the first part of an evidence based foundational knowledge of human physiology to guide health practice.
Evidence-based Practice | EBP107A

This subject provides you with an introduction to the essential components of evidence-based practice: health informatics, research and digital literacy, and critical thinking. You will develop the skills necessary to locate, critique and interpret a research article, and gain an understanding of how research evidence is translated into practice. You will become familiar with quantitative and qualitative evidence, research methodology, basic descriptive and inferential statistics and the foundational skills to evaluate and appraise evidence in healthcare.
Chinese Medicine Diagnosis and Pattern Differentiation | CMD102

Chinese Medicine Diagnosis and Pattern Differentiation introduces students to the unique diagnostic tools used in Chinese Medicine to diagnose and treat disease. This subject will teach students how to examine patients using the four methods of diagnosis (observation including the tongue, listening and smelling, interrogation and palpation, including pulse taking) and how to interpret the clinical information gathered by examination. Diagnosis in Chinese Medicine is based on the theory that signs and symptoms reflect the condition of the internal organs and that all signs and symptoms form a ‘pattern’ of disharmony. Pattern differentiation and the Eight principles will be described in detail. Students will learn how to apply the Eight Principles and the four methods to formulate a disease pattern that explains the origin, location, and nature of a disease, enabling students to understand the progression of the disease and providing an initial guide to the principles of treatment.
Human Structure & Physiology 2 | HSP102A

Human Structure & Physiology 2 will further develop knowledge of the structure and physiology of the human body with special attention given to the integration of human systems and beginning to explore the impact of disturbances in Homeostasis and disruption of normal function. The structure and function of the lymphatic, immune, digestive, nervous, endocrine, urinary, reproductive systems and the special senses are covered in detail including the homoeostatic control mechanisms of each system and the integration of the systems in the body. This subject builds on the knowledge and understandings of human structure and physiology, provides the foundation to look at disease, disorders and syndromes and their pathophysiology, in later subjects.
Professional Communication and Collaboration | HSC101

Professional Communication and Collaboration will introduce you to the skills required by health professionals to enable effective interactions within a wide variety of inter-personal and inter-professional workplace settings. You will work on developing practical skills to assist in the building, maintenance, and endings of professional relationships with clients, other professionals, and members of the community across multi-modal communication settings. You will be introduced to frameworks promoting change, compliance, self-efficacy, goal-setting and collaboration. This subject will also cover those foundational counselling skills that are applicable to a wide variety of health professions, such as core counselling behaviours, listening skills, and communication micro-skills. Sessions facilitate your understanding of the importance of ethical communication, diversity and inclusion considerations, professional expectations and the development of professional behaviours including self-reflection and self-care. Agile and adaptable communication skills to support working with clients and with other professionals collaboratively and inclusively, allowing for conflict resolution and appropriate endings of relationships.

Requirements

These eight core subjects must be completed.

Core subjects

Human Systems and Pathophysiology 1 | HSP201A
Human Systems & Pathophysiology 1 is the first of two subjects that builds upon the foundational studies in Human Structure & Physiology and then expands student’s skills and knowledge into the area of pathophysiology and human disease process. Understanding the pathogenic process and the disruption of homeostasis in relation to disease will be important concepts, in the context of individual, community and population health.
This subject will cover:

Basic pathological processes in response to injury and growth abnormalities.

Immunology, toxicology, microbiology, and their characteristic diseases.

Pathophysiology, symptomatology and clinical manifestations for diseases of the gastrointestinal, neurological and cardiovascular systems

Introduction to commonly used laboratory tests and interpretation of findings.
Channel Theory and Point Location 1 | TPL203

This subject introduces the study of Chinese acupuncture and provides practical training in the techniques of acupuncture point location. The subject aims to provide fundamental anatomical knowledge required, to accurately locate acupuncture points on a range of body shapes and sizes and is delivered as both theory and practice, based learning. The scope of this subject covers the theory of the 14 primary acupuncture channel trajectories, functions and pathologies. Theory of the secondary, or collateral vessels trajectories, functions & pathologies, acupuncture point locations, dynamics & functions. In practice, students will learn to palpate the superficial anatomy of bones, muscles, joints and major neurovascular acupuncture and use the Chinese acupuncture system of, proportional body measurement to discover the locations of acupuncture points. Safe practice is emphasised throughout the subject. Students learn the practical strategies to enable effective point location while preserving personal & cultural sensitivities. The knowledge and practical skills obtained through successful completion of this subject provide the foundation of further acupuncture study.
Channel Theory and Point Location 2 | TPL204

This subject builds on the content covered in Chanel theory & point location 1. It introduces the study of Chinese acupuncture and provides practical training in the techniques of acupuncture point location. The subject aims to provide fundamental anatomical knowledge required, to accurately locate acupuncture points on a range of body shapes and sizes and is delivered as both theory and practice, based learning. The scope of this subject covers the theory of the 14 primary acupuncture channel trajectories, functions and pathologies. Theory of the secondary, or collateral vessels trajectories, functions & pathologies, acupuncture point locations, dynamics & functions. In practice, students will learn to palpate the superficial anatomy of bones, muscles, joints and major neurovascular acupuncture and use the Chinese acupuncture system of, proportional body measurement to discover the locations of acupuncture points. Safe practice is emphasised throughout the subject. Students learn the practical strategies to enable effective point location while preserving personal & cultural sensitivities. The knowledge and practical skills obtained through successful completion of this subject provide the foundation of further acupuncture study.
Human Systems and Pathophysiology 2 | HSP202A

Human Systems & Pathophysiology 2 builds upon the concepts explored in Human Systems & Pathophysiology 1 and continues to expand student’s skills and knowledge in pathophysiology and the human disease process, in relation to individual, community and public health. The pathophysiology and symptomatology will be covered for various disease states of the musculoskeletal, integumentary, hematologic, pulmonary, endocrine, renal and reproductive systems. Conditions specific to gerontology and aging will also be considered. General diagnostic approaches will be introduced and the commonly used laboratory tests and interpretation of such findings for the associated disorders and conditions will continue to be developed.
Acupuncture Ancillary Techniques | AAT205

This subject provides instruction in the practical application of ancillary techniques to do with the clinical practice of acupuncture. The techniques introduced include Moxibustion (heat), Gua Sha (spooning), Cupping, Lancing, Dermal Hammer, Micro acupuncture and TuiNa techniques. Tongue and pulse diagnosis are reviewed, practised and extended from previous foundation subjects, and students administer the above techniques in a simulated clinical setting under supervision. Infection control, sterilization, hygiene and safety are reinforced throughout this subject.
Acupuncture Therapeutics and Techniques 1 | CHM201

This subject is primarily practical in nature and introduces students to supervised needling practice on selected acupuncture points covering all anatomical segments of the body. The logic of acupuncture point selection and prescriptions, methods of needling and further acupuncture point physiology will be covered. Particular emphasis is placed on safety, hygiene and infection control with students working in pairs so that each student becomes aware of the acupuncture experience from both the practitioner and the client’s perspective. Tongue and pulse diagnosis are also reviewed, practiced, and extended within this subject.
Acupuncture Therapeutics and Techniques 2 | ATT207

This subject is a continuation of Acupuncture Therapeutics & Techniques 1. This subject is primarily practical in nature and introduces students to supervised needling practice on selected acupuncture points covering the three foot yang channels, Ren and Du channels, as well as principle non channel points. The logic of acupuncture point selection and combinations, methods of needling and further acupuncture point physiology will be covered in detail. Particular emphasis is placed on safety, hygiene and infection control with students working in pairs so that each student becomes aware of the acupuncture experience from both the practitioner and the client’s perspective. Tongue and pulse diagnosis are also reviewed, practised and extended.
Chinese Medicine Pharmacology 1 | CMP208

This subject introduces the study of traditional Chinese Herbal Materia Medica. The subject examines the therapeutic application of 206 Chinese medicinal substances. Note; of the 206 herbs, 145 will be studied in detail in class while the other 61 are less commonly used and therefore require self-directed learning. It is essential that students have a working knowledge of these herbs. The scope of the study includes their fundamental tastes, thermal properties, functions, key indications, channel affiliations, normal dosage range, and combination with other herbs, cautions, contraindications, preparation and administration. For some toxic herbs, their toxicity and poisoning prevention will be examined. Chinese medicinal substances affected by the Victorian Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act will be identified.

Requirements

These eight core subjects must be completed.

Core subjects

Clinical Assessment | CLA207A

Clinical Assessment builds on the theory of the Human Systems & Pathophysiology subjects and develops practical skills for clinical assessment and examination of the client. Skills for history taking, gathering clinical information, observing clinical manifestations, critical analysis of signs and symptoms, identifying red flags, interpreting medical reports, pathology tests and diagnostic imaging are developed. Students will explore a range of physical examination techniques using appropriate equipment to reach primary and differential diagnoses. Students will develop and practice skills in effective communication, respecting clients’ privacy, work health and safety concerns as well as the need for referral to other health care practitioners in a professional manner.

This subject has compulsory attendance requirements.
Chinese Medicine Pharmacology 2 | CMP301

This subject continues the study of traditional Chinese materia medica introduced in Chinese Medicine Pharmacology 1 and examines the therapeutic effects of the remaining medicinals. The depth of study may vary depending on the importance of the substance and its frequency of use. Note: of the 207 herbs, 157 will be studied in detail in class while the other 50 are less commonly used and require self-directed learning. The scope of the study includes their fundamental tastes, thermal properties, functions, key indications, channel affiliations, normal dosage range, and combinations with other herbs, cautions, contraindications, preparation and administration. For some toxic herbs, their toxicity and prevention of poisoning will be examined. Chinese medicinal substances affected by the Victorian Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act will be identified.
Chinese Medicine Musculoskeletal Traumatology | CMT302

This subject is a combination of theory and practical which covers the study of selected traumatology cases, particularly musculoskeletal conditions. The focus is on the differential diagnosis and treatment of regional disorders both from a holistic Chinese Medicine paradigm and a modern bio-mechanical perspective. For each condition a complete acupuncture treatment along with common herbal formulae and lifestyle advice are analysed and studied. Basic physical assessment and selected major orthopaedic tests for each region are also introduced.
Clinical Practicum Requirements: As part of this students are required to undertake 65 hours of clinical participation. This subject serves as an introduction to the operation of Chinese Medicine clinics from the perspective of the student practitioner. Students are required to begin to integrate all of the theoretical and practical studies undertaken throughout the course by demonstrating basic clinical skills in the Wellbeing Clinic including an understanding and appreciation of all the relevant ethical and legal responsibilities of a practitioner when treating a patient. Students are expected to be actively engaged in the management of a clinic, interaction with patients, forming a diagnosis and treatment principle, as well as engaging in the acupuncture and ancillary therapeutic processes. This will involve observing preliminary case questioning, diagnosis and performing supervised treatments such as moxibustion, cupping and basic acupuncture needling. Feedback regarding progression will be given on a weekly basis.
Integrated Pharmacology | DIP303A

Integrated Pharmacology comprises a study of basic principles of pharmacology, the pharmacokinetics of drugs commonly used in medical practice and common interactions between drugs, physical therapies and natural remedies. Drugs for pain, inflammation, infection, mental health, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, reproductive and endocrine systems are discussed. Drug actions, uses, contraindications, adverse effects and interactions with natural remedies and physical therapies are discussed, together with implications for naturopathic, nutritional and western herbal medicine prescribing. This subject is crucial for the modern healthcare practitioner to understand common medications that patients may be taking and common interactions between these medications and complementary treatments. This subject also emphasises the need for clear lines of communication and common language between doctors and complementary healthcare practitioners in order to obtain the best health outcomes for clients.
Chinese Medicine Formulae | CMF304

This subject expands and builds on the herbal disciplinary knowledge presented in Pharmacology 1 and 2 . This subject aims to introduce theory of developing formulae and examines in detail the composition, actions and main therapeutic applications of approximately 120 major formulae. The depth of study may vary depending on the importance of the formulae and their frequency of use. Emphasis is upon the methods of preparation, administration of the herbs, principals of composition, typical modifications, actions, main therapeutic applications and any cautions or contraindications of traditional Chinese herbal formulae. Also included is an indepth study of the comparisons and contrasts relating to formulae within a similar therapeutic category and the function of herbs both singularly and as a synergistic component within the formula.
Advanced Acupuncture Techniques | AAT305

This subject introduces advanced acupuncture needling techniques. Acupuncture skills learned in previous subjects are synthesised, and focus is placed upon the safe and effective needling of high risk acupuncture points. Students are required to develop a greater knowledge of, and increased proficiency in, different needling techniques and styles. Advanced electro-acupuncture methods are taught, with an emphasis on the use of electro-acupuncture in acupuncture analgesia. Laser acupuncture theory and practice is also introduced.
Clinical Practicum Requirements: Students are required to undertake 65 hours of clinical participation. The subject continues to build foundation skills in the operation of Chinese medicine clinics. Students are required to continue to integrate all of the theoretical and practical studies undertaken throughout the course by demonstrating basic clinical skills in both the student clinic and external clinical settings. Students are expected to be conversant with and appreciate all the relevant ethical and legal responsibilities of a practitioner when treating a patient. Students are expected to be actively engaged in the management of a clinic, interaction with patients, forming a diagnosis and treatment principle, as well as engaging in the acupuncture and ancillary therapeutic processes. This will involve observing preliminary case questioning, diagnosis and performing supervised treatments such as moxibustion, cupping and basic acupuncture needling. Feedback regarding progression will be given on a weekly basis.
Chinese Medicine Internal Medicine 1 | CIM306

This subject introduces the study of Chinese Medicine Internal Medicine (nei ke). The subject is comprised of two parts. The first part introduces a number of main diseases of the eyes, ears, nose, pharynx, larynx, mouth and teeth, respiratory, vascular and digestive systems. The second part (CM Internal Medicine 2) introduces some specific blood diseases, disorders of the endocrine system, connective tissue disorders, urinary system disorders and male reproductive disorders. The approach will incorporate an analysis of the above pathologies according to the Chinese Medicine paradigm of differentiation of syndromes (bian zheng) and also incorporate a Western medical classification of disease. For each of these conditions, the aetiology, pathology and formulation of Chinese herbal prescriptions and acupuncture and moxibustion treatments that address the specific requirements of the symptom patterns (zheng) are studied. Lifestyle and safety issues are also addressed.
Chinese Medicine Internal Medicine 2 | CIM307

This subject continues the study of Chinese Medicine Internal Medicine (nei ke). This second part of this subject covers some specific blood diseases, disorders of the endocrine system, connective tissue disorders, urinary system disorders, male reproductive disorders and common diseases of children and infants. The approach will incorporate an analysis of the above pathologies according to the Chinese Medicine paradigm of differentiation of syndromes (bian zheng) and also incorporate a Western medical classification of disease. For each of these conditions, the aetiology, pathology and formulation of Chinese herbal prescriptions and acupuncture and moxibustion treatments that address the specific requirements of the symptom patterns (zheng) are studied. Lifestyle and safety issues are also addressed.
Clinical Practicum Requirements: Students are required to undertake 65 hours of clinical participation. These practica extend the experience of the student in the role of practitioner, enabling them to practice independently, be able to conduct full client consultations which include performing relevant physical examinations), consolidate case-history information, formulate treatment plans, carrying out acupuncture, moxibustion and cupping treatments, provide appropriate dietary and lifestyle advice and undertake administrative duties. Students are expected to be conversant with and understand all the relevant ethical and legal responsibilities of a practitioner when treating a patient. Feedback regarding progression will be given on a weekly basis.

Requirements

These eight core subjects must be completed.

Core subjects

Chinese Medicine Herbal Processing and Dispensing | HPD308

This subject is both a theoretical and practical based subject with a major emphasis on the safe and accurate dispensing and processing of Chinese medicinal substances. This subject provides practical training in the fundamental skills required to safely and accurately dispense and prepare a Chinese herbal prescription according to the main methods of herbal processing (pao zhi). Students will gain additional experience in the dispensing component of this subject via internal and external work integrated learning. It is expected that this placement will be undertaken within the student clinic and at external clinics. The herbal processing component of this subject covers the objectives of herbal processing is to ensure the correct methods of preparation, alongside an understanding of the legal and ethical issues associated with dispensing herbs, with special attention to S1 herbs.
Chinese Medicine Gynaecology and Obstetrics | CGO309

This subject covers the study of Chinese Medicine gynaecology and obstetrics. It examines the features of anatomy and physiology of the female reproductive system. This includes the processes of menstruation, pregnancy and birth, as well as gynaecological and obstetric disorders. The aetiology, pathogenesis, differentiation of syndromes, approaches to treatment for each of the main diseases studied will be analysed. For each disease Chinese herbal formulae and/or acupuncture, with suitable modifications for individual cases, along with lifestyle advice will be examined. A short section on male infertility will be included.
Chinese Medicine Dermatology External Medicine | DEM310

The subject aims to introduce learners to the study of Chinese medicine dermatology. It covers the general features of physiology, pathology and diagnosis as applied to dermatology, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of the common dermatological diseases. For each of the diseases, learners learn to formulate the prescriptions of internal and external used Chinese herbal formulae and/or select points for acupuncture and/or moxibustion. In addition, students learn to advise clients with regard to lifestyle and prevention issues. All disorders studied in this subject are introduced as pathologies from the contemporary Western diagnostic paradigm and then transposed into the Chinese medicine paradigm of differentiation of syndromes (bian zheng) for further discussion.
Chinese Medicine Classics | CMC311

This subject is designed to facilitate the exploration of the origin, historical development and clinical significance of the Shan Han Lun theory including the diagnosis of febrile diseases, the progression of disease via the six divisions and the associated symptomatology, pathogenesis, treatment principles and strategies. Particular emphasis in this subject is directed towards the relationship between the six channels and eight guiding principles and zang fu in order to understand and analyse the clinical application of the representative formulae and associated modifications according to syndrome differentiation.
Critical Literature Review | CLR308A

This subject builds on established knowledge of literature search methods and critical appraisal skills to culminate in a review that conforms to publication standards. You will have an opportunity to critically examine the current literature to answer a chosen research question that will inform clinical decision-making. You will write a literature review that appraises the current knowledge base, highlighting strengths, weaknesses and omissions in existing literature.
Chinese Medicine Mental Health | CMH312

This subject will expand on some of the basic metaphysical principles covered in earlier subjects as well as specific shen (spirit) related disorders according to Chinese medicine theory and practice. The basic Chinese medicine premise of mind and body interdependence will be expanded as it relates to spiritual resources, emotions, personality and behaviour. The framework of this discussion will be focussed on Chinese medicine five element theories as well as zang-fu, qi and blood physiology, and jing luo (meridians). This subject then expands on these preliminary concepts through a selection of mental illnesses as diagnosed by the contemporary western approach, applying Chinese medicine symptomatology, aetiology and pathogenesis. Differentiation of syndromes (bian zheng) is applied to formulate a Chinese medicine diagnosis and treatment plan, using both acupuncture and Chinese herbs.
Entrepreneurship, Professionalism and Business Skills in Health | EPR307

Entrepreneurship, Professionalism & Business Skills in Health will introduce students to the concepts of small business management, entrepreneurship and how to identify the professional requirements of their healthcare discipline. This subject will explore the topics necessary to establish and run a successful healthcare practice and maintain their professional status in the healthcare sector. Students will also explore their professional identity to support the understanding of the ethical conduct, liability, legal and regulatory requirements that are pertinent to their specific modality. This subject will initiate the development of a Business plan using entrepreneurial practices and innovative design thinking. This will include exploring business strategies such as operating policy and procedures, marketing and branding, networking strategies, leadership, administration and financial issues necessary for the operation and management of a contemporary healthcare practice.
Chinese Medicine Case Conference | CCC313

This subject is conducted concurrently with CM Clinical Practicum 6 (CHM410A) and includes information and skills important to clinic operation and the role of student practitioners in the Student Clinic. Critical analysis and review of case studies from the student clinic are reviewed each week by way of student presentations incorporating relevant journal articles from both the Chinese medicine (CM) and contemporary western scientific (WSM) medical literature. A major focus of these clinical forums incorporates an integrated (CM/WSM) approach to the understanding and practice of clinical practice. These sessions are conducted to enable issues of particular importance to students to be addressed and to facilitate their personal development. This development plays an integral part in the transition from student to practitioner as the participants learn to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experience. The supervisor moderates an exchange of ideas, experiences and concerns, which are facilitated through group presentations, open discussion, peer review and group support.

International students must not enrol in more than one-third (33%) of online subjects over their course, and must study at least one face-to-face subject each study period. For more information, visit Study in Australia.

International students on a student visa are required to study full time (i.e. must complete a minimum of 1.0 EFTSL of study per year). For the latest information on study locations, please check the entry requirements flyer.

Industry partners and work placements

You will have the opportunity to apply for an eight-week international internship with our partner hospital in Taiwan. Work placements and Work-Integrated Learning programs provide a valuable resource for you to develop hands-on practical experience to ensure they graduate confident and job-ready.

Work placement hours

645 hours clinical placement and 100 hours of Work-Integrated Learning

Entry details

Domestic
International

Fees

Check the domestic course fee schedule for the cost of your course.

FEE-HELP

Eligible Australian students may choose to defer some, or all, of their tuition fees through FEE-HELP, a loan scheme repaid through the tax system based on income.

Learn more about fees and FEE-HELP

Scholarships

If you are truly passionate about health, we want to hear from you. We have a variety of health scholarships on offer to assist you in becoming a key part of the health industry:

Admission criteria

Before you begin your application to study as a domestic student, check that you meet the requirements listed below.

Year 12 (Australian secondary school certificate) with ATAR 60 or equivalent.

Vocational qualification (AQF Level 4), or above

OR

Successful completion of a Higher Education qualification

The below is an alternative option.
Work and life experience that demonstrates skills and knowledge gained through paid or unpaid employment, formal learning and/or non-formal learning (presented on a current resume with attached cover letter).

View full course admission information

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have already completed a qualification or gained skills through life or work experience, you may be able to credit this against your degree with us. Check information about Recognition of Prior Learning and Course Credit transfer. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.

Learn more about study pathways

Fees

Check the international course fee schedule for the cost of your course. Onshore international students requiring a student visa should choose campus-based / blended options.

Fee payment

Course fees can be paid across three study periods. Each instalment to be paid before the beginning of the academic stage census date.

Scholarships

We want you to have the best possible chance to succeed, which is why we offer a range of financial scholarships to support our international students during their study journey.

Admission criteria

Before you begin your application to study as a international student, check that you meet all the requirements listed below.

Australian Year 12 with ATAR 60 or equivalent; AND

First Aid Certificate, Working with Children and Police Check before commencing clinical subjects; AND

Pass in a science subject at a senior secondary level recommended; AND

Academic IELTS 7.0 (no band less than 6.5) or equivalent

OR alternative entry requirement may be available. Contact the International Admissions team for more information.

View full course admission information

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have already completed a qualification or gained skills through life or work experience, you may be able to credit this against your degree with us. Check information about Recognition of Prior Learning and Course Credit transfer. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.

Learn more about study pathways

Frequently asked questions

What are Torrens University Australia’s ATAR requirements for domestic students?

Torrens University Australia no longer considers ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) as our primary entry requirement. We have removed ATAR as the key admissions criteria for applicants aiming to study at Torrens University Australia. We strongly believed an alternative to the ATAR system should be found, which more broadly assesses students, especially when soft skills are emerging as important employability attributes. So, students with a recent secondary school education are now considered for admission if they have a Year 12 (Australian secondary school) certificate. Exceptions may apply to some courses.
What if  I don’t meet the entry criteria for a degree?

Torrens University Australia has a range of application pathways to help you gain entry into our degrees based on different criteria.

To find out more, visit Study Pathways or contact our Future Student Advisors.
Am I eligible for FEE-HELP?
If you are a domestic student attending university or an approved higher education provider, you can get a FEE-HELP loan to pay all or part of your tuition fees.

You are eligible for FEE-HELP assistance for a unit of study (i.e. subject) if you:

Undertake study with an approved provider.

Meet the citizenship and residency requirements:

An Australian citizen or a New Zealand Special Category Visa holder who meets the long-term residency criteria and who will undertake, in Australia, at least one unit of study contributing to your course; OR

A permanent humanitarian visa holder who will be a resident in Australia for the duration of your unit; OR

Are a permanent visa holder who is undertaking bridging study for overseas-trained professionals, and will be a resident in Australia for the duration of the study.

Enrolled in an eligible unit of study by the census date for the unit.

Have not exceeded the FEE-HELP limit.

For full details, visit the Australian Government website Study Assist.

If you are still unsure, please contact our Future Student Advisors who can talk you through the information.

Can I get course credit for previous experience?

Yes, course credit is available for most courses upon application and academic approval (excluding Higher Degree by Research programs). 

If you have already completed a qualification or have relevant work experience, you may be eligible for credit towards your course. This credit can take the form of credit transfer, block credit or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Review our Course Credits page or chat to our Future Student Advisors.
What are Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfer (CT)? How do I apply?

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that recognises experience, previous study and qualifications, and other forms of informal and non-formal learning, to determine if you meet course requirements.

If you have relevant qualifications or experience, you may be eligible for credit towards your course and a reduction in tuition costs.

Please speak to our Future Student Advisors to discuss your prior learning experiences.

For more information, please visit Course credits.
How do I apply for a scholarship?

Torrens University has a wide range of scholarship options to support new, returning, international and Australian students. They all include a reduction in tuition fees, and some scholarships include a mentoring component with our industry partners.

Domestic students

When you speak to our Future Student Advisors, let them know you wish to be considered for a scholarship in your application form. They will show you how to apply for a scholarship.

International students

Please contact your Education Agent for further information. Alternatively, you can call us on 1300 575 803 or by email.

For more details, explore our range of scholarships.

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Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine)

What is a Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine)?

Learning outcomes

Career opportunities

Potential career paths

Subjects and units

Requirements

Core subjects

Requirements

Core subjects

Requirements

Core subjects

Requirements

Core subjects

Industry partners and work placements

Entry details

Fees

FEE-HELP

Scholarships

Admission criteria

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

Fees

Fee payment

Scholarships

Admission criteria

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

How to apply

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Frequently asked questions

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