If you’re considering the ICTCM Acupuncture Training programme, it is important to know how the course is organised and whether it can fit around your work, family, and other commitments.
The Licentiate in TCM Acupuncture is a three-year, part-time Professional Training Programme. This programme combines online learning, practical skills development, and supervised clinical training.
Years One and Two – Building Strong Foundations
The first two years focus on developing a thorough understanding of Traditional Chinese Medicine theory while introducing the practical skills needed to become a competent Acupuncture practitioner.
Students attend twelve teaching weekends each academic year, with classes held once every three to four weeks.
Teaching takes place only on Saturdays and Sundays, making it possible for many students to continue working while studying.
To make the Acupuncture Training programme more accessible for students travelling from across Ireland and flying in from various parts of Europe, much of the theoretical teaching is delivered live via Zoom.
Around 50% of the teaching takes place at our College in Dublin, where students learn practical Acupuncture point location, diagnostic methods, and other essential hands-on clinical skills. Practical teaching and assessments are carried out in person.
A typical teaching day runs from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.
Some students require the Western Medicine module. This is delivered via Zoom on one Saturday morning each month during the first six months of the programme.
Year Three – Clinical Training
The Third year is dedicated to developing clinical competence.
Students attend the ICTCM Teaching Clinic in Dublin on fortnightly clinical weekends. Here they gain valuable supervised experience treating clients under the guidance of experienced practitioners. These fortnightly clinical weekends run from September to March.
Later in the academic year, additional theory modules and project work are completed online.
By the end of the programme, students will have developed both the theoretical knowledge and the practical clinical skills required to begin professional practice as TCM Acupuncture Practitioners.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Professional Acupuncture training requires commitment beyond the scheduled teaching weekends.
Throughout the programme, students complete home study, assignments, and examination preparation. During the interview process, one of our senior teachers discusses the expected study commitment with each applicant. This aims to give a realistic understanding of the programme before they begin.
Designed for Adult Learners
Many of our students successfully balance their studies with careers, family life, and other commitments. The course has been carefully structured to provide the flexibility of part-time study while maintaining the high academic and clinical standards expected of a professional healthcare qualification.
If you would like to find out more about the TCM Acupuncture Training programme or discuss whether it is the right course for you, we’d be delighted to hear from you. Applications are still currently open for our next intake beginning in October 2026.
You can go directly to the Application pack, which includes the fee information if you wish.