An Overview of the H.A.C. 20 Day Syllabus

Study Hours

Supervised teaching hours are a minimum 128 (15 days) plus 38 supervised clinic hours (5 days). Additional self-study hours are a minimum 166. Total course is a minimum 332 hours over 6 months study. 

Theoretical

History of Acupuncture: theoretical and philosophical perspectives. 

Healing with acupuncture, using various styles and developments.

5 Element Acupuncture: developing elemental awareness, skills and ability to use this in acupuncture practice. The officials and the energetic nature of elements. Learning traditional 5E protocols.

Traditional Chinese Medicine: learning key concepts and theory of TCM for the purposes of acupuncture practice. Including Zang Fu, 3 treasures, 6 divisions, Qi, Organs, Channels etc.

Acupuncture Points Theory: types of point, the nature and energy of points, functions and creative uses of key points.

Health and Safety: referrals, notes, drugs, legal obligations, insurance, premises, ethical issues etc.

Practical

Pulse Taking: identify types of pulse, diagnosis with pulse.

Tongue Diagnosis: identify key features and meaning.

Needling: needle safety, needle techniques and development of practical and energetic awareness and needling skills.

Cupping Skills: and use of heat and moxabustion, B.P. testing etc.

Palpating Skills: and healing skills for treatment and diagnosis.

Diagnosis: and treatment planning using information obtained through a variety of skills and using that effectively in a clinic setting.

Point Location: practical application of locating, sensing and using acupuncture points.

Outcomes and CPD

At the end of the course students will be able to work as a professional acupuncturists. Having developed and gained knowledge, practical skills and practitioner awareness. This will enable them to take a case, make a diagnosis and then plan and carry out effective treatments for patients in a caring, professional and healing environment. Students are actively encouraged to continue their learning and development with additional courses, experience, reflection and study.

It is worth noting that if you compare the six month course plus 2+ years of practice and good CPD with a 3 year course you end up with a similar quantity of experience and hours.