SAQA

All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.

SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Postgraduate Diploma in Acupuncture

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
111228	Postgraduate Diploma in Acupuncture
ORIGINATOR
University of Johannesburg
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Postgraduate Diploma	Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services		Curative Health
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	120	Not Applicable	NQF Level 08	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0821/24	2019-08-16	2027-06-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30		2031-06-30

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification.

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

Purpose:
The purpose of the qualification is to develop qualifying learners with the knowledge, attitudes, insight and skills required for the treatment and management of patients guided by the principles, practice and safety issues in the use of acupuncture techniques. Qualifying learners will competently apply and integrate clinical approaches that optimise the use of the various employed techniques in acupuncture therapeutics. The qualifying learner will also be a team player capable of working in multi-disciplinary teams to promote the profession, be able to formulate comprehensive therapeutic protocols for health promotion and contribute to the development of knowledge at an advanced level. Practice will be in a specialised profession, in this case a Complementary Medicine environment.

Rationale:
Acupuncture is defined as the insertion of needles at specific points on the body for therapeutic purposes. Acupuncture is widely used in TCM, the world's second largest medical system, which is used by more than 1.5 billion people worldwide. The WHO has, in the document Acupuncture: Review and Analysis of Reports on Controlled Clinical Trials (2002) compiled a list of disease conditions that have been proven, through controlled clinical trials, to be effectively treated by acupuncture. The WHO has also compiled a list of conditions for which acupuncture has shown definite therapeutic effects, but more proof is needed to establish acupuncture as a mainstream form of treatment. Considering the above, high level research and focus is required to be generated in the field that will contribute towards the answering of crucial research questions. As a contribution to medical science and the objectives of the international policies on CM, this Degree will further the aims associated with the provision of safe, quality and efficacious healthcare.

In a population of approximately 52 million citizens in South Africa, there are only 63 acupuncture therapists and 92 Chinese Medicine and acupuncture practitioners registered with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA). This discrepancy in the number of therapists/practitioners available in relation to the population is largely due to the limited availability of education/training that allows for registration. In order for Chinese Medicine to grow and develop in South Africa, there is a need for training institutions to offer qualifications in CM.

The qualification will provide learners with the relevant knowledge, skills and competencies to manage and treat patients effectively, as well as engage in community upliftment. This qualification provides in-depth knowledge and training in both the theoretical and clinical components of acupuncture. Learners benefit from expert clinical training combined with integrative healthcare models, providing qualifying learners with the necessary skills to practice as a regulated healthcare professional. This qualification also promotes the principles of lifelong learning and provides a qualification that can enhance a healthcare provider's career. It is essential within the South African environment to provide health care which is accessible to the community and is of a high professional standard.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The institution accepts Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of education and academic practice. It is acknowledged that all learning has value and the institution accepts the challenge to assess prior learning and status will be given for credits that are aligned to the learning outcomes of the programme and to promote lifelong learning

The RPL policy will be applied to enable learners who does not meet the minimum entry requirements to gain access to the qualification or for learners to gain advanced placement, or recognition of status.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:

Master of Technology in Homoeopathy, Level 9.
Or

Master of Technology (Chiropractic), Level 9.
Or

Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB).
Or

Bachelor in Physiotherapy, Level 8.
Or

Bachelor of Science in Complementary Health Science, Level 8 plus a Bachelor's degree in one of the following: Phytotherapy, Naturopathy, or Unani-Tibb.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of compulsory modules at Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Mondules:

Foundations of Acupuncture, 15 Credits.

Needling Techniques, 10 Credits.

Clinical Acupuncture I, 15 Credits.

Acupuncture Therapeutics II, 20 Credits.

Clinical Acupuncture II, 20 Credits.

Acupuncture Therapeutics II, 24 Credits.

Ethics and Jurisprudence, 8 Credits.

Applied Research, 8 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Interpret clinical data in order to identify and assess the range of health problems presented to acupuncturists.
2. Apply biomedical, behavioural and social sciences relevant to health promotion and management within a primary health care setting.
3. Develop and implement acupuncture treatment and prevention protocols that promote and manage health.
4. Plan and execute research in the field of acupuncture and related management.
5. Implement the legislative requirements pertaining to the practice of acupuncture.
6. Conduct acupuncture techniques on patients.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Clinical data of a range of health problems encountered by acupuncturists are accurately derived, analysed and interpreted.

Appropriate acupuncture treatment protocols are developed through the application of theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Integration of relevant clinical competencies and therapeutic acupuncture knowledge is correctly presented.

A comprehensive and holistic approach is applied in the management of a variety of health problems uncounted in a clinical setting.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Biomedical knowledge is correctly applied in order to derive an accurate understanding of various health problems and their management.

Social and behavioural aspects of health and the relationship between health behaviour, the community, society and the environment are correctly differentiated.

Multi-disciplinary approaches in the prevention of illness and the improvement of health are clearly discussed.

Health care strategies are appropriately identified within a clinical setting.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Relevant treatment and preventions plans are designed, taking the role and function of other health disciplines and their relevance in multi-disciplinary patient management into account.

A range of clinical and acupuncture-related therapeutic skills are demonstrated in the clinical setting.

Appropriate management of the treatment plan is evident in a clinical setting.

Effective communication skills, applying the principles of medical ethics and professional behaviour within a professional multi-cultural and international context are used.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

A research question is identified and explored.

Multiple sources of literature are judiciously used in order to develop and contribute towards research output in an acupuncture related field.

Information relevant to the field of acupuncture in formulating a research argument is synthesised.

Research skills and intellectual competencies in the field of acupuncture can be demonstrated.

A research essay is presented in the correct format showing evidence of best practice in the field.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

The legislative requirements pertaining to the practice of acupuncture practice are accurately evaluated and presented.

The principles of medical ethics based on legislative requirements are coherently described.

The requirements of a health professional within own field, in a clinical setting are acted upon.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

The appropriate acupuncture techniques are selected and correctly applied to the patient.

The various techniques involved in patient care are critically evaluated and differentiated between.

The appropriate management protocol that aims to achieve long-term wellbeing of the patient is chosen and applied.

Adverse effects and referral options are carefully considered in the treatment and management of a case.

The requirements of a health professional are abided by.

Integrated Assessment:
The actual number of assessments offered will be in line with institutional policies on assessment, and designed according to stipulated requirements from the regulatory body (AHPCSA).

Formative Assessment:

Observation of real or simulated learner-patient interaction e.g. practical exercises/demonstrations, role-plays, presentations.

Evaluation after a task has been completed e.g. projects, assignments, case studies, portfolios, artefacts, log books, reflective journals).

Questions, oral or written, used either separately or in combination with (a) and/or (b) e.g. tests/examinations, including short or long questions, essays, multiple choice questions.

Summative Assessment:

Clinical examinations and treatment of patients by learners done under supervision of a clinician.

Integrated clinical assessments.

Assessment and Monitoring of Work Integrated Learning:
The qualification subscribes to the principles of Work Integrated Learning (WIL) which is compulsory for all learners enrolled in the qualification and forms part of the Clinical Acupuncture I, Needling Techniques, Clinical Acupuncture II and Acupuncture Therapeutics modules. WIL commences in the first year and continues into the second year. Since WIL is considered integrated into the qualification, it is subject to all the applicable learning, teaching and assessment strategies in compliance with the Institutional policies. The WIL components will be under the supervision of registered acupuncturist.

Monitoring of learner learning and assessment is done jointly by the lecturers and clinicians at the training sites. Learners receive continuous feedback on their learning progress.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

Country: Hong Kong.
Institution: University of Hong Kong.
Qualification Title: Diploma in Clinical Acupuncture.

The qualification provides Western-trained medical practitioners and medical-related professionals interested in acupuncture with an opportunity to undertaken acupuncture training (structured over 2 parts). It forms a foundation for subsequent studies in Advanced Clinical Acupuncture.

Part 1: Basic Acupuncture enables participants to pursue a comprehensive study on clinical aspects of acupuncture practice. The qualification aims to develop competence in the practice of acupuncture as a therapeutic modality and is designed primarily for western-trained medical practitioners, physiotherapists, nurses, osteopaths, chiropractors and other members of allied health-care professions. The qualification is offered over 106 hours including 8 hours of clinical observation.

This qualification is similar to the above-mentioned qualification in terms of the structure/modules, purpose and core content.

Country: New Zealand.
Institution: Auckland University of Technology.
Qualification Title: Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science in Acupuncture.

Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science in Acupuncture (120 Credits) is a coursework qualification which can lead into the Master of Health Science or Master of Health Practice. It provides learners with the opportunity to undertake an approved course of study to advance their specialty discipline, knowledge and scholarly development in acupuncture.

This qualification is similar to the above-mentioned qualification in terms of structure, module composition, duration/credit and core content.

Country: Australia.
Institution: Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT).
Qualification Title: Master of Applied Science (Acupuncture).

This qualification offers health practitioners a unique opportunity for clinical education that integrates Chinese acupuncture with modern neurophysiology and evidence-based medicine. It is structured specifically for health professionals who want to incorporate acupuncture into their treatment approach. The qualification merges Western medical sciences with Chinese medicine theory. A strong focus on evidence-based medicine is combined with the philosophical and cultural aspects of Chinese medicine. It is offered on a part-time basis over 3-years.

This qualification is similar to the above-mentioned qualification in terms of purpose and structure.

Country: Australia.
Institution: Monash University.
Qualification Title: Graduate Certificate in Medical Acupuncture.

This qualification is designed for general practitioners to provide an understanding of medical acupuncture, both historically and philosophically. The knowledge and skills gained from the course, in addition to the practical guidance provided, should enable general practitioners to practice medical acupuncture with confidence with their own patients in appropriate clinical conditions. The qualification is offered on part-time study only.

This qualification is similar to the above-mentioned qualification in terms of the purpose and structure.

Country: United States of America (USA).
Institution: Harvard Medical School.
Qualification Title: The International Structural Acupuncture Course for Physicians.
The Department of Medicine at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center is offering a highly regarded, comprehensive, nine-month course in acupuncture for physicians accredited by Harvard Medical School. This qualification includes an introduction to traditional Chinese medicine with special emphasis on developing an understanding of its practical application to clinical care from a Western perspective. Emphasis is given to "hands-on" point location and needling techniques based upon palpatory feedback, familiarisation with the meridian pathways and organ pathology.

This qualification is similar to the above-mentioned qualification in terms of purpose and structure.

Country: Taiwan.
Institution: China Medical University.
Qualification Title: International Master's Program of Acupuncture Science.
The International Master's qualification of Biomedical Sciences (IMPBS) is newly established in China Medical University (CMU) and is dedicated to providing outstanding opportunities for learners from home and abroad to pursue careers in acupuncture science.

This qualification is similar to the above-mentioned qualification in terms of purpose and structure.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
Horizontal Articulation:

Postgraduate Diploma in Health Management, Level 8.

Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health, Level 8.

Postgraduate Diploma in Child Health, Level 8.

Vertical Articulation:

Master of Complementary Medicine, Level 9.

Master in Public Health, Level 9.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

NOTES

N/A

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

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PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION:

This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.

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