Access and Participation Statement
- Policy
1.1 The College of Integrated Chinese Medicine offers a degree course in acupuncture validated by Kingston University and accredited by the British Acupuncture Accreditation Board. We are committed to enabling as wide as possible access to our course and participation in them for those wishing to deepen their understanding Chinese Medicine and to those wanting to train as an acupuncturist.
- Access
We seek to operate a fair recruitment and admissions process, which is transparent, reliable, valid and inclusive, through a thorough, holistic approach to considering individual student needs and circumstances.
Entry requirements are clearly stated, but where people for whatever reason have not been able or had the opportunity to gain the requisite prior qualifications for undergraduate entry, we will enter into a dialogue with each individual. Ultimately we are looking for people who have a desire to assess and attend to the health needs of others. All applicants are encouraged to attend an open day before deciding on whether they wish to apply.
Applicants have the opportunity to discuss all elements of study at college, which, as well as the academic programme, include discussion of finances, assessment, career opportunities etc. so as to help them prepare fully and effectively for study. Our regular open days hosted by the President, Dean and Joint Principal of the college provide an opportunity for prospective students to tour the college, meet the registrar and students, to have a flavour of the ethos of the college and what to expect if they chose to study with us and also to have their questions answered.
- Participation
We welcome new students to a period of orientation to life and study at college before the programmes begin (welcome week for full-time students, welcome weekend for part-time students). We run a study skills programme for all students who may not have studied for some time or who lack confidence in studying.
We have a qualified staff member, supported by a team of tutors, dedicated to the support of students offering both study skills support and help with obtaining funds from DSA. We seek to build an effective partnership between staff and students at all levels in enhancing the quality of learning opportunities.
We offer additional point location days on Fridays and Sundays throughout the year to encourage and support students in their learning. We also organise Regional Support groups for all our students. These are small groups of typically 4 to 6 students who meet a tutor once a month close to their home. They can practice practical skills, discuss assignments, coursework or any aspect of the course or learning they wish. These groups, which have been praised by the QAA, Kingston University and our students, are set up around the country to widen access to our students.
We engage students, individually and collectively, as partners in the assurance and enhancement of their educational experience. We seek to embed a culture of support for student learning which develops the academic and professional potential of students. This includes a well-developed and valued pastoral and student tutorial and support system.
The college welcomes students from a diverse age range, currently from age 18 to age 68.
- Progression
Retention rates are very high. We consistently achieve a 100% pass rate among students who completed their studies.
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"I love the teaching at CICM, it is varied, interesting and extremely inspiring and the teachers all have a wealth of experience to draw on.”
Keeley Farrington
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“CICM was suggested by an acupuncturist I know and recommended for its high-quality tuition and professional approach. I knew I wanted to explore a degree course and after my open day experience I knew it had to be CICM.”
Michelle Patrick
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"I recently joined CICM and there are so many things I love about the place. The teachers are genuinely helpful and want us to do well. The place has a calm, harmonic feel and studying has already had a tangible benefit to my lifestyle and health."
Erica Chen
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"I was an electrician before I started studying acupuncture. It might not seem like it but there are overlaps between them, you look at a circuit and work out where the problem is coming from and then rectify it. The difference is with acupuncture I’ll help people to get better!"
Jack Keeping
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"Since embarking on this course, I have been astounded every day by the passion that this subject has sparked in me. I realised very quickly that I was in the right place, doing the right thing. I can only describe it as finally finding my place in the universe and becoming part of something much bigger than myself."
Sally Connelly
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"I wanted to become an acupuncturist as I prefer to use natural remedies which are in line with my faith and cultural background. I have witnessed the profound effects treatment can have on patients. CICM has an excellent reputation and I love the whole package here, especially the staff and supportive teachers."
Bev Holder
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"I appreciated the integrated style of TCM and the five elements as being the most profound way to reach and help people. This was the best possible start to a long acupuncture career that I could possibly wish for."
Bethan Morgan
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"My years at CICM will always hold a special place in my mind. It was like entering Hogwarts. The subjects are mind-expanding, the teachers and tutors really passionate and always keen to answer questions and give guidance. It has transformed me as a person and changed the way I see people, emotions, relationships, disease and health."
Efthymios Fotenios
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The teachers are really supportive and make every effort to tailor how they teach to suit the different styles of students. I like to question things and look at things from different angles - and the teachers have always supported me by being there to answer things by email after class, recommend further reading, or even being there to support me when I set up a Chinese medicine society for the college.
Helen Reid
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The course covers a huge range of topics, angles and perspectives, and whilst so much of it is new, unfamiliar and challenging at times- especially the 'hands on practical aspects- I can’t think of anything else I’d rather be doing, or anywhere else I’d rather be doing it. CICM is a hub of connection, commitment and energy, and something I am honoured to be part of.
Ellie Farnfield
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All of my teachers are practicing therapists with a library of information and experience to reinforce their words and the lectures. I have gained a lot of insight into myself and I often find myself reflecting on what we learned in class and applying it to life. I am recommending the course to everyone I know!
Jacob Marley
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As I was in my late forties I was concerned that I was too old, however the Open Day dispelled any doubts that I had as the age range of students and staff spanned from 18 to 80. The beautiful building was a joy to explore and I felt immersed in the world of Chinese Medicine. It was a cocoon of learning in the heart of Reading and only ten minutes’ walk from the train station.
Samanthan Roderick
