Acupuncturist

You can get into this job through specialist courses run by professional bodies.

Other Routes

You'll need to get a qualification that is recognised by a professional body like the:

• British Acupuncture Council
• Acupuncture Society
• Acupuncture Regulatory Authority
• Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture

You can do different courses, with some going up to degree level. Check with the professional bodies for course entry requirements.

British Medical Acupuncture Society

If you're already a qualified healthcare professional, you could train in acupuncture with the British Medical Acupuncture Society .

As a member of the British Medical Acupuncture Society, you can use acupuncture in your professional practice.

More Information

Career Tips

It's important to research courses carefully to make sure they cover topics in enough depth and include practical experience.

While shorter, introductory courses can offer you an insight into the profession, they should be seen as a stepping stone onto fully accredited acupuncturist training.

Professional bodies can give you advice about how to choose a course.

Professional and Industry Bodies

You may find it useful to join a professional body, such as the:

• British Acupuncture Council
• Acupuncture Regulatory Authority
• Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council

These offer professional recognition, training opportunities and the chance to make industry contacts.

Further Information

You can find out more about a career in acupuncture from the:

• British Acupuncture Accreditation Board
• British Acupuncture Council
• NHS

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• knowledge of medicine and dentistry
• sensitivity and understanding
• knowledge of psychology
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• customer service skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• pass background checks

Day-to-day tasks

As an acupuncturist, you could:

• speak to your client about their lifestyle, diet, feelings and symptoms
• diagnose conditions based on an assessment of their issues
• create a personalised treatment plan and explain procedures
• select points on the body to be treated and inserted with needles
• use sterile equipment and follow rules on infection control
• provide treatment over a number of sessions
• monitor a client's progress and keep accurate case notes
• refer clients to medical practitioners when required

Working environment

You could work from home, at a hospice, in a therapy clinic or at a GP practice.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.

With experience, you could:

• set up your own practice
• specialise in treating certain conditions, like joint pain, migraines or anxiety
• work in acupuncture teaching or research
• continue your professional development through further study, for example in Chinese herbal medicine