University Of Johannesburg UJ-Complementary Medicine

Complementary Medicine

The Department of Complementary Medicine at the Faculty of Health Sciences will be offering new and unique professional programmes in complementary medicine from 2020, which will allow for comprehensive theoretical and practical training in the disciplines of acupuncture, homoeopathy and phytotherapy.

Complementary medicine refers to a broad set of health care practices that are not part of a country’s traditional or conventional medicinal approach, but may be used independently or alongside such therapies. Complementary medicine professions in South Africa consist of a diverse range of disciplines including phytotherapy, homoeopathy, and acupuncture.

The BHSc CM is a four-year, (APS 26) full-time course that offers training in acupuncture therapeutics, as well as electives in the fields of homoeopathy or phytotherapy. Acupuncture is a system of healing originating in China, and acupuncturists employ specific techniques, such as needling and moxibustion, in the treatment of various ailments. The BHSc CM seeks to produce a graduate competent to apply and integrate theoretical principles, evidence-based techniques, practical exposure and appropriate skills under supervision. Graduates of the Bachelor’s programme will be eligible to register with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA) as an acupuncture therapist.