Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Acupuncture Training Courses in East Grinstead
Founded in 1972 by Dr. J.D. van Buren, the International College of Oriental Medicine (ICOM) stands as the UK's longest-established acupuncture training institution. Our mission combines academic excellence, research, and compassionate healthcare rooted in traditional acupuncture principles. Accredited by the British Acupuncture Accreditation Board (BAAB), we offer a degree-level Licentiate in Acupuncture through a curriculum blending classical Chinese medicine theory with Western medical sciences. Our small class sizes ensure personalized support, with students gaining extensive clinical experience through supervised patient consultations. We pioneered the practical application of Stems and Branches theory, a unique approach to understanding energetic cycles in traditional Chinese medicine. As a registered charity (No. 274066), we maintain accessible fees while training practitioners who have become global leaders in acupuncture.Our graduates receive BAAB-accredited qualifications enabling registration with the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC), which is approved by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care. The college's historic Van Buren House campus in East Grinstead houses purpose-built teaching facilities and a community-focused student clinic offering low-cost treatments. Our flipped classroom model integrates online learning with in-person practical sessions, providing flexibility for students balancing other commitments. With 50 years of heritage, we continue evolving while preserving our commitment to rigorous academic standards and holistic healthcare education.
Services
Acupuncture Courses
CPD Training
Student Clinics
Online Learning
Research Programs
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- UK's longest-established acupuncture training college since 1972
- Pioneers in Stems and Branches theory instruction unique to ICOM
- Small class sizes with 100% clinic attendance requirement
- BAAB-accredited courses approved by the Professional Standards Authority
- 50 years of clinical teaching experience in traditional Chinese medicine
Associations and certifications
- British Acupuncture Accreditation Board
What people say
Thorough foundation
Classical approach
Small class sizes
Practical experience
Expert teachers
Services
Acupuncture Courses
Our BAAB-accredited Licentiate in Acupuncture combines classical Chinese medicine theory with Western medical sciences. Students study Stems and Branches theory, master acupuncture point applications, and complete 100% supervised clinical practice. The three-year full-time or four-to-five-year part-time program prepares graduates for BAcC registration.
CPD Courses
Professional development workshops cover specialized techniques like Gua Sha, moxibustion, and facial revitalisation acupuncture. Courses range from one-day introductions to multi-week certifications, delivered by industry experts. Recent offerings include cancer care acupuncture and posture balance therapy training.
Student Clinics
Our teaching clinic provides low-cost acupuncture treatments supervised by registered practitioners. Patients receive care from final-year students while trainees gain hands-on experience in diagnosis and treatment planning. Appointments cost 10 and require booking via telephone.
Online Learning
The flipped classroom model delivers theoretical content through online lectures and resources. Students attend campus for practical sessions, reducing travel requirements. The system supports flexible study for those balancing work or family commitments with acupuncture education.
Research Programs
We maintain active research into traditional Chinese medicine applications and educational methodologies. Current projects explore Stems and Branches theory applications and integrative approaches combining Eastern and Western medical practices. Students complete original research dissertations in their final year.
People
Dr. J.D. van Buren
Founder
Dutch-born physician and acupuncture pioneer who established ICOM in 1972 after surviving WWII imprisonment. Developed practical applications of Stems and Branches theory, shaping modern acupuncture education. Passed away in 2003 but remains central to the college's legacy.
Giovanni Maciocia
Alumnus
1974 graduate who became leading authority on Chinese medicine. Authored seminal textbooks including 'Tongue Diagnosis in Chinese Medicine' and 'The Foundations of Chinese Medicine'. Founded Su Wen Herbs in 1994. Passed away in 2018 but remains influential in global acupuncture practice.
Questions
Is ICOM's acupuncture course accredited?
Yes, our Licentiate in Acupuncture is accredited by the British Acupuncture Accreditation Board (BAAB) and enables registration with the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC).
What study options are available?
We offer full-time (3 years) and part-time (4-5 years) programs with blended online and on-campus learning using a flipped classroom model for flexible study.
How do I apply for courses?
Applications can be submitted year-round through our online portal with no application fee. Early applicants may qualify for discounted fees.
Are there clinical practice opportunities?
Students complete 100% supervised clinical practice in our teaching clinic and receive more one-to-one patient consultations than any other acupuncture institution.
What facilities are available?
Our East Grinstead campus features dedicated lecture rooms, a teaching clinic, extensive library with 50 years of dissertations, and student common areas with kitchen facilities.
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Reviews (7)
R. M.
Jan 01, 2022
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Very professionel, clean and relaxing environment. The receptionists are very friendly.
Elio is amazing and take the time to listen to your concerns. A very positive first experience with acupuncture. Will recommende to anyone.
Rosa
Elio is amazing and take the time to listen to your concerns. A very positive first experience with acupuncture. Will recommende to anyone.
Rosa
Josh Barrow
Dec 24, 2021
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I've had amazing experiences with all of the treatments I have had at ICOM. I've seen experienced practitioners, such as Tony and Suzi, as well as graduate practitioners like Tomek. Each one has a different style of treating but all have been brilliant.
Roshni Patel
Sep 30, 2021
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Great service and a lovely experience with Tomek, he really listened to my needs and provided me with useful advice.
Linzi Greig
Jun 22, 2021
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Rebecca took an extremely detailed history from me at a first appointment and I am looking forward to booking an appointment for treatment as soon as I can. I was very impressed at the attention to detail from the start. The college gets great reviews and I hope to add another very soon!
Kate Chadwick
May 19, 2021
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I went to see my practioner as a free 15 minute assessment first of all. He was able to do a treatment for me afterwards which was great. On the whole I'm feeling better but have another appointment made. Altogether a pleasant experience.
Anabela Santos
May 11, 2021
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As a student I can only say that ICOM offers more than education. It's a professional and friendly place, where one has space to grow. I have learn that the practice of Chinese Medicine starts within ourselves and manifests iin clinic.
Jo Blixen
Feb 26, 2021
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First time I have been here for many years. My Therapist was just amazing. I am so lucky to have found her and that because of my issues she was able to see me during this period
Excellent in every way and I have confidence that during my sessions in the coming weeks I will get better.
Excellent in every way and I have confidence that during my sessions in the coming weeks I will get better.
