Comparison of Chinese medicine education and training in China and Australia

The similarities and differences between Chinese medicine (CM) education in China and Australia are considered in a detailed comparison of the five-year undergraduate programmes offered by the Beijing University of CM (BUCM), China and RMIT University (RMIT), Australia. BUCM is a specialist CM institution whereas RMIT is a technological university providing training in a wide range of professional areas. Both institutions are considered to be leading tertiary institutions within their respective countries. A brief account of the historical development of CM education in China and Australia is provided. We have compared the curricula and structure of the programmes and how they each address the development of essential graduate capabilities for competent and safe clinical CM practice. We have also considered the quality assurance processes and the requirements of external regulatory authorities. The curricula and educational objectives of the 2 programmes are broadly similar. Both institutions have established rigorous processes for managing teaching quality and ensuring appropriate graduates to promote evidence-based CM practice. However, there are differences relating to the healthcare systems of China and Australia and to the availability of teaching resources and clinical training facilities such as classical CM texts and CM hospitals. These differences present major challenges for the internationalisation of CM education. The findings of this study may facilitate the process of CM curriculum development in a global context.