Health Sciences University and the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine confirm completion of merger 

Health Sciences University (HSU) and the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine (CICM) are delighted to announce a significant milestone for both institutions, as the process for CICM to join the HSU community is completed. 

This new chapter builds upon a long-standing and successful academic partnership, through which HSU has validated CICM’s degree programmes for several years. Bringing CICM into HSU creates a strong platform for the continued development of high-quality healthcare education, clinical training and professional development. 

Throughout the process, both institutions have remained committed to protecting the interests of students, staff and the wider CICM community. A shared focus on academic excellence, student experience and the long-term sustainability of CICM’s highly regarded accredited education provision has underpinned every stage of the process. 

As part of this development, CICM’s Reading campus becomes HSU Reading, joining HSU’s established campuses in Bournemouth and London. Within HSU Reading, CICM Acupuncture will provide specialist BAAB-accredited acupuncture education, maintaining the identity, expertise and reputation that have made CICM one of the UK’s most respected providers of acupuncture education. 

Students will continue to benefit from the high standards of teaching, clinical learning and academic support associated with CICM, while also gaining access to the opportunities and resources available through HSU as a specialist health sciences university. Staff will continue to play a key role in shaping the future of acupuncture education, research and professional practice. 

Professor Lesley Haig, Vice-Chancellor of Health Sciences University, said: 

“This is an important and exciting moment for both institutions. CICM has built an outstanding reputation for excellence in accredited acupuncture education, and we are delighted to welcome its students, staff, alumni and wider community into Health Sciences University. 

Together, we can build on our strong existing relationship to create new opportunities for education, research and innovation, while preserving the distinctive qualities that have made CICM so highly regarded. We look forward to working together to strengthen the future of acupuncture education within a broader health sciences environment.” 

Jo Rochford, Principal of the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine, said: 

“Our priority throughout this process has been to secure the long-term future of CICM and to protect the interests of our students, staff and community. 

Joining Health Sciences University provides a strong and sustainable foundation for the future while allowing us to retain the educational philosophy, expertise and traditions that define CICM. We are confident that this will create exciting opportunities for growth, collaboration and innovation, ensuring that acupuncture education continues to thrive for generations to come.” 

This exciting development will unlock opportunities to strengthen existing provision, expand educational offerings and further contribute to the development of the healthcare workforce. 

Both institutions extend their sincere thanks to students, staff, alumni, partners and stakeholders for their support throughout this process and look forward to a successful future.

Photograph (left to right): Sara Lacey, CICM Vice-Principal; Professor Lesley Haig, HSU Vice-Chancellor; Jo Rochford, CICM Principal; and Sharon Potter, HSU Deputy Vice-Chancellor.