Western Medicine Course
Get your WM diploma — and make sure your clients get reimbursedThe accredited Basic Medical Knowledge program from Shenzhou Open University. Both SNRO and CPION accredited. Classes you attend in person — not log into.
Already completed by more than 1.000 therapists.
Is this program right for you?
This program is for you as a complementary therapist who wants to take their practice seriously. So your clients get reimbursed by their health insurer, you can join a professional association, and your treatments are VAT-exempt.
You’re studying or have studied acupuncture, massage, energy work, nutrition or another complementary therapy
You don’t yet have an SNRO or CPION accredited MBK diploma
You want to seriously build your medical knowledge — not just get a piece of paper
You’re looking for a program that challenges, guides and inspires you
Many therapists eventually find themselves stuck without an MBK diploma. Clients who don’t get reimbursed. Professional associations they can’t join. Removing that barrier — that’s what this program is for.
Not sure if this is right for you? Download the study brochure and take your time to look it over.
1000+ therapists went before you
Shenzhou Open University has existed for more than 35 years and has built an excellent reputation in the field of complementary medicine. The MBK program is one of our most popular programs — taken by therapists from all over Europe.
After completing the program, we ask our students about their experience through a final evaluation. That feedback is consistently positive — and students repeatedly point to the teacher as a key part of it.
What students say:
- “The lecturers were fantastic — Toine kept us engaged every single day, and Susan made sure we felt fully prepared for the exam.”
- “I really enjoyed the WM classes — the teaching style and the interactivity with students from all over the world.”
- “I am very satisfied with both doctors, and the organisation of the school — a wonderful course.”
- “Toine is an excellent teacher — his practical experience brought every area of medicine to life.”
- “A meaningful learning experience that gave me an overall understanding I’ll use in my future practice.”
- “Excellent experience overall — the coordinators and teachers exceeded my expectations.”
Why therapists choose Shenzhou
A teacher who truly inspires you
Toine Korthout has been teaching pathology for more than 15 years. His approach: theory you actually understand because he connects it to your practice as a therapist. No dry material — knowledge that sticks.
Check the Open Day presentation by Toine.
You’re in the classroom — not behind your screen
A teacher who answers your questions on the spot. Fellow students who pull you in. An environment that puts you in study mode. We see it time and again: people who are truly present learn more, retain more, and get more out of the program.
That’s why we teach our classes in person — supplemented with an online component for the flexibility you need.
Study groups with your fellow students
Prepare presentations together, discuss questions, share knowledge. Your study group becomes a network that stays with you — even after you graduate.
In the heart of Amsterdam
Classes take place in the inspiring CMC Tasly building — right in the center of Amsterdam. An environment that motivates and energizes you.
Personal guidance from start to diploma
Our study coordinators are genuinely there for you. Accessible, engaged and enthusiastic. Questions get answered, problems get solved — without you having to chase anyone down.
What you’ll learn during the program
The program follows the PLATO standard — the standard required by health insurers and professional associations. You’ll build solid knowledge in:
Anatomy & physiology
Pathology
Medical ethics & health law
Psychology & pharmacology
The Dutch healthcare system
Infectious diseases & cytology
Praktische informatie
Duration:
1 year | 10 weekends (Friday & Saturday, 09:30 AM–5:15 PM)
Location:
Amsterdam, Geldersekade 67
Investment:
€2,395 (+ €95 for new students) includes exams, coffee & tea
Accreditation:
SNRO + CPION accredited | 40 EC credits
Format:
In-person classes + online component
Next start date:
September 2026
Note: limited spots available — enroll in time.
Frequently Asked Questions Western Medicine course
When does the next group start and are spots still available?
The next intake starts in September 2026. Spots are limited — enroll in time to secure your place.
How big are the groups?
Groups are deliberately kept small, leaving room for personal contact, interaction with the teacher and good collaboration in study groups.
Which therapists is this program suitable for?
The program is open to anyone working in or training for complementary care: acupuncture, massage, homeopathy, nutrition therapy, energy work, osteopathy and more. No prior medical training is required.
What’s the difference between SNRO and CPION accreditation?
Both are recognized accreditations for complementary education programs, but they’re required by different professional associations and insurers. Shenzhou is one of the few providers with both accreditations — so you’re covered regardless of your professional association.
Does the €2,395 cover everything?
Yes, it includes exams, coffee and tea. The only additional costs are the course books, which you purchase separately and the Western Medicine reader (€100). Only new students pay a registration fee of € 95.
What if I miss a class day?
We understand that life doesn’t always go as planned. Get in touch with your study coordinator — they’ll think through a solution with you. A minimum attendance requirement applies to obtain the diploma.
Can I combine this program with my current studies or job?
Yes. Classes take place on weekends — 23 days spread across the year. This makes it easy to combine the program with work or another course of study.
Is the diploma recognized by health insurers?
Yes. The program is accredited by both SNRO and CPION and meets the PLATO standard. These are the two accreditations Dutch health insurers require for reimbursement of complementary treatments.
Ready to get started?
Take the step toward an accredited MBK diploma and give your clients the reimbursement they’re entitled to.
Limited spots available for the September 2026 start.
020-620 3371 | info@shenzhou-university.com
