Our Program

Our 10-trimester Master of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine degree program prepares students to become licensed acupuncturists through our comprehensive program of acupuncture, herbal and biomedical training.

In the first year, we offer an introduction to TCM through a fundamental integration of all aspects of natural healing according to TCM and Western approaches. The year begins with the basics of Oriental medicine theory, acupuncture point location, anatomy, physiology, diagnoses, and Qi Gong exercise.

In addition to didactic study, our program emphasizes hands-on clinical training. Before graduating, TCTCM students will have treated 350 patients and spent more than 900 hours in our state-of-the-art student clinic. This practical application of the theoretical material helps to deepen students' understanding as they begin to apply their knowledge. The clinical internship allows students to master the principles of Chinese herbal and acupuncture treatment and learn how to give solid nutritional advice and teach therapeutic exercise to patients. Students will know when to refer patients to other specialists and when other specialists should refer patients to them.

The College also places great emphasis on the study of the classic texts of TCM (Shang Han Lun, Golden Chamber, Wen Bing Xue, Four Streams of Scholars). This is not only to gain an understanding of herbology and acupuncture, but also to learn the foundations on which Chinese medicine is based: the treatment principle for both the herbal remedy and the acupuncture technique are the same.

With this in mind, our goal is not simply to train a technician of TCM, but to prepare an individual for a fulfilling career as a healer. Confucius said, "One who likes to know it (knowledge) is not as good as one who loves to know it, and one who loves to know it is not as good as one who indulges in it." The passionate drive for knowledge and learning animates the entire educational process and helps to build a life-long commitment to Traditional Chinese Medicine in our students.

New students are accepted three times a year, and can begin their studies during the fall, spring or summer trimester. This enrollment schedule allows students to take a leave of absence during any trimesters without jeopardizing the structure of their program. Part-time study is allowed, but the entire program must be completed within eight years.