10 Trimesters (3 1/3 years )

Master of Acupuncture with a Chinese herbal medicine specialization

(First Professional Degree)

Texas Health and Science University is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) to award the degree of Master of Acupuncture with a Chinese herbal medicine specialization. This program prepares graduates to pass their national board exams and become a Licensed Acupuncturist. The suggested schedule of study may be completed in ten trimesters (40 months). Students must complete the coursework and required internship for this degree within 15 trimesters.

THSU follows the semester credit system: 15 contact hours plus 30 hours of out-of-class work equals one classroom credit, and 30 contact hours plus 15 hours of out-of-class work equals one clinic (lab) credit.

Elective Courses

Students are also encouraged to take one or more concentration courses which are specialties within Traditional Chinese Medicine.

.

Acupuncture Courses

A-4101 Fundamental Theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine

This course includes a brief introduction to the historical background and evolution of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This course mainly introduces the theories of Yin and Yang, the Five Elements, Zang Fu, Qi, Blood, Body Fluid, Etiology, Pathogenesis, and General Rules of Prevention and Treatment.

4 credits: Prerequisites: None.

A-4102 Chinese Terminology and Phonetics

This course is an introduction to the Chinese characters and Pinyin words necessary to understand the curriculum, to assure correct pronunciation, and to enable the study of the existing body of Traditional Chinese Medicine literature and available texts.

2 credits, Prerequisites: None.

A-4103 Meridian Theory

This course covers the basic concept of the meridians, with a focus on the 12 regular meridians and the eight extra meridians. It will also cover the 12 divergent meridians, 12 muscle regions, 12 cutaneous regions and 15 collaterals.

2 credits, Prerequisites: None.

A-4104 Introduction to Point Location

This is an introductory course in which students will learn the concept, classification and measurement methods of acupoints. Students will also learn the basic concepts of specific acupoints.

1 credit, Prerequisites: None.

A-4105 Point Location – Green

This course is the first of a three-trimester study of the acupuncture points of the 14 meridians and selected extra points. Chinese point names, comparative review of locations based on traditional and modern anatomy, therapeutic indications, treatment methods utilizing acupuncture and moxibustion, and point selection by differential diagnosis of conditions will be discussed for each point. This first trimester will focus on the Lung meridian of hand Taiyin, Large Intestine meridian of hand Yangming, Stomach meridian of foot Yangming, Spleen meridian of foot Taiyin, Heart meridian of hand Shaoyin and Small Intestine meridian of hand Taiyang.

3 credits, Prerequisites: A-4104.

A-4106 Introduction to TCM Diagnosis

This course introduces the classic methods of diagnosis of Traditional Chinese Medicine: inspection, auscultation and olfaction, inquiry and palpation. This course also emphasis how to combine the Four Diagnostic Methods to obtain a comprehensive and systematic understanding of the condition of disease.

4 credits, Prerequisites: None.

A-4107 Point Location – Yellow

This course continues the study of the acupuncture points of the 14 meridians and selected extra points. Chinese point names, comparative review of locations based on traditional and modern anatomy, therapeutic indications, treatment methods utilizing acupuncture and moxibustion, and point selection by differential diagnosis of conditions will be discussed for each point. This course will focus on the Urinary Bladder meridian of foot Taiyang, Kidney meridian of foot Shaoyin, Pericardium meridian of hand Jueyin, San Jiao meridian of hand Shaoyang, Gallbladder meridian of foot Shaoyang and Liver meridian of foot Jueyin.

4 credits, Prerequisites: A-4104.

A-4108 TCM Diagnosis I

This course continues the discussion of the classical methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnosis and focuses on differentiation according to the Eight Principles, Qi, Blood, Phlegm, Stagnation, and the theory of Zang Fu.

2 credits, Prerequisites: A-4106.

A-4109 Qi Exercise

This course includes an introduction to the philosophy and principles of Qi Gong and Tai Chi, and application of the relationship of Qi Exercise to health, wellbeing, meditation, self-awareness, relaxation, balance and harmony. Basic Qi Gong and Tai Chi patterns and techniques will be taught.

1 credit, Prerequisites: None.

A-4110 Special Acupuncture Techniques

These techniques include such needling methods as the filiform needle, cutaneous needle, electrical stimulation, moxibustion, and other methods. Academic familiarization with these techniques, with limited simulated application of the techniques will be applied in a classroom setting only.

2 credits, Prerequisites: A-4101.

A-4111 Five Element Theory and Application

This is an in-depth discussion of the theory of the Five Elements and their application in diagnosis and treatment. Students will associate points on the channels that correspond to specific elements.

1 credit, Prerequisites: None

A-4112 CPR and Other Emergency Techniques

Part I (classes 1, 2 and 3) cover the management of emergency situations specific to an acupuncture practice. Part II (classes 4 and 5) are taught by an American Red Cross certified instructor and will cover the management of heart and breathing emergencies, along with instruction in first aid.

1 credit, Prerequisites: None.

A-4113 Point Location – Red

Students determine the location of acupuncture points (numbering about 365 major points and 50 extra points) using anatomical landmarks and the proportional body measurement system. Subject matter addressed in this course includes the following channels: Ren, Du, and Extraordinary Points.

1 credit, Prerequisites: 4104.

A-4114 TCM Diagnosis II

This course continues the discussion of the different systems by which TCM differentiates syndromes, with an emphasis on etiology, the eight principles and theory of Zang Fu. Also includes the theories of wei qi, ying xue, meridians and collaterals, san jiao and six meridians.

2 credits, Prerequisites: A-4106, A-4108.

A-4201 Meridian Acupoint Energetics and Application

Focusing on the indications and energetics of the 12 regular meridians, the course also covers the application of points in the treatment of disease. An in-depth discussion of energetic points includes Five Shu, Yuan, Luo, Xi, Shu, Mu, the Eights (confluent and influential), 13 Ghost and emergency aid points applied in the treatment of disease according to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

3 credits, Prerequisites: A-4104, A-4105, A-4107, A-4113, A-4114.

A-4202 Practical Training in Diagnosis

Students will further refine their pulse and tongue diagnosis skills under the assistance and guidance of the instructor.

2 credits, Prerequisites: A-4106, A-4108, A-4114.

A-5203 Treatment Modality of Acupuncture I

This is a discussion of and approach to each internal disease from the Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, with emphasis on acupuncture treatment. The course involves in-depth discussion of etiology, pathogenesis, and differentiation of syndromes, diagnosis and treatment with acupuncture according to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

3 credits, Prerequisites: A-4104, A-4105, A-4107, A-4113, A-4114, A-4201.

A-5204 Scalp and Ear Acupuncture

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, scalp acupuncture techniques are most effective for treating afflictions such as stroke, movement hindrance and certain neurological problems. Point measurement and location, and needle stimulation skills will be introduced. Students will also study the physical surface of the ear to locate acupuncture points on the various auricular surfaces. The physiological links between the points and the internal organs will be presented. Ear acupuncture in the treatment of alcoholism, drug abuse and weight loss will be discussed.

2 credits, Prerequisites: A-4103.

A-5205 Treatment Modality of Acupuncture II

This is a continuation of the discussion of each internal disease from the Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, with emphasis on acupuncture treatment. The course involves in-depth discussion of etiology, pathogenesis, and differentiation of syndromes, diagnosis and treatment with acupuncture.

3 credits, Prerequisites: A-5203.

A-5301 Tui Na

This class covers traditional methods of Oriental manual therapy and the use of this therapy in accordance with the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Channel palpation, body mechanics, indications and contraindications for Tui Na techniques are also covered.

2 credits, Prerequisites: A-4103.

A-6302 Licensure Examination Preparation: Foundations of TCM

This course prepares the student for success on the Foundations of Oriental Medicine certification examination by rigorously reviewing and testing the student’s knowledge base of TCM principles, modes of diagnosis, and treatment strategies. The student will identify areas of weakness in order to more efficiently conduct their exam preparation, and will learn effective test-taking strategies utilizing critical thinking skills. This course focuses on the specific areas of study recommended in the NCCAOM candidate handbook.

2 credits, Prerequisites: A-5203, A-5205.

A-6303 Licensure Examination Preparation: Acupuncture and Point Location

Students will review the entire program of acupuncture studies, focusing on the specific areas of study recommended in the national exam preparation handbook for the Acupuncture and Point Location module.

2 credits, Prerequisites: A-5203, A-5205.

Biomedical Sciences (Western Medical Science)

W-4101 Anatomy and Physiology I

Students study the structures and functions of the human body and learn the basic principles of homeostasis in the internal environment. In this course, basic concepts of metabolism and regulation are applied to the study of the following systems: cellular, tissue, integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and endocrine systems.

3 credits, Prerequisites: None.

W-4102 Biomedical Concepts, Terminology and Western Medical History

This survey course introduces the historical development of medicine in the West, to familiarize students with the systems of medicine practiced by M.D.’s, D.C.’s, and D.O.’s. Emphasis will be placed on teaching students the use and meaning of terminology and technical vocabularies necessary for professional, inter-disciplinary communications.

2 credits, Prerequisites: None.

W-4103 Anatomy and Physiology II

Students study the structure and functions of the human body and learn the basic principles of homeostasis in the internal environment. In this course, basic concepts of metabolism and regulation are applied to the study of the following systems: endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.

2 credits, Prerequisites: W-4101.

W-4201 Surface Anatomy

This biomedical anatomy course focuses on the superficial features of the body, such as tendons and muscles and bony landmarks, with a view to the identification and use of anatomical landmarks as aids in locating underlying tissues and organs.

2 credits, Prerequisites: W-4101.

W-5202 Biomedical Pathophysiology

This course covers the pathological conditions that may affect the respiratory, circulatory, digestive, musculoskeletal, neurological, and other systems of the body. Understanding such disease processes helps the practitioner to work more effectively with patients and other health care professionals.

3 credits, Prerequisites: W-4101, W-4102, W-4103.

W-5203 Biomedical Diagnostics and Laboratory Tests

This course covers basic history taking and physical examination techniques. In addition, this course develops an understanding of the use of laboratory test data (whether done previously for a given patient or ordered specifically for the current course of treatment) as an aid in developing an appropriate plan of treatment.

3 credits, Prerequisites: W-4101, W-4102, W-4103.

W-5301 Biomedical Microbiology

Students will explore the classification of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microorganisms, their physiological and biochemical features, the microorganisms that cause human diseases and the spoilage of food, and the ecological significance of bacteria in the cycle of matter.

3 credits, Prerequisites: W-4103.

W-5302 Diet and Nutrition

Students study the principles of nutrition and diet as understood in the West, as well as the use of vitamins, minerals and other supplements as part of a course of treatment. The importance of various components of Chinese foods and herb-combination cooking are also discussed.

1 credit, Prerequisites: None

W-5303 Case Management and Referral

This course covers the ways in which students will meet the challenges and accountabilities of case management and referral in the 21^st century practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine within the modern health care system. Students will become familiar with effective methods for planning a course of treatment, evaluating outcomes, identifying the need for referral, the process of making successful referrals, and how to do effective case closures. Associated ethical and legal issues will also be explored.

2 credits, Prerequisites: W-4102.

W-6304 Biomedical Pharmacology

This course introduces students to the classifications of prescription medications, covers some common medications that patients may be taking, and the physiological mechanisms and actions of those medications.

3 credits, Prerequisites: W-5202, W-5203.

W-6305 Clinical Sciences and Clinical Medicine

This course is a review of internal medicine, pharmacology, neurology, surgery, obstetrics/gynecology, urology, radiology, nutrition, dermatology and sexually transmitted diseases. This course also surveys the clinical practices of specialists in various Western medical fields to familiarize students with the treatment modes of other health care practitioners.

2 credits, Prerequisites: W-4103, W-5202, W-5203, W-6304.

W-6306 Biomedical Toxicology

This course investigates the disciplines of toxicology and pharmacology. The course explores toxicity mechanisms and the tissues affected by different classes of naturally occurring toxins. Herbs with known toxicity will be classified and their mechanisms of toxicity discussed.

2 credits, Prerequisites: W-6304, H-4101, H-4102, H-4103, H-4201.

W-6401 Biomedicine Review

This course is a comprehensive review of all previous biomedical courses taken at THSU, with a view to ensuring full grasp of the fundamental principles of biomedicine and their application to the successful practice of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine within a modern integrated health care system, and to prepare students more fully for their licensing and certification exams.

3 credits, Prerequisites: W-6304.

W-6402 Hygiene, Public Health and Epidemiology

Students study public health issues, the formulation of laws regarding health, and the agencies established to provide disease-free food and water, adequate sanitation systems, prevention and control of epidemic and endemic diseases, and the delivery of health care to the disadvantaged.

1 credit, Prerequisites: W-4102.

W-6403 Biomedical Research Design and Scientific Methods

This is an introduction to the statistical methods used in biomedical research. Students will learn the mathematical basis for modern research in biomedicine and acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Oriental medicine. The course teaches the methods necessary to analyze research data with a special focus on the interpretation of results and the clinical application of data.

2 credits, Prerequisites: W-4102.

Clinical Training

C-4101 Clinic Observation and Evaluation – Black

Under the supervision and direction of the instructor, students observe licensed acupuncturists treating patients in a clinic theater setting. This provides students with a clinical context that balances the intensely didactic and theory-oriented first and second year programs.

3 credits, Prerequisite: A-4101, A-4104, A-4106, W-4101, W-4103.

C-4201 Clinic Observation and Evaluation – White

Under the supervision and direction of the instructor, students observe licensed acupuncturists treating patients with complex conditions in a clinical theater setting. Students will prepare to pass the five-part examination required for promotion to clinic internship. Students will register for and take the Clean Needle Technique course if they have not already done so.

3 credits, Prerequisites: A-4101, A-4104, A-4106, W-4101, W-4103

C-5202, C-5203 Clinic Internship I, Clinic Internship II

Under the supervision and direction of the instructor, students begin needling and applying other TCM treatment modalities to patients. The three emphases of Clinic Internship are: (1) the interaction between the student practitioner and the patient, (2) the development of a responsible treatment plan, and (3) the practical application of basic treatment skills and techniques. Students will further develop their diagnostic skills and gain experience in syndrome identification and formula application. Students will discuss cases with classmates and with the instructor. Students will be assigned a clinic schedule in accordance with their classroom schedules. The internship phase of training is the culmination of the entire program of study and is designed to produce fully qualified professional practitioners.

240 Clinic contact hours/8 credits, Prerequisites: C-4101, C-4201, CNT, Promotion Exam to Internship

C-5301, C-6302 Clinic Internship III, Clinic Internship IV

Under the supervision and direction of the instructor, students begin needling and applying other TCM treatment modalities to patients. The three emphases of Clinic Internship are: (1) the interaction between the student practitioner and the patient, (2) the development of a responsible treatment plan, and (3) the practical application of basic treatment skills and techniques. Students will further develop their diagnostic skills and gain experience in syndrome identification and formula application. Students will discuss cases with classmates and with the instructor. Students will be assigned a clinic schedule in accordance with their classroom schedules. The internship phase of training is the culmination of the entire program of study and is designed to produce fully qualified professional practitioners.

240 Clinic contact hours/8 credits, Prerequisites: C-5202, C-5203,, CNT*

C-6303, C-6403 Clinic Internship V, Clinic Internship VI

Under the supervision and direction of the instructor, students apply acupuncture, herbs, and other TCM treatment modalities to patients. The three emphases of Clinic Internship are: (1) the interaction between the student practitioner and the patient, (2) the development of a responsible treatment plan, and (3) the practical application of basic treatment skills and techniques. Students will further develop their diagnostic skills and gain experience in syndrome identification and formula application. Students may be asked to mentor a junior intern. Students will discuss cases with classmates and with the instructor. Students will be assigned a clinic schedule in accordance with their classroom schedules. The internship phase of training is the culmination of the entire program of study and is designed to produce fully qualified professional practitioners. The internship phase of training is the culmination of the entire program of study and is designed to produce fully qualified professional practitioners.

240 Clinic contact hours/8 credits, Prerequisites: C-5301, C-6302, CNT*

CNT

The Clean Needle Technique class is offered through CCAOM and made available to our students at various times. The Clean Needle Technique (CNT) course is a one-day program that includes a lecture, a demonstration, and written and practical examinations. The content of the CNT course provides a uniform standard of practice for acupuncture in the United States and is required before students may enroll in clinic internship.

Ethics, Business and Communications

E-4101 Medical Ethics

This course focuses on the scope of practice of Texas-licensed acupuncturists, with students familiarized with, and discussing, the laws and regulations of the State of Texas regarding the practice of acupuncture, record keeping, and confidentiality requirements. Students will also discuss various ethical dilemmas encountered by practitioners.

1 credit, Prerequisites: None.

E-4201 Marketing and Office Management

This course introduces the student to a wide variety of medical office duties that are commonly performed by the administrator or owner of a small clinic. These duties include such marketing duties as building one’s brand, be it the practitioner himself, or the clinic he wishes to develop, professional networking, internet and social media marketing, and building loyalty and retention within a target market. Also included are office management tasks, such as office communication, medical reception tasks, document production, medical office accounting, billing procedures, appointment scheduling, medical records management, and insurance claims processing. There is a brief introduction to International Classification of Disease-10 (ICD-10) and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) coding, bookkeeping and accounting practices.

3 credits, Prerequisites: None

E-5202 Counseling and Communications

This course will help the student develop communication and counseling skills to maximize the therapeutic effect of acupuncture and herbal medicine treatments. The student will learn basic principles of counseling and communication through a process that will include discussion and role playing with a special emphasis on the development of the acupuncturist-patient relationship.

2 credits, Prerequisites: None.

E-5203 Business Planning and Entrepreneurship

This course focuses on the management of a small health clinic and includes the preparation of a business plan. Information on economics, planning, controlling finances, record keeping, legal compliance, and patient relations will be discussed in detail.

2 credits, Prerequisites: None.

Herbology

H-4101 Introduction to TCM Herbology

This is an introductory course to TCM herbology. Students will learn the basic herbal theories and build up solid foundations for the three specific herbology courses.

1 credit, Prerequisites: A-4101.

H-4102 TCM Herbology – Yellow

This course builds upon the introductory course in TCM Herbology, presents various herbs by name, classification, identification, character and taste, meridian routes, dosage, indications, contraindications, preparation, scientific research and prescription examples. Chinese herbs in the functional categories of release exterior, clear heat, and drain downward are discussed.

2 credits, Prerequisites: H-4101.

H-4103 TCM Herbology – Green

This course builds upon the introductory course in TCM Herbology, presents various herbs by name, classification, identification, character and taste, meridian routes, dosage, indications, contraindications, preparation, scientific research and prescription examples. Chinese herbs in the functional categories of drain dampness, dispel wind-dampness, transform phlegm, relieve food stagnation, regulate qi and regulate blood.

3 credits, Prerequisites: H-4101.

H-4201 TCM Herbology – Red

This course builds upon the introductory course in TCM Herbology, presents various herbs by name, classification, identification, character and taste, meridian routes, dosage, indications, contra-indications, preparation, scientific research and prescription examples. Chinese herbs to be discussed are from the functional categories of warm interior, tonify, stabilize and bind, calm the spirit, open orifices, extinguish wind, and expel parasites.

3 credits, Prerequisites: H-4101.

H-5202 Introduction to TCM Prescriptionology

This is an introductory course to TCM prescriptionology. Students will learn the basic prescription theories and build up solid foundations for the three specific prescriptionology courses.

1 credit, Prerequisites: A-4114, H-4101, H-4102, H-4103, H-4201.

H-5203 TCM Prescriptionology – Orange

This course continues the study of the major formulas, including the herbal components, significance, explanation, indication, and clinical use. The course addresses herbs and herbal formulas according to the following functional categories: release exterior, drain downward, and harmonize.

2 credits, Prerequisites: H-5202.

H-5204 TCM Prescriptionology – Blue

This course studies the major formulas, including the herbal components, significance, explanation, indication, and clinical use. This course addresses herbs and herbal formulas according to the following functional categories: clear heat, dispel summer-heat, warm interior cold, release exterior-interior excess, tonify, and stabilize and bind.

2 credits, Prerequisites: H-5202.

H-5301 TCM Prescriptionology – Purple

This course builds upon the introductory course in Prescriptionology and presents major formulas in Traditional Chinese Medicine, including the herbal components, significance, explanation, indication and clinical use. This course covers selected herbal formula according to the treatment principles of calm the spirit, open the sensory orifices, regulate qi, invigorate the blood, stop bleeding, expel wind, treat dryness, expel dampness, dispel phlegm, reduce food stagnation, expel parasites, and treat abscesses and sores.

3 credits, Prerequisites: H-5202.

H-6302 Classics I: Shang Han Lun

The Treatise on Febrile Disease Caused by Cold, written by Dr. Zhang Zhongjing (150 A.D. – 219 A.D.) is considered one of the classic medical texts in the field of Chinese medicine. This text is remarkable for the detail in which febrile disease is discussed and the elegance of its formulas, many of which are in wide use today for a variety of diseases. This text richly illustrates the flexibility of herbal therapy to address individual variations of disease, and when studied can offer much guidance in the use of formulas and how to modify them to suit an individual patient.

2 credits, Prerequisites: H-5202.

H-6303 Clinical Patent Herbs

This is a practical course in which the most commonly used herbal formulas in patent form are presented. The students will learn how to use and combine herbal patent medicines according to the differentiation of syndromes. Students learn methods of herbal formulation, preparation and application, as well as modification and preservation.

1 credit, Prerequisites: H-4101, H-4102, H-4103, H-4201.

H-6304 Practical Training in Herbal Formulation

This course is an in-depth study in the practical formulation of herbs. Students will be involved in the formulation of herbal treatments for patients’ ailments under the guidance of the instructor.

1 credit, Prerequisites: H-5203, H-5204, H-5301.

H-6305 Internal Medicine – Herbology

This course will introduce students to TCM internal medicine. Using the fundamental knowledge of TCM, students will gain a systematic knowledge of disease, its development, treatment, prognosis, and prevention. The treatment modality we will use to address these diseases in this class is herbology.

3 credits, Prerequisites: H-5203, H-5204, H-5301.

H-6306 TCM Gynecology

This course explores the application of TCM herbal methodologies to gynecological issues and disorders, including menstruation, leukorrhea, pregnancy and post-partum disorders, and menopause.

2 credits, Prerequisites: H-5203 H-5204, H-5301.

H-6307 Classics II: The Golden Chamber

This course introduces the student to the great classic of herbal therapy by Dr. Zhang Zhongjing, The Jin Kui Yao Lueh, or “A Glimpse of the Golden Chamber.” Students will gain insight into the treatment of internal diseases with herbal therapy. Various syndromes are described and many formulas discussed in this text are still used commonly today. The basic concepts of diseases and treatments and Zhang’s great contributions after “Nei Jing” are discussed here.

1 credit, Prerequisites: H-5202.

3206-H Licensure Examination Preparation: Herbology

The entire study of Chinese herbology will be reviewed and discussed. Specific study assignments will be oriented towards preparing the students to pass the national Chinese herbology certification examination.

3 credits, Prerequisites: H-6305, H-6306.

3214-H Classics IV: Wen Bing Lun

This course familiarizes students with the theories of the Warm Disease School developed as an independent diagnostic system in the Qing Dynasty. The etiological and pathological principles of Warm Disease Theory (Febrile Disease due to heat or infection) will be addressed.

1 credit, Prerequisites: H-5202.

3215-H Classics III: Four Streams of Scholars (Jin-Yuan Dynasty)

This class addresses the four schools of 13th century Chinese medical thought: the Cooling School as taught by Liu, WanSu; the Purging School as taught by Zhang, CongZheng; the Nourishing Earth School as taught by Li, Dongyuan; and the Nourishing Yin School as taught by Zhu, Danxi. These schools continue to influence the TCM practice of acupuncture and herbology, making them an important component of a modern education in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

1 credit, Prerequisites: H-5202.

Elective Courses

Students are encouraged to take concentration courses in one or more specialties within Traditional Chinese Medicine. Courses may not be offered every trimester. Student recommendations for additional classes are always welcome.

O-5001 Tai Chi: 108 Wu Tai Chi Chuan 1

This course includes an introduction to the philosophy and principles of Tai Chi, and application of its relationship to health, wellbeing, meditation, self-awareness, relaxation, balance and harmony. Basic Tai Chi patterns and techniques will be taught.

1 credit, Prerequisites: None.

O-5002 Tai Chi: Wu Tai Chi Chuan 2

This class further develops the student’s grasp of Tai Chi techniques and is designed to deepen students’ understanding of the principles of Tai Chi within the larger context of cardiovascular fitness and health.

1 credit, Prerequisites: None.

O-6003 TCM Pediatrics

This course will explore the principles, practice and clinical techniques involved in pediatric medicine, discussing the herbal prescriptions, dosaging, special acupuncture techniques, qi-gong massage (acupressure), dietary, and other treatments for many common childhood disorders.

2 credits, Prerequisites: A-4110, A-5204 and H-6305.

O-6004 TCM Neurology

Neurology is one of the major parts of acupuncture science. This course provides the students with the basic and useful knowledge of neurology in medical Chinese such as basic diagnosis and treatment method for neuropathy. Students will also learn useful skills of clinical methods of neurology.

2 credits, Prerequisites: A-4110, A-5204 and H-6305.

O-6005 TCM Dermatology

The students will learn the general introduction of TCM Dermatology, including TCM physiology, pathology, differentiation of syndromes, as well as the treatment of common skin diseases with acupuncture, herbs and other TCM modalities. Student learning outcomes will include a systematic knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine theories, philosophies, and practices.

2 credits, Prerequisites: A-4110, A-5204 and H-6305.

O-6006 TCM Facial Rejuvenation

This course is a study of the combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine herbs and physical protocols (acupuncture, guasha, and acupressure) in response to the signs of aging, including TCM facial diagnosis and an introduction to traditional Chinese face reading.

1 credit, Prerequisites: A-4103, A-4104, A-4105, A-4107, A-4110, A-4113, A-4201, and C-4202.

O-6007 TCM for Side Effects of Western Medicine

The course discusses treatment of common side effects associated with various medications. Students learn how to provide relief for these side effects without causing further complications.

2 credits, Prerequisites: A-4110, A-5204 and H-6305.

O-6008 TCM Sports Medicine

This course covers the Traditional Chinese Medicine techniques peculiar to treatment of trauma including prevention and treatment of various types of sports and athletic injuries, with thorough discussion of post-recovery conditioning and therapies.

2 credit, Prerequisites: A-4110, A-5204 and H-6305.

O-6009 TCM Geriatrics

TCM Geriatrics is considered a sub-specialty of TCM internal medicine and gynecology that focuses on health care of elderly people. It aims to promote health maintenance and disease or disability prevention and treatment in older adults through Chinese medical practices, such as acupuncture, herbs, and dietary therapy. Longevity and improvement of quality of life in a TCM way will also be discussed in this course.

1 credit, Prerequisites: A-4110, A-5204 and H-6305.

O-6010 TCM for Modern Conditions

This is a clinical course to introduce TCM treatment for some modern conditions such as: smoking, drug addiction and obesity.

2 credits, Prerequisites: A-4110, A-5204 and H-6305.

O-6011 Fluid Physiology & Pathology

This course instructs students how to delve deeply into the principles, practice and clinical utility of fluid mechanics within the human body from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The course will also discuss in detail the herbal, acupuncture, and other treatments for such disorders.

2 credits, Prerequisites: A-4101, A-4106, A-4108, and A-4114.

MSAOM Full-time and Part-time schedule. This is only a sample, it does not reflect the exact class schedule order. Each student will need to visit with the registrar to obtain their own unique degree plan. 

All candidates for graduation from the master’s degree program must complete their studies within 15 attempted trimesters, with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of at least a 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. The following minimum requirements must be completed to receive the Master of Acupuncture with a Chinese herbal specialization degree:

This is the suggested course of study. However, unless a prerequisite course is specified, a student may take several courses in a different order.

The completion designation is Master of Acupuncture with a Chinese herbal medicine specialization, with a major in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine.

TCM Program Tuition

Data Pending

The States You Can Practice with Your License