Acupuncture Schools - Degree, Colleges

Learn The Art That So Many Swear By At Acupuncture Schools

Request free info from
Massage Wellness Schools

There are people who have tried everything to quit smoking, lose weight, heal their backs or just have more energy, and often times conventional medicine just doesn't work. Many of these people have turned to the Chinese practice of acupuncture and now swear by it as the only remedy to their ailments.

Western people are starting to turn to Eastern philosophies more and more and the results are rewarding, so if you want to take part in this booming industry, get your training at acupuncture schools and take advantage of this trend.

As an acupuncturist, you will have the task of observing your patient and understanding his ailment to analyse the proper form of treatment. Many think that acupuncture is simply about inserting needles into certain points of the body to release bad energy and toxins, and although that is a large part of the practice, it is not everything.

Aside from acupuncture, your treatment could include acupressure, diet and heat therapy and counseling based on Chinese philosophies and using Asian herbs. Your treatment is meant to relieve pain and restore the body's balance.

The Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine recognizes about 50 schools that are accredited for you to get your acupuncture degree. At acupuncture school, you have the choice of getting a combined bachelor's/master's degree, a master's degree or a doctorate.

You will need a master's degree at least to become licensed, so if you stop at a bachelor's degree, you will only be suitable for entry level positions or assistants jobs. Once you are licensed, you can pursue your continuing education by getting certificates in specialities of the field, like Chinese Herbal Medicine. Certificates can be studied online through distance education programs.

In a master's degree program, which is the most common as it is required by all acupuncturists, your education will include classes in organic chemistry, living anatomy, Chinese medicine, anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, tai chi, diagnosis, meridians and points, nutrition and clinical studies among many others. During this 3 year degree, you will have to do an internship at a clinic under the supervision of a licensed acupuncturist.

Once you get your certificate or degree, you will need to become licensed to practice. The licensing exam is offered by The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. To maintain your certification, you will need to take continuing education classes and renew your license every 2 years.

Once you have an acupuncture degree, you can start making $40,000 and up working as an acupuncturist at an alternative health institute. Right now 41 states recognize acupuncture as a valid medical treatment, and job oppotunities are booming as more people turn to acupuncture for help with their problems. If you want to be part of this industry's growth, look into acupuncture schools and start your training right away.