Program Details
Doctor of Acupuncture (DAC)Your Four-Year Journey
Program Length: 48 months (standard, full-time), 44 months (accelerated, full-time)
Key Features
- Seamless integration of master’s and doctorate-level studies in acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.
- Comprehensive curriculum combining traditional Chinese medicine with modern healthcare principles.
- Extensive clinical training at the on-site NESA Treatment Center, Veterans Affairs system, and other healthcare settings.
- Eligibility to sit for National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) certification exams upon graduation.
Year One: Foundations of Acupuncture and Healthcare
- Learn acupuncture fundamentals: channels, points, techniques, and Asian Medical Bodywork.
- Study anatomy and physiology.
- Begin self-care practices with Qi Gong to enhance well-being and teach future patients.
- Participate in clinical assistantship: observe and assist licensed acupuncturists.
Year Two: Clinical Integration and Herbal Studies
- Study disease treatment from Chinese and biomedical perspectives.
- Complete courses in integrative pain management and clinical counseling.
- Begin clinical internship: hands-on experience treating patients under faculty guidance.
- Start studying Chinese herbal medicine: herb identification, properties, and safety.
Year Three: Advanced Clinical Practice and Collaboration
- Advance clinical skills through case management studies.
- Explore integrative nutrition and public health in acupuncture.
- Engage in interprofessional education to collaborate with diverse healthcare professionals.
- Continue clinical practice in settings like community centers, hospitals, and the VA system.
- Study Chinese herbal formulas: classical and modern applications, customization, and dispensing.
Year Four: Mastery and Professional Preparation
- Master advanced Chinese herbal medicine and clinical applications.
- Prepare for the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) exams.
- Gain business skills through professional development training in practice management.
- Complete comprehensive clinical experiences.
Advanced diagnostic studies
You will master advanced diagnostic procedures in this program, learning to assess and communicate diagnostic findings effectively. You'll also learn how to use diagnostic imaging, laboratory tools, and other methods to enhance your clinical decision-making and collaborate with other healthcare professionals.
Research and evidence-based practice
The Doctor of Acupuncture Completion program emphasizes the importance of evidence-based medicine and evidence-informed practice. You will learn how to assess and apply research to modify treatment plans and improve patient outcomes, all while refining your ability to contribute to the growing body of acupuncture research.
Competency-based curriculum aligned with ACAHM doctoral competencies
The innovative NESA curriculum emphasizes the development of advanced clinical skills and the integration of acupuncture into collaborative healthcare models. This program covers critical competencies in diagnostic studies, patient care systems, collaborative care, and evidence-based practice, ensuring you are equipped to meet the needs of modern, integrative medical teams.