Program Learning Outcomes

Program Goals

Master’s Program Goals: Our master's programs prepare entry-level acupuncturists who:

• Think critically, synthesize knowledge, and access research and scholarly literature to support patient care.
• Demonstrate professional judgment, cultural humility, and compassion while delivering high quality, traditional East Asian medical care.
• Communicate effectively and work collaboratively with patients, their caregivers and all members of the healthcare team while promoting patient-centered care.
• Understand multiple business models to support successful professional practice.

Doctoral Program Goals: Our doctoral programs prepare acupuncturists who:

• Think critically, synthesize knowledge, and access research and scholarly literature to support patient care.
• Demonstrate professional judgment, cultural humility, and compassion while delivering high quality, traditional East Asian medical care.
• Communicate effectively and work collaboratively with patients, their caregivers and all members of the healthcare team while promoting patient-centered care.
• Understand multiple business models to support successful professional practice.
• Recognize disparities in healthcare due to socioeconomic factors and understand their role within the system.
• Commit themselves to professional development and lifelong learning.
• Utilize evidence to inform patient care.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Master of Acupuncture (MAc), Master of Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine (MAc CHM) and Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Chinese Herbal Medicine (CAGS CHM) programs, students will be able to:

• Apply the foundational knowledge of acupuncture, Chinese medicine and/or Chinese herbal medicine, including philosophies and theories, to patient care.
• Synthesize information from the health history, intake and physical examination to accurately diagnose illness and develop and implement an effective treatment plan for patients.
• Utilize critical thinking and professional judgment to manage a case appropriately over time.
• Apply sufficient understanding of western biomedical terminology, pathophysiology and treatment strategies to support effective communication with other healthcare professionals.
• Demonstrate preparedness to establish and maintain a successful clinical practice and to participate collaboratively in a variety of clinical settings.
• Honor ethical standards in all interactions with patients and healthcare professionals.
• Evaluate published research to inform clinical practice and an understanding of public health.
• Respond appropriately to medical emergencies, and make informed and appropriate referrals.
• Demonstrate the capacity to engage in regular self-assessment and lifelong learning to achieve continuous professional growth.

Upon successful completion of the Doctor of Acupuncture (DAc) program students will be able to:

• Apply the foundational knowledge of acupuncture, Chinese medicine and/or Chinese herbal medicine, including philosophies and theories, to patient care.
• Synthesize information from the health history, intake and physical examination to accurately diagnose illness and develop and implement an effective treatment plan for patients.
• Utilize critical thinking and professional judgment to manage a case appropriately over time.
• Apply sufficient understanding of western biomedical terminology, pathophysiology and treatment strategies to support effective communication and collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
• Demonstrate preparedness to establish and maintain a successful clinical practice, participate collaboratively in a variety of clinical settings, and serve successfully as part of an integrative healthcare team.
• Honor ethical standards in all interactions with patients and healthcare professionals.
• Evaluate published research to guide healthcare improvement, innovation, and interprofessional delivery.
• Exhibit an understanding of healthcare practices and policies across the healthcare system.
• Respond appropriately to medical emergencies, and make informed and appropriate referrals.
• Demonstrate the capacity to engage in regular self-assessment and lifelong learning to achieve continuous professional growth.