Online Acupuncture Courses and Training Information

Acupuncture courses are not readily available online due to the importance of hands-on training. However, continuing education courses are available online for professionals requiring re-certification or licensing. Completion of training programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine is required for employment by many states. Online programs may still require some in-person classwork.

Overview of Online Acupuncture Courses

Acupuncture refers to a branch of traditional Chinese medicine which uses the insertion of needles to treat ailments in the body. Training courses in acupuncture are typically found at the master's level and take 3-4 years to complete. However, most of these initial training programs are not offered with a substantial number of courses online because of the need for hands-on practical experience. Instead, one can find online classes in acupuncture as part of continuing education. These courses are generally designed for those who already have a degree in acupuncture or traditional Chinese medicine. They may be used to fulfill continuing education requirements for renewing certification or licensure, or they can be used to expand one's knowledge by learning about a new field in acupuncture.
National certification is offered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and is required for employment. Some states also require licensure along with national certification. Coursework in acupuncture may lead to professions such as licensed acupuncturist or Chinese herbalist.

Course Requirements

Courses require the use of a computer with Internet access and an updated Web browser as well as audio and video capabilities. Software such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Adobe Reader are frequently used for assignment completion. Textbooks may be included or required with course enrollment. Web discussion forums and e-mail may be used for communication with faculty or students. Online programs may include a limited number of courses that require travel to campus or a clinical setting for supervised training.

List of Online Acupuncture Courses

Chinese Medicine Introductory Course

This course explains the historical background to the development of traditional Chinese medicine. Philosophical and ideological concepts are discussed, including Yin-Yang theory and Taoism. Students learn about the importance of qi, body fluids and blood in relation to disease causation.

Diagnostic Skills Course

Acupuncturists can assess patients using several different methods, such as observation and palpation. Students learn comprehensive methods to gain information on patients with special focus placed on pulse reading and tongue analysis.

Point Location and Meridian Theory Course

In this course, students learn about specific regions and points on the body which are interrelated to other parts of the body. The course focuses on digestive, cardiovascular and respiratory systems and teaches students how to identify and diagnose various abnormalities. This course may combine lectures with lab sections.

Acupuncture Treatment of Disease Course

This course covers needling techniques with focus on proper angle, depth and manipulation of needles. Students also learn about safety procedures and infection control. Coursework explains how disease can spread through contact with needles. This course may involve a practicum component.