Online Oriental Medicine Degree Program Information

Accredited oriental medicine and acupuncture degree programs are not available through distance learning due to restrictions set forth by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM), which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. However, students can complete a relevant online herbal studies certificate program. Both on-campus oriental medicine and online herbal medicine programs are discussed in this article.

Master's Degree in Oriental Medicine Overview

Master's degree programs are generally available as a Master of Science in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (MSAOM). These programs provide students with the historical foundations of traditional Chinese medicine. Students learn the theories and techniques necessary to assess and diagnose patients. They explore the clinical approaches used in oriental medicine to treat illnesses and maintain patient health. They utilize herbal medicine and acupuncture as treatment modalities.

Program Information and Requirements

Applicants typically must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Most institutions require students to have completed prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, psychology, anatomy and physiology. A typical curriculum requires intensive, hands-on participation in the classroom and in a laboratory or clinical setting; therefore, these programs are not available online. A master's degree program generally can be completed in three years.

Common Courses in an Oriental Medicine Program

Master's students examine traditional Chinese medicine practices and applications. Additionally, they investigate the legal and ethical requirements of oriental medicine and acupuncture.

Fundamentals of Traditional Chinese Medicine Course

Students are introduced to the basic theories and applications of traditional Chinese medicine and its relationship with modern American medical practice. Areas of study include an examination of acupuncture, tuina, qi gong and Chinese herbs.

Counseling Patients with Chronic and Terminal Pain Course

Techniques and skills used by oriental medicine clinicians to counsel patients is the focus of this course. Particular emphasis is placed on offering emotional, social and behavioral assistance to patients and their families. Students develop an understanding of the role of counseling in an overall treatment program.

Acupuncture Techniques for Pain Management Course

In this course, students examine and hone the needling techniques commonly used for pain management. They learn techniques such as penetrated and therapeutic acupuncture.

Career Information for Graduates

Graduates of a master's degree program are generally qualified to pursue opportunities such as a licensed acupuncturist or Chinese medicine clinicians. In October 2010, the average annual salary for a Chinese medicine clinician was $48,907, as reported by Salary.com.

Continuing Education

Courses in topics relative to oriental medicine, acupuncture and herbal medicine are available as Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for health care professionals to maintain their licenses. Most states require licensees to complete 15 CEUs per year. Online courses are available at some universities; however, they are rare.

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Online Certificate in Herbal Medicine Overview

Certificate programs in herbal medicine and traditional Chinese nutrition are available through distance learning, although they are extremely rare. Working professionals in the Oriental medicine field, as well as interested students, can receive specialized education in the application of herbal medicine. Areas of study include the toxic profiles and mechanisms of herb-herb and herb-drug interactions, basic concepts of Chinese nutrition and the practical use of medicinal plants.

Program Information and Requirements

Applicants are generally required to hold a bachelors degree from an accredited college or university. Institutions award students a certificate upon completion of a program; others will provide Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to licensed professionals in order to maintain their license. Students typically can complete a certificate programs in one year or less.
A computer and Internet connection are required to access online learning platforms. Students may need access to a headset or audio equipment for online lectures and communication. Additionally, a printer may be required to create hard copies of assignments and exams.

Common Online Courses in an Herbal Medicine Program

Students examine the use of herbs in the treatment of illnesses and the promotion of wellness. They gain knowledge of the philosophies and theories that guide the administration of herbal medicine.

Fundamentals of Herbal Medicine Course

In this course, students develop an understanding of the use of herbs in medicinal therapy. They examine the basic therapeutic actions of a variety of common botanicals.

Use of Herbs in Daily Life Course

The examination of how herbs are integrated into a daily lifestyle is covered in this course. Areas of study include the use of herbs in cooking, growing herbs in a garden and the storage of herbs for future use.

Plant Identification and Functionality Course

This course provides an overview of the anatomy, physiology and ecology of medicinal plants. Topics of discussion include plant classification, functions of cells and the biological processes that result in the production of medicinal compounds.

Career Information for Graduates

Certificate holders typically have the qualifications necessary to become an herbalist. According to Payscale.com, the average annual salary of an herbalist was $41,238 in October 2010.