High School
If you are interested in a career in acupuncture, take courses that will give you an understanding of the human body. Courses in biology, physiology, and psychology will help you gain an understanding of the body and insight into the mind. Good communication skills are important in all professions, so take English, speech, drama, and debate classes to improve your communication skills.
You will likely be self-employed if you become an acupuncturist, so math, business, and computer courses will also be helpful. A well-rounded education will help prepare you for any career you choose.
Postsecondary Training
Nearly 60 schools in the United States are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM). All of these programs offer master's degrees or master's level courses. According to the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, a master's degree in acupuncture or Oriental medicine is the entry-level standard for professional practice in the United States. To be admitted into a master's level program, virtually every school requires at least two years of undergraduate study. Others require a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as science, nursing, or premed. Most acupuncture programs provide a thorough education in Western sciences, acupuncture techniques, and all aspects of traditional Oriental medical systems. See ACAOM's Web site (http://www.acaom.org) for the programs' names, addresses, and descriptions.
Choosing an acupuncture school can be complex. One important decision is where you might like to live and practice. Eligibility requirements vary from state to state, so it is important to be sure the school you choose will prepare you to practice in the state where you wish to live. In some states, only physicians can be licensed to practice acupuncture. In other states, there are no requirements for practicing acupuncture.
Another consideration when choosing a school is the tradition of acupuncture you want to study. There are several different types of acupuncture. You will need to find a school that offers the type that interests you. If you need financial assistance, choosing a college that ACAOM accredits is important. The U.S. Department of Education recognizes these schools, and students may be eligible for federal student loans.
Other Education or Training
The American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine offers continuing education opportunities at its annual conference. Contact the association for more information.