Doctor of Acupuncture (DAC)

Become an Integrative Health Leader

The Doctor of Acupuncture program trains highly skilled professionals to integrate principles of Chinese medicine and provide evidence-based, patient-centered care. Through a rigorous combination of classroom learning, clinical training, and interprofessional collaboration guided by expert faculty, students prepare for meaningful careers in integrative health settings. Upon completion, you'll be prepared to sit for national board exams and apply for licensure.

Join a Legacy of Excellence

The New England School of Acupuncture is the nation’s first professional acupuncture school, renowned for its leadership and innovation in integrative health education.

#1

In New England

NESA is consistently ranked among the top acupuncture schools in the country and is currently ranked first in the region by College Factual.

50+

Years of Healing

Since its founding in 1975, NESA has led the way in professional education for practitioners of traditional medicine.

$120K

Salary

Average annual salary for acupuncturists in Massachusetts, compared with a $84K national average (Massachusetts OEWS).

Two Campuses. One Premier Education.

Choose to pursue your acupuncture degree on our Boston campus or Worcester campus. At either location, some coursework is completed online during live, synchronous sessions. Some coursework will be in-person to provide hands-on learning experiences, faculty mentorship, peer collaboration, and clinical training.

Modern healthcare clinic reception area with wooden front desk, anatomical models, and hallway leading to exam rooms.

Boston

Designed for working professionals and career changers needing maximum flexibility, students based on the Boston campus will take online courses in the evenings and in-person courses on the weekends. Located in the heart of the Longwood Medical Area, this campus features a brand-new, on-site Acupuncture Treatment Center.

Worcester

Immerse yourself in the academic experience on the Worcester campus. All courses, including online and in-person, are held on weekdays during daytime hours. This is NESA’s central campus and features our Acupuncture Treatment Center, which is open to the public, and Chinese herbal dispensary.

Customize Your Doctorate

Expand Your Expertise with Chinese Herbal Medicine

Consider the Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine (DAC CHM), which provides advanced training in two areas of traditional medicine. Gain advanced knowledge of Chinese herbal formulas and how they can complement your practice.

Explore the Program

Doctor of Acupuncture Completion

Acupuncturists who already have a master’s degree and want to unlock the next phase of their career can earn their doctorate in as little as eight months. Study evidence-informed, collaborative care to hone your leadership skills.

See the Completion Program

A Flexible, Hybrid Learning Experience

The Doctor of Acupuncture programs have options to accommodate your schedule and career goals. Contact your Admission counselor for more information.

Find Your Counselor

Exam room with exam table, chairs, sink, cabinets, and medical supplies in a modern healthcare clinic.

On-Site Treatment Centers

NESA students gain hands-on experience in two state-of-the-art Treatment Centers on MCPHS campuses, one in Worcester and another in Boston. Students treat diverse patient populations under the mentorship of expert licensed faculty. Each center also features a fully equipped Chinese herbal dispensary. Students treat diverse patient populations using acupuncture and integrative care approaches, applying classroom learning in real clinical settings while building the confidence and skills to deliver safe, effective, and compassionate care.

See Our Treatment Centers

Careers in Action: NESA Alumni Making Their Mark

Explore some of the roles and organizations where New England School of Acupuncture graduates are having an impact.

Acupuncturist

Kaiser Permanente
Owner

Lotus Acupuncture and Wellness
Director of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Resilience and Hope LLC
Licensed Acupuncturist

Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
Research Acupuncturist

Massachusetts General Hospital
Clinical Director

Tai Chi Acupuncture & Wellness Center

Upcoming Events

News from the New England School of Acupuncture

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Treating Parkinson’s Takes a Team. These Students are Learning How.

Woman performs an eye exam at MCPHS and Veterans Stand Down Event.

MCPHS Team Provides Vision, Dental, and Acupuncture Care for Veterans

A group of students from MCPHS, most wearing white coats, stand next to each other and smile for a photo.

How MCPHS is Building Collaborative Care Teams with IPE

More Ways to Advance Your Acupuncture Career

In addition to the Doctor of Acupuncture, we offer several other degrees and programs to advance your career.

Download a Doctor of Acupuncture Fact Sheet

Tell us about yourself and we’ll share more information about NESA and how this degree can transform your career.