Location: Worcester
Start Term: Fall
The Doctor of Acupuncture (DAc) is a four-year program that teaches the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to provide highly skilled and effective care to patients of all ages in a variety of settings, including in private practice and hospitals. This program also provides advanced training that prepares acupuncturists to collaborate with other healthcare professionals or work in integrative medical settings. The program features both classroom and clinical training in acupuncture studies, emphasizing hands-on learning under direct supervision of experienced faculty.
In the first year, students learn essential foundational theories and principles of both Eastern and Western medicine. You will immediately begin to practice the clinical skills and develop the professional competencies necessary to become a successful acupuncturist, with a special emphasis on acupuncture needle techniques. Students begin their clinical experiences by observing and assisting in the delivery of patient care.
In the second year, students integrate fundamental material from year one of the program with more advanced concepts of Eastern and Western medical theory. Students also develop professional competencies and learn to formulate a diagnosis and treatment plan. Students continue their clinical experience as interns responsible for the management and delivery of patient care.
In the third year, students continue clinical experiences and are placed in a variety of clinical settings, providing patient care under the direct supervision of senior faculty. Students continue their professional development by completing a series of practice management courses. Upon completion of the third year, students are eligible to sit for national board examinations and seek licensure.
In the fourth year, training includes practice-based learning, research competencies to support evidence-based practice, advanced diagnostic assessment, and an understanding of collaborative care delivery in healthcare systems. Students complete integrative medicine clinical placements in a hospital setting.