MAc Degree Program
28 month, 2,400 hour, 128.5 credit, Master of Acupuncture (MAc)
The Master of Acupuncture (MAc) program at Colorado Chinese Medicine University (CCMU) is a 2,400-hour, 28-month accelerated course of study. This program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (ACAHM) and approved by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education (CCHE).
Program Highlights:
- Focus Areas: The curriculum emphasizes acupuncture and related modalities, Tui-na (therapeutic massage/physiotherapy), Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) nutrition, and clinical training.
Curriculum Structure:
- Year 1:
- TCM Studies: Introduction to fundamental theories, including concepts of energy, health, and disease etiology. Courses in Acupuncture Meridian and Point Theory with Practicum teach various Chinese Medicine acupuncture traditions, covering channels, collaterals, acupoint classifications, locations, uses, and nomenclature. Clinical diagnosis forums begin in the third trimester to observe practical applications.
- Practical Skills: Training in Tui-na to develop palpation skills, followed by traditional acupuncture and moxibustion techniques. Additional modalities include auricular acupuncture, scalp acupuncture, cupping, and Gua Sha. Qigong and Taiji exercises commence to cultivate the student’s qi.
- Clinical Observation: Students begin clinical observations, gaining insights by observing private practitioners and student clinic operations.
- Bioscience Studies: Courses include Medical Terminology, Anatomy & Physiology, Surface Anatomy, Introduction to Biology, and Introduction to Chemistry.
- Year 2:
- Advanced TCM Studies: Application of TCM theory to understand disease processes, formulation of treatment principles, and development of Acumoxa treatment plans. Participation in clinical diagnosis forums continues, enhancing diagnostic skills.
- Clinical Practice: Supervised clinical practice begins in the fifth trimester, with students responsible for all aspects of patient care. Training includes Clean Needle Technique (CNT), OSHA and HIPAA regulations, and Clinical Ethics.Completion of the Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED course is required before internships.
- Specialized Courses: In-depth Acumoxa treatments for musculoskeletal conditions and an introductory course in Chinese herbal medicine focusing on topical applications.
- Year 3:
- Prepare for Final Proficiency Exam and the NCCAOM Acupuncture exam.
Program Benefits:
- Accelerated Timeline: Completion in 28 months allows graduates to enter the workforce sooner, reducing educational costs and financial aid debt.
- Licensure Preparation: Graduates are eligible for NCCAOM certification in acupuncture and state licensure, enabling them to begin private practice without the expense of setting up a Chinese herbal pharmacy.
- Flexible Learning Environment: The program is designed to accommodate working adults, offering part-time options in a supportive environment focusing on body, mind, and spirit.
Additional Information:
- Transfer Opportunities: Students can transfer between the MAc and Master of Acupuncture with a Chinese Herbal Medicine specialization (MAcCHM) programs with appropriate prerequisites and a program transfer fee. MAc graduates can return to complete the necessary coursework and clinics for the MAcCHM degree.
- Licensure Considerations: The MAc program may not meet criteria for licensure in states requiring Chinese herbal medicine education (e.g., Arkansas, California, New Mexico, Texas). Prospective students should refer to licensing disclosure  or consult the school’s Registrar Office for specific licensure requirements.
Program Category Totals
- Biosciences 540 hours / 36 credits
- TCM Theory & Technique 1020 hours / 60 credits
- Miscellaneous 90 hours / 6 credits
- Observation 150 hours / 5 credits
- Chinese Herbal Medicine 45 hours / 3 credits
- Clinics: Acupuncture 555 hours / 18.5 credits
- For more detail, please See Catalog
Total 2,400 hours / 128.5 credits
