Going to school to study acupuncture is an exciting decision but before you select your school of study you need to understand the differences in between the two main varieties of school. You will need to understand where the school is located, the various topics of study, exactly how long it will take to complete the course of study, exactly how much the courses will cost, and if course, if financial aid is available to help you pay for school. But the most important thing to look for is a school which follows your philosophy of acupuncture and holistic medicine overall.



Be aware that there are two distinct philosophies when it comes to acupuncture and it is important for any prospective acupuncturist to know about each and to help a school based on its unique philosophy. Aim to choose a school whose philosophy is as close to your own as possible. The two different philosophies are the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)/ Eight Elements School and the Five Element School. Let us briefly take a look at both of these schools of thought.

The Five Element School takes a classic approach to the practice of acupuncture in that it emphasizes not just acupuncture but also counselling as an important element of the practice. The Five Element School is the less popular of the two philosophies and is only taught in a minority of schools in the United States where students can train to become acupuncturists.

Looking at the other type of education available, the TCM/Eight Elements School is based on a form of diagnosis that has become standardized and has been in wide use in China ever since the start of communism. Built on the foundation referred to as the "Eight Principles", this method of study has a greater following.

The Eight Principles schools focus on herbal therapies along with the traditional practice of acupuncture. The biggest difference between the types of schools is primarily philosophical; however, it is a big difference and one that must be considered thoroughly before you apply to any one school. Many purist argue that the Eight Element Schools are totally devoid of the spiritual element that is the foundation of the Five Element Schools.

Of course, like anything in life, both methods of schooling have pros and cons; however, the bottom line is that you find the educational opportunity that most comfortably matches your soul.

Different universities across the country choose to teach one philosophy or a combination of both and it is generally up to the individual school. To use an example, Yo San University that is located in Marina Del Rey, CA specializes in Taoist Classical Medicine, which combines both the approaches of TCM/Eight Elements as well as the Five Elements School. As well they also include the Energetic Systems of Chinese medicine in their teachings and these are based on the I-Ching as well as the "Yellow Emperor's Classic."

Maoshing Ni, the co-founder of Yo San University believes that students benefit greatly from an integrated view that involves learning about the spiritual and physical connection of the mind and body. It is this mix of integrational studies that produces the healing energy of acupuncture.

Before you select any school it is critical that you do your research so that you understand which philosophy you intend to study. Your studies will be the basis of your acupuncture practice, so the right school is very important. It will be vitally important as you set up your practice because your schooling will forever be a part of the acupuncturist you become. So get it right.