If you're just venturing out now to try to learn how and where you can earn a certificate or degree in acupuncture and what it's like to work in the field, this article may help. Acupuncture has been practiced in China for 2,000 years or more it is thought and some say it's probably more like 3,000 years or so. Most of the states in the U.S. require students to complete a three to five year program from an accredited acupuncture school and then pass a state board exam in order to get licensed.



Schools may offer both the science and the philosophy of acupuncture too. It's important to get a comprehensive picture of all the treatments that are offered by the school in order to acquire the skills that you'll need to be well-rounded and well-versed for your patients. Also note that depending on the school, students may be required to study herbal medicine or may be offered herbal courses as electives, so make sure to ask.

First of all you if you don't know already, find out what the school and program options are in your home area. Check with the school you have in mind to make sure that you have a wide selection of study resources available so you have the necessary literature that is essential for a broad learning experience. You may want to opt for a school whose program places emphasis on courses in traditional Chinese medicine. Acupuncture is just one part of traditional Chinese medicine.

Choose a school that offers an extensive library that is focused on traditional Chinese medicine. For naturopathy schools that have acupuncture programs see the List of Accredited Natural Medicine Colleges in North America. The Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) is the national accrediting agency that is recognized by the U.S. Dept. of Education to accredit Master's-level programs in the acupuncture and Oriental medicine professions. You want to verify that the school you're considering has this accreditation. If there is a naturopathic school in your area, give them a call to find out the licensing requirements, if you're not sure.

So as mentioned, take a look at schools located in your home area first. It will greatly cut down your expenses if you can study close to home. The internships take place in acupuncture clinics or clinical settings, usually in the third year. One good textbook to look over in advance of your decision is: "The Foundations of Chinese Medicine" a comprehensive text for acupuncturists and herbalists.

If you need financial aid try getting in touch with local philanthropic organizations and health organizations to see if they know of any available scholarships or grants. Sometimes these organizations actually have scholarship money leftover from the previous year that is unused and will accept an application for it. They are usually glad to put it to use. It may take a small mailing or numerous calls though.

Talk to the financial aid officers at the school you'd like to attend and see what suggestions they have for getting any grants, scholarships and/or federal aid. There is always federal money available from the US government for education. Also there is money set aside for online degree programs or distance learning programs. Check and see if your school offers any of its classes online and if so then apply right away for these funds. There are education loans and student loans available if you are not able to get full or partial grants or scholarships.

You probably already know that acupuncture benefits are very effective in relieving or treating chronic muscle pain, stress, and PMS to name just a few symptoms. Remember you may not need a license to practice acupuncture in your state; so make sure get the facts first on which states do require licensing.

Once you've graduated from acupuncture school and licensed or practicing as a student-in-training, never attempt to use acupuncture to treat potentially life-threatening symptoms; these include extreme shortness of breath or chest pain. Instead refer these patients to their doctor for help. Hopefully some of these tips may cut down your research time.