It is not possible to earn a PhD in acupuncture, but experienced acupuncturists can pursue doctoral level studies through DAOM programs, which cover a wide range of advanced topics and specialties in the field and are available at a number of schools.
Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Programs
Doctorate of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (DAOM) programs provide practicing acupuncturists with greater expertise in Oriental and Western medicine. It is the highest credential available in the field of acupuncture today.
Program Format and Requirements
In DAOM programs, students take advanced classes and complete clinical training requirements. Clinical training may include capstone projects, internships and externships at health centers both in the U.S. and abroad. Clinical internships may last for a few weeks. Rather than requiring full-time study, many programs only require students to take classes for a few days per month, usually over the course of about two years. Although specialty options vary by school, some include:
- Gynecology
- Pain management
- Women's health
- Aging and longevity
Curriculum
DAOM students often have a wide range of course options to choose from, often varying by specialization. Courses may cover topics such as:
- Integrative medicine
- Herbal and dietary therapy
- Mental health
- Environmental medicine
- Complex pain disorders
- Neurological disorders
- Fertility support
Admissions Requirements
There are several requirements that acupuncturists usually need to meet in order to gain admission into a DAOM program, including the following:
- A master's degree in Oriental medicine
- A graduate-level GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Current acupuncturist licensure or certification
- Work experience in the field
- Submission of the following application materials:
- Official transcripts
- Resume
- Statement of purpose
- Sample case study
School Options
The U.S. Department of Education recognizes the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) as the accrediting agency. These are the schools for which the ACAOM has accredited the DAOM program:
- Bastyr University
- Oregon College of Oriental Medicine
- Pacific College Oriental Medicine - San Diego
- Yo San University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
- South Baylo University - Anaheim and Los Angeles
- Five Branches University: Graduate School of Traditional Chinese Medicine
- American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Emperor's College of Traditional Oriental Medicine
- AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine
- Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine
- University of East-West Medicine
The ACAOM is currently working towards finalizing the accreditation standards for a first-professional doctoral (FPD) program in acupuncture and Oriental medicine.
Although Acupuncture PhD programs are not available, DAOM programs provide advanced education in the field through both classroom studies and clinical practice. There are currently eleven accredited schools offering this degree.
