Graduate Program
Course Descriptions
Acupuncture Training
Herbal Training
Integral Studies
Asian Bodywork Therapy
Mind/Body Training
Biomedical Sciences
Clinical Training
Acupuncture Training
The acupuncture curriculum is the core of the program. The material offered is well rounded and comprehensive, creating a strong foundation for other didactic instruction and for clinical internship.
AT0111 Point Location & Meridian Theory 1
First of three courses on the distribution and functions of the network of channels and collaterals, categories of special points, body landmarks, point locating methods, and basic needling methods. Includes practice of physical point location. First course covers points on the lung, large intestine, stomach, spleen, and heart channels.
AT0112 Point Location & Meridian Theory 2
Second course in the series covering the points and channels of small intestine, urinary bladder, kidney, pericardium, sanjiao, and gall bladder.
AT0113 Point Location & Meridian Theory 3
Final course in series covering the points and channels of gall bladder (continued), liver, du/governing, ren/conception, and the other extraordinary channels, and commonly used extra points.
AT0121 Meridian & Point Energetics 1
First of three courses introducing fundamental theories and usage of acupuncture therapy, including meridian theory, special energetics, and individual acupuncture point energetics. First course covers the lung, large intestine, and stomach meridians, and the theory and usage of acupuncture points, including the shu-points, five element points, luo-connecting points, yuan source points, and xi-cleft points.
AT0122 Meridian & Point Energetics 2
Second course in series covering the spleen, heart, small intestine, kidney, and urinary bladder meridians, and how to select appropriate acupuncture points in order to therapeutically affect corresponding patterns of disease.
AT0123 Meridian & Point Energetics 3
Final course in series covering the urinary bladder (continued), pericardium, sanjiao, gall bladder, liver, ren, and du meridians, and how to select appropriate acupuncture points in order to therapeutically affect corresponding patterns of disease.
AT0131 Acupuncture Techniques 1
First of two introductory practical courses providing basic techniques of needling including the angle, depth, manipulation, and withdrawal of needles, and bu/tonification and xie/sedation. Covers the treatment of acute and chronic conditions, first aid, management of adverse reactions, prevention and treatment of acupuncture accidents, infection control, safety issues, sterilization procedures, CNT,OSHA, and HIPAA protocols.
AT0132 Acupuncture Techniques 2
Second introductory practical course providing basic techniques of needling, moxibustion, cupping, and other special acupuncture techniques, such as cutaneous needling, three-edge needling, electric needling, and guasha.
AT0202 Advanced Needling Techniques & Theory 1
First of two advanced practical courses providing an overview of acupuncture techniques and the indication and functions of various acupuncture techniques for clinical application, including scalp acupuncture, auricular acupuncture, Korean hand acupuncture, and foot reflexology.
AT0203 Advanced Needling Techniques & Theory 2
Second advanced practical course providing an overview of acupuncture techniques, including threading acupuncture, comprehensive reinforcing and reducing method, the acupuncture techniques in the Neijing and Nanjing, balance method acupuncture, Dong’s extraordinary points (20 points), four needling techniques, wrist and ankle acupuncture, and the second metacarpal bone acupuncture technique.
AT0211 Acupuncture Treatment of Disease 1
First of three courses focusing on the etiology, mechanism, differentiation, and treatment of certain diseases including TCM framework, strategies, and principles of treatment. Attention given to clinical skills in regards to treatment plans, prognosis, contraindications, appropriate referrals, risk factors, modification to standard therapeutic approaches in certain conditions, and seemingly benign presentations that may have a more serious cause. First course covers respiratory, cardiovascular, endocrine, and reproductive systems.
AT0212 Acupuncture Treatment of Disease 2
Second course on the treatment of specific diseases covering reproductive (continued), urinary, nervous, and alimentary systems, as well as liver and gall bladder disorders and case study discussions.
AT0213 Acupuncture Treatment of Disease 3
Final course on the treatment of specific diseases covering immune and musculo-skeletal systems, as well as psycho-social disorders, skin, hair, and nail problems, and miscellaneous illnesses. Includes certain advanced techniques, case studies, and student presentations.
AT0233 Acupuncture Competencies
Comprehensive course covering the review and integration of the foundations of Chinese medicine, Chinese medicine diagnostic methods, practical point location, acupuncture treatment of disease, and other acupuncture-related courses. Attention will be paid to improving students’ analytical and clinical problem solving abilities through the use of clinical case discussions. Must successfully complete prior to sitting for the NCCAOM acupuncture exam.
AS01,2,3 Acupuncture Special Seminars
This series of three acupuncture seminars covers specialized topics which expand upon the core program curriculum. Topics to choose from may include sports acupuncture, Japanese-style acupuncture, advanced auricular acupuncture, acupuncture anesthesia, acupuncture for addictions, cosmetic acupuncture, Korean hand acupuncture, acupuncture for pain management, and others. New topics are added periodically.
Herbal Training
Designed by highly trained Chinese herbologists with many years of clinical experience, our herbal training curriculum exceeds the national requirements. Classical texts provide the foundation of the material. As it is our philosophy that herbal training is enhanced by the use of herbs in their raw form, we stock hundreds of individual raw herbs in addition to many Chinese patents and prepared powder formulas. First year students are introduced to basic herbal knowledge and prepared (patent) herbal medicines. In the second year students study individual herbs and their functions in depth along with their physical properties during class and in the hands-on herbal lab. In the third year of study, once a thorough understanding of Chinese medical theory is established, students begin to prepare and prescribe herbal formulations made from raw herbs. Students learn to adjust and modify classical formulas to suit the condition of individual patients.
HT0102 Introduction to Chinese Herbs
Introductory level course providing an overview of the fundamental theories of herbal therapy, including properties of herbs, preparation of decoctions, the Pinyin spelling and meaning of herbal names, categories of single herbs and some important Chinese patent medicines.
HT0103 Chinese Herbology 1
An in-depth study of the Chinese Materia Medica composed of three courses. Emphasis on properties, channels entered, actions, indications and contraindications, dosages, and major combinations of plant, animal and mineral substances, as well as preparation and herbal safety. First course covers theories of siqi, wuwei, guijing, and paozhi, along
with substances that release to the exterior, clear heat, downward drain, and drain dampness.
HT0200 Nutrition & Dietary Therapy
Introduction to theoretical principles and practical application of traditional Chinese dietetics. Topics include the history of food production, the five elements, the flavors of foods, the directional movements of foods, the energetic profiles of foods, and treatment of TCM disease patterns with dietary therapy.
HT0201 Chinese Herbology 2
Continuation of the in-depth study of Chinese Materia Medica substances, including those that expel wind-dampness, resolve phlegm, aromatics that transform dampness, relieve food stagnation, regulate qi, regulate blood, and warm the interior.
HT0202 Chinese Herbology 3
Final course on the in-depth study of Chinese Materia Medica substances, including those that tonify, stabilize, and bind, calm spirit, subdue liver yang, extinguish liver wind, open orifices, expel parasites and external applications.
HT0203 Chinese Herbal Formulations 1
First of a three-course series of the Chinese herbal formulas including compositions, functions, and indications of commonly used formulas. Knowledge of diagnostics and Chinese Materia Medica is important to the study of this course. First course in an in-depth study of formulas that release the exterior, drain down, harmonize and clear heat.
HT0300 Chinese Patent Herbal Medicine
Study of Chinese patent herbal formulas (patents) and their relationship to traditional herbal formulas, with focus on ingredients, indications, contraindications, dosage, and special considerations of commonly used patents. Includes comparison of popular brands of patents, effectiveness in clinical treatment, storage and duration, modifications, format of delivery, and herb/drug interactions.
HT0301 Chinese Herbal Formulations 2
Continuation of an in-depth study of Chinese herbal formulas, including those that treat summer heat, warm the interior, treat both the interior and exterior, tonify the deficiency, calm down the shen, astringe, regulate qi, and regulate blood.
HT0302 Chinese Herbal Formulations 3
Final course on the in-depth study of Chinese herbal formulas, including those that regulate blood (continued), release wind, treat dryness, clear damp, treat phlegm, reduce food stagnation, treat parasites, and treat sores and carbuncles.
HT0311 Syndrome-based Herbs & Formulas
Advanced herbal syndrome differentiation methods, with focus on the syndromes of zangfu organs, six stages, four levels, treatment principles, and herbal formulas. Commonly seen syndromes in the clinic, as well as some experimental research on syndromes will be covered.
HT0303 Herbal Competencies
Comprehensive course covering the review and integration of the foundations of Chinese medicine, Chinese medicine diagnostic methods, Chinese herbology, Chinese herbal formulations, herbal safety, herbal treatment of disease, and Chinese herbal classics. Attention will be paid to improving students’ analytical and clinical problem solving abilities through the use of clinical case discussions. Must successfully complete prior to sitting for the NCCAOM herbal exam.
HT0321 Chinese Herbal Safety
Safe application of Chinese Materia Medica substances and herbal patent medicines, including safe dosages, combinations of toxic and specialty herbs, safety issues on integrating Chinese and modern medicines, contraindications and herbal management for pregnant women and patients with various illnesses, and public safety.
HT0332 Chinese Herbal Treatment of Disease 1
First of a three-course series of the Chinese herbal treatment of diseases under the theory of zangfu organs and the theory of qi, blood, and body fluids of TCM as applied to patients with a biomedical diagnosis. Includes basic disorder patterns of individual zangfu systems and their corresponding treatment strategies, with herbal treatment of diseases of the lung system, heart and cerebral system, and spleen and stomach system.
HT0333 Chinese Herbal Treatment of Disease 2
Second course on the Chinese herbal treatment of diseases, including diseases of the liver and gallbladder system, kidney and bladder system, qi, blood, and body fluids system, and meridians and limbs system.
HT0343 Chinese Herbal Classics 1
Study of the Chinese herbal classics for advanced students composed of two courses. Fundamental theories and formulas recorded in these books will be analyzed and discussed, with indications and applications to difficult cases and review of clinical experiences. First course covers the Neijing (Yellow Emperor’s Internal Classics) and the theory of syndrome differentiation according to the Six Channel Stages of the Shang Han Lun (Treatise on Cold Induced Diseases by Zhang Zhongjing).
HT0431 Chinese Herbal Treatment of Disease 3
Third course on the Chinese herbal treatment of diseases, including herbal treatment under the guidance of the theory of zangfu organs and the theory of qi, blood, and body fluids of TCM for diseases of gynecology, pediatrics, and dermatology.
HT0441 Chinese Herbal Classics 2
Second course on Chinese herbal classics covers Jin Gui Yao Lue (Golden Chamber) by Zhang Zhongjing, syndrome differentiation according to the four levels theory recorded in Wen Yue Lun (Treatise on Warm Disease) by Ye Tianshi and syndrome differentiation according to the sanjiao theory recorded in Wen Bing Tiao Bian (Differentiation on Febrile Diseases) by Wu Jutong.
HL01 Chinese Herbal Studies Lab 1
Practical hands-on series taken concurrent with the Chinese Herbology series for recognition of a variety of raw herbs, familiarity of categories and their functions, and an understanding of the four flavors and five tastes of Chinese substances. Introduction of basic herbal safety and herb/drug interaction theories. First lab is practical study of substances that release to the exterior, clear heat, downward drain, and drain dampness.
HL02 Chinese Herbal Studies Lab 2
Practical study of Chinese Materia Medica substances that expel wind-dampness, resolve phlegm, and aromatics that transform dampness, relieve food stagnation, regulate qi, regulate blood, and warm the interior.
HL03 Chinese Herbal Studies Lab 3
Practical study of Chinese Materia Medica substances that tonify, stabilize, and bind, calm spirit, subdue liver yang, extinguish liver wind, open orifices, expel parasites, and external applications.
HS01,02,03 Herbal Special Seminar 1
This series of three herbal seminars covers specialized topics which expand upon the core program curriculum. Topics to choose from may include Chinese herbs for cancer, Chinese herbal medicine for stress, depression and other mental disorders, Chinese herbs for warm diseases, herbal treatment for dermatitis, Chinese herbs for menopause and menstrual disorders, herbal medicine for longevity, and Chinese patent medicine for pediatrics. New topics are added regularly.
Integral Studies
The Integral Studies Department at AOMA connects interdepartmentally by training learners in the core values and behaviors of professional practice in Oriental medicine, the foundation and diagnostics of Oriental medicine, the integration of Oriental medicine and western medicine, the systems of health care in the US, as well as the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to be successful in clinical practice.
CHINESE MEDICINE FUNDAMENTALS
Oriental medicine emerged from the theory and practices of traditional Chinese medicine. The foundations and diagnostic skills of traditional Chinese medicine are the fundamental cornerstone of Chinese medical science. This theoretical system forms the basis for clinical practice.
AT0101 Foundations of Chinese Medicine 1
An introductory level course providing in-depth study of the philosophy and theories fundamental to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), including the essential principles of yin and yang, Dao, five elements, and zangfu organ systems. Chinese medical history as it relates to the various traditions in acupuncture and Oriental medicine will be covered, as well as historical and professional trends in acupuncture and Oriental medicine.
AT0102 Foundations of Chinese Medicine 2
Continuation of AT0101. Emphasis is on the production and function of body substances (energy, blood, body fluid, essence, spirit) and the related internal organ systems, as well as etiology and pathology, sources of pathogens and mechanisms of illness, with an introduction to the eight extraordinary channels.\
AT0103 Diagnostic Skills of Chinese Medicine 1
First of two courses providing in-depth study and practical application of the four diagnoses with an emphasis on tongue and pulse evaluation, diagnosis, and pattern differentiation.
AT0200 Diagnostic Skills of Chinese Medicine 2
Second course emphasizing differential diagnosis and syndromes, including zangfu syndromes, eight principles, six stages and four levels, microsystems, and clinical studies.
CASE MANAGEMENT, PRACTICE MANAGEMENT, RESEARCH, COMMUNICATIONS & ETHICS
AOMA emphasizes the importance of practical business training to prepare graduates for the successful management of their own private practice. Case management focuses on skills required to provide systems-based healthcare in America. Research methodology applies modern principles to critique and evaluate research literature in order to assess a study and its results. Three levels of business management courses taught by instructors experienced in clinical management and/or business administration are offered. Additionally, communication skills are taught to develop students’ ability to connect with their patients and other healthcare providers. Students will have the opportunity to visit the clinics of local acupuncturists practicing in a variety of different styles and settings. Students are also introduced to the various ethical and legal issues that may arise in the practitioner/client relationship.
AT0221 Case Management
A course that prepares students to manage patient care, covering primary, secondary, and specialty care responsibilities; treatment planning, prognosis, and planning for future medical care; follow-up and functional outcome measurements; referral and collaboration with other healthcare professionals; case management for injured workers and socialized medicine patients; coding procedures; medical-legal report writing, expert medical testimony; and emergency procedures.
WS0302 Research Methodology
Course including research terminology, literature research methods, experimental design, sampling, and biases inherent in research, as well as instruction on the process of generating hypotheses, conducting a literature review, and the mechanics of grant writing, funding, and implementation of research projects. Focus will be on applying modern research principles to critique and evaluate complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) literature and how to apply a systematic review of evidence-based literature to improve CAM treatments. Communication with other healthcare providers regarding research and design methods will also be covered.
PT0200 Practice Management 1
A three-course series on office and clinic management and all aspects of acupuncture clinic operations. The first is an introductory course including basic bookkeeping, accounts receivable and payable, phone skills, patient records, filing systems, and insurance billing.
PT0420 Practice Management 2
The second course is offered to third-year students, covering the preparation of business plans, strategic planning and financing, marketing, public relations, taxes, and basic accounting principles.
PT0430 Practice Management 3
The final course of this series is a continuation of PT0420. Includes guest lectures by local acupuncturists.
PT0210 Clinical Communication Skills 1
A three-course series on understanding the psycho-dynamics of the practitioner/patient relationship, including managing psychological reactions that may arise and making appropriate referrals.
PT0310 Clinical Communication Skills 2
Second in the series on communications skills, including listening, advising, explaining, and teaching.
PT0410 Clinical Communication Skills 3
Final in the series on developing advanced communications skills and improving clinical outcomes with patients using innovative, body-centered awareness and attunement in clinical practice.
PT0440 Ethics & Legal Issues
Discussion of legal and ethical issues typically encountered in an acupuncture and Oriental medical practice. Topics include informed consent, scope of practice, record keeping, legal requirements, release of data, ethical and legal aspects of referring patients to another practitioner, professional conduct, and appropriate interpersonal behavior. Also includes patient expectations, general liability insurance, professional liability insurance, risk management, quality assurance and privacy issues.
ASIAN BODYWORK THERAPY
AOMA believes that touch is an integral part of healing and has incorporated a strong Asian bodywork therapy component into the program. The Asian bodywork therapy curriculum is based in the philosophy and application of Oriental medicine and the harmonization of qi/ki energy. Meridian systems are studied, which explain the interrelationships of the various internal organs with the muscular, skeletal, nervous, circulatory, endocrine, and lymphatic systems. Physical, emotional, and lifestyle components are assessed in the diagnostic and treatment process. Students have two forms of Asian bodywork therapy from which to choose: tuina and Chinese medical qigong. Three progressive levels of one form are required for graduation.
Tuina, the Ancient Healing Bodywork of China
Tuina originates in China. It is a traditional meridian and acupoint bodywork therapy over 2,000 years old. It involves a variety of techniques including rolling, tapping and pressure for treating a broad range of disorders. Tuina is used in orthopedic, stroke and other forms of rehabilitation in China’s hospitals and has a wide range of applications in pediatrics. Students may choose to take either ABT03 Tuina 3 or ABT03A Chinese Pediatric Tuina to fulfill the Asian bodywork requirement for graduation.
ABT01 Tuina 1
This course provides a working knowledge of basic tuina techniques and tuina exercises, yijinjing (sinew exercise), to strengthen the body’s constitution. The course is designed to strengthen the connection between tuina and other methods and techniques of Oriental medicine.
ABT02 Tuina 2
This course continues the practice of tuina techniques and the general body routine of tuina. It focuses on the etiology, pathology, and symptomology of disorders of the neck and upper limbs, as well as the integration of tuina with both Oriental and biomedical evaluation and treatment methods of common disorders.
ABT03 Tuina 3
This course continues the practice of specific tuina techniques as well as general body routine tuina. It focuses on the etiology, pathology, and symptomology of disorders of the back and lower limbs. Further, it addresses the integration of tuina with both Oriental and biomedical evaluation and treatment methods of common disorders.
ABT03A Chinese Pediatric Tuina
This course is designed to provide students with basic methods used in pediatric tuina, frequently used pediatric points, and pediatric tuina for common infantile diseases. Commonly used techniques, special classic techniques, and basic pediatric points will be introduced, demonstrated, and practiced in class.
CHINESE MEDICAL QIGONG
Chinese medical qigong is one of the oldest branches of Chinese medicine, predating acupuncture by thousands of years. It is a therapeutic method for improving health and wellbeing, regaining and maintaining mind/body balance, preserving health, and enhancing longevity through the training of the mind, the breath and the physiological processes of the body. Qi refers to the energy that animates life, while gong means skills acquired through practice.
ABQ01 Chinese Medical Qigong 1
The three courses of this series present a comprehensive study of Chinese medical qigong and include the philosophy of qigong as well as exercises and movements which focus on cultivating internal energy. A series of traditional and modern qigong exercises is taught throughout these courses, including meditation (static qigong) and daoyin (dynamic qigong), for the purpose of training and refining inner energy. Focus of this first course is on the mechanisms of qigong and the relationship between the three treasures of the human being, essence, energy, and spirit, as well as commonly used points and qigong safety theory and methods. Attention will be paid to the areas of combining Chinese medical qigong with zangfu, yin/yang, and meridian theories to improve students’ understanding of Oriental medicine and to integrate qigong methods with Oriental medicine therapies.
ABQ02 Chinese Medical Qigong 2
This course covers the sensation of qi, a foundation of internal qi, and guidance of qi throughout the body. Additionally, the origin and distribution of the twelve regular meridians and location of major acupressure points will be studied. The course focus is on the proper recommendation of exercises for improving well-being and relieving symptoms of chronic disorders, particularly tendino-muscular problems. Also, the selection of different qigong exercises according to body constitutions and various syndromes will be presented.
ABQ03 Chinese Medical Qigong 3
The third course of the Chinese medical qigong series focuses on the directing and renewing of qi. This is achieved by exploring the major principles that govern the universal and environmental energetic structures, as well as their influence on the human body, mind, spirit, and emotions. A series of qigong exercises and techniques, tongue inspection and pulse evaluation, touching and non-touching techniques, color and temperature observation, and healing sounds are practiced for a better understanding of this specialized system.
MIND/BODY TRAINING
AOMA offers taichi and qigong instruction throughout the year. The program gives our students the opportunity to train with faculty who are internationally recognized and provides a variety of teaching styles from which to choose. We believe that the internal development of qi facilitates focus and concentration and therefore enhances the students’ educational experience. Additionally, students learn corrective and therapeutic exercises not only for self-care, but as an additive to the treatment plans of their patients. Students are encouraged to study in depth the art of their choice and to continue to practice through their academic and professional careers as a means of balancing mind, body and spirit while teaching their patients these skills. Three progressive levels of each art (taichi and qigong) are required for graduation.
MB0101 Taichi 1
This is the first of three courses providing a basic understanding of and practical experience in a taichi form and the philosophical principles of circular movements. This first course covers the first section of a taichi form and assists students with achieving greater flexibility and concentration, along with an ability to sense the flow of energy. Students will explore the benefits of taichi and its application to healthcare and disease prevention, as well as its indications for the respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, metabolism, motor, tendinomuscular, nerve, and immunity systems. Attention is paid to integrate taichi with acupuncture and Oriental medicine for healthcare, balance of body, and disease prevention with the purpose of deepening students’ knowledge of Oriental medicine and taichi.
MB0102 Taichi 2
This course covers the second section of a taichi form with a deeper study of the philosophical principles and review of the first section.
MB0103 Taichi 3
This is the third course of the taichi series covering the third section of a taichi form. Special consideration will be given to the relationship between taichi exercise, healthcare, and disease prevention. Through the advanced study of a taichi form, students will strengthen their understanding of the harmonized relationship between the external and internal environments, between the functions of internal organs and body substances, and between the physical body and the spirit. Attention is paid to integrate taichi with acupuncture and Oriental medicine for balance and disease prevention.
MB0301 Qigong 1
This three-course series focuses on basic qigong exercises that generate and increase the cultivation of qi to develop strength, grace, concentration, flexibility, balance, and an abundance of genuine energy. Study includes qigong practice guidelines and safety precautions. Students will explore the therapeutic application of qigong for the management and prevention of diseases of the internal organs and muscular-skeletal systems. Students will explore channel distribution, point energetics, and internal organ functions to integrate qigong exercise with the theory and practice of acupuncture and Oriental medicine.
MB0302 Qigong 2
This is the second course of the qigong series, focusing on sensing the flow of energy and balancing the body with the mind. These qigong exercises strengthen awareness of acupuncture meridians and point locations along with their organ connections, regulate various systems of the human body, and enrich mind/body therapy. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the philosophy of qi through integrating Oriental medicine and daily practice of qigong, recognizing that qi theory is the kernel of acupuncture and Oriental medicine.
MB0303 Qigong 3
The third course of the series focuses on more qigong exercises that cultivate inner energy, balance the body with the mind, and improve flexibility and psychosomatic relaxation. These qigong exercises guide students to understanding the mechanisms of lifestyle-related and psychosomatic diseases as students explore the prevention and management of modern diseases through the practice of qigong, acupuncture, and Oriental medicine.
Biomedical Sciences
AOMA’s biomedical sciences curriculum is clinically based and provides students with a practical foundation of the concepts and diagnostic techniques of biomedicine, enabling them to interface successfully with allopathic practitioners. It is intended to provide students with information applicable to their Oriental medical practice upon becoming licensed practitioners and to enhance their ability to communicate with patients and other practitioners regarding biomedical diagnoses and treatment plans.
WS0101 Anatomy, Physiology & Histology 1
Three-course series providing foundation in gross anatomy, physiology, and histology. First course covers terminology, anatomical orientation, tissue types and composition, integumentary system, skeletal and muscular systems, and structure and functions of joints, head and neck, with special emphasis on surface anatomy.
WS0102 Anatomy & Physiology 2
Second course in series covers the anatomy and functions of upper and lower limb girdles, with emphasis on shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee and ankle joints, the structure and functional anatomy of the nervous system, concept of neural synapse, synaptic transmission, neural plexuses, autonomic nervous system, as well as the respiratory tract anatomy, function, and mechanics of respiration.
WS0103 Anatomy & Physiology 3
Third course in series covers the anatomy and functions of cardiovascular, lymphatic, hematopoietic, gastrointestinal, urinary, reproductive and endocrinal systems.
WS0110 Biomedical Terminology
Introduction to basic medical terminology used in the clinical practice of medicine.
WS0120 Public Health & Biomedical Survey
Overview of the current and historical health of the general population of the US, the role of government in healthcare, past and present health challenges facing communities, and role of healthcare providers.
WS0112 Survey Microbiology & Infectious Disease
Introduction to the role of the immune system and infectious agents in health and illness, including common bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic pathogens and their associated diseases.
WS0142 Pathophysiology 1
A two-course series on the dynamic aspects of the disease process in the biomedical model, focusing on the altered physiological functions that contribute to and are an indication of disease.Emphasis in this course will be on basic respiratory and cardiovascular pathology.
WS0133 Pathophysiology 2
Second course studying each organ and its physiological relationship with other organs of the human body in the disease process. Includes hematopoietic, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary-pancreatic, renal, endocrine, and nervous systems.
WS0201 Biomedical Pharmacology
Study of major drug classes of biomedical pharmaceutical products, drug metabolism in the body, modes of action, indications, contraindications, drug-drug interactions, potential herb and nutritional supplement interactions, as well as commonly prescribed drugs and their proprietary brand and generic names.
WS0212 Biomedical Diagnostic Techniques 1
Two-course series on the principles of biomedical diagnostic methods, investigative tools, and laboratory technology to give insight into the basis of ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests.
WS0213 Biomedical Diagnostic Techniques 2
Continuation of WS0212, including laboratory analysis of blood, pregnancy related tests and principles, and interpretations of ultrasonography, mammography, MRI, CT scanning, invasive and non-invasive radiography, endoscopy, and ECGs.
WS0303 Biomedicine Competencies
Course covering the review and integration of basic biomedical sciences and bridging the basic courses with clinical science and clinical medicine. It provides students with information applicable to their Oriental medicine practice and enhances their ability to communicate with patients and other healthcare providers regarding biomedical diagnoses and treatment plans. Attention will be paid to improving students’ analytical and clinical problem solving abilities through the use of clinical case discussions. Must successfully complete prior to sitting for the NCCAOM biomedicine exam.
WS0223 Herb/Drug Interactions
Overview of known interactions between biomedical pharmaceuticals and herbal therapies, with up-to-date information on the consequences and/or benefits of specific drug and herb combinations, herb and nutritional supplement interactions, accessing this information, and the role of practitioners in educating patients and promoting public health safety.
WS0310 Physical Assessment 1
This two-course hands-on style series introduces the practical principles of basic health assessment for critical recognition of signs and symptoms. Includes interview skills, role-playing, data collection, charting, systemic reviews, specific history evaluations, and techniques in taking vital signs, auscultation, blood pressure reading, and palpation.
WS0311 Physical Assessment 2
Continuation of WS0310, includes basic principles of examination with emphasis on neurological and musculo-skeletal assessment.
WS0312 Gynecology & Obstetrics
Study of the female reproductive system including common gynecological and obstetrical diseases, pregnancy risks, management and appropriate advising guidelines, and pathogenesis and diagnostic measurements, as well as mechanics and complications of labor and delivery, psychology of childbirth, and related issues.
WS0313 Biomedical Treatment of Disease 1
The first course in a three-course series dealing with characteristic features of disease as seen from the biomedical model, with the fundamental approach to health and disease management and diagnosis and treatment plans of selected diseases. First course includes cancer, head and neck disorders, respiratory, infective and harmful physical agents, nutritive, diabetic and dermatological disorders, and complementary and alternative medical concepts.
WS0410 Biomedical Treatment of Disease 2
Second course in series covers cardiovascular, hypertensive, hematological, gastro-intestinal, and hepato-biliary-pancreatic.
WS0411 Biomedical Treatment of Disease 3
Final course in this series covers diseases emphasis on fluid and electrolyte disorders, renal-urological, endocrinal, musculo-skeletal, psychiatric and neurological disorders.
Clinical Training
AOMA‘s award-winning clinical education provides our students with hands on experience and is a means of service to the greater Austin community. This is where students begin to integrate classroom theory with the practice of healing. Clinical observation may begin as early as the first term of study. By assisting and observing in our supervised student clinic, students have the opportunity to apply information learned. Clinical theater is an important part of the observation experience. The student observer is exposed to all aspects of the practice of Oriental medicine, from pulse and tongue diagnosis to acupuncture treatment and the prescription of herbal formulas. After completing clinical observation, certain core classes and a comprehensive exam, student interns begin to treat patients under the direct supervision of qualified acupuncturists. Clinical competence is evaluated each term. Practical comprehensive exams provide additional measures of the students’ mastery of clinical skills.
CT111 Clinical Theater 1
Students are exposed to the diagnostic methods of TCM and to the techniques and application of acupuncture and herbology by observing professional treatments performed by a member of the AOMA faculty. Includes dialogue on how to conduct a patient interview and administer a complete acupuncture treatment, with emphasis on patient communication and ethics.
CT112 Clinical Theater 2
This course provides a clinic-like environment and atmosphere with intensive hands-on training on the procedures of clinical treatment, including communication skills, ten questions, diagnosis, treatment strategies and performance and charting. Clinical Theater 2 must be taken the term before entry into internship.
CL1xxO Clinical Observation
As observers in the AOMA student clinic, students will learn basic observation skills and develop notebooks recording their observations of the case presentations and treatment protocols. A minimum of two Clinical Observation sessions totaling 72 hours is required before entry into internship.
CL1xxI Acupuncture Clinic
As a supervised intern, the student performs the intake, diagnosis and treatment, consulting with his/her supervisor on the case. The supervisor monitors the intern and provides guidance and evaluation in his/her diagnosis, treatment plan, point location, acupuncture techniques, and herbal formulation. With accumulated clinical training hours, additional emphasis is placed on professional conduct and appropriate interpersonal behavior, understanding the scope of practice, maintaining confidentiality, developing communications skills, managing psychological reactions that may arise, making appropriate referrals, as well as maintaining charting, record keeping, legal requirements, release of data, and other clinic related issues.
CL2xxI Acupuncture Community Clinic
Student interns perform treatments in a designated community clinic, under the supervision of licensed AOMA clinical supervisors. See Clinic Manual for details.
CL118O Advanced Clinical Observation
Focused on deepening and widening the students’ knowledge and experience, the Advanced Clinic Observation is offered to students who have achieved an advanced internship level (over 600 clinical hours). Student interns will learn different styles of acupuncture and herbal treatment from qualified veteran licensed practitioners. Different acupuncture skills and techniques and herbal modification experiences will be shared. Student interns will also have case discussions together with practitioners.
CL1xxH Herbal Clinic
In addition to the acupuncture clinical training, students will receive specific supervision and training in Chinese herbal treatment of common clinical diseases using herbal formulation with modifications as well as Chinese patent herbs. A minimum of 72 hours of herbal clinic internship is required for graduation.