Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine (MSTCM)

The University of East-West Medicine offers a Master of Science degree program in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The MSTCM program may be completed in as little as 36 months (9 semesters).

The program comprises 2220 hours of didactic instruction, 285 hours of basic science and 1935 hours of TCM theory, and 960 hours of clinical training, for a total of 3180 hours (180 units). Most of the courses are devoted to the study and practice of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, integrated with courses in Western medical sciences and practice management.

UEWM operates classes year-round on a semester system with the majority of students enrolled full-time. Students with approved medical backgrounds may complete the program in less than the prescribed time; the maximum time permitted to complete the program is 6 years. The curriculum is divided into two portions: pre-professional courses and professional/graduate courses in the final calendar years. Comprehensive examinations are administered prior to advancing into the 3rd year courses and prior to graduation.

The curriculum is arranged sequentially so that knowledge acquired in one semester is fundamental to the understanding of courses in the following semester. The courses are designed to present TCM theory, acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, tuina/acupressure, Tai Ji Quan, Qi Gong, and Western medical science integrated in such a way as to provide a more comprehensive understanding of Oriental medicine.

THE GOALS OF THE MSTCM PROGRAM

1. Prepare students for a career in Chinese medicine and integrative health.

2. Provide treatments for the wellbeing of patients through supervised clinical training.

3. Prepare students to become licensed acupuncturists and manage their practice.

4. Enable graduates to advance their knowledge and contribute to contemporary American health care.

PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES

Graduates of the Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine will be able to demonstrate the following program-related learning outcomes:

1. Articulate and demonstrate professional ethical standards regarding regulations, the scope of practice, treatment of patients, and business operations.

2. Understand the origins and causes of disease from a traditional Chinese and biomedical perspective and apply this understanding through treatment and preventive clinical strategies.

3. Evaluate patient complaints in a manner that reveals knowledge and application of appropriate diagnostic skills

4. Formulate treatment plans that demonstrate understanding and application of treatment procedures for patients that follow logically from the diagnosis.

5. Explain a rationale for acupuncture, herbal, and supplement clinic treatment plans

6. Deliver a designated treatment plan or use appropriate support personnel.

7. Communicate to patients and colleagues in a professional and knowledgeable manner about TCM and biomedicine.

8. Acquire the knowledge and skills that are preparatory for passing the California Acupuncture License Examination and/or the National Certification Examination.

9. Understand western medical diagnosis as explained by a patient or Western practitioner, and refer patients to Western medical practitioners when the malady requires it.

WE WILL MEASURE THESE OUTCOMES THROUGH: 

Comprehensive exams, clinic experience, class papers, case discussions, research projects, practical in-class activities, community outreach activities, in-class assignments, tests, clinical experience and evaluation, demonstrations, written reports, community health activities, class presentations, and observations.