| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
The Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences (ACCHS) is a private institution in the United States that specializes in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) education. It is one of the oldest acupuncture and TCM schools in the country, dedicated to training students in acupuncture, herbal medicine, and holistic healing practices.
Location: Oakland, California, USA
Founded: 1982
Programs Offered:
Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine (MSTCM)
Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (DAOM)
Continuing Education for licensed practitioners
Accreditation:
Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (ACAHM)
Approved by the California Acupuncture Board (CAB)
Focus Areas:
Acupuncture
Chinese herbal medicine
TCM diagnostics
Holistic health practices
Duration: ~4 years (Full-time)
Objective: Prepares students to become licensed acupuncturists and herbal medicine practitioners.
Acupuncture techniques & meridian theory
Chinese herbal medicine
TCM diagnosis & pathology
Western biomedical sciences
Qi Gong and Tai Chi
Ethics and professional development
Clinical internship
Eligibility: Requires a bachelor's degree or equivalent coursework.
Duration: ~2 years (Post-Master’s)
Objective: Advanced training for licensed acupuncturists focusing on clinical specialization and leadership.
Advanced acupuncture techniques
Integrative medicine (Eastern & Western)
Herbal formula customization
Research methodologies in TCM
Clinical case studies & mentorship
Eligibility: Must have an MSTCM or equivalent degree with acupuncture licensure.
Designed for licensed acupuncturists and healthcare practitioners.
Covers specialized topics like sports acupuncture, TCM dermatology, pain management, and Chinese herbal formulations.
Approved by the California Acupuncture Board (CAB) and other licensing bodies.
Short-term programs for healthcare professionals or individuals interested in TCM.
Covers fundamentals of acupuncture, Chinese herbal therapy, and TCM theory.
Students get hands-on experience through clinical rotations in ACCHS clinics and affiliated hospitals.
Opportunities to learn from TCM experts and experienced practitioners.
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine (MSTCM) |
~4 years (Full-time) |
$18,000 – $22,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (DAOM) |
~2 years (Full-time) |
$20,000 – $25,000 |
International students can apply for:
Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine (MSTCM) (4 years)
Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (DAOM) (2 years)
A bachelor’s degree or equivalent coursework (for MSTCM)
A Master’s degree in TCM (for DAOM)
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS may be required)
Official transcripts (translated into English if necessary)
A valid student visa (F-1 Visa)
Financial proof to cover tuition and living expenses
ACCHS assists international students in obtaining an F-1 student visa.
The school provides guidance on maintaining visa status and compliance with U.S. immigration laws.
Tuition ranges from $18,000 to $25,000 per year, depending on the program.
International students are typically not eligible for U.S. federal financial aid, but private scholarships or sponsorships may be available.
Located in Oakland, California, ACCHS offers a diverse and welcoming environment for international students.
The school does not provide on-campus housing, but students can find nearby rental apartments or homestays.
Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine (MSTCM) (4 years)
Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (DAOM) (2 years)
Continuing Education (CE) courses for licensed practitioners
For MSTCM (Master’s Program):
A bachelor’s degree or equivalent coursework (some prerequisites may be required).
A minimum GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale).
English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS required for international students).
For DAOM (Doctorate Program):
A Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine (MSTCM or equivalent).
Acupuncture licensure (for U.S. applicants).
Clinical experience (preferred but not mandatory).
Complete the ACCHS application form (available on the official website).
Pay the non-refundable application fee (varies per program).
Official transcripts from previous educational institutions.
Personal statement (explaining why you want to study TCM).
Two letters of recommendation (from academic or professional sources).
Resume or CV (for DAOM applicants).
Proof of English proficiency (for international students).
Some applicants may be required to attend a virtual or in-person interview with the admissions committee.
The school reviews applications and sends out acceptance letters via email.
If accepted, students receive an enrollment package with details on tuition payments, class schedules, and visa requirements (for international students).
International students must apply for an F-1 student visa.
ACCHS provides the I-20 form after enrollment confirmation.
Students must schedule a visa interview at a U.S. embassy/consulate.
After tuition payment, students can register for courses and attend orientation.
The Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences (ACCHS) follows a rolling admissions policy, meaning applications are accepted year-round. However, students typically start in one of the following terms:
Fall Intake – September
Spring Intake – March
It is recommended that students apply at least 3-6 months before their intended start date to allow time for application processing, visa procedures (for international students), and financial arrangements.
Educational Requirement:
A bachelor’s degree (or at least 60 semester units of college coursework) from an accredited institution.
Some prerequisite courses may be required (biology, chemistry, or health sciences preferred).
Minimum GPA: 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL: Minimum 61 (iBT) or 500 (PBT).
IELTS: Minimum 6.0.
Other Requirements:
Personal statement.
Two letters of recommendation.
Admissions interview (if required).
Educational Requirement:
A Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine (MSTCM) or an equivalent acupuncture and herbal medicine degree.
Licensure Requirement (For U.S. Applicants):
Must have a valid acupuncture license or be eligible for licensure.
Clinical Experience: Preferred but not mandatory.
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL: Minimum 80 (iBT) or 550 (PBT).
IELTS: Minimum 6.5.
Other Requirements:
Resume or CV.
Two letters of recommendation.
Research or case study experience (preferred).
Open to licensed acupuncturists and healthcare professionals seeking advanced TCM training.
No degree or license required for general interest courses.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarship |
High academic achievement (GPA 3.5+), strong application |
N/A |
Available for new & continuing students |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
Demonstrated financial need, must submit FAFSA (U.S. students only) |
N/A |
Limited aid for eligible students |
|
ACCHS Alumni Scholarship |
Available for ACCHS graduates enrolling in the DAOM program |
N/A |
Encourages further education in TCM |
|
External TCM Scholarships |
Offered by organizations like AAAOM, NCCAOM, etc. |
$500 – $5,000 |
Students must apply separately |
|
Work-Study Program |
Available for students needing financial assistance |
Partial tuition coverage |
On-campus work opportunities |
Facility/Accommodation |
Details |
Cost (USD per month) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Oakland, California, USA |
— |
|
On-Campus Housing |
Not Available |
— |
|
Off-Campus Housing (Apartments) |
Nearby rental apartments |
$1,500 – $3,000 |
|
Homestay with Local Families |
Private room, shared amenities |
$900 – $1,500 |
|
Student Shared Housing |
Shared apartments with students |
$1,000 – $2,000 |
|
Public Transportation |
BART (subway), bus services |
~$100 (monthly pass) |
|
Campus Facilities |
Classrooms, herbal dispensary, clinic, library |
— |
|
Food & Dining Options |
Nearby restaurants, grocery stores |
$300 – $600 (monthly) |
Students engage in interactive lectures, hands-on acupuncture training, and clinical internships at the ACCHS clinic.
Small class sizes allow for personalized attention from faculty, who are experienced TCM practitioners.
The herbal dispensary provides students with practical experience in preparing herbal remedies.
ACCHS has a diverse student body, including both local and international students passionate about holistic medicine.
The school emphasizes traditional Chinese philosophy and cultural integration, making it a unique learning experience.
Workshops and seminars on Qi Gong, Tai Chi, and herbal medicine are regularly offered.
Though ACCHS does not have large-scale student organizations, it encourages students to participate in TCM study groups, community outreach programs, and wellness activities.
Guest lectures and TCM research events provide networking opportunities with industry experts.
Oakland is a vibrant city with a mix of urban life and natural beauty, close to San Francisco and the Bay Area.
Students can explore local farmers' markets, herbal shops, hiking trails, and cultural events.
Public transportation (BART & buses) makes commuting convenient for students who live off-campus.
Academic advising and tutoring help students succeed in their studies.
Career support and networking opportunities prepare graduates for acupuncture licensure and professional practice.
International students receive guidance on visas, housing, and cultural adjustment.
Graduates from ACCHS typically find employment in:
Private Acupuncture Clinics (starting their own practice or joining an established clinic)
Integrative Healthcare Centers (working alongside Western medical professionals)
Hospitals & Rehabilitation Centers (offering complementary treatments)
Wellness & Holistic Health Centers
Teaching & Research in TCM (at universities or TCM institutions)
Herbal Medicine Industry (working with herbal supplement companies)
Sports Medicine & Pain Management Clinics
ACCHS prepares students for the California Acupuncture Licensing Exam (CALE) and the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) exams, which are essential for practicing acupuncture in the U.S.
The school provides clinical training and internships, ensuring students gain hands-on experience before entering the workforce.
Career counseling and mentorship are available for students planning their professional path.
The school has connections with TCM practitioners and healthcare facilities, helping students find job opportunities.
Students can participate in TCM conferences, networking events, and workshops to build industry connections.
Many ACCHS graduates start their own acupuncture and TCM clinics after obtaining licensure. The school offers guidance on business development, marketing, and patient care to help students establish their practice.
While ACCHS does not have a dedicated job placement program, it equips students with the skills and licensure preparation needed to succeed in the TCM and acupuncture industry.
The estimated acceptance rate is around 70% – 80%, meaning most applicants who meet the eligibility criteria and submit a strong application are admitted.
Educational Background – Applicants must meet the minimum academic requirements (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent coursework for MSTCM, Master’s in TCM for DAOM).
GPA Requirement – A minimum GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) is required for admission.
English Proficiency (For International Students) – TOEFL or IELTS scores may be required.
Personal Statement & Recommendations – A well-written statement of purpose and letters of recommendation can strengthen the application.
Interview (If Required) – Some applicants may be invited for an admissions interview.
Location:
1601 Clay Street, Oakland, California, 94612, USA
ACCHS is located in downtown Oakland, California, in the San Francisco Bay Area.
The campus is easily accessible via public transportation, including BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), buses, and major highways.
It is surrounded by restaurants, herbal shops, wellness centers, and cultural attractions, making it a great place for students interested in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Oakland Chinatown – A hub for Chinese culture, herbal medicine shops, and traditional healing practices.
San Francisco (15-20 minutes away) – Offers additional professional and cultural opportunities.
Public Parks & Wellness Centers – Ideal for students practicing Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and meditation.
