American College of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine

Program: Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine

The Institution

ACAOM was founded in 1991 by Dr. Shen Ping Liang who is recognized nationally and internationally for his efforts as a leader in the field of Traditional Chinese Medicine. He has been a strong advocate and supporter of integrating Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine with Western Medicine. His efforts have resulted in ACAOM being highly respected in the field of Western Medicine, and have led to the college forming many partnerships and engaging in numerous research activities with leading clinics and colleges within the world renowned medical complexes in Houston.

Program of Study

The academic program at the American College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine is a 4-year program, including clinic. Although some industrious students may accelerate their program, the norm for completing the Master of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine is usually 4 years. The program is nationally accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, which is the accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for the approval of programs preparing Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine practitioners.

Graduates of ACAOM are uniquely prepared to assume a leading role in the constantly challenging network of wellness and health care. Graduates have the qualifications, experience, skills, knowledge, and prestige to enter private practice, conduct research, teach, or join an integrated practice working along side Western Medical health care experts and practitioners.

Clinical Training

ACAOM has perhaps the most unique clinical training experience available in all of Traditional Chinese Medicine in a mainstream environment. Along with their own campus Intern Clinic, ACAOM also cooperates with a large number of health care providers in the Houston Metropolitan area. The long standing relationships with Memorial Hermann and Methodist Health Care Systems allows the College to offer acupuncture services at Memorial Hermann/Houston Baptist University Wellness Center, Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital Outpatient Clinic and all Methodist locations. Additionally, the College offers clinical training at the University of Houston Clear Lake Health Center, Rice University Student Wellness Center and Legacy Community Health Clinic (HIV & AIDS). Students are also frequently engaged in conducting research alongside faculty of ACAOM and other universities, colleges, and clinics including Methodist Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine.

Clinical Practice in China

ACAOM's optional training in China provides students with an opportunity to experience the land and culture from which acupuncture originated while gaining clinical experience with premier acupuncturists of China. Students will treat patients in a major teaching hospital where there is continuous integration between Western and Oriental Medicine.

The Faculty

The College carefully selects the most qualified professionals to become part of its faculty. Faculty members have the experience and credentials necessary to be both excellent teachers and respected health care practitioners. Western medical doctors, licensed acupuncturists, Chinese medical doctors, doctoral-level practitioners, and other health care professionals comprise a highly qualified faculty.

Financial Aid

ACAOM participates in the Federal Student Financial Assistance Programs (FSFA) including Federal Pell Grants and Stafford Loans. Scholarships from various sources are also available every year. In addition, the College has been approved to train veterans and other eligible persons.

Cost of Tuition

The cost of the entire program of education is about $44,000. For more information, please Request Information.

Living and Housing Costs

Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States, and one of the busiest seaports in the world. People from all over the world call Houston home, making it possible to hear any of nearly 90 languages spoken in various cultural settings throughout this truly diverse city. Houston is home to corporate leaders in business, energy, shipping, transportation, technology and sports--with four major league teams--and of course, we must not overlook the Texas Medical Center which employs more than 73,000 health care providers, making it one of the largest in the world. Houston is only surpassed by New York in the number of theatre seats for live performances. Thousands of acres inside the city have been dedicated to parks, playgrounds, hiking, bike trails and other recreational activities as the entire community embraces an outdoor lifestyle in a moderate year-round climate. With the gulf coast beach and historic Galveston only 45 minutes away, Houston is a city of opportunity offering a unique lifestyle with a wide array of choices for entertainment, convenience, and beautiful year-round weather. Best of all, it is the least expensive city among the largest seven in the United States in which to live with the costs ranging from 20-140 percent less than comparable cities in the U.S.

Location

ACAOM is located less than 30 minutes from the heart of Houston and all the major attractions. The College is only about 10 minutes from one of the most popular upscale retail centers anywhere, the world famous Galleria. The College is one block south of Westheimer Road which will take you the short distance to The Galleria and its abundant shopping, dining and socializing opportunities. Interstates I-10 and I-45 serve Houston, as do two International Airports, which are located approximately 30 and 40 minutes away. Very near one of the airports is the massive NASA Space Center.

Applying

ACAOM accepts students year round for spring, summer, and fall semesters beginning in January, May, and September. Applicants are required to hold a bachelor's degree or the equivalent (120 semester hours) from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education. Additional admission requirements include an application, letters of reference, and other required information as explained in the catalog. For complete information and a catalog, request your copies from the American College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

If you are interested in any of our programs and would like to find out more, please Request Information.