New England School of Acupuncture

Graduate Program in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

The New England School of Acupuncture (NESA) is the oldest college of Oriental medicine in the United States. NESA's comprehensive master's degree programs, taught by experienced practitioners, emphasize hands-on clinical instruction and include more than 1 full year of clinical internship in acupuncture and/or Chinese herbal medicine. The programs give students the tools they need to become skilled and caring practitioners, and the credentials necessary for licensure at the state level.

As part of the clinical training, students have an opportunity to mentor with licensed practitioners throughout greater Boston. Through observing and assisting these practitioners, students learn important skills that prepare them for clinical internship. During the internship, students treat patients under close supervision in the NESA Teaching Clinic and at off-campus satellite clinics, including hospital-affiliated clinics, an HIV/AIDS clinic and community health centers.

The main teaching clinic--a 12 treatment room facility which also includes a Chinese herbal pharmacy--is one of the largest facilities of its kind in the U.S. The rich clinical experience offered at NESA prepares students to treat a diverse patient population and a variety of conditions.

Profile of NESA Students

NESA attracts well-educated and highly motivated students ranging in age from their early 20's to mid-60's. Our students come from around the U.S. and abroad, and reflect many different educational and cultural backgrounds, careers and life experiences. Approximately 220 students attend NESA.

Achievements of NESA Graduates

Nearly 1,500 practitioners have graduated from NESA, many of whom have gone on to make significant contributions to the field. NESA alumni have founded colleges of Oriental medicine; authored well known texts; established acupuncture clinics in hospitals, community health centers and extended care facilities; and initiated ground breaking CAM research.

Location

Close to Boston and Cambridge's Harvard Square, NESA's location makes it convenient for students to pursue enriching opportunities for life outside of the classroom. Some of the most internationally known, well-respected medical centers and educational institutions are within easy reach, offering lectures, workshops and other activities to expand knowledge and skills. For fun and relaxation, the metropolitan area is rich in history, culture and entertainment, with the natural beauty of New England just a short day trip away.

History and Mission

The New England School of Acupuncture--the oldest college of acupuncture and Oriental medicine in the United States--was founded in 1975 by master acupuncturist James Tin Yau So. NESA's mission is to be a leader in the development of traditional and modern Oriental medicine as a medical art and science by offering an outstanding professional program. NESA is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and is approved by the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education to grant two master's degrees: a Master of Acupuncture (MAc) and a Master of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (MAOM).

Cost of Study

Full-time annual tuition (3 semesters) is approximately $16,000 for the 2008-2009 academic year. Tuition may vary depending on the actual number of credits taken, and on whether students pursue a concentration in Japanese acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, the joint program in pain management with Tufts University School of Medicine, or a combination of concentrations. Books and supplies are estimated at $2,500.00 for the 3-year program.

Financial Aid

As an accredited institution, NESA participates in the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) program, which includes subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford loans. FFEL fixed-interest loans are available to eligible citizens and permanent residents who are at least half-time students in good standing. Eligible students can borrow up to $20,500 annually. NESA also offers alternative and GradPLUS loans for those needing additional funds beyond the resources available through the Federal Stafford Loan Program.

Applying for Admission

Prospective students are strongly encouraged to visit the school, observe classes and experience an acupuncture treatment. Please call ahead to arrange a visit. Applicants to the program are required to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and an admission interview. New students are enrolled in the program at the beginning of the Fall semester. Applications are considered on a rolling basis.

For those students wishing to receive an admission decision in February, the recommended application deadline is December 1. All other prospective students are encouraged to submit applications for admission by May 1. Applications received after May 1 will be considered, but applicants are urged to apply earlier in order to increase their chances of securing places in the entering class.

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