Welcome to Your First Year at NUNM
Beginning the Master of Acupuncture with a Chinese Herbal Medicine Specialization (MAcCHM) at the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) is the first step toward a meaningful career in acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. This graduate program is grounded in the classical foundations of Chinese medicine, integrated with modern biomedical sciences and clinical training, and designed to prepare students for professional practice and licensure.
To meet the needs of today’s students, NUNM offers flexible ways to begin and complete the MAcCHM, including an online first-year option and multiple program lengths. Whether you prefer a traditional classroom experience or need flexibility, you can choose the pathway that best fits your goals and timeline.
How You can Begin Your First Year
Students entering the MAcCHM program may start their education in one of two ways:
In-Person First Year
Students who begin on campus benefit from:
- Face-to-face instruction and academic mentorship
- Early immersion in Chinese medicine theory and diagnostics
- Collaborative learning with classmates and faculty
- Immediate access to campus resources and community
This option is ideal for students already in or ready to relocate to Portland, Oregon and engage fully in the on-campus academic environment from day one.
Online First Year (4-Year Track Option)
The first-year online option allows students to complete foundational coursework remotely while receiving the same rigorous academic instruction as in-person students.
This option is well suited for students who:
- Need flexibility due to work, family, or location
- Want to begin their degree before relocating
- Prefer a gradual transition into graduate-level clinical education
Online coursework focuses on Chinese medicine theory, diagnostic principles, and biomedical foundations, preparing students to transition smoothly into on-campus training in later years.
Flexible Program Length Options
In addition to flexible first-year formats, the MAcCHM program offers three completion pathways, allowing students to choose a pace that aligns with their professional and personal goals.
Accelerated 3-Year Program
- An intensive, full-time course of study
- Complete the MAcCHM in three years
- Best for students ready for a rigorous academic and clinical schedule
- Fast-tracks entry into professional practice
Traditional 4-year Program
- Balanced pacing of academic and clinical coursework
- Ideal for students managing additional responsibilities
- Allows for deeper integration of coursework over time
4-Year Program with First Year Online
- Begin the program with a fully online first year
- Transition to on-campus labs and clinical training in Portland
- Combines flexibility with comprehensive hands-on education
All pathways lead to the same Master of Acupuncture with a Chinese Herbal Medicine Specialization degree and meet educational requirements for professional practice and licensure.
Transitioning to On-Campus Clinical Training
Students who begin online join their cohort on campus to complete hands-on training and clinical education. On-site instruction includes:
- Acupuncture needling techniques and laboratory practice
- Herbal medicine formulation and preparation
- Patient intake, diagnosis, and treatment planning
- Supervised clinical experience in integrative healthcare settings
This structure ensures all graduates develop strong clinical competence, regardless of their first-year format or program length.
Choosing the Right Path for You
With multiple entry and completion options, students can tailor their education to their needs:
- Choose the accelerated 3-year option for the fastest route to practice
- Choose the traditional 4-year program for a balanced academic pace
- Choose the 4-year option with first year online for maximum flexibility
No matter the path, all students receive the same comprehensive education and graduate prepared for professional practice as acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine practitioners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re seeking an accelerated path, a traditional pace, or a flexible online start, the MAcCHM program at NUNM offers multiple ways to begin your journey.