Master of Acupuncture

The Master of Acupuncture (MAc) degree at the National University of Natural Medicine offers an immersive three- or four-year program, delving deep into the classical foundations of acupuncture. Students gain a profound understanding of the wisdom passed down by ancient healers through our distinguished faculty,  complemented by a holistic education in Western biomedical sciences to master primary modalities like acupuncture, moxibustion, Asian bodywork, qigong, and nutrition.

By the Numbers

Program Length:
3 or 4 Years

Total Credits:
158.75

Per Credit Cost Icon

Per Credit Cost:
$504

Accreditation and Licensure

NUNM is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. The DAcCHM program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (ACAHM), qualifying graduates to sit for the national board examinations administered by NCCAOM, the basis for acupuncture licensure in most states.

Learn More

Questions about the program or application process? Contact NUNM Admissions today!


FAQ

What is the difference between classical (CCM) and traditional (TCM) Chinese medicine?

Heiner Fruehauf, founder of the College of Classical Chinese Medicine at NUNM has written the introduction to Liu Lihong’s book, Classical Chinese Medicine, which represents the culmination of a 10 year project that Heiner has been overseeing. This influential book has been translated into English and communicates what is so unique and special about the nature of NUNM’s College of Classical Chinese Medicine. Read Heiner’s introduction and explore the difference in education from a classical Chinese medicine (CCM) program, compared to a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) program. Read more about CCM and TCM.

Is there a difference in tuition cost if I am a non-resident of Oregon?

No, as a private, non-state institution, tuition is the same for residents and non-residents.


Program News

Faculty Highlight

Xiaoli Chen, Doctor of Medicine (China), LAc

“As a teacher, I want to pass along to my students classical Chinese medicine theories and practices, starting where Chinese medicine begins: at the roots. When you go to the roots, you really understand; you have a better way to absorb the essence of our work.” Dr. Chen’s practice is, for her, a calling. “Using Chinese medicine to heal wounds, treat illness, and prevent diseases is my holy mission. My intention is to always practice with a kind heart.”

Dr. Chen earned her Doctor of Medicine degree in Acupuncture at China’s Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and teaching hospital, where she taught and practiced for many years. At NUNM, she teaches acupuncture and moxibustion, and supervises observers and interns on teaching shifts at the NUNM Clinic. Dr. Chen treats a wide variety of conditions at NUNM’s clinics and in her private practice at Kwan-Yin Healing Arts Center using acupuncture, moxibustion, herbs, diet, qigong and Chinese massage.

An award-winning researcher, Dr. Chen has written three books and published extensively in professional journals. Her research has included a case series on depression associated with menopause and an NUNM Helfgott Research Institute project on the effects of adjunctive acupuncture in the treatment of spasmodic dysphonia (a voice disorder).

Program Options

The Master of Acupuncture program may be taken concurrently with the following programs.

  • MAc

    Admissions Requirements for MAc

    Completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university or its foreign equivalent

    A GPA of 3.0 or higher (strongly recommended)

    Prerequisite Courses

    Prerequisite courses are designed to ensure entering students are academically prepared for the curriculum of the program. Prerequisite courses may be substituted with comparable coursework if the learning objectives are met at the determination of the Admissions Committee, utilizing the evaluation procedures set by that committee.

    General Biology 1 Science-major level preferred with lab; cellular biology recommended.
    General Chemistry 1 Science-major level preferred with lab.
    Physics 1 Must include mechanics.
    Psychology 1 Any general psychology course 100-level or higher
    Humanities 1 Courses in the areas of art, religion, philosophy, literature, music, and other related fields will satisfy this requirement.
    • General Biology — 1 Course
      Science-major level preferred with lab; cellular biology recommended.
    • General Chemistry — 1 Course
      Science-major level preferred with lab.
    • Physics — 1 Course
      Must include mechanics.
    • Psychology — 1 Course
      Any general psychology course 100-level or higher
    • Humanities — 1 Course
      Courses in the areas of art, religion, philosophy, literature, music, and other related fields will satisfy this requirement.

    A grade of C or better is required for all prerequisite coursework. Candidates may apply while in progress.

    Documents and Essays

    Applicants are required to submit essays to be considered for admission. Essays provide applicants the opportunity to share their background, abilities, interests and experiences, and how these will make them a good candidate for the programs at NUNM. Applicants should share some personal experiences and genuine thoughts in their essays. Explaining why you are applying to NUNM and how you would enrich that community is also helpful. The Admissions Committee will look for writing ability, as well as content when reading the essays.

    Required Documents and Essays for the MAc Program

    • Resume

      A chronological resume of work, educational, and volunteer experience. Include work experience, internships, research, activities, publications, community service, and any honors/awards received.

    • Personal Statement

      Please write a 2–3 page personal statement, which should include: the development of your decision to become a naturopathic physician or CCM practitioner; recent steps taken to further explore this career path; qualities and/or attributes you might bring to NUNM that might distinguish you from other applicants. (double spaced)

    • MAc

      Please discuss the specific factors that drew you to apply to the MAc Classical Chinese Medicine program at NUNM.

    Estimated Program Cost

    First-Year Tuition & Fees for MAc*
    Credits 47.75
    Cost/Credit $504
    Tuition $24,066
    Fees** $1,600
    Total $25,666

    * The prices listed above reflect an estimate based on the 2023-2024 academic year.

    ** Click the dollar amount to see an itemized list of fees for the MAc program.

    Total MAc Degree Credits

    • Core program credits

      158.75

    • Elective credits

      0

    • Total required credits

      158.75

    • ND/MAc

      Admissions Requirements for ND/MAc

      Completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university or its foreign equivalent

      A GPA of 3.0 or higher (strongly recommended)

      Prerequisite Courses

      Prerequisite courses are designed to ensure entering students are academically prepared for the curriculum of the program. Prerequisite courses may be substituted with comparable coursework if the learning objectives are met at the determination of the Admissions Committee, utilizing the evaluation procedures set by that committee.

      Biological Sciences 2 Science-major level. Competencies may be met through courses such as: cell biology, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, genetics, botany, etc. Content should cover cell biology. Lab work required.
      Chemical Sciences 4 Science-major level. Two sequential courses in both general and organic chemistry; biochemistry may serve as a substitute for one organic chemistry course. Lab work required for the general chemistry series.
      General Physics 1
      Mathematics 1 Must be in algebra, calculus, or statistics.
      English Composition 1
      Psychology 1 Any general psychology course 100-level or higher.
      Humanities 1 Courses in the areas of art, religion, philosophy, literature, music, and other related fields will satisfy this requirement.
      Social Sciences & Humanities 2 Courses in the areas of anthropology, archaeology, economics, geography, history, law, linguistics, politics, psychology, sociology art, religion, philosophy, literature, music and other related fields will satisfy this requirement.
      • Biological Sciences — 2 Courses
        Science-major level. Competencies may be met through courses such as: cell biology, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, genetics, botany, etc. Content should cover cell biology. Lab work required.
      • Chemical Sciences — 4 Courses
        Science-major level. Two sequential courses in both general and organic chemistry; biochemistry may serve as a substitute for one organic chemistry course. Lab work required for the general chemistry series.
      • General Physics — 1 Course
      • Mathematics — 1 Course
        Must be in algebra, calculus, or statistics.
      • English Composition — 1 Course
      • Psychology — 1 Course
        Any general psychology course 100-level or higher.
      • Humanities — 1 Course
        Courses in the areas of art, religion, philosophy, literature, music, and other related fields will satisfy this requirement.
      • Social Sciences & Humanities — 2 Courses
        Courses in the areas of anthropology, archaeology, economics, geography, history, law, linguistics, politics, psychology, sociology art, religion, philosophy, literature, music and other related fields will satisfy this requirement.

      A grade of C or better is required for all prerequisite coursework. Candidates may apply while in progress.

      Documents and Essays

      Applicants are required to submit essays to be considered for admission. Essays provide applicants the opportunity to share their background, abilities, interests and experiences, and how these will make them a good candidate for the programs at NUNM. Applicants should share some personal experiences and genuine thoughts in their essays. Explaining why you are applying to NUNM and how you would enrich that community is also helpful. The Admissions Committee will look for writing ability, as well as content when reading the essays.

      Required Documents and Essays for the ND/MAc Program

      • Resume

        A chronological resume of work, educational, and volunteer experience. Include work experience, internships, research, activities, publications, community service, and any honors/awards received.

      • Personal Statement

        Please write a 2–3 page personal statement, which should include: the development of your decision to become a naturopathic physician or CCM practitioner; recent steps taken to further explore this career path; qualities and/or attributes you might bring to NUNM that might distinguish you from other applicants. (double spaced)

      • ND: Primary Care

        While you might not choose to ultimately practice as a primary care physician, you will be trained as such at NUNM and will be expected to work with all patients without bias or discrimination. Please discuss how you anticipate dealing with the following situations while you are a student at NUNM: a) Providing healthcare to patients who may differ from you in terms of gender identity, religion, political viewpoints, race, sexual orientation, etc. b) Providing treatments that you may have conflicting personal beliefs around but are necessary parts of your naturopathic education, including but not limited to administration of immunizations, pharmaceutical drugs, homeopathy, hormone therapies for patients undergoing gender transitions, etc. (maximum 1,000 words, double spaced)

      • MAc

        Please discuss the specific factors that drew you to apply to the MAc Classical Chinese Medicine program at NUNM.

      Estimated Program Cost

      First-Year Tuition & Fees for ND*
      Credits 82.71
      Cost/Credit $504
      Tuition $41,686
      Fees** $1,080
      Total $42,766

      * The prices listed above reflect an estimate based on the 2023-2024 academic year.

      ** Click the dollar amount to see an itemized list of fees for the ND program.

      The above tuition numbers reflect only the cost of the primary program (Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine). Concurrent degree plans are established individually and each term is priced accordingly. The credit hour fee is consistent across all graduate programs.

      Total ND Degree Credits

      • Core program credits

        286

      • Elective credits

        16

      • Total required credits

        302

        Total MAc Degree Credits

        • Core program credits

          158.75

        • Elective credits

          0

        • Total required credits

          158.75

        • MScGH/MAc

          Admissions Requirements for MScGH/MAc

          Completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university or its foreign equivalent

          A GPA of 3.0 or higher (strongly recommended)

          Prerequisite Courses

          Prerequisite courses are designed to ensure entering students are academically prepared for the curriculum of the program. Prerequisite courses may be substituted with comparable coursework if the learning objectives are met at the determination of the Admissions Committee, utilizing the evaluation procedures set by that committee.

          General Biology 1 Science-major/pre-med level preferred.
          General Chemistry 1 Science-major level preferred with lab.
          Physics 1 Must include mechanics.
          Mathematics 1 Must be statistics (preferred) or college algebra.
          Psychology 1 Any general psychology course 100-level or higher
          Humanities 1 Courses in the areas of art, religion, philosophy, literature, music, and other related fields will satisfy this requirement.
          Social Science 1 Any course from the following disciplines: psychology, public health, sociology, anthropology
          • General Biology — 1 Course
            Science-major/pre-med level preferred.
          • General Chemistry — 1 Course
            Science-major level preferred with lab.
          • Physics — 1 Course
            Must include mechanics.
          • Mathematics — 1 Course
            Must be statistics (preferred) or college algebra.
          • Psychology — 1 Course
            Any general psychology course 100-level or higher
          • Humanities — 1 Course
            Courses in the areas of art, religion, philosophy, literature, music, and other related fields will satisfy this requirement.
          • Social Science — 1 Course
            Any course from the following disciplines: psychology, public health, sociology, anthropology

          A grade of C or better is required for all prerequisite coursework. Candidates may apply while in progress.

          Documents and Essays

          Applicants are required to submit essays to be considered for admission. Essays provide applicants the opportunity to share their background, abilities, interests and experiences, and how these will make them a good candidate for the programs at NUNM. Applicants should share some personal experiences and genuine thoughts in their essays. Explaining why you are applying to NUNM and how you would enrich that community is also helpful. The Admissions Committee will look for writing ability, as well as content when reading the essays.

          Required Documents and Essays for the MScGH/MAc Program

          • Resume

            A chronological resume of work, educational, and volunteer experience. Include work experience, internships, research, activities, publications, community service, and any honors/awards received.

          • MScGH Personal Statement

            Please share what interests you about this program, why you believe you’re a good match for the program, and what you hope to do in the future with this degree. (2000 words max, double spaced)

          • Personal Statement

            Please write a 2–3 page personal statement, which should include: the development of your decision to become a naturopathic physician or CCM practitioner; recent steps taken to further explore this career path; qualities and/or attributes you might bring to NUNM that might distinguish you from other applicants. (double spaced)

          • MAc

            Please discuss the specific factors that drew you to apply to the MAc Classical Chinese Medicine program at NUNM.

          Estimated Program Cost

          First-Year Tuition & Fees for MScGH*
          Credits 35
          Cost/Credit $504
          Tuition $17,640
          Fees** $550
          Total $18,190

          * The prices listed above reflect an estimate based on the 2023-2024 academic year.

          ** Click the dollar amount to see an itemized list of fees for the MScGH program.

          The above tuition numbers reflect only the cost of the primary program (Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine). Concurrent degree plans are established individually and each term is priced accordingly. The credit hour fee is consistent across all graduate programs.

          Total MScGH Degree Credits

          • Core program credits

            50

          • Elective credits

            12

          • Total required credits

            62

            Total MAc Degree Credits

            • Core program credits

              158.75

            • Elective credits

              0

            • Total required credits

              158.75

            • MSCR/MAc

              Admissions Requirements for MSCR/MAc

              Completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university or its foreign equivalent

              A GPA of 3.2 or higher

              Prerequisite Courses

              Prerequisite courses are designed to ensure entering students are academically prepared for the curriculum of the program. Prerequisite courses may be substituted with comparable coursework if the learning objectives are met at the determination of the Admissions Committee, utilizing the evaluation procedures set by that committee.

              General Biology 1 Science-major level preferred with lab.
              General Chemistry 2 Science-major level preferred with lab.
              Physics 1 Must include mechanics.
              Mathematics 2 Must be pre-calculus, calculus 1, or statistics.
              English Composition 1
              Psychology 1 Any general psychology course 100-level or higher
              Humanities 1 Courses in the areas of art, religion, philosophy, literature, music, and other related fields will satisfy this requirement.
              Social Science 1 Any course from the following disciplines: psychology, public health, sociology, anthropology
              • General Biology — 1 Course
                Science-major level preferred with lab.
              • General Chemistry — 2 Courses
                Science-major level preferred with lab.
              • Physics — 1 Course
                Must include mechanics.
              • Mathematics — 2 Courses
                Must be pre-calculus, calculus 1, or statistics.
              • English Composition — 1 Course
              • Psychology — 1 Course
                Any general psychology course 100-level or higher
              • Humanities — 1 Course
                Courses in the areas of art, religion, philosophy, literature, music, and other related fields will satisfy this requirement.
              • Social Science — 1 Course
                Any course from the following disciplines: psychology, public health, sociology, anthropology

              A grade of C or better is required for all prerequisite coursework. Candidates may apply while in progress.

              Documents and Essays

              Applicants are required to submit essays to be considered for admission. Essays provide applicants the opportunity to share their background, abilities, interests and experiences, and how these will make them a good candidate for the programs at NUNM. Applicants should share some personal experiences and genuine thoughts in their essays. Explaining why you are applying to NUNM and how you would enrich that community is also helpful. The Admissions Committee will look for writing ability, as well as content when reading the essays.

              Required Documents and Essays for the MSCR/MAc Program

              • Resume

                A chronological resume of work, educational, and volunteer experience. Include work experience, internships, research, activities, publications, community service, and any honors/awards received.

              • MSCR: Background and Goals

                Please speak to your career goals, background in research or research-related interests, and what interests you about integrative medicine research. (maximum of 1,600 words, double spaced)

              • Personal Statement

                Please write a 2–3 page personal statement, which should include: the development of your decision to become a naturopathic physician or CCM practitioner; recent steps taken to further explore this career path; qualities and/or attributes you might bring to NUNM that might distinguish you from other applicants. (double spaced)

              • MAc

                Please discuss the specific factors that drew you to apply to the MAc Classical Chinese Medicine program at NUNM.

              Estimated Program Cost

              First-Year Tuition & Fees for MSCR*
              Credits 35
              Cost/Credit $504
              Tuition $17,640
              Fees** $1,350
              Total $18,990

              * The prices listed above reflect an estimate based on the 2023-2024 academic year.

              ** Click the dollar amount to see an itemized list of fees for the MSCR program.

              The above tuition numbers reflect only the cost of the primary program (Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine). Concurrent degree plans are established individually and each term is priced accordingly. The credit hour fee is consistent across all graduate programs.

              Total MSCR Degree Credits

              • Core program credits

                57

              • Elective credits

                9

              • Total required credits

                66

                Total MAc Degree Credits

                • Core program credits

                  158.75

                • Elective credits

                  0

                • Total required credits

                  158.75

                • MScN/MAc

                  Admissions Requirements for MScN/MAc

                  Completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university or its foreign equivalent

                  A GPA of 3.0 or higher (strongly recommended)

                  Prerequisite Courses

                  Prerequisite courses are designed to ensure entering students are academically prepared for the curriculum of the program. Prerequisite courses may be substituted with comparable coursework if the learning objectives are met at the determination of the Admissions Committee, utilizing the evaluation procedures set by that committee.

                  General Biology 1 Human-related biology course required; Anatomy & Physiology strongly recommended.
                  General Chemistry 1 Biochemistry strongly recommended
                  Physics 1 Must include mechanics.
                  Mathematics 1 Algebra or Statistics preferred.
                  Psychology 1 Any general psychology course 100-level or higher
                  Humanities 1 Courses in the areas of art, religion, philosophy, literature, music, and other related fields will satisfy this requirement.
                  • General Biology — 1 Course
                    Human-related biology course required; Anatomy & Physiology strongly recommended.
                  • General Chemistry — 1 Course
                    Biochemistry strongly recommended
                  • Physics — 1 Course
                    Must include mechanics.
                  • Mathematics — 1 Course
                    Algebra or Statistics preferred.
                  • Psychology — 1 Course
                    Any general psychology course 100-level or higher
                  • Humanities — 1 Course
                    Courses in the areas of art, religion, philosophy, literature, music, and other related fields will satisfy this requirement.

                  A grade of C or better is required for all prerequisite coursework. Candidates may apply while in progress.

                  Documents and Essays

                  Applicants are required to submit essays to be considered for admission. Essays provide applicants the opportunity to share their background, abilities, interests and experiences, and how these will make them a good candidate for the programs at NUNM. Applicants should share some personal experiences and genuine thoughts in their essays. Explaining why you are applying to NUNM and how you would enrich that community is also helpful. The Admissions Committee will look for writing ability, as well as content when reading the essays.

                  Required Documents and Essays for the MScN/MAc Program

                  • Resume

                    A chronological resume of work, educational, and volunteer experience. Include work experience, internships, research, activities, publications, community service, and any honors/awards received.

                  • MScN: Career Goals

                    Speaking to your background in nutrition, interests, and philosophy around nutrition, please share how you plan to use nutrition in your career. (maximum of 1,600 words, double spaced)

                  • Personal Statement

                    Please write a 2–3 page personal statement, which should include: the development of your decision to become a naturopathic physician or CCM practitioner; recent steps taken to further explore this career path; qualities and/or attributes you might bring to NUNM that might distinguish you from other applicants. (double spaced)

                  • MAc

                    Please discuss the specific factors that drew you to apply to the MAc Classical Chinese Medicine program at NUNM.

                  Estimated Program Cost

                  First-Year Tuition & Fees for MScN*
                  Credits 32
                  Cost/Credit $504
                  Tuition $16,128
                  Fees** $1,160
                  Total $17,288

                  * The prices listed above reflect an estimate based on the 2023-2024 academic year.

                  ** Click the dollar amount to see an itemized list of fees for the MScN program.

                  The above tuition numbers reflect only the cost of the primary program (Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine). Concurrent degree plans are established individually and each term is priced accordingly. The credit hour fee is consistent across all graduate programs.

                  Total MScN Degree Credits

                  • Core program credits

                    52

                  • Elective credits

                    12

                  • Total required credits

                    64

                    Total MAc Degree Credits

                    • Core program credits

                      158.75

                    • Elective credits

                      0

                    • Total required credits

                      158.75