How to Apply For Acupuncture School

How to Apply For Acupuncture School



Acupuncture is a discipline whose origins predate recorded history itself. This approach uses thin needles to puncture the skin in a manner that is said to overcome pain and illness by boosting the production of the body's own natural painkillers and speeding up the healing process. Acupuncture is recognized by the World Health Organization as a valid method of healing and has been used to treat a number of conditions, including infertility, tendonitis, cerebral palsy, polio and hepatitis.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access for researching acupuncture schools









1


Apply early. Many programs accept students one year before classes are scheduled to begin.





2


Write a resume. Many schools require candidates to submit a resume when they apply for enrollment.





3


Prepare a personal essay. A personal essay may also be considered in the application process. These essays typically concern your experiences with acupuncture, touching on why you want to become an acupuncturist.





4


Obtain your transcripts. Get a copy of your college or university transcripts, as they are considered in the application process.





5


Get letters of recommendation. These are also essential. Letters should touch on issues like professionalism, educational ability and maturity, and should contain the sender's signature and contact information.





6


Submit the required information for each school in the format requested (electronic versus paper). Pay special attention to due dates--some schools will request materials be postmarked by the
date
indicated, while others will require materials to be received by the date indicated.








Tips & Warnings










Most states require that acupuncturists be licensed, but in some, licensing is not required. Understand your state's requirements by visiting the Acufinder Web site.








Expect to pay expensive rates for your acupuncture training, and plan on about 3 years of coursework. Financial aid is a possibility, as the government offers federal student loans in this area. To qualify, you must attend a school that's accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM).








You will likely have to pay an application fee to apply to acupuncture school. Expect this fee to be moderately priced.








If faced with a patient suffering from severe symptoms like a prolonged fever, do not attempt to treat them with acupuncture. Recommend that he or she seek the care of a physician.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.



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