Program Learning Outcomes

In addition to meeting the University Learning Outcomes, graduates of the Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine programs will be able to:

Master of Acupuncture (MAc) Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs):

1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of Chinese medical theory, including the trajectories of channels, the locations of points and Chinese medical pattern differentiation (biàn zhèng 辨 证).
2. Identify the properties, functions and classifications of acupuncture points and channels. 
3. Compile all the necessary diagnostic data through accurate employment of the Four Examinations and other appropriate examinations. 
4. Using the theories of Chinese medicine, develop a diagnosis that is accurate and appropriate for the delivery of acupuncture and/or accessory techniques. 
5. Based on the diagnostic findings, develop an effective treatment plan using acupuncture and/or other accessory techniques. 
6. Skillfully and safely execute a plan to treat or prevent illness using acupuncture and accessory techniques while complying with current best practices. 
7. Assess the effectiveness of the Acupuncture treatment and modify as needed. 
8. Apply contemporary, professional, ethical and legal standards to care delivery. 
9. Recognize emergency situations or situations for which biomedical care or follow-up is needed, and take appropriate action. 
10. Demonstrate professional communication skills that are appropriate to all parties involved in the continuum of care. 
11. Apply the basic principles of Evidence Informed Medicine in clinical internships. 
12. Demonstrate an understanding of contemporary business models and the ability to establish a clinical practice in a private, integrative, or community health care setting.  

 Doctor of Acupuncture with a Chinese Herbal Medicine Specialization (DA.c) Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs):

1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of Chinese medical theory, including the trajectories of channels, the locations of points, Chinese medical pattern differentiation (biàn zhèng 辨 证), and basic Chinese medical terminology. 
2. Identify the properties, functions and classifications of acupuncture points and channels. 
3. Identify the names, properties, functions, dosages, indications and contraindications of a core list of Chinese herbs and food items, and basic botanical and zoological concepts. 
4. Accurately compile all diagnostic data necessary for both acupuncture and Chinese herbal treatment using the four examinations (sì zhěn 四 诊) and other appropriate examinations. 
5. Using the theories of Chinese medicine, develop a clinical diagnosis that has the accuracy, detail and sophistication necessary for the delivery of both acupuncture and Chinese herbal treatment 
6. Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the classical principles of combination and formulation of Chinese herbs, focusing on the clinical functions of a core list of formulas. 
7. Based on the diagnostic findings, develop a treatment and prevention plan that includes both acupuncture and Chinese medicine, including relevant classical guidelines, as well as appropriate medical referral and/or collaboration. Assess the effectiveness of this plan and modify as needed. 
8. Skillfully and safely execute a treatment plan that includes both acupuncture and Chinese herbal treatment. 
9. Recognize emergency situations or situations for which additional biomedical care or follow-up is needed, and take appropriate action. 
10. Apply contemporary professional, ethical and legal standards in the delivery of all aspects of Chinese medical care, including acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. 
11. Demonstrate clinical and academic communication skills that are audience-appropriate and capable of advancing the modern application of classical Chinese medical concepts. 
12. Apply the basic principles of evidence-informed medicine in acupuncture and Chinese medical treatment; apply critical scholarship in the clinical application of classical Chinese medical traditions. 
13. Demonstrate an understanding of contemporary business models and the ability to establish an acupuncture and Chinese herbal practice in a private, integrative, or community-style health care setting. 
14. Demonstrate the ability to practice acupuncture and Chinese medicine effectively as part of the greater medical community and when necessary, function as an effective member of a cohesive integrative medical team.