Master of Science in Acupuncture Course Descriptions
AC4461 Meridian Theory & Point Location 1 – Credits 2.5
This course begins with an introduction to the meridians of acupuncture and how they form a complete circuit throughout the body. Relevant scientific research will be presented that examines the meridians and Qi in light of technological advances that are now able to detect them. Each channel will be studied, both its internal and external branches, and every student is encouraged to become aware of the energetics of the meridians as they are being palpated and understood. The six energetic axes are introduced along with how they correspond to different energetic zones in the body. Using lecture, demonstration and small group practice, students learn the precise location for all of the acupuncture points on the 12 main channels, as well as the conception/ren and governing/du channels. Other commonly used extra points will be taught as well. Using the Chinese anatomical measurement system (cun) as well as precise anatomical landmarks, students palpate each point, learning location, depth, insertion technique, and contraindications. Adopted by the World Health Organization, students learn the nomenclature (name and number) for each point in English, and certain classical points are learned in Chinese as well.
Prerequisite or Corequisite: WB4400
AC4462 Meridian & Point Energetics 1 – Credits 2.0
This course focuses on the energetic properties and functions of the acupuncture points. Each point is studied individually as well as in comparison to other points on the meridian, and with points on different meridians with similar functions. The theory and usage of each acupuncture point is discussed in depth, along with special categories and groupings of points, e.g. lux connecting points, yuan source points, xi-cleft points, five element points, and mu & shu points. Methods of combining points into effective treatment prescriptions are discussed in depth; students learn how to select appropriate point combinations to effectively treat corresponding patterns of disease. In this twoseries course, 12 regular meridian points, eight extraordinary meridian points, and major extra points will be covered.
Prerequisite: OM4405
AC4463 Meridian Theory & Point Location 2 – Credits 2.5
This is a continuation of Meridian Theory and Point Location 1.
Prerequisite or Corequisite: WB4400
AC4464 Meridian & Point Energetics 2 – Credits 2.0
The second in a series, this course continues focusing on the energetic properties and functions of each acupuncture point.
Prerequisite: OM4405
AC5471 Acupuncture & Clean Needle Technique – Credits 2.0
Combining classroom lecture, demonstration and supervised practice, this course lays the foundation for acquiring clinical acupuncture skills. This course starts with the introduction of acupuncture travel kit. This course will emphasize establishing and maintaining clean fields, and application of aseptic and sterile procedures. Universal precautions, including HIV/AIDS, HBV, and clean needle technique as set forth in the NCCAOM guidelines will be introduced. This course will also address emergency care in the acupuncture clinic such as patient fainting, semi-coma, severe nausea, vomiting, etc. Students will develop the basic skills of needling, including insertion and withdrawal, correct angle, depth, manipulation and withdrawal of needles, tonification, and sedation techniques. Special emphasis is placed on developing De Qi sensitivity to patients’ reactions to these procedures, as well as to safe techniques, precautions and contraindications, and learning to recognize and respond to adverse treatment reactions. Students will spend significant time practicing needle insertion and withdrawal in small groups (three students per group). By the end of this course, students must successfully pass the Clean Needle Technique exam sponsored by the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (CCAOM).
Prerequisites: AC4461, AC4463
AC5472 Acupuncture & Accessory Techniques – Credits 1.0
This course will train students in the use of the clinical tools and essential skills of the acupuncturists, direct and indirect moxa, cupping, Gua Sha, plum blossom, electrical stimulation, and blood-letting. In this course, students will learn not only various skills of different tools and modalities but also what conditions can be used with which tools or modalities. Students will sharpen their needle handling techniques as well.
Prerequisite or Corequisite: AC5471
AC6452 Acupuncture Treatment Strategy – Credits 2.0
This course will cover general theoretical and practical rules of acupuncture treatment including the principles of treatment and the basic guidelines for acupuncture point selection and combination of points among the five shu points, xi-cleft, yuan source, back-shu, front-mu, lux-connecting, eight confluent points, four and six command points, long distance vs. local point, etc.
Prerequisites: OM5441, OM5442
AC6481 Microsystems & Advanced Acupunctures – Credits 2.0
Building on the skills already learned, students are introduced to a variety of specialized techniques of microsystem acupuncture, including scalp acupuncture, auricular acupuncture, Korean hand acupuncture, and cosmetic acupuncture. In this course, students are exposed to various styles of acupuncture techniques, furthermore, specific clinical applications of these techniques will be discussed based on various case presentations. Students will also be introduced to various unique acupuncture disciplines such as Saam Five Phase acupuncture, Japanese meridian acupuncture, Tong’s acupuncture, etc. From this course, students will be inspired for further research and pursuing continuing education for a variety of styles of acupuncture.
Prerequisite: AC5471
CL4561L Clinic Observation 1 – Credits 2.0
The clinic observation courses are divided into three progressive stages. The first stage of observations is designed for beginning students to observe the clinical set-up and treatment procedures in acupuncture and oriental medicine. During this stage the students observe how to perform history taking, physical examination, oriental medical diagnosis/differentiation, treatment plans, and acupuncture. The students get to observe how the basic theories they are learning are directly applied and realized in clinical practice. The observer is an integral part of the clinical experience at National University, and is involved throughout the clinic shift. Each observer is required to keep a clinic work sheet, which is graded at the end of the trimester. Here they record the clinic procedures, history, tongue, pulse, diagnosis, points and/or herbs used along with patient reactions, etc. There is also room for questions, personal observations and other issues that can then be discussed with clinicians.
Prerequisite: None
CL4562L Clinic Observation 2 – Credits 2.0
In the second part of observation, the observer fulfills certain responsibilities in assisting the treating intern during each clinic shift, such as Gua Sha, Tui Na, and other simple non-invasive and non-provocative procedures.
Prerequisite: None
CL4563L Clinic Observation 3 – Credits 2.0
During this last stage of observation, the observer will progressively work toward increased involvement with supervised patient interactions. The observers will assist as needed in taking patient histories and familiarize themselves with writing SOAP notes (specific form in the NUHS AOM clinic) with supervision. Stage 3 observers will be familiar with diagnostic procedures and with formulating acupuncture therapy protocols and other treatment protocols with close supervision of clinician.
Prerequisites: AC4461, AC4463, CL4561L, OM4405, OM4406
CL5571L Associate Internship 1 – Credits 2.0
The first stage of the clinical internship begins in Trimester 4, as students move out of the observation phase and begin to treat patients. Under close supervision, the intern conducts the patient interview including tongue and pulse diagnosis, and in collaboration with the supervisor makes a diagnosis and plans an acupuncture treatment. They then perform the acupuncture treatment with the clinical supervisor who is physically present at all times during the associate interns’ diagnosis and treatment of the patient. At the end of each clinic shift, each intern has a chance to direct questions to their supervisor and get feedback. Interns are responsible for writing all of their medical records including history intaking. During their associate internships, MSOM interns are not allowed to prescribe herbs for patients, but interns will discuss herbal formula if supervisor prescribes one.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of clinic foundational exam, CPR certificate, CL4563L, blood-borne pathogen training, immunization record
CL5572L Associate Internship 2 – Credits 2.0
Prerequisites: Successful completion of clinic foundational exam, CPR certificate, CL4563L
Prerequisite or Corequisite: CL5571L
CL5573L Associate Internship 3 – Credits 2.0
Throughout this second stage of clinical work, associate interns will continue the same work they did in the Associate Internships 1 and 2 and will gain further confidence and experience. The interns are able to continually add to and refine their diagnostic skills as well as their acupuncture techniques. More competency is required in the later trimesters, as interns are expected to take on more responsibility in treatment planning and patient education. During their associate internships, MSOM interns are not yet
allowed to prescribe herbs for patients, but interns will discuss herbal formula if the supervisor prescribes one.
Prerequisite or Corequisite: CL5571L, CL5572L
CL5574L Associate Internship 4 – Credits 2.0
Prerequisite or Corequisite CL5571L, CL5572L, CL5573L
CL6581L Acupuncture Senior Internship 1 – Credits 2.0
The different levels of clinic internships are designed to be progressive. To take this level of acupuncture, senior interns have to complete all of the prior levels of internships. From this level of training, the interns will be more independent and assume the role of primary care giver even though the interns will still have supervision from a licensed clinician. During this final stage of acupuncture senior internship, the interns must exhibit not only well developed skills in taking a history, performing physical exams, developing a diagnosis, prescribing acupuncture points, and choosing other treatment modalities, but also they must pay special attention to communication skills, patient education, marketing, insurance billing, and Illinois acupuncture policies, and so on. Even though senior acupuncture interns are independently practicing, they are still required to discuss their diagnosis with their findings and then submit their treatment plan including acupuncture and its accessories, diet and exercise protocol to their supervisor before performing their treatment or/and counseling their patients. The clinic supervisor does not have to be present in the examination room during the treatment although he/she must be available in the clinic.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of senior internship advanced exam, CL5571L, CL5572L, CL5573L, CL5574L
CL6582L Acupuncture Senior Internship 2 – Credits 2.0
Prerequisites: Successful completion of senior internship advanced exam, CL5571L, CL5572L, CL5573L, CL5574L
Prerequisite or Corequisite: CL6581L
CL6583L Acupuncture Senior Internship 3 – Credits 2.0
Prerequisites: Successful completion of senior internship advanced exam, CL5571L, CL5572L, CL5573L, CL5574L
Prerequisite or Corequisite: CL6581L, CL6582L
CL6584L Acupuncture Senior Internship 4 – Credits 2.0
Acupuncture Senior Internships 4 – 7 are the continuation of Acupuncture Senior Internships 1 – 3. During this internship, interns will pursue their own style of practice with their supervisor’s permission and help. All practice modalities and scope of practice should be limited to what they learned from the curriculum or electives offered by the NUHS AOM program.
Prerequisite or Corequisite: CL6583L
CL6585L Acupuncture Senior Internship 5 – Credits 2.0
Prerequisites: CL6583L or Corequisite CL6584L, OS6531, OS6532, OS6533, OS6534
CL6586L Acupuncture Senior Internship 6 – Credits 2.0
Prerequisite or Corequisite: CL6583L or Corequisite CL6585L
CL6587L Acupuncture Senior Internship 7 – Credits 2.0
Prerequisite or Corequisite: CL6583L or Corequisite CL6586L
ID4541L Tai Chi – Credits 1.0
Students learn the fundamentals of Tai Chi, a moving meditation that harmonizes the body and mind. Tai Chi also is an excellent way to become aware of one’s own qi, the basis of Chinese medicine.
Prerequisite: None
ID4542L Medical Qi Gong – Credits 1.0
Medical Qi Gong is one of the oldest branches of Chinese medicine, and is considered one of the most powerful. It is a therapeutic method that uses the training of the mind, the breath and the physiological processes of the body for improving health and well being, maintaining body/mind balance and enhancing longevity. The first part of this course introduces a series of exercises and movements, which focus on cultivating one’s internal energy, or qi. The second half of this course covers the movement and sensation of qi, as well as learning to guide qi internally through the meridians. Focus is on improving well-being and relieving symptoms of acute and chronic disorders. Students will be taught how to select different qi gong exercises according to various syndromes and disharmonies.
Prerequisite: None
OM4405 Introduction to Oriental Medicine – Credits 3.0
This course is designed to introduce the development processes and philosophical background of oriental medicine. Students will have an opportunity to explore great Chinese physicians as well as great philosophers. They will study the root of oriental medicine with focuses on the Taoism, Confucianism and Buddhism. The class will discuss the unique thinking process and the characteristic outlook of oriental medicine. Furthermore, the class will examine some of the different approaches to oriental medicine in other parts of Asia such as Korea and Japan. Students will study the transplantation of oriental medicine into the western world. By the end of the course, students will have an overall sense of the history, development and basic foundational principles of oriental medicine with an eye toward the future of the field and their place in it.
Prerequisite: None
OM4406 Physiology of Oriental Medicine – Credits 3.0
This course is a general introduction to oriental medicine in terms of Traditional Chinese/Oriental Medical Physiology. Students will learn to apply to the body the basic theories of oriental medicine: Yin/Yang, the concept of Qi, the Five Phases learned in the Introduction to Oriental Medicine class. Students will begin by looking at the Five Substances. The class will then move beyond these basic fundamental constituents of the body to the internal organs themselves, known as the Zang-Fu theory. Finally, the class will consider the primary question of etiology of disease in oriental medicine and the Three Categories of disease causes: Internal, External and Miscellaneous (neither Internal nor External). Students will then be prepared to understand pathology in oriental medicine in future classes.
Prerequisite: None
OM4411 Etiology & Pathogenesis of Oriental Medicine – Credits 3.0
In this course, the basic theory and characteristics of the etiology, pathology, sources of pathogens, and mechanisms of illness are covered. The topics include the six environmental excesses (Liu-Yin), seven emotions (Qi Qing), disharmony of Yin and Yang, the six channel pattern identification (Liu Jing Bian Zheng), and the abnormal function of Qi, blood, body fluid, and organs. General principles of treatment methods for each topic will be briefly covered.
Prerequisites: OM4405 and OM4406
OM5441 Differential Diagnosis of Oriental Medicine 1 – Credits 3.0
In this two-part course, students will learn different pattern diagnosis and introduction of treatment. This set of courses will cover the differentiation of patterns according to the different theories of oriental medicine. An in-depth discussion of the differentiation of patterns will include topics of pathological changes, Zhang-Fu patterns, I and blood patterns, six channel patterns, four aspect patterns, meridian and collateral patterns, San Jiao patterns, disease-evil patterns, and so on. The instructor will present how pattern identification applies to cases encountered in the NUHS AOM clinic. Treatment based on the differential diagnosis will be also discussed.
Prerequisite: OM4411
OM5442 Differential Diagnosis of Oriental Medicine 2 – Credits 3.0
This course is continuation of Differential Diagnosis 1.
Prerequisite: OM4411
OM5471 Diagnosis & Skills of Oriental Medicine 1 – Credits 2.0
This course introduces the Four Traditional Methods of Diagnosis: looking, hearing/smelling, asking, and feeling/palpating. The focus here is on tongue and pulse diagnosis. Students first learn the procedures of tongue inspection and pulse palpation by watching the instructor’s demonstration and follow by performing and practicing the technique in class. Students also will identify and classify significant findings into eight principle categories in order to further understand them within the traditional patterns of disharmony. A significant amount of lab time will be spent on pulse diagnosis.
Prerequisites: OM4405, OM4406
OM5472 Diagnosis & Skills of Oriental Medicine 2 – Credits 2.0
The second course in the diagnosis series continues with the Four Traditional Methods of Diagnosis, focusing specifically on the Ten Questions and writing SOAP notes. After learning each of the 10 categories of questions and their significance in terms of diagnosis, students will practice patient interviewing focusing on review of systems questionnaire of “confidential history,” combining it with the tongue and pulse exams. In this course, students will also learn how to palpate certain categories of points – mu and shu points, source points, ashi points, etc. – as part of the diagnostic procedures and will learn what important information can be gained. There will be significant lab time available for practicing all of these skills. Students will submit three full sets of mock patient medical records including review of systems questionnaire, “confidential history,” by the end of the course.
Prerequisites: OM4405, OM4406
OM6451 Advanced Diagnosis & Treatment Strategy – Credits 2.0
The format of this course will be case presentation. Students will have the opportunity to learn to incorporate the different models of pattern diagnoses and theories of oriental medicine based on clinical cases; to develop accurate, fluent and sophisticated diagnoses, treatment plans and point selections for each patient as a unique individual. Included in these discussions are the patient-intern relationship, case management and referral, and general patient care issues. Special factors or symptoms are presented to
help the student recognize the potential for increased risk to the patient, for example: cases such as the diabetic patient, the immune-compromised patient, etc.; when to modify standard therapeutic approaches, such as when treating infants and children or women who are pregnant; clinical presentation that may have a more serious cause; and how to make appropriate referrals.
Prerequisites: OM5442
Prerequisite or Corequisite: OM5441
OM6453 Nutrition & Food Therapy of Oriental Medicine – Credits 2.0
Topics covered include the history of Chinese nutrition, basic principles, yin/yang, the four qis, the five flavors, the energetic qualities and uses of specific foods, and the role of nutrition in a complete treatment plan. Through learning about foods and their effect on health, students will be introduced to the five elements and the proper balance of these elements within a diet. Specific disorders will be discussed using food as a major healing tool. Students will also have the opportunity to experience nutritional therapy first hand through a trimester long nutrition project.
Prerequisites: OM4405, OM4406
OS6531 Advanced Seminar 1 – Credits 2.0
In this seminar series, students integrate all of the subjects that they have studied over the past two years. The format used to integrate this information is case-based seminars. A few of the topics covered include: chronic pain management, orthopedics, internal disorders, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, geriatrics, dermatology, allergies, infertility, emergency care, and so on. However, this Advanced Seminar 1 will mainly focus on chronic pain management and neuromusculoskeletal conditions. Some seminar presentations may involve a patient in the grand round setting whenever possible. The class may be composed of the large and small group activities. The large group session will present the case, introduce the related topics and wrap up the case. Each small group session is responsible for a report on the cases that include: full patient information and physical examination results based on traditional four diagnosis methods and western medicine; differential diagnosis and assessments; principles of treatment; treatment protocol with specific acupuncture points and their point selection rationales; accessory techniques and prognosis. Students will also discuss patient management, business management and practice ethics, and proper patient referral to other health care providers.
Prerequisites or Corequisites: CL5571L, CL5572L, OM6451
OS6532 Advanced Seminar 2 – Credits 2.0
In this seminar series, students integrate all of the subjects that they have studied over the past two years. The format used to integrate this information is case-based seminars. A few of the topics covered include: chronic pain management, orthopedics, internal disorders, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, geriatrics, dermatology, allergies, infertility, emergency care, and so on. However, this Advanced Seminar 2 will mainly focus on cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions, endocrinology, and hematology. Some seminar presentations may involve a patient in the grand round setting whenever possible. The class may be composed of large and small group activities. The large group session will present the case, introduce the related topics and wrap up the case. Each small group session is responsible for a report on the cases that include: full patient information and physical examination results based on traditional four diagnosis methods and Western medicine; differential diagnosis and assessments; principles of treatment; treatment protocol with specific acupuncture points and their point selection rationales; accessory techniques and prognosis. Students will also discuss patient management, business management and practice ethics, and proper patient referral to other health care providers.
Prerequisites or Corequisites: CL5571L, CL5572L, OM6451
OS6533 Advanced Seminar 3 – Credits 2.0
In this seminar series, students integrate all of the subjects that they have studied over the past two years. The format used to integrate this information is case-based seminars. A few of the topics covered include: chronic pain management, orthopedics, internal disorders, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, geriatrics, dermatology, allergies, infertility, emergency care, and so on. However, this Advanced Seminar 3 will mainly focus on gastrointestinal, renal and OB/GYN conditions. Some seminar presentations may involve a patient in the grand round setting whenever possible. The class may be composed of large and small group activities. The large group session will present the case, introduce the related topics and wrap up the case. Each small group session is responsible for a report on the cases that include: full patient information and physical examination results based on traditional four diagnosis methods and western medicine; differential diagnosis and assessments; principles of treatment; treatment protocol with specific acupuncture points and their point selection rationales; accessory techniques and prognosis. Students will also discuss patient management, business management and practice ethics, and proper patient referral to other health care providers.
Prerequisites: CL5571L, CL5572L, OM6451
OS6534 Advanced Seminar 4 – Credits 2.0
In this seminar series, students integrate all of the subjects that they have studied over the past two years. The format used to integrate this information is case-based seminars. A few of the topics covered include: chronic pain management, orthopedics, internal disorders, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, geriatrics, dermatology, allergies, infertility, emergency care, and so on. However, this Advanced Seminar 4 will mainly focus on geriatric, pediatric and multiple system-related conditions. Some seminar presentations may involve a patient in the grand round setting whenever possible. The class may be composed of large and small group activities. The large group session will present the case, introduce the related topics and wrap up the case. Each small group session is responsible for a report on the cases that include: full patient information and physical examination results based on traditional four diagnosis methods and western medicine; differential diagnosis and assessments; principles of treatment; treatment protocol with specific acupuncture points and their point selection rationales; accessory techniques and prognosis. Students will also discuss patient management, business management and practice ethics, and proper patient referral to other health care providers.
Prerequisites: CL5571L, CL5572L, OM6451
PD6541 Doctor & Patient Relationship – Credits 2.0
This course focuses on the practical issues of patient management in practice and to broaden their understanding of the issues in the field and then reflect on and actively develop strategies for their relationships with patients. Lecture and discussion topics include: structures in doctor/patient interaction; models of the doctor/patient interaction; doctor/patient boundaries; the impact of the doctor/patient relationship on health care outcomes; the impact of the doctor/patient relationship on patient satisfaction; culturally responsive health care; the sociological context of patient suffering; co-creation of the patient’s story in a therapeutic relationship; death, dying and palliative health care; management of the abused patient; and the doctor’s responsibilities to the community and society. Group time will be used to discuss and practice relationship issues through guest case presentations, structured interpersonal exercises, article reviews, and discussion.
Prerequisite: None
PD6542 Evidence Based Practice – Credits 2.0
As professional health care practitioners, it is important to strive to educate oneself on the efficacy of one’s applied art. The research literature provides the knowledge base to make sound clinical judgments in both diagnosis and treatment of health conditions. This course provides a means for developing the skills needed to critically evaluate research literature in general, and research literature specifically pertaining to complementary and alternative medicine. The topics covered include research design, validity and reliability, bias, searching the literature, critical appraisal of the literature, and elementary statistical methods of data analysis.
Prerequisite: None
PD6543 Business, Marketing and Practice Management – Credits 2.0
This course focuses on many of the various practice-related issues that face the acupuncture and/or oriental medicine practitioner. Topics addressed in this class include: writing a curriculum vitae; investigating various practice types; writing narrative reports; the informed consent process; marketing concepts for the practice with preparation of a comprehensive marketing plan; preparation of a comprehensive business plan; successful interviewing techniques; vicarious liability and independent contact issues; record keeping requirements; creating an effective referral network; and personal and professional insurance needs.
Prerequisite: None
PD6544 Practice Ethics & Risk Management Considerations – Credit 1.0
This course focuses on many of the various practice-related risk management and provider/patient communication issues that face the acupuncture and/or oriental medicine practitioner. Topics addressed in this class include: boundary issues and preventive strategies involving sexual boundaries; treating friends and family members; self-disclosure; gifts and tradeoffs; dual relationships; language; physical examination; physical contact; time and duration of appointments. Additional topics include: a health care provider’s duties, responsibilities, and professional standards of care; a provider’s duty regarding vicarious liability and the independent contract relationship; elements of successful communication skills in provider/patient relationships; recognizing and managing difficult/predatory patients; and should you say you’re sorry if you hurt a patient?
Prerequisites: None
TM4491L Tui Na – Credits 1.0
Tui Na is a traditional meridian bodywork therapy that originated in China over 2,000 years ago. It involves a variety of techniques including rolling, tapping and pressure used for treating a broad range of disorders including orthopedic and stroke rehabilitation. It is also a widely used modality in pediatrics. In this course, students gain a working knowledge of basic Tui Na techniques, the general body routine, and Tui Na exercises to strengthen the body’s constitution. An emphasis will be made on integrating Tui Na with oriental as well as biomedical evaluation and treatment methods of common disorders.
Prerequisite: None
TM4492L Asian Body Work – Credits 1.0
In this course, students will learn many different forms of basic soft tissue works such as shiatsu, anma, acupressure, and so on. Students will learn meridian based acupressure or anma for various conditions of patient care.
Prerequisite: None
TM5491L Advanced Tui Na Credits 1.0
In this course, students will be introduced to more advanced skills of Tui Na while they sharpen the skills they have previously learned from the basic course.
Prerequisite: TM4491L
TM5492L Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy of Oriental Medicine – Credits 1.0
Students will learn modern oriental medicine rehabilitation based on oriental medicine theory. Students will also learn hydrotherapy, infrared, ultrasound, Kinesio Taping, and many other newly developed equipment and tools. While learning function, indications and contraindications of each modality, students will also discuss safety and legal issues.
Prerequisites: TM4491L, TM4492L
WB4400 Palpation Skills – Credit 0.5
This course is designed for students to learn through study and practical exploration of the assessment of the skin, superficial fascia and veins. Students will also develop palpation skills of the major superficial muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bony landmarks of the spine and extremities. Students will develop basic hands-on palpation skills and also will focus on the assessment of joint motions and normal posture.
Prerequisite: None
WB4401 Western Medical Terminology – Credits 1.0
This course will introduce students to key word parts associated with body systems, disorders, conditions, procedures, and medical specialties. It will show students how to decipher difficult medical terms by breaking them down into these components. Pronunciation of the terms will be covered as well.
Prerequisite: None
WB4402 Human Anatomy – Credits 2.5
Students will learn through cadaver dissection in lecture and laboratory. Lecture will cover the basic concepts of human anatomy with an emphasis on the cutaneous part of the human body. Students will discuss the function of major muscles and clinical and pathological conditions that present frequently in the clinic. In the laboratory, students will discover the relationship between anatomical structures, meridians and major acupuncture points.
Prerequisite: None
WB4404 Principles of Biochemistry – Credits 1.0
This course presentation starts with an introduction to the concepts of bio-molecules in the human body such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acid, etc. This course will also introduce the metabolic mechanism and processes involved in producing and transforming these molecules to generate energy for the body. Students will also be provided with a basis for understanding nutrition on a biochemical level, covering vitamins, minerals, co-enzymes, etc.
Prerequisite: None
WB4405 Neurology – Credits 2.0
This course will serve as an introduction to the general neurological system. Knowledge of the neurological system is essential to understand the scientific basis and mechanisms of acupuncture. Topics covered in this course include the histology, anatomy and physiology of the nervous system. The central, peripheral and autonomic nervous systems, as well as the cranial nerves will be presented. The major nerve plexuses are
discussed along with the common clinical pathologies.
Prerequisite: None
WB4407 Western Anatomy and Physiology – Credits 3.0
In this course, students will learn in lecture and laboratory formats, the normal anatomy and physiology of the major organ systems of the human body. The organ systems discussed are the cardiovascular, respiratory, lymphatic, endocrine, urinary, digestive, and reproductive as well as neuroanatomical structures. In addition, the interrelationships between organ systems will be explained as well as the interrelationships between structure and function of the organs and organ systems. The gross anatomy laboratory sessions will be presented using a regional approach and will be designed to support the lecture sessions and address related basic science issues.
Prerequisite: None
WB4411 Microbiology, Immunology & Public Health – Credits 3.0
This course provides an introduction to microorganisms, immunology, public health, and their interaction with humans; concepts in public health as applied to communicable and non-communicable diseases; and an introduction to the basic changes in the morphology of the cells, tissues and organs in diseased states. Extensive use of visual aids using the latest computer technology will aid students in visualizing and
understanding these various fundamental topics. The appropriate clinical correlation with case studies is discussed as well.
Prerequisite or Corequisite: WB4401
WB4412 Western Pathology – Credits 3.0
Considered in this course are the pathologies peculiar to and characteristic of the various systems of the body. The pathologies examined include myopathy, neuropathy, bone and joint pathology, immunopathology, hematopathology, and dermatopathology. Each condition is studied from the standpoint of general characteristics, gross and microscopic appearance, and clinical course. The systems examined include neurological, respiratory, cardiovascular, reproductive and mammary, gastrointestinal (inclusive of liver, gall bladder and pancreas), urinary, and endocrine.
Prerequisite or Corequisite: WB4401
WC5421 Neurophysiology of Acupuncture – Credits 2.0
In this course, students will discuss acupuncture from a different angle. This course investigates how modern western scientific research starts unveiling the mystical functions and action mechanisms of acupuncture, and the relationship between acupuncture stimulation and brain reaction. By discussing current western research achievement about acupuncture, students will understand the neurological, physiological and chemical basis of the acupuncture action mechanisms and its functions. Students will
be inspired by this course to connect 5,000 years of traditional eastern acupuncture into modern western science.
Prerequisites: WB4401, WB4405
WC5422 Western Pharmacology & Toxicology – Credits 2.0
This course provides a basic understanding of the use of drugs in western medicine for the treatment of disease. Topics covered in this course will be descriptions of drug names and classification, general principles of drug action and metabolism. Factors influencing drug action and drug safety are addressed, too. This course also will discuss the drug actions on body systems including the entire major organ systems and the disorders and diseases in each of the systems. Included will be a description of the mechanism of action, major untoward effects and contraindications for each drug and drug category. A large part of this lecture will be focused on interactions with other drugs, Chinese herbs and botanicals. Drug action on infection and immune system regulation as well as chemical dependency and substance abuse will be described. A discussion of poisons and their antidotes is included.
Prerequisite: WB4401, WB4404
WC5423 Psychopathology & Health Psychology – Credits 2.0
This course includes:
(i) review and discussion of the major topics in health psychology including examination of the relationships of psychopathology, lifestyle and personal relationships to physical health. Topics include risk factors and treatments for physical disorders such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and chronic pain, as well as the exploration of the comorbidity of physical and psychological disorders; (ii) an examination of the nine basic categories of psychopathology (depression, anxiety, somatoform, substance use disorders, sleep disorders, eating disorders, sexual dysfunction, cognitive disorders, and psychosis) with emphasis on screening, diagnosis and management in a primary care setting. Students are asked to review current theories and their implication for practice.
Prerequisite: None
WD4441L Western Physical Exam – Credits 1.0
In this course, students will practice general physical exams of common western medical conditions through oriental and western medical integrative forms. In the lectures and lab, students will learn history taking, vitals and general physical exams and their procedures. The students will be familiar with the major individual exam skill performance while they practice head-to-toe sequence exams. The course will also cover patient referral to other health care professions. Students will also practice SOAP note writing based on the NUHS AOM clinic patient SOAP note form.
Prerequisites: WB4401
Corequistes: WB4407
WD4442L Neuromusculoskeletal Exam – Credits 1.0
This laboratory course will cover the neurological examination and orthopedic examinations. Students will learn how to test the neurological systems including dermatome testing, muscle testing, deep tendon reflexes, etc. Students will also learn how to perform orthopedic examinations of the major joint systems of the human body. The examinations will help the student to determine if a lesion is present and the location of the lesion.
Prerequisites: WB4401, WB4402
WD5441 Imaging Diagnosis – Credits 2.0
The basic principles of the major modalities of diagnostic imaging are discussed. Students will learn normal findings in X-ray films and also will become familiar with the type of abnormal findings yielded by the most common tests. This course is designed for the acupuncture practitioners in general practice who will request and receive radiographic and other diagnostic imaging reports. Interpretation of these reports and knowing when to request them are the major learning outcomes.
Prerequisites: WB4401, WB4402, WB4412
WD5442 Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis – Credits 2.0
The clinical laboratory plays a major role in the education of the student. Today’s technology allows the health practitioner to examine the depths of the body in ways that were only imaginable a few short years ago. The modern health care provider, especially acupuncturist, needs to be able to know in what situations patients should be referred for diagnostic tests, how to interpret the information relative to its diagnostic or informative value, what other tests relate to this information, and what are the disadvantages or possibilities of error or false positive results. In this course, these aspects are addressed with regard to the common profiles of hematology, chemistries, urinalysis, fecal, and sputum studies.
Prerequisites: WB4401, WB4407, WB4411, WB4412
WD6441 Western Physical Diagnosis – Credits 2.0
This course introduces the student to the methods used in the diagnosis and management of common conditions. The students in this course develop skills in interpretation, evaluation and correlation of normal and abnormal physical findings. Discussions concentrate on the development of diagnostic acumen and conservative management of selected conditions.
Prerequisites: WD4441L, WD4442L
Corequisites: WD5441
WI6501 Integrative Biomedicine I – Credits 2.0
This course will review and sharpen core biomedicine knowledge and skiils and focus on the comprehensive application of acquired cognitive knowledge, psychomotor clinical skills, and affective senses in actual clinical case problem-solving. In this course, students will discuss how to utilize and integrate the different subjects from each biomedicine class into real clinical case problem-solving situations. Students will also focus on how to apply medical knowledge, manage patient care effectively, demonstrate professionalism, interpersonal and communication skills, and utilize all other appropriate information, while integrating the basic science and basic western diagnostic skills with certain treatment plans. Students will also review specific exam skills and be required to practice a hands-on format. The materials in this class will be delivered through class meetings and/or an online basis.
Prerequisites: WB4400, WB4401, WB4402, WB4411, WB4412, WB4441, WB4442
Corequisites or Corequisites: WC5421, WC5422, WD5441, WD5442, PD6542
WT6455 Western Diet & Nutrition – Credits 1.0
This course provides a basic understanding of the vital role of the western diet and nutrition in an overall approach to patient care. Topics will cover principles of human nutrition that stress a review of the macronutrients and micronutrients with emphasis on the health properties of each as well as the severe deficiency states for both micronutrients and macronutrients. Digestion, absorption and transport of the nutrients, and consequences of malabsorption care are covered. Energy production, energy balance and weight management are also described. Food habits in the United States and nutrition across the life cycle are discussed in the course. Male and female health, sports and exercise nutrition, enteral and parenteral nutrition procedures as well as an introduction to the science of food preparation and handling are included. An introduction to nutritional status assessment using food frequency questionnaires and diet history is given.
Prerequisite: WB4404
