Program Overview
This post-professional MS degree is a 100% online degree program with no on-campus requirements. It is designed so physicians can integrate their new knowledge directly into patient care while losing minimal office time completing the program.
Orientation or registration for the program is completed through online portals. Class participation is recorded through online discussion boards.
Academic Schedule
The MSACP is a two-year, online program. A total of 36 credits are distributed as follows:
| MSACP - Year 1 | Class | Lecture Clock Hours | Lab Clock Hours | Total Clock Hours | Total Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSACP 501 | Functional Nutrition in a Clinical Setting | 45 | 0 | 45 | 3.0 |
| MSACP 511 | Clinical Pharmacology | 45 | 0 | 45 | 3.0 |
| MSACP 521 | Research Methodology and Biostatistics | 60 | 0 | 60 | 4.0 |
| MSACP 531 | Advanced Clinical Laboratory Functional Medicine | 30 | 0 | 30 | 2.0 |
| MSACP 541 | Clinical Neurophysiology | 45 | 0 | 45 | 3.0 |
| MSACP 551 | Clinical Neurology | 45 | 0 | 45 | 3.0 |
| TOTAL | 270 | 0 | 270 | 18.0 |
| MSACP - Year 2 | Class | Lecture Clock Hours | Lab Clock Hours | Total Clock Hours | Total Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSACP 601 | Clinical Problem Solving for the Primary Care Physician | 45 | 0 | 45 | 3.0 |
| MSACP 611 | Advanced Diagnostic Imaging – Special Populations | 45 | 0 | 45 | 3.0 |
| MSACP 621 | Clinical Injectables and IV Functional Nutrition | 45 | 0 | 45 | 3.0 |
| MSACP 631 | Advanced Clinical Applications in Special Populations | 45 | 0 | 45 | 3.0 |
| MSACP 641 | Psychological Issues of Chronic Illness and Disease | 30 | 0 | 30 | 2.0 |
| MSACP 651 | Independent Research | 60 | 0 | 60 | 4.0 |
| TOTAL | 270 | 0 | 270 | 18.0 | |
| TOTAL PROGRAM CREDITS | 540 | 0 | 540 | 36.0 |
MS ACP Course Descriptions
Year 1
MSACP 501
Functional Nutrition in a Clinical Setting – Credits 3.0
The purpose of this course is to develop a detailed understanding of how the underlying metabolic dysfunction in various body systems are interconnected, as well as treatment methods to reduce such dysfunction. We will explore current evidence-based nutritional literature as a foundation for the clinical application of appropriate dietary changes and key nutritional supplements.
MSACP 511
Clinical Pharmacology – Credits 3.0
The purpose of this course is to review common pharmacologic agents utilized in the primary care setting related to various medical diagnoses. Discussion will include an overview of various clinical conditions and the related pharmacologic agents, classifications, mechanisms of action, and appropriate utilizations. Common drug reactions and interactions will be discussed, including interactions with botanicals and other over-the-counter dietary supplements.
MSACP 521
Research Methodology and Biostatistics – Credits 4.0
This course will increase the knowledge regarding critical appraisal of research articles including accessing articles, assessing the research methods and results, and determining potential biases. Emphasis will be placed on preparing studentsto identify pertinent research findings that may enhance clinical outcomes. The student will learn to write succinct critiques and discuss research articles in a scientific manner.
MSACP 531
Advanced Clinical Laboratory Functional Medicine – Credits 2.0
The purpose of this course is to review common laboratory tests, procedures, and appropriate utilization in the primary care setting. Current reference ranges for blood (cells and chemistries), urine, and other serous fluids will be reviewed. Also, essential functional lab testing such as heavy metal, organic acid, and salivary/hormonal testing will be presented. This course will also provide an advanced understanding of clinical laboratory medicine through detailed case review and algorithms for medical conditions in which abnormal laboratory values occur. Prerequisite: MSACP501, MSACP511
MSACP 541
Clinical Neurophysiology – Credits 3.0
This course will explore the clinical significance and functional activities of peripheral nerve fibers, the spinal cord, brainstem, and brain in the context of visceral and musculoskeletal disorders. The student will gain an advanced understanding of the anatomy, genetics, biochemistry, and physiology of pain in relation to various clinical syndromes. Nutritional biochemistry related to nociception and pain will be incorporated. Implementation of this information into therapeutic programs will be emphasized.
MSACP 551
Clinical Neurology – Credits 3.0
This course provides an advanced understanding of neurologic evaluation for a variety of conditions, as well as management approaches such as functional neurologic treatment options. Some of the conditions covered include headache, degenerative and demyelinating disorders, entrapment neuropathies, and developmental disorders.
Year 2
MSACP 601
Clinical Problem Solving for the Primary Care Physician – Credits 3.0
The purpose of this course is to enhance comprehensive history taking and regional physical examination skills in the context of common and complex internal disorders. The student will be able to effectively develop an accurate differential diagnosis with consideration of appropriate documentation, diagnostic testing, and follow-up. Prerequisite: MSACP 521, MSACP 531, MSACP 541, MSACP 551
MSACP 611
Advanced Diagnostic Imaging – Credits 3.0
The purpose of this course is to study utility and limitations of the various diagnostic imaging modalities, including conventional radiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and nuclear imaging. The student will also improve their interpretation of diagnostic imaging reports, define effective imaging strategies in specific clinical scenarios, approach an imaging study with greater confidence, and determine referral decisions and prognostic indicators.
MSACP 621
Clinical Injectables and IV Functional Nutrition – Credits 3.0
This course will provide a description of the importance of nutrients that can be injected to prevent, control, and cure certain conditions in patients. It will include a case-based description of the condition and explanation of the technique used by the clinician to administer each nutrient via intravenous, intramuscular, and subcutaneous means. The mechanisms of action of these substances will be discussed. Prerequisite: MSACP 501, MSACP 511
MSACP 631
Advanced Clinical Applications in Special Populations – Credits 3.0
This course offers an overview of subgroups that have been identified as special populations, such as pediatric and geriatric populations. The main focus will be on common medical concerns in terms of pathophysiology, differential diagnosis, and effective integrative treatment strategies.
MSACP 641
Psychological Issues of Chronic Illness and Disease – Credits 2.0
The purpose of this course is to present the ways in which psychological issues influence illness. The course will present information relative to the proper probing for psychosocial areas of concern and understanding how and when to refer to a mental health professional. The value of proper recognition and the process of appropriate patient communication regarding referral to a mental health care professional will be emphasized through various case studies. The individual roles of the various mental health care professionals and the current mental health statistics in the United States will be outlined.
MSACP 651
Independent Research – Credits 4.0
This course, as a Capstone Project, reinforces exploration in critical appraisal of published research and discussion of journal articles in a scientific manner. Students will be expected to choose a topic of interest from previously presented material in relation to a selected clinical case in order to write a case report for publication. Prerequisite: MSACP 521
2024-2025:
Tuition: New, repeat, elective – per credit hour: $630.00
Tuition deposit, not refundable: $150.00
Application fee, not refundable: $55.00
Reservation fee, not refundable: $75.00
Technology fee, per trimester: $60.00
Exam retake fee: $100.00
Application fee for readmission (after one calendar year of non-attendance): $25.00
Payment Plan Option
Pay one-fourth of the tuition prior to the first day of class and one-fourth each of the next three months due on the same day of the month as the first day of class. Payment options include: cash, personal check, money order, cashier’s check, traveler’s checks, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, or financial assistance through the Office of Financial Aid.
Financial Aid
Please contact the financial aid office for additional information or questions at (630) 889-6518 or [email protected].