Acupuncture tries to relieve pain by inserting needles into the patient’s body at various depths. Acupuncturists help people feel better, and most degree programs are designed for working adults and take only a few years to complete.
How Do I Become a Certified Acupuncturist?
You need to be certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). To become a certified acupuncturist, you need at least a master’s degree from a school accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM).
Does My State Require Certification?
Most states require an acupuncturist to be certified. The five states that don’t require any form or certification are:
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Wyoming
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North Dakota
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South Dakota
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Oklahoma
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Alabama
How Long Does a Master’s Degree in Acupuncture Usually Take?
Master’s degrees take about three years. If you want to take more classes on Chinese medicine, certification takes an additional year.
How Much Does It Cost?
Most degree programs cost between $30,000 and $40,000 for the three-year program. Acupuncture is an affordable degree program that is usually designed for working adults.
What Is the Average Income for Acupuncturists?
The Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (CCAOM) says that most certified acupuncturists make between $30,000 and $60,000 annually.
