5 Reasons to Consider a Degree in Acupuncture

degree-in-acupunctureThere are a lot of compelling reasons to consider a degree in acupuncture if you're looking to continue your education or jumpstart a brand new career. From the flexible degree programs to the benefits of pursuing a career helping people, the field has a lot to offer people looking for a next professional step that's both achievable and rewarding. Check out just 5 reasons to consider a degree in acupuncture.

1. Growing demand for holistic health care

The spending on holistic health treatments increases with every year, meaning that more practitioners are needed to help fill the demand for services. Consumers spent more than $30 billion on complimentary health treatments, including acupuncture, massage and more, according to a recent federal study. That makes it a great time to complete a degree and become a licensed practitioner of acupuncture.

2. Desire to help people

Do you have a calling to help people achieve their optimal state of health? Acupuncture helps stimulate the body's natural healing abilities by putting pressure on specific points throughout the body to improve the body's flow of energy.

Not only does an acupuncturist insert needles into a patient's body during treatment, but the practitioner asks questions about a patient's health and conducts a thorough examination. It's a holistic approach to patient care that's cost effective and free from the side effects of Western medicine. "Patients are viewed from a holistic perspective, taking into account their physical, mental, and emotional health," according to the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. "Practitioners are able to spend time developing a collaborative relationship with patients, assisting them in maintaining their health and promoting a consciousness of wellness."

3. Job flexibility

After graduating and passing licensing exams, the world will be your proverbial oyster. "Practitioners can create financially supportive careers with flexible work schedules that are rewarding on many levels," the Council reports. Acupuncturists can work in a variety of settings, from private practices to cancer centers. Many people with acupuncture degrees enjoy the flexibility and self-determination of setting their own schedules and working at the times that work for them — to accommodate a busy family schedule or other life demands.

4. Stability and earning potential

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the current average median income for an acupuncturist (which falls under Health Diagnosing and Treating Practitioners) is $74,710.

According to naturalhealers.com, a site dedicated to providing information on students of acupuncture and other holistic health techniques:

 

"Oriental medicine practitioners, like acupuncturists, have the chance to increase their earning potential in a private practice if they’re good self-marketers. Building a strong clientele will help secure a steady and well-paying salary, but takes time and plenty of networking."

 

If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to help people, acupuncture can be a great field in which to build up a business of your own. As noted by naturalhealers.com, continuing education helps boost your earning potential. Knowing other areas of holistic health practice can also increase the demand for your services.

5. Accessible career path

Many programs for Oriental medicine and acupuncture offer flexible degree programs, including night classes, for students who are working or have other obligations. A master's degree program takes about three to four years to complete.

For information about AMC’s Oriental Medicine and Massage Therapy programs you can email our admissions department.
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