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So, you’ve already made up your mind that you want to go back to school, specifically a school specializing in alternative medicine. While that first step in itself is a big one, you’ve got to make another hard choice; in which area should I focus my studies? Sure, in an ideal world you’d be able to study and master every branch of alternative medicine that you’re heart would desire, but our everyday obligations and responsibilities make that incredibly difficult. So, to boil it down to only two areas of specialty, specifically acupuncture and massage, you can’t really go wrong in either direction. However you, being the highly motivated and enthusiastic person that you are, want to do your research as to which one might be a better fit for you. That’s where this blog comes in to help. While it may not have all the answers to your questions, it should give you a good idea as to which area might better suit you.
First, let’s discuss acupuncture school. I find that acupuncture students tend to view their approach to healing from an internal, spiritual point of view. They understand that a truly healthy person is healthy in body and mind. This line of thinking is definitely at the core of many acupuncture programs.
Acupuncture and other Oriental Medicine programs generally teach not only the principles behind and the practice of acupuncture, but other means of healing from the inside out. Those with a special interest in the importance of food and nutrition will find the courses on food therapy and herbs particularly interesting. Beyond that, there are courses in other means of healing like cupping (which is only gaining in visibility and popularity thanks to many celebrity endorsements), Oriental Bodywork, moxibustion as well as courses on Western medicine and how it all relates.Given the plethora of new information and studies being conducted on acupuncture, thus solidifying its place in the spectrum of viable treatments for many conditions and ailments, jobs in acupuncture will only become more plentiful as time goes on.
For those who are more hands on in their approach to life, massage might be the right fit for you. As you know, massage requires you get to hands on with your patients and while it might be more physically strenuous, the reward you’ll feel from healing someone with your own two hands is uncomparable. Massage tends to bring in a variety of clients from all walks of life, so being personable and easygoing will only make your job easier.
Many of the massage courses focus on the understanding of the human anatomy and physiology, so I find that those with previous medical experience of knowledge of the anatomy excel in our massage courses thanks to their preexisting knowledge. However anyone with a special interest in the human body and physiology will find our classes enjoyable and educational.
Ultimately the decision between studying acupuncture and massage is a personal one. We do have a fantastic admissions department that is more than happy to answer any questions you have, provide you with a tour of the campus or do anything else to help guide you to your final decision. You can also request a free course catalog here. 
