Oriental Medicine Course Descriptions

Asian Bodywork

ABW-311


This course will cover the practical applications of Chinese Tui Na Massage and Japanese Shiatsu. Students will learn basic hand techniques, articulations, and a full-body treatment using Tui Na and Shiatsu techniques. In addition students will receive basic Instruction in Oriental Medical theory that will include Yin/Yang, Five Elements, survey of the twelve channels, major points, Zang Fu Organs and Essential Substances.

Musculo-Skeletal A & P

MUS-301


This course will teach, in depth, the fundamentals of musculoskeletal anatomy. The class will enable the student to understand the different parts of the body, their relationship to each other and the functions/actions of the muscles and bones.

Anatomy & Physiology

ANP-301


This course provides a general study of the human body’s normal structure and function. Emphasis is placed on the complex nature of the body, the interrelationship of the organs, and the body’s ability to adapt to the environment. Particular emphasis will be placed on the specific needs of the Acupuncture Physician.

Supervised Clinical Observation

SCO-331


Supervised Clinic Observation is designed to build up student skills, confidence, and comfort level one step at a time. The first clinic courses are observational and practical. Students are required to receive at least ten treatments, so they can experience first-hand what it is like to be a patient of Oriental Medicine. Clinic provides students with the opportunity to observe various techniques they studied. Upon completion of Asian Bodywork students will be required to give 30 Asian bodywork treatments. While enrolled in Introduction to Needling students will be allowed to apply moxa and cupping on patients.

Essentials of Chinese Medicine

ECM-312


This course is an introduction to the Essentials of Chinese Medicine, and focuses on the basic theoretical framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) including: Yin/Yang theory, Five Element theory, Vital Substance theory, Zang-Fu theory, and Causes of Disease.

Diagnostic Methods

DME-312


This course teaches the four diagnostic methods of TCM: observation (wang), audio-olfaction (Wen), inquiry (Wen), and palpation (Qie). Particular focus is paid to pulse and tongue diagnosis. Basic Biomedical Diagnostic skills will be discussed. Proper referrals will be analyzed based on recognition of symptoms. (Prerequisite: ECM-312)

Diagnostic Systems

DSY-312


This course teaches the diagnostic systems of TCM. Discussions will focus on learning to form a diagnosis using many different systems including eight parameters, Zang-fu organs, six stages, four levels, san jiao, states of Qi/blood/body fluids and meridian theory. (Prerequisite: ECM-312 and DME-312)

General Biology

GBI-302


The course provides the student with information about general concepts within the realm of Biology.

Medical Terminology

MTE-302


This course is designed for students who have successfully completed Anatomy and Physiology. The emphasis is on basic medical word structure, prefixes, suffixes, combining forms, and pronunciation. Students learn standard medical vocabulary and medical abbreviations. Medical terms from specialized areas of medicine such as psychiatry and radiology are covered. The meaning of words is extracted by a method called divide, analyze, and define.

Supervised Clinic Observation

SCO-332


Supervised Clinic Observation is designed to build up student skills, confidence, and comfort level one step at a time. The first clinic courses are observational and practical. Students are required to receive at least ten treatments, so they can experience first-hand what it is like to be a patient of Oriental Medicine. Clinic provides students with the opportunity to observe various techniques they studied. Upon completion of Asian Bodywork students will be required to give 30 Asian bodywork treatments. While enrolled in Introduction to Needling students will be allowed to apply moxa and cupping to patients.

Point Location 1

PL1-313


Point location is a vitally important clinical skill which must be mastered for the effects of acupuncture and moxibustion to be fully optimized. This course is designed as an introductory course for first year students, which focuses on channel (meridian) theory, palpation of surface anatomy, and the actual location of acupuncture points. The course will begin with the study of the theory and pathways of the channel system as a whole, acupuncture point theory and proportional measurements of body areas. The majority of time in this class will then be devoted to location of individual points both by means of anatomy and by the traditional channel routes. Functions and indications of the most important points will be discussed. Classes typically begin with lectures and demonstrations and move on to practice in locating points. Both didactic and practical skills will be assessed at the completion of the class. This course is an introductory course for the first year students, which focuses on the location of points. The course will begin with the study of the basic channel and point theory and then the individual points will be discussed by both the geographic section and the channel routes.

Point Location 2

PL2-313


This course is a continuation of “Point Location 1.” Students continue learning the points located on the twelve main channels, as well as commonly-used extra points. In addition, the scope of study will extend to the eight extraordinary channels, and the Chinese and European auricular systems. (Prerequisite: PL1-313)

Point Indication

PTI-313


This course is an expanded study of PL1 and PL2, in which students learn the specific categories of point function, principles for composing an acupuncture formula based on commonly-used combinations of points, local-distal point combinations, and points commonly associated with various patterns of disharmony. Each point category and each individual channel will be discussed in depth and information from previous classes will be reviewed. This course represents an important step in the learning process, from understanding point location and indication for each individual point to forming synergistic combinations based on both classical sources and personal creativity to approaching the study of specific disease entities and their treatment which will be addressed later in the program. (Prerequisite: PL1-313 and PL2-313)

Needling

INE-313


An introduction to the various types of needles, clean needle techniques, needling methods, needling practice, cupping, moxibustion, electrical stimulation, precautions and contraindications, and emergency management. (Concurrent enrollment in PL1-313, PL2-313, and PTI-313) 

Supervised Clinic Observation

SCO-333


This third clinic course continues to be observational. The clinic portion is designed to build the student’s skill, confidence, and comfort level one step at a time. In this semester students are allowed to assist in Asian bodywork treatment, begin to practice pulse diagnosis, and participate in case discussions 

Herbal Medicine 1

HM1-424


This class begins the study of TCM herbal medicine. The format of the class is such that study of formulas is combined with the study of materia medica. Introductory materials on both aspects of TCM herbal medicine will be presented, along with orientation to the AMC herbal dispensary. Study of the material itself will begin with some two dozen of the most commonly used formulas in modern practice, focusing on the treatment principles of Qi, Blood, Yin and Yang supplementation and harmonization of liver and spleen. The formulas are presented in such a way as to build on those previously taught, thus enhancing understanding of formula composition and ensuring retention of the material taught. Individual medicinals will be presented within the context of the formulas themselves. The module will include more than 60 of the most important Chinese medicinals, including their taste, temperature, functions, indications, dosage, and contraindications. Practical experience in identifying and handling the medicinals themselves as well as grouping them into formulas will prepare the students for their role in dispensing the herbs in the student clinic. (Prerequisite: ECM-312, DME-312 and DSY-312)

Pathology 1

PA1-404


The course provides the student with information about the mechanisms of disease and the pathological processes that occurs within each system of the human body. The following subjects are covered: Cellular Pathology, Inflammation, Neoplasms, Immunopathology, Genetic Disorders, and Diseases of the circulatory, respiratory, digestive, hematopoietic, lymphoid, and endocrine systems. (Prerequisite: ANP-301)

Pathology 2 / Medical Errors

PA2-404


This class is a continuation of Pathology I. Students will learn the signs, symptoms and management of various essential pathologies. In addition, students will review information about the mechanisms of disease and the pathological processes that occur within each system of the human body. (Prerequisite: ANP-301 and PA1-404)

Biochemistry/Labwork/Imaging

BLI-404


This course provides a general study of the blood work and its biochemical analysis. Emphasis is placed on the most commonly used laboratory data and their interpretation.

Supervised Clinic Practice

SCP-434


Clinic work occurs each semester in the Oriental Medicine training program. The clinic portion is designed to build up student skills, confidence, and comfort level one step at a time. In Supervised Clinic Practice, students develop their interviewing skills, develop their case taking skills, write SOAPs, establish a good rapport with the patient, perform a basic physical exam, write a treatment plan, and practice their acupuncture techniques. Students are expected to begin their herbal training with herbal patients and in the herbal dispensary. Students will be encouraged to further develop their Asian bodywork skills by giving 30 additional Asian bodywork treatments. (Prerequisite: SCO-331,
SCO-332 and SCO-333)

Research & Case Presentation

RCP-444


Research and Case Presentation is a short course that prepares students to write and present case presentations, a vital component of Chinese Medicine; successfully complete assigned research papers for class; work toward writing for publication in peer-reviewed professional and academic journals, and write and present case presentations. The ability to conceive and perform quality research and report findings to a professional audience is a vital component of the healing arts. Students will have the opportunity to choose a research topic, learn effective research methods and receive individualized assistance in developing their ideas.

Supervised Clinical Practice

SCP-435


Clinic work occurs each semester in Oriental Medicine training program. The clinic portion is designed to build up student skills, confidence, and comfort level one step at a time. In Supervised Clinic Practice, students develop their interviewing skills, develop their case taking skills, write SOAP’s, establish a good rapport with the patient, perform a basic physical exam, write a treatment plan, and practice their acupuncture techniques. Students are expected to begin their herbal training with herbal patients and in the herbal dispensary. Students will be encouraged to further develop their Asian Bodywork skills by giving 30 additional Asian bodywork treatments. (Prerequisite: SCO-331, SCO-332 and SCO-333)

Herbal Medicine 2

HM2-425


This class continues the study of TCM herbal medicine. The format of the class is such that study of formulas is combined with the study of materia medica. Study of the material will proceed according to the standard categorization of medicinals and formulae found in most Chinese and English-language textbooks. Categories for this module will include Herbs and Formulas that expel dampness Herbs and Formulas That Clear Heat, and Herbs and Formulas That Drain Downward. Approximately 40 formulas from these categories will be included, with their constituents, functions and indications, and standard modifications. The module will also include study of approximately 75 Chinese medicinals, including their taste, temperature, functions, indications, dosage, and contraindications. Practical experience in identifying and handling the medicinals themselves as well as grouping them into formulas will prepare the students for their role in dispensing the herbs in the student clinic.(Prerequisite: DME-312, DSY-312, ECM-312 and HM1-424)

Physical Exam

IPE-405


Students will review basic physical examination which will include listening to the heart and lungs, palpation of the different organs, patient interview procedures, and patient record maintenance. In addition, students will review information about the mechanisms of disease and the pathological processes that occur within each area or system of the human body. This class will concentrate on the areas and systems of the Head and Neck Area, the Integumentary System, the Thoracic Area and the Pulmonary/Respiratory System, the Cardiovascular System (heart, vessels, blood, and lymph), the Abdominal Area, the Nervous System and Neurological evaluation. (Prerequisite: MUS-301 and ANP-301)

Orthopedic Assessment

OAS-405


This class is designed to give students basic knowledge required to perform an orthopedic assessment in a clinical practice. Instruction will be given on the use of goniometers, reflex hammers and sensory/muscle testing. Students are expected to utilize previous knowledge of the musculoskeletal system. (Prerequisite: MUS-301 and ANP-301)

Advanced Acupuncture 1

AA1-416


Advanced Acupuncture 1 is a course designed to take the student from the material presented in earlier classes Diagnostic Methods, Diagnostic Systems and Point Indication into the treatment of specific diseases and syndrome presentations as they appear in the clinic. This course will begin with an introduction to general principles of treatment, basic principles for selection of points and applications of specific points. In addition, the course will cover etiology, pathology, and the differentiation and treatment of individual disorders in internal medicine. Organization of the subject matter is based on specific TCM disease categories grouped according to the organ network with which they are most commonly associated. Further differentiation of TCM patterns is presented for each disease category along with treatment principles for each pattern, recommended treatment points, and modalities. In most cases, relevant biomedical information will be presented in order to enable the student to determine a prognosis and identify cases which require referral to appropriate non-TCM practitioners. 

(Prerequisite:  ECM-312, DME-312, DSY-312, PTI-313 and INE-313)

Herbal Medicine 3

HM3-426


This class continues the study of TCM herbal medicine, both formulas and materia medica. Categories for this module will include herbs and formulas that harmonize, treat dryness, expel dampness, warm the interior, and tonify. Approximately 40 formulas from these categories will be included, with their constituents, functions and indications, and standard modifications. The module will also include study of approximately 75 Chinese medicinal, including their taste, temperature, functions, indications, dosage, and contraindications. Practical experience in identifying and handling the medicinal themselves as well as grouping them into formulas will prepare the students for their role in dispensing the herbs in the student clinic. (Prerequisite: ECM-312, DME-312, DSY-312 and HM1-424)

Advanced Acupuncture 2

AA2-416


Advanced Acupuncture 2 continues the course of study begun in Advanced Acupuncture 1, with the addition of clinically important miscellaneous disease categories such as musculoskeletal disorders, gynecology and obstetrics, pediatrics, dermatology, and otorhinolaryngology. Emergency disorders will be addressed. Additional material will focus on treatment of classical patterns of externally-contracted febrile diseases from the Cold Damage and Warm Disease schools, as well as treatment of diseases involving the Extraordinary Vessels. This course will begin with a continuation of zangfu pathology. In addition, the course will cover etiology, pathology, and the differentiation and treatment of individual disorders in internal medicine. Organization of the subject matter is based on specific TCM disease categories grouped according to the organ network with which they are most commonly associated. Further differentiation of TCM patterns is presented for each disease category along with treatment principles for each pattern, recommended treatment points, and modalities. In most cases, relevant biomedical information will be presented in order to enable the student to determine a prognosis and identify cases which require referral to appropriate non-TCM practitioners. (Prerequisite: AA1-416, ECM-312, DME-312, PL1-313, PL2-313, PTI-313 and INE-313)

Supervised Clinic Practice

SCP-436


Clinic work occurs each semester in Oriental Medicine training program. The clinic portion is designed to build up student skills, confidence, and comfort level one step at a time. In Supervised Clinic Practice, students develop their interviewing skills, develop their case taking skills, write SOAP’s, establish a good rapport with the patient, perform a basic physical exam, write a treatment plan, and practice their acupuncture techniques. Students are expected to begin their herbal training with herbal patients and in the herbal dispensary. Students will be encouraged to further develop their Asian bodywork skills by giving 30 additional Asian bodywork treatments. (Prerequisite: SCO-331, SCO-332 and SCO-333)

Pharmacology

PHA-606


This master’s level course provides a general study of the basics of pharmacology. Emphasis is placed upon principles and mechanisms of drug action. This course sets the foundation for comprehension of pharmacological principles, actions and interactions. A theoretical understanding of the general classifications leads to and more extensive comprehension of the unique actions, interactions, contraindications and confounding variables that should be considered in current practical applications for the optimum health and safety of the patient.

Acupuncture Board Review

ACR-517


This course reviews the information required to take and pass the National Board (NCCAOM) exam for Acupuncture with Point Location. It will cover the entire channel system, acupuncture points, extraordinary points, the auricular system, acupuncture treatments, diagnostic methods, diagnostic systems, and differentiation of syndromes. Registration with NCCAOM is required. (Prerequisite: ECM-312, DME-312, DSY-312, PL1-313, PL2-313, PTI-313, INE-313, AA1-416, and AA2-416)

Herbal Medicine 4

HM4-527


This class continues the study of TCM herbal medicine. The format of the class is such that study of formulas is combined with the study of materia medica. Study of the material will proceed according to the standard categorization of medicinal and formulae found in most Chinese and English-language textbooks. Approximately 40 formulas will be included, with their constituents, functions and indications, and standard modifications. The module will also include study of approximately 75 Chinese medicinal from the same therapeutic category as the formulas studied, including their taste, temperature, functions, indications, dosage, and contraindications. Practical experience in identifying and handling the medicinal themselves as well as grouping them into formulas will prepare the students for their role in dispensing the herbs in the student clinic. (Prerequisite: ECM-312, DME-312, DSY-312 and HM1-424)

Herbal Medicine 5

HM5-527


This class continues the study of TCM herbal medicine, both formulas and materia medica. Categories for this module will include herbs and formulas that extinguish wind, open the orifices, treat phlegm, reduce food stagnation, and expel parasites. Approximately 40 formulas from these categories will be included, with their constituents, functions and indications, and standard modifications. The module will also include study of approximately 75 Chinese medicinal, including their taste, temperature, functions, indications, dosage, and contraindications. Practical experience in identifying and handling the medicinal themselves as well as grouping them into formulas will prepare the students for their role in dispensing the herbs in the student clinic. (Prerequisite: ECM-312, DME-312, DSY-32 and HM1-424)

Pharmacognosy and Drug Interaction

PDI-527


This class is designed to further instruct the student about the potential toxicities and contraindications for the use of Chinese herbal medicines. Students will also learn about the different drugs imported in Chinese herbal remedies. (Prerequisite: ECM-312, DME-312, DSY-312, HM1424, and HM5-527)

Practice Management

PMT-547


This class will cover the legal and ethical guidelines by which the practitioner must operate based on the Florida Statutes and Rules. Information will be presented on setting up your own practice and will include discussion on the types of business organizations as well as tax and insurance requirements. Marketing and communication skills will be discussed and practiced in class. Finally an in-depth survey of the various types of insurance billing will be presented. All the necessary forms and “know-hows” of the profession will be discussed.

Clinic & Herb Practice

CHP-537


n the Clinic and Herb Practice students work in the herbal dispensary interviewing and diagnosing patients as well as writing and dispensing appropriate formulas. Students will be required to take an independent role in diagnosing, developing a treatment plan, and administering treatment. By the end of the program, students should require only minimal supervision. (Prerequisite: SCP-434, SCP-435 and SCP-436)

Biomedicine Comprehensive Review

BBR-608


This course reviews the content required to take the NCCAOM Biomedicine Board Exam. It will cover the following items: Anatomy, Physiology, Medical Terminology, Pathology, Pharmacology, Biochemistry/Blood work/Imaging, and Introduction to Physical Exam, Orthopedic Assessment, Legal, Professional, and Safety Issues. Registration with NCCAOM is required. (Prerequisite: ANP-301, MUS-301, GBI-302, MTE-302, IPE-405, OAS-405, PA1-404, PA2-404, BLI-404, and PHA-606)

Internal Medicine 1

IM1-618


This course covers etiology, pathology, differentiation, and treatment of individual disorders of internal medicine. The treatment focuses on selecting Chinese herbal formulas and modifications according to clinical manifestations. The course also reviews acupuncture point selection and proper techniques. (Prerequisite: ECM-312, DME-312, DSY-312, PL1313, PL2313, PTI-313, INE-313, HM1-424, HM3-426, AA1-416, and AA2-416)

Internal Medicine 2

IM2-628


This course covers etiology, pathology, differentiation, and treatment of individual disorders of internal medicine. The treatment focuses on selecting Chinese herbal formulas and modifications according to clinical manifestations. The course also reviews acupuncture point selection and proper techniques. (Prerequisite: ECM-312, DME-312, DSY-312, PTI-313, INE-313, HM3-426, AA2-416, IM1-618)

TCM Gynecology

GYN-618


This course is designed to deepen the student’s understanding of treating gynecological conditions with TCM. The course will cover pathophysiology, diagnosis, therapeutic principles, and acupuncture and herbal treatment plans for a range of diseases including: Menstrual Diseases, Fertility Disorders, Gestational and Postpartum Disorders and Miscellaneous Diseases. (Concurrent enrollment in IM1-618 and IM2-628)

Clinic and Herb Practice

CHP-638


In the Clinic and Herb Practice students work in the herbal dispensary interviewing and diagnosing patients as well as writing and dispensing appropriate formulas. Students will be required to take an independent role in diagnosing, developing a treatment plan, and administering treatment. By the end of the program, students should require only minimal supervision. (Prerequisite: SCP-434, SCP-435, SCP-436)

Herbal Board Review

HCR-629


The course reviews the information to successfully take and pass AMC's Herbal Board Review Exam and the NCCAOM Herbal Board Exam. This includes single herbs, formulas, and other additional information. Single Herbs will be reviewed first by functional category followed by the secondary energetics of these herbs. Formulas are studied according to functional categories and other types of differentiation. Registration with NCCAOM is required. (Prerequisite: HM1-424, HM2-425, HM3-426, HM4-527, HM5-527, PDI-527, IM2-628, and GYN-618)

TCM Dietary Therapy

TDT-629


This course teaches the concept of Chinese Diet Therapy. Using Chinese medical theory as a reference, the class will examine the energetic properties of food, the classification of various foods within the context of the Eight Principles and Five Elements, and specific applications of dietary therapy to Pattern Differentiation and TCM disease classification. There will also be an introduction to the concept of medicated diet, using herbal medicine combined with food. (Prerequisite: ECM-312, DME-312 and DSY-312)

Classics of Chinese Medicine

CCM-619


This course will introduce and discuss the Huang Di Nei Jing, or Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine, and the Nan Jing, or Classic of Difficulties, which are two of the foundation classics of acupuncture theory and praxis. An overview of the works will be given, and a number of the most clinically and historically important chapters will be examined more closely. (Prerequisite: ECM-312, DME-312 and DSY-312)

Behavioral Medicine

BME-649


This is a graduate level class focusing on four major areas: Behavioral Medicine as an approach which utilizes the biopsychosocial model of health in order to explore, research, and use the relationship between the social scientific principles and medicine in the process of healing and managing chronic illnesses. Behavioral Medicine as a western therapeutic approach which supports Oriental Medicine; Analysis of the current and past research related to mind- body healing (psychoneuroimmunology). Exploration of psychopathology from a Western perspective and its relationship to the OM perspective. Additionally, students will discover via case studies and discussions their ability to integrate their existing healthcare skills with behavioral medicine approaches. The ethical and legal aspects of referring patients to another practitioner will be discussed. (Prerequisite: SCO-331, SCO-332, and SCO-333)

Clinic and Herb Practice

CHP-639


In the Clinic and Herb Practice students work in the herbal dispensary interviewing and diagnosing patients as well as writing and dispensing appropriate formulas. Students will be required to take an independent role in diagnosing, developing a treatment plan, and administering treatment. By the end of the program, students should require only minimal supervision. (Prerequisite: SCP-434, SCP-435, and SCP-436)