Careers in Oriental Medicine

Today's careers in Oriental medicine are founded on the rich
traditions, philosophies, and practices of ancient Traditional
Chinese Medicine (TCM). Candidates interested in pursuing these
alternative medicine professions find that there are a variety of
occupational paths from which to choose. Whether individuals want to
become Tuina therapists, Oriental medicine practitioners, or licensed
acupuncturists (among others), modern careers in Oriental medicine
and acupuncture offer individuals a unique professional future in
holistic health and healing.

Educational Pathways and Oriental Medicine Career Outlook

When you're ready to get a jumpstart on any one of the fast-growing
careers in Oriental medicine, you should determine which course of
study is going to meet your professional aspirations. If Asian body
work interests you, you can apply to a number of Tuina,
acupressure/Shiatsu, or Meridian therapy programs. Tuina is a hands-on
program often comprised of 300+ practical training hours. In addition
to learning the philosophies of TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine),
students get practical training in Tuina (Eastern massage) Tai Chi,
and more.

To earn one of the careers in Oriental medicine like professional
acupuncturists and Oriental medicine practitioners, it is essential to
acquire an in-depth education at an acupuncture college or school. In
addition to academic prerequisites, students must dedicate three to
four years to rigorous studies in acupuncture, biosciences, TCM
philosophies and history, Chinese herbal medicine, moxibustion,
cupping, Qigong, Tai Chi, Chinese medical language, and advanced
needling techniques, among other related coursework.

Currently, 40 States and the District of Columbia adhere to
educational guidelines as prescribed by the National Certification
Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) examination
(for advanced careers in Oriental medicine).

Those who have successfully completed all training and educational
requirements to attain licensure and/or certification to become
Oriental medicine practitioners and/or doctors can go onto achieving
personally and professionally rewarding healthcare occupations.
Individuals, who have developed their careers in Oriental medicine,
can earn $70+ per session.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in learning more about
these or other alternative medicine occupations, let professional
training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy,
naturopathy, acupuncture, Chinese medicine, Reiki, and others get you
started! Explore careers in Oriental medicine near you.

*Source - BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Careers in Oriental Medicine

© Copyright 2008

The CollegeBound Network

All Rights Reserved

NOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant
websites, as long as Copyright and Author Resource Box are included;
and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.

_By: *CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd*_

*About the Author:*

*Resource Box:* CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd - Freelance Writer and Web
Consultant for *HolisticJunction.com* [1], _in association with
CollegeSurfing.com_ - Educational Resources for *Careers in Oriental
Medicine* [2], *Acupuncture Schools* [3], and other unique training
programs.

Links:
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[1] http://www.holisticjunction.com
[2] http://www.holisticjunction.com/categories/HAD/acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine.html
[3] http://www.holisticjunction.com/categories/HAD/acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine.html