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TRANSCRIPT
VIRGINIAUNIVERSITY of
INTEGRATIVEMEDICINE
CATALOG2018- 2019
Master of Science in Oriental Medicine
Master of Science in Acupuncture
Revised on 06/08/2018 2
Table of Contents
A Letter from the President ................................................................................................................................................. 5
I. GENERAL INFORMATION ........................................................................................................................................... 6
History and Accreditation ................................................................................................................................................... 6
Institutional Mission and Objectives ................................................................................................................................... 6
Legal Status of the University ............................................................................................................................................. 7
Virginia Acupuncturist Licensure ........................................................................................................................................ 8
Faculty ................................................................................................................................................................................. 8
Administration .................................................................................................................................................................. 11
Academic Calendar (2018 ~ 2019) .................................................................................................................................... 12
II. ACADEMIC DEFINITIONS, POLICIES and PROCESSES ................................................................................... 13
Academic Integrity ............................................................................................................................................................ 13
Method of Instruction ....................................................................................................................................................... 13
Enrollment Status .............................................................................................................................................................. 13
Attendance Policy ............................................................................................................................................................. 13
Add/Drop Policy ................................................................................................................................................................ 14
Quarter Credit/Clock Hour Conversion ............................................................................................................................. 14
Examinations ..................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Grading Scale ..................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Cumulative Grade Point Average Calculation (CGPA) ....................................................................................................... 14
Grade Report ..................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Grade Appeal .................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Repeating Courses ............................................................................................................................................................ 15
Auditing Courses Policy ..................................................................................................................................................... 15
Non-Matriculated and Public Education Students ............................................................................................................ 16
I-20 Program Extension ..................................................................................................................................................... 16
Reservation of Rights to modify curriculum, fees and policies ......................................................................................... 16
Transfer Credit Policy ........................................................................................................................................................ 17
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy .................................................................................................................... 19
Revised on 06/08/2018 3
Withdrawal and Leave of Absence Policy ......................................................................................................................... 21
III. Master of Science in Oriental Medicine (MSOM) ..................................................................................................... 23
Program description .......................................................................................................................................................... 23
Program Objectives ........................................................................................................................................................... 23
Graduation Requirements................................................................................................................................................. 23
Admissions Requirements ................................................................................................................................................. 24
Additional Requirements for International Student Admissions ...................................................................................... 25
Accommodation for Disability ........................................................................................................................................... 27
Adherence to Academic Policies, Procedures and Processes ........................................................................................... 28
License Requirements ....................................................................................................................................................... 28
Course Numbering System ................................................................................................................................................ 28
Master of Science in Oriental Medicine Program ............................................................................................................. 29
Program Outline by Quarter – Master of Science in Oriental Medicine (Example) .......................................................... 31
Course Description ............................................................................................................................................................ 32
IV. Master of Science in Acupuncture (MSA) .................................................................................................................. 48
Program Description ......................................................................................................................................................... 48
Program Objectives ........................................................................................................................................................... 48
Graduation Requirements................................................................................................................................................. 48
Admissions Requirements ................................................................................................................................................. 49
Additional Requirements for International Student Admissions ...................................................................................... 50
Accommodation for Disability ........................................................................................................................................... 52
Adherence to Academic Policies, Procedures and Processes ........................................................................................... 52
License Requirements ....................................................................................................................................................... 52
Course Numbering System ................................................................................................................................................ 53
Master of Science in Acupuncture Program ..................................................................................................................... 53
Program Outline by Quarter – Master of Science in Acupuncture (Example) .................................................................. 55
Course Description ............................................................................................................................................................ 56
V. Post Baccalaureate Certificate in East Asian Nutrition Program (Cert. EAN)........................................................ 65
Program Description ......................................................................................................................................................... 65
Program Objectives ........................................................................................................................................................... 65
Graduation Requirements................................................................................................................................................. 65
Admissions Requirements ................................................................................................................................................. 66
Revised on 06/08/2018 4
Additional Requirements for International Student Admissions ...................................................................................... 67
Accommodation for Disability ........................................................................................................................................... 69
Adherence to Academic Policies, Procedures and Processes ........................................................................................... 69
License Requirements ....................................................................................................................................................... 70
Course Numbering System ................................................................................................................................................ 70
Post Baccalaureate Certificate in East Asian Nutrition Program ...................................................................................... 70
Course Description ............................................................................................................................................................ 71
VI. STUDENT RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES .......................................................................................................... 75
Student Code of Professional Conduct ............................................................................................................................. 75
Academic Dishonesty ........................................................................................................................................................ 75
Inappropriate Conduct ...................................................................................................................................................... 75
Policy on Diversity & Non-Discrimination ......................................................................................................................... 75
Non-Discrimination/Handicapped Policy .......................................................................................................................... 76
Drug and Alcohol Abuse Policy ......................................................................................................................................... 76
Administration of Student Discipline ................................................................................................................................ 76
Unapproved Distribution of Student Handouts, Test Questions and Educational Materials ........................................... 77
Student Grievances and Grievance Procedure ................................................................................................................. 77
Student Services ................................................................................................................................................................ 78
FERPA ................................................................................................................................................................................ 81
VII. TUITION & FEES, FINANCIAL POLICIES ......................................................................................................... 85
Tuition and Fees ................................................................................................................................................................ 85
Total Estimated Program Cost .......................................................................................................................................... 87
Tuition and Refunds Policy ................................................................................................................................................ 88
Financial Aid Policy ............................................................................................................................................................ 89
Return of Title IV Funds (R2T4) Policy ............................................................................................................................... 91
Revised on 06/08/2018 5
Welcome to
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine
A Letter from the President
As we know, acupuncture and oriental medicine has been around for thousands of years. The practice and art
of acupuncture is the culmination of self-preservation, holistic study, and the affirmation of a deep-rooted
belief and commitment to prevention, healing, and caring for others. But it has had difficulty gaining wide
acceptance in the west due to difficulties in verification of the medicine. Through a growing body of evidence
that proves that acupuncture and oriental medicine work effectively for so many ailments, more and more
western institutions such as university hospitals and insurers have adopted AOM as an integral part of their
eco-systems.And just like when there was the belief that
the earth was flat and not round or that a concussion was
just a bad headache, science is validating the efficacy and
true healing powers of acupuncture and oriental medicine.
At Virginia University of Integrative Medicine (VUIM),
we carry on this deep-rooted belief and commitment by
bridging traditional practices with new techniques and
ideas; and we do so by living out the following core values
everyday:
Compassion, Community, Integrity, Innovation,
and Inspiration
Our faculty strives to motivate and inspire our students by setting high standards and meeting those standards
through innovative pedagogical methodologies while keeping things fun and interesting. The VUIM clinic
staff supports and reaffirms didactic learning for interns while serving and treating patients with the utmost
care and compassion. Everyone at VUIM, from top to bottom and from the ground-up, cares deeply for
student development and student life. While we cannot guarantee that you will win the Nobel Prize, we can
guarantee that you will be treated and supported with great care and appreciation.
So come join the VUIM community to be part of this growing field and become leaders of tomorrow.
Revised on 06/08/2018 6
I. GENERAL INFORMATION
History and Accreditation
In January 2004, Virginia College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (VCAOM)was established as a
school and clinic to educate students and provide treatment for the community, and was certified to operate as
a not-for-profit legal entity under the Laws of the State of Virginia.
On October 29, 2008, VCAOM changed its name to Virginia University of Oriental Medicine (VUOM) andon
March 23, 2018VUOM changed its name to Virginia University of Integrative Medicine (VUIM).
VUIM is currently certified to operate by the State Council of Higher Education of Virginia (SCHEV) and is
institutionally and programmatically accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and
Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) to offer Master of Science of Acupuncture(MSA) program and Master of
Science in Oriental Medicine (MSOM) program in English, Korean and Chinese language.
ACAOMis located at 8941 Aztec Drive, Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55347; phone 952/212-2434; fax 952/657-
7068.
InstitutionalMission and Objectives
Mission
The mission of the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine is to produce educated health care
practitioners highly skilled in acupuncture and oriental medicine, trained to provide the community with
affordable healthcare services while fostering the growth and practice of acupuncture and oriental medicine.
Objectives
Diverse and inclusive, VUIM serves the state of Virginia and the United States of America by developing
responsible complimentary healthcare professionals capable of communicating effectively, disseminating the
knowledge gained through the institution‘s programs, and providing world-class patient care.
Upon graduation from the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine, students will graduate having met
these objectives:
Formulate a logical treatment principle from an Oriental Medical diagnosis, which can be put into
actionutilizing Oriental Medical modalities.
Evaluate patients and utilize the Four Pillars of Diagnosis to formulate a treatment.
Demonstrate competency in administering a treatment plan as part of the clinical encounter.
Demonstrate communicative and academic competence necessary for general professional activities
such as presentations, meetings, and patient consultations.
Exhibit professional integrity, leadership, and effective collaboration skills.
Revised on 06/08/2018 7
Legal Status of the University
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine (VUIM) is incorporated in the state of Virginia as a Not-for Profit
Corporation duly formed and organized under the laws and regulations of the Secretary of State for the State
of Virginia. The Articles of Incorporation were filed with the Virginia State Corporation Commission on
January 22, 2004. VUIM is certified to operate and operates as a legal entity under the Laws of the State of
Virginia.
Board of Trustees
Jane Kim, Chair John Yoo, Secretary
Charles Chung, Public Member Dr. David Park, Public Member
Cindy Choi, Public Member Brian Yong Choi, Public Member
Dr. Lixing Lao, Professional Member Dr. Tae Cheong Choo, Non-Voting Member
John D. Shin, Non-Voting Member
Compliance with Legal Requirements
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine (VUIM), in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act
of1964, operates in a nondiscriminatory manner with regard to race, color, age, or national origin.
Furthermore, as required by Title IX of the 1972 Education Amendments, VUIM does not discriminate on the
basis of sex in its educational programs, activities, or employment policies.
VUIM also provides equal opportunity for qualified handicapped persons in accordance with the requirements
of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.Instructional and other facilities (including an elevator to
third floor) are readily accessible to handicapped students. Inquiries and appeals regarding compliance should
be directed to the Director of Admissions & University Officials.
Approval Disclosure Statement
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine is certified to operate by the State Council ofHigher Education for
Virginia to confer the following programs:
Master of Science in Acupuncture (English, Korean, Chinese)
Master of Science in Oriental Medicine (English, Korean, Chinese)
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine (VUIM) is approved by the
U.S. Citizenship and immigration Services to Enroll Foreign Students.
VUIM is responsible for providing the Student and Exchange Visitor
Information System (SEVIS) with information regarding foreign students.
Revised on 06/08/2018 8
Virginia Acupuncturist Licensure
In Virginia, a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.) is a primary care practitioner, able to practice independently.
The scope practice will encompass acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition, Oriental massage, acupressure,
and breathing techniques.
Department of Health Professions
Commonwealth of Virginia
Board of Medicine
9960 Maryland Drive, #300
Henrico, Virginia 23233-1463
(804) 367-4570
Faculty
Full-time Faculty
Dr. Tae Cheong Choo, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac. NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Herbology, Pain Control, Neuropathy, Orthopedic, Clinical Supervisor
Ph. D in Oriental Medicine, Graduate School of Kyung Hee University (Seoul, Korea)
Master of Korean Medicine, Graduate School of Kyung Hee University (Seoul, Korea)
Dr. HoonByung Lee, D.A.O.M., L.Ac., Dipl. Ac. NCCAOM
Teaching specialization: Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine, Qi Gong, Clinical Supervisor
Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental medicine, Oregon College of Oriental Medicine
Master of Science in Oriental Medicine, Midwest College of Oriental Medicine
Chang Hee Kim, M.S.O.M., L.Ac., Dipl. Ac. NCCAOM
Teaching specialization: Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine, Clinical Supervisor
Master of Science in Oriental Medicine, Dongguk Royal University
DooriAhn, M.D. (China)
Teaching Specialization: Oriental Medicine, Herbology
Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (Beijing, China)
Gyeongsung Gang, M.S.O.M.
Teaching Specialization: Herbology
Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University (Changchun, China)
Bachelor of Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine (Jiangsu, China)
Adjunct Faculty
Angelique Black
Teaching Specialization: Bio-Medicine
Master of Medical Science - Physician Assistant, Emory University
Ali Sherbiny, L.Ac., Dipl. OM. NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine, Tui-Na
Revised on 06/08/2018 9
Master of Science in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, Arizona School of Acupuncture and Oriental
Medicine
Andrew Pyo, M.S.O.M., L.Ac., Dipl. Ac. NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine, Gynecology
Master of Oriental Medicine, New York College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Master of Acupuncture, New York College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Bruce Park, M.S.O.M., L.Ac.,
Teaching Specialization: Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine
Master of Science in Oriental Medicine, Tri-State College of Acupuncture
FulingGuo, M.D.
Teaching Specialization: Bio-Medicine
Shihezi University School of Medicine
Hon Lee, M.S.O.M., L.Ac., Dipl. Ac. NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Oriental Medicine
Diploma in Acupuncture, Maryland Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Chinese Herbs, Tai Sophia Institute
Master of Acupuncture, New York college of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Hoyoon Chong, M.S.O.M., L.Ac., Dipl. Ac. NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Acupuncture, Korean constitutional medicine
Master of Science in Oriental Medicine, Midwest College of Oriental Medicine
Jie Jin, M.S.O.M., L.Ac., Dipl. Ac. NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine
Master of Science in Acupuncture, Pacific College of Oriental Medicine
Jimmy Oh, M.D.
Teaching Specialization: Bio-Medicine
Doctor of Medicine, Inje University – College of Medicine (Gimhae, Korea)
JungheaRyu, L.Ac, Dipl. OM. NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine
Master of Science in Oriental Medicine, Virginia University of Integrative Medicine
Justin Flinner, M.S.O.M., L.Ac., Dipl. Ac. NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Tai Chi, Qi Gong, Acupuncture
Master of Acupuncture, Maryland University of Integrative Health
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Chinese Herbs, Maryland University of Integrative Health
Justin Short, M.S.O.M., L.Ac., Dipl. OM. NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine
Master of Science in Oriental Medicine, Southwest Acupuncture College
Revised on 06/08/2018 10
Kent Wadsworth, L.Ac., Dipl. AC. NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Oriental Medicine
Master in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, Dragon Rises College of Oriental Medicine
Kerri Westhauser, L.Ac., Dipl. OM. NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Oriental Medicine
Master of Science Acupuncture, Maryland Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Linda Wentz, L.Ac., Dipl. AC. NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Acupuncture
Master of Science Acupuncture, Maryland Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Marc Wasserman, Ph.D., L. Ac., Dipl. Ac., Dipl. Chinese Herbology NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Herbology, Fundamental Theory of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture
Ph.D. in Fundamental Theory of Chinese Medicine, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
(Shenyang, China)
Master of Acupuncture, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Shenyang, China)
RomanaRizvi, M.D.
Teaching Specialization: Bio-Medicine
University of Karachi - Karachi, PK
Run Guo, L.Ac.
Teaching Specialization: Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine
Master - Oriental Medicine, Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine; BS Chinese Medicine, Anhui University
Samar Chanaa, M.D.
Teaching Specialization: Bio-Medicine
Medical College, Baghdad University - Baghdad, Iraq
Sandra Owen-Kelly, M.S.A.C., L.Ac., Dipl. Ac. NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine, Tui Na
Master of Science in Acupuncture, Pacific College of Oriental Medicine
TaranKermani, M.D.
Teaching Specialization: Bio-Medicine
Iran University of Medical Sciences
Xiaolei Zhu, M.D., Ph.D.
Teaching Specialization: Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine, Bio-Medicine
M.D. and PhD from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine
Yaron Cohen,L.Ac., Dipl. OM. NCCAOM
Teaching Specialization: Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine
Masters of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yosan University
Revised on 06/08/2018 11
Yong Kyo Shin, D.C.
Teaching Specialization: Bio-Medicine
Doctor of Chiropractic, Life Chiropractic University
Zhongping Lu, M.D., Ph.D.
Teaching Specialization: Bio-Medicine
M.D. and PhD from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) provides program approval for Virginia
University of Integrative Medicine‘s Master of Science in Oriental Medicine, and requires that clinical training be
conducted under the supervision of program-approved supervisors. Our faculty has all graduated from ACAOM
approved schools of Oriental Medicine with a minimum of a Master‘s Degree in Acupuncture or Oriental Medicine.
Along with that certification, all Virginia University of Oriental Medicine faculty maintain current national credentials
through the National Certification Commission on Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) as well as state
licensure (Washington D.C., Maryland, or Virginia) if providing clinical supervision.
Administration
Name Position
Tae Cheong Choo, Ph.D(Korea), L.Ac. Chief Executive Officer / Program Director
John Shin, J.D. President
John Yoo Chief Operating Officer / Director of Admissions / Acting
Dean
Chang Hee Kim, M.S.O.M., L.Ac. Director of Clinic Operations
Yoomin Kim Finance Officer / Principal Designated School Official
Byung Y.Kim Marketing Director / Director of Student Affairs
Paul Clay-Rooks Admission Officer
Kyung H. Seo, L.Ac., P.T. Director of Clinic Education
Henry Lee, CPA Business Analyst / Financial Aid Officer
JiBaek, L.Ac. Registrar
Steve Krompf, MLIS Librarian
Junil Oh IT Manager
NicoletaArdelean Administrative Staff
Thucoanh Clinic Receptionist
Revised on 06/08/2018 12
Academic Calendar (2018 ~ 2019)
There are four academic terms during a calendar year. Each term consists of ten weeks: courses are offered in the
morning, afternoon and evening from Monday to Sunday. There are three weeks of vacation between terms and Clinical
Intensive term is available during the vacation, which students can take up to 1.5 clinical credits per week. The
graduation exam will be announced to graduating students during the first week of their last quarter. The courses offered
during a particular term are listed in the class schedules, which are published approximately two weeks before the
registration. Any class with insufficient enrollment is subject to cancel without notice. Time, date and instructor may be
subject to change without notice.
2018 201
9 Winter 2018 (January 2 – March 12) Winter 2019 (January 2 – March 12)
Nov. 13 – Dec. 1 Registration for Winter 2018 Quarter Nov.12 – Nov.30
Registration for Winter 2019 Quarter
December 15 Payment due December 9 Payment due
Dec. 15 ~ Dec. 16 Graduation Exam
January 1 New Year‘s Day: No Classes/No Clinical Training
December 19 New Student Orientation
January 2 New student orientation January 1 New Year‘s Day: No Classes / No Clinical Training
January 2 First day of Winter 2017 Quarter January 2 First day of Winter 2019 Quarter
January 8 Last day to drop classes January 9 Last day to drop classes
January 15 Martin Luther King, Jr. day: No Classes January 21 Martin Luther King, Jr. day: No Classes
Jan. 29 – Feb. 4 Midterms week Feb. 4 – Feb. 10 Midterms week
February 19 President‘s Day: No Classes February 18 President‘s Day: No Classes
March 5 – 12 Finals week March 6 – 12 Finals week
Spring 2018 (April 2 – June 10) Spring 2019 (April 1 – June 9)
Feb. 12 – Mar. 2 Registration for Spring 2018 Quarter Feb. 19 – Mar. 8 Registration for Spring 2019 Quarter
March 12 Payment due March 12 Payment due
March 23 Graduation Exam
March 28 New student orientation March 27 New student orientation
April 2 First day of Spring 2017 Quarter April 1 First day of Spring 2019 Quarter
April 9 Last day to drop classes April 8 Last day to drop classes
April 30 – May 6 Midterms week April 29 – May 5 Midterms week
May 28 Memorial day: No Classes/ No Clinical Training May 27 Memorial day: No Classes/ No Clinical Training
June 4 – 10 Finals week June 3 – 9 Finals week
Summer 2018 (July 2 – September 10) Summer 2019 (July 1 – September 8)
May 14 – June 1 Registration for Summer 2018 Quarter May 13 – May 31 Registration for Summer 2019 Quarter
June 10 Payment due June 9 Payment due
June 16 - June 17 Graduation Exam June 22 Graduation Exams
June 27 New student orientation June 26 New student orientation
July 2 First day of Summer 2017 Quarter July 1 First day of Summer 2019 Quarter
July 4 Independence Day: No Classes/ No Clinical Training July 4 Independence Day: No Classes/ No Clinical
Training July 9 Last day to drop classes July 8 Last day to drop classes
Jul. 30 – Aug. 5 Midterms week Jul. 29 – Aug. 4 Midterm week
September 3 Labor day: No Classes/ No Clinical Training September 2 Labor day: No Classes/ No Clinical Training
September 3 - 9 Finals week September 3 - 8 Finals week
Fall 2018 (October 1 – December 9) Fall 2019 (September 30 – December 8)
Aug. 13 – Aug 30 Registration for Fall 2018 Quarter Aug 12 – Aug 30 Registration for Fall 2019 Quarter
September 10 Payment due September 8 Payment due
Sept. 15 - Sept. 16 Graduation Exam September 21 Graduation Exam
September 26 New student orientation September 25 New student orientation
October 1 First day of Fall 2017 Quarter September 30 First day of Fall 2019 Quarter
October 8 Columbus day: No Classes
October 7 Last day to drop classes
October 9 Last day to drop classes October 14 Columbus day: No Classes
Oct. 29 - Nov. 4 Midterms week Oct. 28 - Nov. 3 Midterms week
November 22 Thanksgiving day: No Classes/ No Clinical Training November 28 Thanksgiving day: No Classes/ No Clinical Training
December 3 - 9 Finals week December 2 - 8 Finals week
* Classes on a certain day would have two holidays during the term. The faculty and students must plan for make-up schedule.
Revised on 06/08/2018 13
II. ACADEMIC DEFINITIONS, POLICIES and PROCESSES
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is the pursuit of scholarly activity free from fraud and deception and is a valued
educational objective at VUIM. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, cheating, plagiarizing,
the fabrication of information or citations, and facilitating acts of academic dishonesty by others.Any student
accused of a specific act stated in the previous paragraph is subject to VUIM academic procedures relating or
pertaining to violations of the student code of conduct for academic integrity located in the Student
Handbook.
Method of Instruction
Methods of instruction include lecture, discussion classroom exercises, case studies, role-playing, problem
solving, oral participation/proficiency, quizzes, and midterm and final examinations. In addition, students
may engage in skills and practice observation, demonstration, lab sessions, hands-on skills practice, and
written report and research activities. All course work is prescriptive. Depending on the language track
chosen by the student for their academic program, didactic courses are provided in one of three languages: the
English, Korean, or Chinese language. Regardless of the language track chosen by the student for their
academic program, the Clinical Education portion of their degree is provided in only the English language.
Enrollment Status
• Full-time
Any student enrolled in a minimum of 12 quarter credits. Students cannot enroll in more than 20 quarter
credits without the approval of the Academic Dean
• Part-time
Any student enrolled in less than 12 quarter credits. Student may not enroll in less than 9 quarter credits
without the approval of the Academic Dean
* Note: International students on F-l visa are required to take full course load of 12 quarter hours during ALL
registered quarters. For any questions or issues related to immigration status, please consult with Designated
School Official.
Attendance Policy
Most classes meet once a week for ten weeks with a final examination during the 10th
week of each quarter.
Instructors are required to take attendance for each class session. Three marks of early departure or tardiness
will count as one absence.
Students are required to meet at least 80% of attendance in didactic courses and 100% of attendance in clinic
courses. Failure to attend and participate in class may result in a grade reduction, failure of a course, or
dismissal.
Students who are absent for two consecutive calendar weeks and do not contact the Dean as to their expected
return date may be withdrawn.
Revised on 06/08/2018 14
Add/Drop Policy
During the first week of each quarter, students may add or drop classes. After add/drop period, all
withdrawals will be recorded on the student's transcript as a grade of "WF". Students will be assessed a drop
fee.
Quarter Credit/Clock Hour Conversion
One quarter credit is equivalent to 10 clock-hours of lecture, or 20 clock hours of lab or 30 clock hours of
clinical activity.
Lecture: For every one hour of lecture instruction, a minimum of 2 hours of
homework/reading/preparation is assigned. Therefore, over a 10-week term, 1 lecture credit will be
comprised of 10 hours of lecture (1 hour per week over 10 weeks) and 20 hours of outside work (2 hours
per week over 10 weeks).
Laboratory: For every one hour of laboratory instruction, a minimum of .5 hours of homework/reading/
preparation is assigned. Therefore, over a 10-week term, 1 laboratory credit will be comprised of 20 hours
of laboratory (2 hours per week over 10 weeks) and 10 hours of outside work (1 hour per week over 10
weeks)
* Note: Some courses can be a combination of both lecture and lab so the hours may vary depending on the
make- up of the course. Classes lasting longer than one hour are entitled to take a ten-minute break each hour.
Thus a ―clock hour‖ is calculated on an absolute minimum of 50-minutes of instruction within a 60-minute
period. These time periods cannot be combined or used to shorten the daily class period.
Examinations
Final examinations, or the equivalent, are required for each course. Mid-term examinations, as well as quizzes
and/or other classroom assignments, are administered at the discretion of the instructor.
Grading Scale
VUIM employs the following didactic course grading scale:
Letter Grade Quality Points Grade Scale Description
A 4 90-100% Outstanding
B 3 80- 89% Good
C 2 70 to 79% Satisfactory
F 0 Lower than 70% Failed
P N/A N/A Pass
I N/A N/A Incomplete
R N/A N/A Retake
WF N/A N/A Withdrawn, with penalty
IP N/A N/A In Progress
AUD N/A N/A Audit
Cumulative Grade Point Average Calculation (CGPA)
The CGPA is calculated by multiplying the course credits by the quality points. The total of quality points is
then divided by the credits earned to represent the CGPA. For example,
Revised on 06/08/2018 15
Letter Grade Quality Points Credits Attempted Total Quality Points Earned
A 4.0 4 16
B 3.0 4 12
F 0 4 0
TOTAL 12 28
28 Quality Points earned divided by 12 credits (28/12), represents a CGPA of 2.33.
Grade Report
At the end of each quarter, notification of the student‘s academic standing and report of grades achieved while
in attendance at the University are mailed or distributed in person to each student by faculty.
Grades are normally available within two weeks following the last day of the term. If there are any unpaid
charges or other penalties on record against a student, request for transcripts and class grades will be withheld
unless arrangements to the contrary have been made in advance with the administration. Questions regarding
grades, academic credit, or transcripts should be referred to the Registrar office.
Grade Appeal
Grades, which are given at the discretion of faculty, reflect the academic achievement of the student. Any
students wishing to appeal a grade awarded must initiate the appeal in writing and submit the appeal to the
instructor who issued it. If the student is not satisfied with the instructor‘s explanation or action, the appeal
should be presented to the Academic Dean in writing. No one other than the faculty member can issue or
change a grade, unless the faculty member is no longer working for the university and cannot be located, is
incapacitated, or is deceased. Under those circumstances, the Academic Dean will make the final
determination.
Repeating Courses
Student may choose to repeat a course for several reasons, such as:
To meet the graduation requirements, and/or
Earn a better grade, and/or
Gain a better understanding of the subject.
In the event a student fails a course, the student may repeat the failed course up to two times to obtain a
passing grade. Tuition is charged for each repeated course. Multiple failure grades may result in academic
warning, probation and/or academic dismissal.
Auditing Courses Policy
Persons who do not wish to register for credit may be permitted to register for audit under the following
condition: that they meet admissions requirements, pay the regular audit fee, obtain the consent of the
instructor, audit only courses for which there are adequate class room facilities. In the case of full time
students, obtain the consent of the Dean. Students may audit courses for no credit upon payment of the Audit
Fee.Auditing students must give deference to credit students by allowing them primary access to instructors
and priority during any question and answer periods. Disruptive behavior will result in withdrawal. Clinical
courses do not accept any auditing students.
Revised on 06/08/2018 16
Non-Matriculated and Public Education Students
In general, students under the status of ―Public Education‖ are permitted to take classes such as Tai Chi Chuan
and Qi Gong or elective classes. Non-Matriculated students may enroll in any class they are qualified to take
with advanced permission from the Academic Dean. Non-Matriculated placement in classes is subject to
class space and instructor approval prior to permission to enroll. Students who have completed the
admissions process and have been fully accepted or have conditional acceptance may take courses prior to
their beginning date, as a Non-Matriculated student as long as they qualify for the classes they wish to enroll
in with permission granted by the Academic Dean. The credit for the classes taken during this time will
directly transfer in to the program upon their start date into their enrolled program.
I-20 Program Extension
In order to obtain a program extension, you must show that you have continually maintained status and that
the extension is needed for compelling academic or medical reasons, or a documented illness. Delays in
completing your program caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons for program
extension approval.
Extension of stay can be granted only for documented academic or medical reasons. You may be eligible for
an I-20 extension if the following criteria are met:
The delay was caused by documented academic or medical circumstances.
You have sufficient financial resources to fund your studies and living expenses, and the extension is
requested in a timely manner, with sufficient time for processing before the current expiration
*Note for International Students: if your program end date (I-20, section #5) has expired or you do not meet
the eligibility requirements to apply for a program extension, it will be necessary to file for reinstatement to F-
1 status with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), for which you will have to pay
a substantial fee. In addition, failure to apply for an extension of stay in a timely manner is a violation of F-1
regulations, which can carry heavy penalties.
Required Documentation for Program Extension
The request for an extension of an I-20 consists of several required forms which must be completed and
submitted during an appointment with the Dean:
I-20 Request Form for Extension to Complete Program Requirements, Recommendation Form for I-20
Extensions, and Financial Resources Statement for Issuance of Form I-20 with supporting financial
documents.
How to Request an Extension
First, fill out the Program Extension Request form and meet with the Dean to obtain his/her recommendation.
Once you have prepared all of the extension request materials, you must submit them in person to an
international student advisor, and an appointment is required. We strongly recommend that you submit the
extension request at least 1-2 months prior to the expiration of your current I-20 form.
Be sure to keep this new I-20 and all previous I-20 forms that you have been issued. They must be submitted
upon request to an immigration officer when you travel outside the U.S., for future immigration petitions.
Reservation of Rights to modify curriculum,fees and policies
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine herewith expressly reserves the right to modify curriculum in
compliance with the mandates of the State of Virginia, or any applicable public regulatory body, or as deemed
appropriate by Virginia University of Integrative Medicine.
Revised on 06/08/2018 17
Individual students and informal student groups participate in the curriculum development process by
completing course evaluations at the end of each quarter and periodic student/administration discussion
forums. Students may also speak to members of the faculty and/or administration about individual concerns or
suggestions for the program.
The affairs of VUIM are managed by a Board of Trustees. The Board receives recommendations from the
University President. The Board regularly reviews the University‘s administrative procedures and provides
recommendations to the Board on various relevant matters, including the implementation of state and federal
educational requirements in such areas as tuition and fees, refund policies, personnel qualifications,
institutional facilities, and immigration regulations, etc.
Curriculum Change Policy
VUIM has a right to change the curriculum in order to meet the regulations or guidelines of SCHEV,
ACAOM, or other accreditation or licensing agencies that may impact students‘ ability to practice. Students
will not be asked to forfeit credit hours or pay any additional tuition with the change, above what was agreed
upon in their enrollment agreement, but will be moved into the new curriculum. All changes in the curriculum
will be announced to all students and faculty upon official implementation of the changes.
Transfer Credit Policy
Transferability of Credits and Credentials Earned at Our University
The transferability of credits you earn at Virginia University of Integrative Medicine is at the complete
discretion of an institution to which you may seek to transfer to. Acceptance of the degree or certificate you
earn in any Virginia University of Integrative Medicine program is also at the complete discretion of the
institution to which you may seek to transfer to. If the credits, degree, or certificate that you earn at our
University are not accepted at the institution to which you seek to transfer, you may be required to repeat
some or all of your coursework at that institution. For this reason, you should make certain that transferring to
another institution will meet your educational goals. This may include contacting any institution to which you
may seek to transfer after attending Virginia University of Integrative Medicine to determine if your credits,
degree, or certificate will transfer. Currently, the university does not have any articulation or transfer
agreements with any other college or university.
Acceptance of Prior Credits by VUIM
Transfer credit may be awarded by VUIM for equivalent coursework completed at institutions recognized by
the Department of Education. Only credits beyond the 60 Semester / 90 Quarter credit minimum required for
admission will be eligible for transfer evaluation. Credits will be evaluated from other institutions only upon
receipt of official transcripts mailed directly to VUIM from the Registrar of the prior school(s), and in
accordance to the following standards:
1) Students are required to apply for transfer credit review during the application process and all
documentation (relevant course syllabi, catalogs with course descriptions,etc) must be provided to VUIM‘s
Academic Dean, senior executive staff, or a faculty/staff designee by the first day of the first quarter of the
student‘s enrollment and registration at VUIM. It is the sole responsibility of the student to provide the
University with all necessary and relevant documentation required for transfer credit evaluation in a timely
manner. Transfer Credit evaluations are requested through the Transfer Credit Evaluation form and a
processing cost of $300.
Revised on 06/08/2018 18
2) Equivalency will be determined through examination of published course descriptions and / or syllabi and
is at the sole discretion of VUIM‘s Academic Dean, senior executive staff, or a faculty designee. All
decisions made by the Academic Dean, senior executive staff, or a faculty/staff designee will be deemed
final. Documents reviewed during the transfer credit evaluation process cannot be returned to the applicant
or forwarded to another institution or agency.
3) Eligible transfer credits must have been earned within the last ten (10) years unless the applicant provides
acceptable evidence of continuous activity in the specific field for which transfer credit is requested. At the
discretion of the Academic Dean, senior executive staff, or a faculty/staff designee, a student may take a
challenge exam which may award credit for the corresponding course if a score of 70% is achieved on the
challenge exam.
4) A minimum grade of ―Pass‖ or ―C‖ (2.0) is required for transfer.
5) Transfer credit is granted only when the total hours for any given course have been documented.
6) Residency Requirement: Transfer Students must complete at least 13.5 credits in clinic in VUIM. Note: All
transfer students are required to take CO450 Introduction to Clinical Observation.
7) Course work taken at another institution after admission to VUIM is not transferable unless approved in
advance in writing by the Registrar at the discretion of the Academic Dean and senior executive staff. Such
a request must be submitted by the end of the 1st quarter of study at VUIM.
8) Transfer credit awarded is officially recorded on the student‘s VUIM transcript. Course work transferred
into the program is not included when computing Grade Point Average (GPA).
Veteran’s Affair Eligible Students
For VA-eligible students, a transfer credit evaluation will be conducted prior to attending the first class
session. Credit will be granted for prior education, if applicable, with the program shortened proportionately
and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs notified accordingly. VUIM shall maintain a written record of
the prior education and/or training of the veteran or eligible person.
Revised on 06/08/2018 19
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) ensures that students are progressing through their program of study
both academically and in a timely manner. In order to be considered to be making satisfactory progress
toward a degree or certificate, a student must both maintain specified cumulative grade point averages and a
specified completion rate. To determine satisfactory progress, a student‘s cumulative grade point average and
completion rate will be evaluated at the end of every quarter after grades are posted, approximately 5 days
after the end of the quarter. The maximum time frame that a student is allowed to complete a program is 1.5
times the program length, as measured in credit hours attempted.
The minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) and completion rate required based on program and
quarter progression is as follows:
Cumulative Earned Credit Minimum Percentage of Term Cumulative
Credit Hours Completed that were attempted
Minimum
CGPA
1 – 45 Quarter Credits 67% 2.0
46 – 90 Quarter Credits 67% 2.5
91 – 150 Quarter Credits 67% 2.7
151+ Quarter Credits 67% 3.0
Students are expected to complete the requirements for their program in the scheduled time frame, but in no
case may the credits attempted exceed 1.5 times the credits required to complete the program.
Satisfactory Academic Progress: Warning
At the end of each quarter, if the student has not earned the minimum CGPA and/or has earned less than the
minimum percentage of cumulative credit hours completed that were attempted as described in the chart
above (required to complete the program within 150% of the program length), he or she will be notified in
writing by the Academic Dean and placed on Academic Warning for the remainder of the current quarter (i.e.
if you are placed on academic warning for your first quarter‘s performance, five days after the quarter ends
you will be placed on warning for the next quarter, quarter two). If a student fails to achieve satisfactory
progress by the end of the quarter in which they are on Academic Warning, the student will be notified and
withdrawn from the program (unless the student files and is granted an appeal as defined below). If the
student regains SAP by the end of the quarter, they will be notified and removed from Academic Warning.
Satisfactory Academic Progress: Appeals
A student may appeal the University‘s determination of withdrawal due to failure to re-establish satisfactory
progress by the end of the warning period to the Dean based upon extenuating circumstances. These might
include the death of a relative, an illness of or injury to the student or other extraordinary situations. The
student‘s appeal must be received on or before the first Monday of the second week of the new quarter for the
student to be eligible to continue in the quarter.
The appeal must contain, 1) an explanation of why the student failed to meet the SAP standards; and 2) a
description of what has changed in the student's situation that will enable him or her to again meet the
satisfactory progress standards. Supporting documentation should be submitted if possible.
Satisfactory Academic Progress: Probation, and Academic Plans
The Dean will review the information submitted in the context of the student's entire academic record, and
notify the student of his or her decision within 24 hours. This decision is final. If the appeal is granted, then
the student will be placed on probation for the quarter, and the Dean‘s notice to the student will outline the
Revised on 06/08/2018 20
requirements of the academic plan the student must follow. The terms of the academic plan must ensure the
student will be able to complete the program within the maximum timeframe (1.5 times the program length)
and with the required CGPA for graduation.
At the end of the probationary quarter, the student's progress will be evaluated based upon the academic plan.
If the student is meeting the SAP standards, or he or she has met all of the terms of the academic plan, the
student will be eligible to remain in school. In all subsequent quarters the student must again meet the SAP
standards or the terms of the academic plan.
If the student fails to meet the terms of the academic plan at the end of the probationary quarter, the student
will be dismissed. Second appeals in this situation will only be granted at the discretion of the Dean, and
based upon very exceptional circumstances.
Procedure for re-establishing Satisfactory Academic Progress
A student who is placed on Academic Warning and re-establishes SAP at the end of the Academic Warning
period will be notified and removed from Academic Warning.
A student who files an appeal and is placed on Probation and re-establishes SAP at the end of the Probation
period will be notified and removed from Probation.
The effect on SAP for all courses with a grade assignment (including Withdrawal and Incomplete
Grades)
Grade
Assignment Description
Included as
Credits
Attempted
Included as
Credits Earned
Included in
CGPA
A Outstanding Yes Yes Yes
B Good Yes Yes Yes
C Satisfactory Yes Yes Yes
F Failed Yes No Yes
P Pass Yes Yes No
I Incomplete Yes No No
R Retake Yes No No
WF Withdrawn, with penalty Yes No No
IP In Progress Yes No No
AUD Audit (Not offered for ESL
Courses)
No No No
The effect on SAP for repeated courses:The higher of the two grades earned for a repeated course will be
used in calculating the CGPA. The credits attempted for both courses are included in the calculation of the
completion rate.
The effect on SAP for non-punitive grades and non-credit or remedial courses: The University does not
offer remedial courses. The grade assignments ―AUD‖, and ―I‖ are non-punitive grades that do not impact
CGPA or completion rate calculations.
The effect on SAP when a student seeks to earn an additional credential: If a student seeks an additional
credential, the credits and grades attempted in the original credential that apply to the new credential are
Revised on 06/08/2018 21
included in the determination of a student‘s satisfactory academic progress, both in CGPA and completion
rate.
The effect on SAP for Extended-Enrollment Status: The University does not offer extended-enrollment
status.
The effect on SAP when student changes programs or is re-admitted to the same program: If a student is
re-admitted into the University or changes program of study, the credits and grades that are applicable to the
student‘s current program of study will be included in determining the student‘s satisfactory academic
progress and the appropriate evaluation level for the quarter.
The effect on SAP for Transfer Credits: Transfer credits are included as both credits attempted and earned
for determining the completion rate, but do not impact the CGPA.
Re-entry for students dismissed due to failure to meet SAP: Students who have been dismissed for lack of
satisfactory progress may apply to be readmitted into the same curriculum, as the class schedule permits, after
6 months. Such a student will be enrolled for a probationary quarter upon reentry. This procedure applies only
to dismissals caused by lack of satisfactory progress and when the student is reentering the same curriculum.
It does not apply to voluntary withdrawals.
Withdrawal and Leave of Absence Policy
A student may voluntarily leave the program and University at any time. The student must meet with the
Academic Dean or Registrar to complete the necessary paperwork for withdrawal. Disruptive behavior will
result in withdrawal.
Withdrawal
If a student fails to enroll by the end of the 1st week of the subsequent quarter, the student will be designated
as having withdrawn from the program. If a student wishes to formally withdraw from the program, the
student must meet with the Academic Dean or Registrar and complete the Withdrawal form.
Withdrawal after the commencement of classes
Students may request permission from the Academic Dean and Registrar to withdraw from a course or
courses after the drop deadline, until one week prior to the final exam for the course or one week before the
due date of the final assessment in the class(es) in question - whichever is sooner. When Thanksgiving or
other university holidays conflict with this deadline, course withdrawal petitions must be submitted by the last
class/business day of that same week. All approved course withdrawals will result in a W (withdrawal) grade
being posted to the transcript. Students will be asked to attest that the due date for the final assessment (exam,
paper, project, etc.) in the particular course(s) has not been reached, as that may fall before the deadline for
withdrawal. Students who request withdrawal after the final assessment date has been reached will be in
violation of academic integrity. Students wishing to withdraw from individual classes after the beginning of
class must complete an Add/Drop Form and submit it to the registrar to request a withdrawal.
Students should never assume your class will be dropped automatically or by someone else. There are no
refunds for books or other supplies. Tuition refund policies also apply to any student who may be dismissed
from the program by the administration. The tuition refund for any given course, quarter or special session is
based on the pro-rata percentage of instruction days of courses conducted by the University before official
Revised on 06/08/2018 22
cancellation of enrollment up until fifty percent of the course has been conducted. Please note that the
following is the minimum refund policy pursuant to 8 VAC 40-31-160 (N) of the Virginia Administrative
Code.
Satisfactory Academic Progress and Withdrawals
Failure to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress may lead to withdrawal from the program. Please
reference the SAP policy for more information.
Leave of Absence Policy – Standard
A leave of absence refers to a specific period during a student's ongoing program of study when they are not
in academic attendance. It does not include non-attendance for a scheduled break in a student's program.
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine will usually decline to treat an approved Leave of Absence as a
withdrawal from school by the student. A student on an approved Leave of Absence is permitted to complete
the coursework he or she began prior to their Leave of Absence. Only one Leave of Absence may be granted
during any twelve (12) month period and cannot exceed one hundred and eighty (180) days, including
Summer Quarter. The twelve-month period will begin on the first day of the student's recent Leave of
Absence. For the Leave of Absence to be approved, the student must do all of the following: Provide a written,
signed, and dated request for the Leave of Absence, prior to the time period the leave is to occur unless
unforeseen circumstances prevent the student from doing so. The Academic Dean must approve the request if
students explain proper reasons and circumstances.
Leave of Absence Policy - International Students
Foreign students may apply for limited leave of absences as long as all Governmental and University
requirements are complied with. Students must file a Leave of Absence Request Form and obtain approval.
(Please see "Leave of Absence" policy above). In addition, foreign students must attend Virginia University of
Integrative Medicine for one academic year before they may apply for a Leave of Absence. Only one Leave of
Absence may be granted during any twelve (12) month period and cannot exceed one hundred and fifty (150)
days, including Summer Quarter.
Revised on 06/08/2018 23
III. Master of Science in Oriental Medicine (MSOM)
Program description
The Master of Science in Oriental Medicine (MSOM) requires 227 quarter credits (3070 hours) including 990
hours of Clinical training to complete the program. The normal program length of MSOM is 4 years.
MSOM program was created to educate students in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine while providing the
population of Northern Virginia and its surrounding areas with the best alternative medicine treatments.
Students are provided a solid foundation in the principles of Oriental Medicine as well as Western Allopathic
Medicine. The Oriental Medicine program includes an extensive study of diagnostics, methods oftreatment,
acupuncture, and Chinese Herbology. The program is specifically designed to prepare students to sit for the
NCCAOM licensure examination in Oriental MedicineCertificationand provide the necessary skills to practice
safely and skillfully.
MSOM program is offered in three different languages: English, Korean and Chinese. For the courses in
different languages, only the teaching method is different: the course objective, learning outcome, study
outline and course evaluation are same as courses in English. Upon approval of the Academic Dean, students
have the option to take individual courses through the different program languages offered.
Program Objectives
The Objectives of the Master‘s Program is to create leading practitioners of Oriental Medicine through student
centered educational structures and experiences that will produce the following competencies
1. Defend an etiology of disease from an Oriental Medicine perspective and utilize this to create and
recommend disease prevention strategies.
2. Have the ability to formulate a logical treatment principle from an Oriental Medical diagnosis, which can
be put into action utilizing Oriental Medical modalities.
3. Evaluate patients exhibiting complaints from within the appropriate scope of practice utilizing the Four
Pillars of Diagnosis to formulate a treatment plan.
4. Create acupuncture and herbal prescriptions along with supplemental modality treatment plans that can be
justified through logical reasoning utilizing Oriental Medicine principles.
5. Demonstrate competency in administering a treatment plan as part of the clinical encounter
6. Identify and demonstrate knowledge of situations and symptoms which necessitate the need for referral to
an appropriate health care professional.
7. Demonstrate the ability to communicate in a professional manner the oriental medicine concepts and
diagnoses to other qualified complementary healthcare professionals.
8. Outline and model personal and professional ethical standards.
MSOM program is First Professional Master‘s Degree; it differs from other traditional master program where
the normal time to earn master degree is 2 years. MSOM, which is accredited by ACAOM, has its unique
characteristics that require 4 years of program study: 2 years of upper-level courses (also called major courses)
in undergraduate and 2 years of graduate level courses.
Graduation Requirements
General graduation requirements are as follows:
1. Satisfactory completion of all required course work and clinical hours in accordance with the Residency
Requirement.
Revised on 06/08/2018 24
2. Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
3. Satisfactory passing of Graduation Examination
4. Passing of Phase Exams(each before entry of observation, intern level 1, 2, 3), among other requirements
including First-aid and Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation(CPR) certification
5. Annual training of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Occupational Safety
and Health Administration (OSHA).
6. Complete the program within one and one-half time program length.
7. Meet all financial obligations to the University
A student must satisfy degree requirements, as outlined in the catalog in effect at the time of enrollment at
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine as a degree program student, unless the student interrupts his/her
program. It may become necessary to satisfy the program requirements as outlined in the catalog in effect at
the time the student re-enters as a student.
Admissions Requirements
1. Completion of the online application for admissions and payment of $100 Application Fee.
2. Satisfactory completion of at least two academic years (60 semester credits/90 quarter credits) of education
at the undergraduate level with a grade of ―C.‖ Verification of the satisfactory completion will be
determined through the receipt of official transcripts confirming the academic requirements for program
admissions. Specifically:
a. Official Transcripts must be received in sealed envelopes directly from the student‘s previous academic
institution within the first quarter of enrollment. Students will not be allowed to continue beyond the
first quarter without VUIM having received official transcripts documenting the student has met the
academic program requirements.
b. Candidates with foreign education, or education completed outside of the U.S., must submit an official
foreign credential evaluation. Official sealed foreign credential evaluations must be submitted directly to
the University. Without official credentials, VUIM cannot transfer or evaluate student credit from
overseas.
3. Verification of English Proficiency: If English is not the student‘s first, native language, the student is
required to submit official scores from an English proficiency examination, regardless of citizenship. The
English language Proficiency requirement may be fulfilled through any one of the following options:
a. English Language Competency (TOEFL): TOEFL Score of at least 61 iBT (which also requires a
minimum speaking exam score of 26, and a minimum listening exam score of 22). For programs in the
Chinese and Korean languages, a TOEFL Score of at least 45 iBT (which also requires a minimum
speaking exam score of 18 and a minimum listening exam score of 15) must be achieved before entering
the clinical education portion of the degree program. Also, at the discretion of the Academic Dean, a
Revised on 06/08/2018 25
student may be accepted into the program if a student successfully meets the total iBT score but happens
to fall below an individual segment score, or a level 6 IELTS exam score,
OR
b. Satisfactory completion of at least two academic years (60 semester credits/90 quarter credits) of
education at the undergraduate level in English, OR achievement of a post-secondary degree from an
institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.
4. Submissions of a 300-word essay answering the questions ―What Inspired You to Apply for Acupuncture
and Oriental Medicine School?‖
5. Complete an interview with the Academic Dean or Director of Admissions
6. Transfer students only: Submit official publications, including proof of the completed number of clinical
treatments from a previous acupuncture and Oriental Medicine school. Also, submit a catalog containing
course descriptions of the courses requested for transfer credits and course syllabi for those courses you
wish to gain transfer credits.
Additional Requirements for International Student Admissions
VUIM issues I-20 forms to international students. As a result, each prospective international student must
contact the Office of Admissions regarding preparation of the student VISA.
After processing your completed application, the Admissions Office will inform you of its decision. It is wise
to start the process well in advance of the term for which you are applying. After this time, students may be
admitted only as time and space permit. Any questions about applications, important dates or any other part of
the admissions process should be directed to:
Attn: Office of Admissions
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine
9401 Mathy Drive Suite101
Fairfax, VA 22031
International Students - Financial Statement Requirement
International applicants must submit financial statements showing evidence of financial support to attend
school full-time. Original (not copies) bank verification of funding must substantiate financial statements. The
statement must be original and on the institution‘s letterhead/stationery. All documentation must be dated
within 3 months of the date of initial enrollment at VUIM. The Office of Admissions has provided you with
an estimate of annual educational and living expenses for international students for an academic term. You
must document financial support equal to or greater than this amount. This estimate is subject to change
without notice and will usually increase each year.
International Student Visa Information
Revised on 06/08/2018 26
Most full-time students must enter the US on a student (F-1) visa. VUIM can issue the Form I-20 for eligible
students. All F-1 students are entered into the computerized Student and Exchange Visitor Information
System (SEVIS), which monitors the immigration status of international student. Details of requirements to
obtain the Form I-20 and student visa are in the How to Apply for Program Admissions section below.
Students should carefully follow proper immigration procedures in order to maintain legal status in the US.
Students on other visas may be eligible to study full-time or part-time, depending on the visa. Contact the
Admissions Office or any US Embassy or Consulate for more information.
How to Apply for Program Admissions
Mailing Address for Application Items:
Attn: Office of Admissions
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine
9401 Mathy Drive Suite101
Fairfax, VA 22031
In order to apply for one of our programs, the student must visit our website, www.VUIM.edu, and click
"Online Application.‖ Then a link to the online application will be sent to the applicant. The required
documents and the application steps are as following:
1. Complete the Online Application Form, including credit card payment (Visa, Master, Diner‘s Club or
Discover) for $100 non-refundable application fee.
2. Submit a photocopy of the valid I.D. online.
3. Mail an official transcript of your Bachelor‘s degree. If the degree was awarded outside of the United
States, submit an original copy of foreign credit evaluation from an agency approved by National
Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).
4. Submit proof of English proficiency, if applicable.
5. Submit a 300-word essay about ―What inspired you to Apply for Integrative Medicine School?‖
6. If you are a transfer student, submit any official publications (and proof of the completed number of
treatments in clinic if transfer credits in clinic requested) from the previous school that contain course
descriptions of the courses requested for transfer credits. If the information is inadequate, VUIM would
request a copy of course syllabi.
7. Additional Application Requirements for International Students
a. Submit an original copy of Passport.
b. Submit an original copy of a bank statement with the minimum balance. The date of the statement
should be less than 3 months from the date of the application. If the statement is not under the
student‘s name, submit the Affidavit of Support Form signed by the sponsor.
Revised on 06/08/2018 27
c. If you are a transfer student from other institution in the United States, submit an original copy of
VISA, I-94 and ALL Form I-20 from previous schools.
SEVIS Payment
For Information on payments, please contact the Student & Exchange Visitor Information System at 1-800-
892-4829 or go to the official Website of the U.S. government at https://egov.ice.gov/sevis/
Personal Interview at the U.S. Embassy
After receiving the I-20 and making the SEVIS payment, each student must make an appointment for a
personal interview at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. Students should be prepared to explain their study
plans and show evidence of intention to return home upon completion of the program. If approved, the F-1
visa is issued. For more information on visa issuance, please consult the United Citizenship and Immigration
Services (USCIS) website (http://www.uscis.gov).
When to Apply
For students requiring an I-20 Form and F-1 student visa, we recommend applying at least ten (10) weeks
before the beginning of the study term. For 10-week students not requiring student visas, we recommend
applying at least 6 weeks before the beginning of the study term.
Additional Requirement upon Arrival
All new students must come to the VUIM office before the beginning of the study term to complete the final
registration and to attend new student orientation. Students will need to bring their passport (international
students only) or a photo ID card (U.S. resident only).
Notification of Acceptance for Admissions
When the applicant is accepted for admissions and given final approval by the Director of Admissions, the
candidate is sent an acceptance package, which includes:
Acceptance letter
Summary of transfer credit (if applicable)
Enrollment Agreement
Any additional admissions forms
The Office of Admissions receives and processes all applications. All admission documents filed to the
University become the property of the University and will not be returned to the student.
Accommodation for Disability
VUIM reasonably accommodates qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. A professional
assessment of a student or employee disability is required before the services can be engaged. If such an
assessment is needed, the Director of Student Affairs or Academic Dean has a list of referrals where such
assessments can be obtained. For current or prospective students, a formal request for accommodations should
be submitted to the Director of Student Affairs and Academic Dean.
Revised on 06/08/2018 28
Adherence to Academic Policies, Procedures and Processes
All students enrolled at VUIM are required to comply with all of the academic policies, procedures and
processes as described in this catalog.
License Requirements
To be eligible for licensure as an Licensed Acupuncturist in Virginia, an acupuncture practitioner must have
graduated from a school sanctioned by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
(ACAOM) and have passed exams required by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and
Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). To sit for the NCCAOM exams, students must complete a course of study
that includes graduation from an ACAOM accredited school. VUIM (accredited by ACAOM) requires all
students to pass a Comprehensive Graduation Examination during the 16th quarter of their studies, which
includes questions from four modules: Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory, Acupuncture, Herbology, and
Western Medicine. Successful completion of the Comprehensive Graduation Exams, in addition to successful
completion of coursework at VUIM, allows the student to graduate, sit for NCCAOM exams, and apply for
admission for licensure in Virginia. The requirements to be licensed may vary in each state.
Course Numbering System
Section
OM Oriental Medicine TB Mind Body Exercise
AC Acupuncture EL Elective
HB Herbology CO Clinical Observation
WM Bio Medical Science CI Clinical Internship
ME Management and Ethics CS Clinical Case Study
Number
300 – 400 Undergraduate Level Courses
500 – 600 Graduate Level Courses
Coursestaught in Korean language have course number ending with ‗K‘
Courses taught in Chinese language have course number ending with ‗C‘
Revised on 06/08/2018 29
Master of Science in Oriental Medicine Program
Credits Hours Lecture Hours Lab Hours
Oriental Medicine 35 350 350 0
Acupuncture 37 440 300 140
Herbology 47 480 460 20
Bio Medical Science 50 520 480 40
Management & Ethics 10 120 80 40
Mind Body Exercise 4 60 20 40
Electives 11 110 110 0
Clinical Internship 33 990 -
Total 227 3,070 1,800 280
Course # Course Titles Credits Hours Lectures
Credits Hours
Labs Credits Hours
Oriental Medicine (35 Credits, 350 Hours)
OM301 History of Eastern Medicine 4 40 4 40 0 0
OM302 Basic Theory of Oriental Medicine I 4 40 4 40 0 0
OM303 Basic Theory of Oriental Medicine II 4 40 4 40 0 0
OM311 Oriental Medicine Diagnosis I 4 40 4 40 0 0
OM312 Oriental Medicine Diagnosis II 4 40 4 40 0 0
OM411 Internal Medicine I 4 40 4 40 0 0
OM412 Internal Medicine II 4 40 4 40 0 0
OM413 Internal Medicine III 4 40 4 40 0 0
OM420 Oriental Medicine Specialty Topics 3 30 3 30 0 0
Acupuncture (37 Credits, 440 Hours)
AC360 Acupuncture Channels & Points I 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC370 Acupuncture Channels & Points II 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC375 Meridian Theory and Secondary Vessels 4 40 4 40 0 0
AC380 Acupuncture Channels & PointsIII 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC400 Acupuncture Channels & PointsIV 4 40 4 40 0 0
AC410 Introduction to Clinical Techniques 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC420 Advanced Clinical Techniques 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC430 Acupuncture Microsystems 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC510 Treatment of Orthopedic Disorders 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC520 Clinical Point Selection 4 40 4 40 0 0
AC530 Advanced Clinical Point Selection 4 40 4 40 0 0
Herbology (47 Credits, 480 Hours)
HB310 Herbology I 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB320 Eastern Nutrition 3 40 2 20 1 20
HB400 Special Topics in Herbal Medicine 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB410 Herbology II 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB420 Herbology III 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB430 Herbology IV 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB440 Herbs: Formulas I 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB510 Herbs: Formulas II 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB520 Herbs: Formulas III 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB530 Herbs: Formulas IV 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB540 Shang Han Lun Cold Damage 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB550 Herbal Medicine Advanced Formula Study 4 40 4 40 0 0
Revised on 06/08/2018 30
Bio Medicine (50 Credits, 520 Hours)
WM300 Western Medical Terminology 3 30 3 30 0 0
WM310 Anatomy & Physiology I 4 40 4 40 0 0
WM320 Anatomy & Physiology II 4 40 4 40 0 0
WM330 Anatomy & Physiology III 4 40 4 40 0 0
WM400 Research Methodologies 3 30 3 30 0 0
WM410 Pathophysiology I 4 40 4 40 0 0
WM420 Pathophysiology II 4 40 4 40 0 0
WM430 Microbiology & Immunology 3 30 3 30 0 0
WM450 Western Physical Exam and Assessment 3 40 2 20 1 20
WM460 Biochemistry & Nutrition 2 20 2 20 0 0
WM510 Western Internal Medicine I 3 30 3 30 0 0
WM520 Western Internal Medicine II 3 30 3 30 0 0
WM530 Western Internal Medicine III 3 30 3 30 0 0
WM540 Orthopedic & Neurologic Evaluation 3 40 2 20 1 20
WM610 Fundamentals of Pharmacology & Biophysics 2 20 2 20 0 0
WM620 Western Medical Diagnostic Tests 2 20 2 20 0 0
Management & Ethics (10 Credits, 120 Hours)
ME311 Practice Management & Billing 2 20 2 20 0 0
ME410 Medical Ethics & Legalities 2 20 2 20 0 0
ME420 Clinical Communication I: The Patient 3 40 2 20 1 20
ME520 Clinical Communication II: The Student 3 40 2 20 1 20
Mind Body Exercise (4 Credits, 60 Hours)
TB310 Tai Chi Chuan 2 30 1 10 1 20
TB320 Qi Gong 2 30 1 10 1 20
Electives ( Choose 11 credits)
EL300 Tui-Na: Structural Disorders I 2 30 1 10 1 20
EL310 Tui-Na: Structural Disorders II 2 30 1 10 1 20
EL400 SaAm Acupuncture 3 30 3 30 0 0
EL401 Internal Medicine for Acupuncture 4 40 4 40 0 0
EL410 Dong Ui Bo Gam 3 30 3 30 0 0
EL420 Sa-sang Constitutional Medicine 3 30 3 30 0 0
EL430 Jin Gui Yao Lue Golden Cabinet 3 30 3 30 0 0
EL440 Wen Bing Warm Disease 3 30 3 30 0 0
EL500 Master Tung's Acupuncture 3 40 2 20 1 20
EL501 Special Topics in Acupuncture 4 40 4 40 0 0
EL510 Yellow Emperor‘s Classic 4 40 4 40 0 0
EL600 Comprehensive Review of Bio Medical Science 4 40 4 40 0 0
EL601 Comprehensive Review of Acupuncture 4 40 4 40 0 0
EL602 Comprehensive Review of Herbology 4 40 4 40 0 0
EL610 Comprehensive Review of Oriental Medicine 4 40 4 40 0 0
Clinical Internship (33 Credits, 990 Hours)
CO450 Introduction to Clinical Observation 0.5 15
CO500 Clinical Observation 6 180
CI510 Clinic Internship 1 13 390
CS510 Case Study Intensive Level 1 0.5 15
CI520 Clinic Internship 2 6 180
CS520 Case Study Intensive Level 2 0.5 15
CI530 Clinic Internship 3 6 180
CS530 Case Study Intensive Level 3 0.5 15
Revised on 06/08/2018 31
Program Outline by Quarter – Master of Science in Oriental Medicine (Example)
First Year Second Year
1st
Quarter 2nd Quarter
3rd
Quarter
4th
Quarter 5th Quarter 6th Quarter 7th Quarter 8th Quarter
Oriental
Medicine
OM301 OM302 OM303 OM311 OM312
4/40 4/40 4/40 4/40 4/40
Acupuncture AC360 AC370 AC375 AC380 AC400 AC410 AC420
3/40 3/40 4/40 3/40 4/40 3/40 3/40
Bio-Medical
Science
WM300 WM310 WM320 WM330 WM400 WM410 WM420 WM430
3/30 4/40 4/40 4/40 3/30 4/40 4/40 3/30
Herbology HB320 HB310 HB410 HB420 HB430
3/40 4/40 4/40 4/40 4/40
Management
Ethics
ME311 ME410 ME420
2/20 2/20 3/40
Mind Body
Elective
1st
Elective TB310
2nd
Elective TB320
3/30 2/30 3/30 2/30
CI
CO450 CO500A
0.5/15 1.5/45
CO500B
1.5/45
Q. Credit 13 13 14 13 15 16 14.5 13
Hour 140 140 150 150 160 160 175 200
Third Year Fourth Year
9th
Quarter
10th
Quarter
11th
Quarter
12th
Quarter
13th
Quarter
14th
Quarter
15th
Quarter
16th
Quarter
Oriental
Medicine
OM411 OM412 OM413 OM420
4/40 4/40 4/40 3/30
Acupuncture AC430 AC510 AC520 AC530
3/40 3/40 4/40 4/40
Bio-Medical
Science
WM450 WM460 WM510 WM520 WM530 WM540 WM610 WM620
3/40 2/20 3/30 3/30 3/30 3/40 2/20 2/20
Herbology HB440 HB510 HB520 HB530 HB540 HB550 HB400
4/40 4/40 4/40 4/40 4/40 4/40 4/40
Management
Ethics
ME520
3/40
Mind Body
Elective
3rd
Elective
4th
Elective
2/20 3/30
CI
CO500C CI510A CI510D CI510G CI520A CI520C CI530A CI530C
1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45
CO500D CI510B CI510E CI510H, I CI520B CI520D CI530B CI530D
1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45 3/90 1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45
CI510C CI510F CS510 CS520 CS530
1.5/45 1.5/45 0.5/15 0.5/15 0.5/15
Credit 13 16.5 15.5 14.5 14 14.5 15 12.5
Hour 210 255 245 245 200 225 210 205
Revised on 06/08/2018 32
Course Description
Oriental Medicine: 35 Credits, 350 Hours (350 Lecture Hours, 0 Lab Hours)
OM301 History of Eastern Medicine
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course presents a rich and fascinating history that brings to life the subject of Oriental medicine and its journey through
millennium, as well as into United States. Students come to understand that they are a link in the unbroken chain of this healing
tradition. Students will develop a context and overview of the topics they will be studying in the MSOM program, and the
important history behind the theory and practice of Oriental medicine.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
OM302 Basic Theory of Oriental Medicine I
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
As an introduction to Oriental Medicine, this class includes the basic theory of Oriental Medicine including terminology, the
relationship of Yin and Yang, Five Phases, Physiological Functions of Solid and Hollow Internal organs (Zang-Fu theory),
chrono-acupuncture, the formation and function of Qi, Blood, Jin, Ye, the eight parameters, twelve officials, and the nature of
human beings according to Oriental Medicine.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
OM303 Basic Theory of Oriental Medicine II
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This class builds on the information learned in OM302, Basic Theory of Oriental Medicine I. Students will study the
fundamental principles of the external etiological factors of disease which cause internal disease states (wind, cold, damp, heat,
summerheat and dryness), the internal causes (emotions) of disease, the general laws of pathological change, and the prevention
and treatment of diseases.
Prerequisites OM302
OM311 Oriental Medicine Diagnosis I
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course builds on the knowledge obtained in the basic theory courses and provides students with an in-depth study of the
Four Pillars of traditional oriental medicine diagnosis, including observation, auscultation & olfaction, inquiry, and palpation.
Students learn signs and symptoms of various disorders, tongue diagnosis, and pulse, meridian, and other palpation techniques.
Prerequisites OM303
OM312 Oriental Medicine Diagnosis II
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course builds on the diagnosis I class and provides students with in-depth study of the manifestations, etiologies,
pathologies, as well as herbal and acupuncture treatments of common Zang-fu organ patterns and complicated zang-fu organ
patterns. This course provides students with Oriental Medicine diagnosis methods according to internal organ theory (Zang-fu).
Prerequisites OM311
Revised on 06/08/2018 33
OM411 Internal Medicine I
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This class is the first in a series of three classes that covers major Oriental Medicine diseases. This upper level Oriental Medicine
class series is designed to synthesize and begin to apply students‘ knowledge from their previous classes. The etiology,
pathology, identification of patterns, and treatments will be covered. The following are the topics focused on in this class:
Headache, Dizziness/Breathlessness/Wheezing/Common Cold and Infuenza/Allergic Asthma/Cough/Allergic Rhinitis/Sinusitis/
The Psyche / Mental-Emotional Issues / Depression/Anxiety
Prerequisites OM312, 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
OM412 Internal Medicine II
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This class is the second in a series of three classes that covers major Oriental Medicine diseases. This upper level Oriental
Medicine class series is designed to synthesize and begin to apply students‘ knowledge from their previous classes. The etiology,
pathology, identification of patterns, and treatments will be covered. The following are the topics focused on in this class:
Insomnia / Tinnitus / Goitre / Hypertension / Tiredness / Chest painful obstruction syndrome / Epigastric pain / Nausea and
Vomiting / GERD / Mouth ulcers / Hypochondriac pain / Abdominal pain / Abdominal masses / Diarrhea / Constipation /
Bleeding.
Prerequisites OM312, 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
OM413 Internal Medicine III
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This class is the last in a series of three classes that covers major Oriental Medicine diseases. This upper level Oriental Medicine
class series is designed to synthesize and begin to apply students‘ knowledge from their previous classes. The etiology,
pathology, identification of patterns, and treatments will be covered. The following are the topics focused on in this class:
Urinary syndrome / Enuresis and incontinence / Urinary retention / Interstitial cystitis / BPH / Prostatitis and Prostadynia /
Edema / Painful obstruction syndrome / Lower backache and sciatica / Fibromyalgia / Chronic Fatigue syndrome / Parkinson‘s
Disease / Wind Stroke / Atrophy syndrome / Multiple sclerosis / Erectile dysfunction
Prerequisites OM312, 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
OM420 Oriental Medicine Specialty Topics
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This class introduces and covers the unique Oriental Medicine theory needed to understand and practice specialty areas. Students
will learn through lectures, case studies, and clinical theatre exercises. Topics may vary by quarter, but will include at least two
of the following: Obstetrics, Gynecology, Pediatrics, Cardiology, Pain Management / Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The class
provides an overview of the specialty topic including Oriental Medicine anatomy & physiology, diagnosis, treatments, and
integrative medicine opportunities.
Prerequisites OM312, 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
Revised on 06/08/2018 34
Acupuncture: 37 Credits, 440 Hours (300 Lecture Hours, 140 Lab Hours)
AC360 Acupuncture Channels & Points I
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides students with a detailed study of basic concept of meridian system, point locations and primary meridian
pathways in relation to anatomical regions, nerves, bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and vessels with an emphasis on
meridian and collateral theory and treatment. The meridians of Lung, Large Intestine, Stomach, Spleen, Heart, Small Intestine,
and Urinary Bladder will be covered.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
AC370 Acupuncture Channels & Points II
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides students with a detailed study of basic concept of meridian system, point locations and primary meridian
pathways in relation to anatomical regions, nerves, bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and vessels with an emphasis on
meridian and collateral theory and treatment. The meridians of Kidney, Pericardium, SanJiao, Gall Bladder, Liver, Ren and Du
will be covered.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
AC375 Meridian Theory and Secondary Vessels
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course presents the fundamental concepts of the meridian system, including distribution and morphology of meridians,
branches, and collaterals and their physiological functions, pathological changes and inter-relationships with all internal organs
will be covered. Topics cover the distribution of the meridian and collateral systems including 12 meridian, 8 extra meridians,
15 collaterals, the internal branches of the 12 meridians, the sinew meridians, and 12 superficial meridians with their
connections.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
AC380 Acupuncture Channels & Points III
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides students with a detailed study of functions and usage of the points on the primary meridian pathways as
well as special extra points including Back Shu, Front Mu, Yuan Primary, Xi-Cleft, Luo- Connecting, Confluent, Influential, He-
Sea, Command, etc . Students will be introduced to the basic theories involved in the creation of point prescriptions and will
study basic treatments and point combinations.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
AC400 Acupuncture Channels & Points IV
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
Continuing on the point functions introduced in AC380, this course will explore and study the usage of the remaining regular and
special acupuncture points and their traditional functions with examples for their applications in treatment. This course also
provides students with a continuation of the point categories and their purposes and general functions.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
Revised on 06/08/2018 35
AC410 Introduction to Clinical Techniques
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides students with an introduction to the techniques of acupuncture, including use of disposable needles,
insertion and removal of needles, appropriate draping, management of emergency situations with patients, and needling practice.
Practives include use of Guide Tube needling, on common and difficult acupuncture points, methods to obtain De Qi,
tonification, sedation and methods to direct Qi. Students review Clean Needle Technique (CNT), and requirements of OSHA.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
AC420 Advanced Clinical Techniques
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides students with advanced study of acupuncture techniques,and covers needle techniques for the more
sensitive acupoint locations. Needle techniques of threading, deep penetrations, through and through, scalp acupuncture, etc.
will be introduced and practiced. This class will also cover the techniques of moxibustion, cupping, three edged needle,
cutaneous needle, intradermal needle, electro -acupuncture, magnetic therapy, and other advanced techniques.
Prerequisites AC410
AC430 Acupuncture Microsystems
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
There are two major theoretical schools of auricular acupuncture – the French and the Chinese. Both schools and their respective
maps of the ear will be compared and contrasted in this class. Clinical applications and treatment formulas are emphasized.
Scalp acupuncture also has several systems. This class will introduce the Chinese system, Zhu‘s scalp acupuncture, and the MS
lines. Emphasis will be on the application of these lines and points in clinical case situations.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
AC510 Treatment of Orthopedic Disorders
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides applications to the diagnostic skills learned in Orthopedic and Neurological Evaluations of WM 540 and
provides acupuncture treatments to the various disorders covered. This course covers treatment from a muscular and
physiological perspective as well as a channel treatment perspective. This class provides practice in oriental medical approaches
to athletic and other injuries, and refines students‘ ability to palpate anatomical structures.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
AC520 Clinical Point Selection
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course guides students in the clinical skill of how to select acupuncture treatment points and combinations to treat various
diseases and conditions in respect to traditional Oriental Medicine principles and modern acupuncture theories.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
AC530 Advanced Clinical Point Selection
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
Through lecture and discussion this course expands clinical skills of point selection and combinations to treat various diseases
and conditions experienced in modern Oriental Medicine practice and emerging research.
Prerequisites AC520
Revised on 06/08/2018 36
Herbology: 47 Credits, 480 Hours (460 Lecture Hours, 20 Lab Hours)
HB310 Herbology I
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides students with an introduction to Chinese herbology. The first half of the class will prepare students for the
study of individual herbs through the learning of herbal history, nomenclature, properties, dosage, preparation, and basic herbal
theory. The second half of the class will begin the study of individual herbs. The herb categories covered in this course will be:
Warm Acrid Herbs that Release the Exterior, Cool Acrid Herbs that Release the Exterior, Herbs that Drain Fire, Herbs that Cool
the Blood, Herbs that Clear Heat and Dry Dampness.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
HB320 Eastern Nutrition
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course will cover the theory and practical aspects of using foods and natural herbs to correct medical conditions from the
perspective of Oriental Medical Theory, and its application. Medicinal recipes utilizing Chinese herbs are presented and may be
prepared in class.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
HB400 Special Topics in Herbal Medicine
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This class introduces and covers the unique Oriental Herbal Medicine history and approaches needed to understand and practice
advanced formulas, including studies of Wen Bing, and the Jin Gui Yao Lue Golden Cabinet. Students may elect to study these
topics in greater depth as elective courses.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
HB410 Herbology II
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides students with a detailed study of individual Chinese herbs, their classification, name, taste, properties,
entering channels, actions, indications, contraindications, and preparation. The herb categories covered in this course include:
Herbs that Clear Heat and Resolve Toxicity, Herbs that Clear Deficiency Heat, Downward Draining Herbs, Herbs that Drain
Dampness, Herbs that clear Wind-Dampness, Herbs that Cool and Transform Phlegm-Heat, Warm Herbs that Transform Cold-
Phlegm, Herbs that Relieve Coughing and Wheezing, Aromatic Herbs that Transform Dampness, and Herbs that Relieve Food
Stagnation.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
HB420 Herbology III
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides students with a detailed study of individual Chinese herbs, their classification, name, taste, properties,
entering channels, actions, indications, contraindications, and preparation. The herb categories covered in this course include:
Herbs that Regulate Qi, Herbs that Regulate the Blood, Herbs that Warm the Interior, Herbs that Tonify Qi, Herbs that Tonify
Blood, and Herbs that Tonify Yang.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
Revised on 06/08/2018 37
HB430 Herbology IV
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides students with a detailed study of individual Chinese herbs, their classification, name, taste, properties,
entering channels, actions, indications, contraindications, and preparation. The herb categories covered in this course include:
Herbs that Tonify Yin, Herbs that Stabilize & Bind, Herbs that Nourish Heart & Calm the Spirit, Herbs that Anchor, Settle &
Calm the Spirit, Herbs that Open the Orifices, Herbs that Extinguish Wind and Stop Tremors, Herbs That Expel Parasites, and
Herbs for External Use. An introduction to the principle of Dui Yao and modern herbal research will also be covered in this
class.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
HB440 Herbs: Formulas I
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides students with an introduction to Chinese formulas. The first part of the class will prepare students for the
study formulas through the learning of herbal history, nomenclature, properties, dosage, preparation, and basic herbal formula
theory. The second part of the class will begin the study formulas. Concepts of herbal formulation and detailed analysis of
formula categories and their relationships to differentiation of patterns and disease etiologies will be covered. The formula
categories covered in this course will be: Formulas that Release the Exterior, and Herbs that Clear Heat. This formula class
corresponds to the single herbs.
Prerequisites 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
HB510 Herbs: Formulas II
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course continues to cover concepts of herbal formulation and presents detailed analysis formula categories and their
relationships to differentiation of patterns and disease etiologies. The course will cover approximately 70 classical herbal
formulas, with a detailed analysis of the functions and properties of the formulae, individual herbs in each formula, the way the
herbs work in the formula, the clinical applications of each formula, and variations on the basic formula. The categories of
formulas to be addressed in this course include formulae that Drain Downward, Formulas that Harmonize, Treat Dryness, Expel
Dampness, Treat Phlegm, and Reduce Food Stagnation. This formula class corresponds to the single herbs class HB410
Herbology II.
Prerequisites 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
HB520 Herbs: Formulas III
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course continues to cover concepts of herbal formulation and presents a detailed analysis of formula categories and their
relationships to differentiation of patterns and disease etiologies. The course will cover approximately 70 classical herbal
formulas, with a detailed analysis of the functions and properties of the formulae, individual herbs in each formula, the way the
herbs work in the formula, the clinical applications of each formula, and variations on the basic formula. The categories of
formulas to be addressed in this course include formulae that Regulate Qi, Nourish the Blood, Tonify the Yang, Invigorate
Blood, Stop Bleeding, and Warm the Interior. This formula class corresponds to the single herbs class HB420 Herbology III.
Prerequisites 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
Revised on 06/08/2018 38
HB530 Herbs: Formulas IV
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course continues to cover concepts of herbal formulation and presents a detailed analysis of formula categories and their
relationships to differentiation of patterns and disease etiologies. The course will cover approximately 70 classical herbal
formulas, with a detailed analysis of the functions and properties of the formulae, individual herbs in each formula, the way the
herbs work in the formula, the clinical applications of each formula, and variations on the basic formula. The categories of
formulas to be addressed in this course include formulae that Tonify Yin, Stabilize and Bind, Anchor and Settle the Mind,
Nourish the Heart to Calm the Mind, Open the Orifices, Extinguish Wind and Stop Tremors, Expel Parasites, and that are suited
for External Application. This formula class corresponds to the single herbs class HB430 Herbology IV.
Prerequisites 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
HB540 Shang Han Lun Cold Damage
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed for the advanced student at the intern levels. This class will present, discuss, and study readings from the
Shang Han Lun. Commentary and relevant prescriptions will be introduced and discussed. Pulse presentation and techniques,
abdominal palpation, teeth examination, and skin examination as described in this text will also be discussed. This course will
provide students with knowledge regarding symptoms, diagnosis, treatment principles and formulas of febrile diseases
contracted by external wind cold.
Prerequisites 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
HB550 Herbal Medicine Advanced Formula Study
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides a comprehensive review of the the history, selection and application of herbs and formulas as core remedy
and protocols for treating internal and external conditions. Special attention is paid to review of Critical Herbs and Formulas for
the accomplished practitioner, as well as Herb-Drug interactions for the most commonly used drugs, and herbs.
Prerequisites 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
Revised on 06/08/2018 39
Bio-Medical Science: 50 Credits, 520 Hours (480 Lecture Hours, 40 Lab Hours)
WM300 Western Medical Terminology
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides students with a study of western medical terminology and nomenclature, including major prefixes, roots,
and suffixes. The course is designed to instruct students on the construction of medical terminology used to describe anatomy
and physiology as well as the pathology of the body systems. Students will be introduced to medical terms to increase their
ability to effectively communicate with all healthcare professionals.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
WM310 Anatomy & Physiology I
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides a comprehensive study of the structure and function of the human body. Topics include body organization;
homeostasis; cytology; histology; as well as the integumentary, skeletal, and muscular systems. Upon completion, students
should be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of principles of anatomy and physiology and their interrelationships.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
WM320 Anatomy & Physiology II
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides a comprehensive study of the structure and function of the human body. Topics include the nervous, special
senses, endocrine, urinary, and reproductive systems as well as metabolism, acid-base balance, and fluid and electrolyte balance.
Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of principles of anatomy and physiology.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
WM330 Anatomy & Physiology III
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides a comprehensive study of the structure and function of the human body. Topics include the cardiovascular,
lymphatic, respiratory, digestive systems as well as nutrition and human growth & development. Upon completion, students
should be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of principles of anatomy and physiology and their interrelationships.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
WM400 Research Methodologies
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course introduces the principles of research through critical exploration of the language of research, scientific method of
inquiry and ethical considerations. Students will develop and use their research design skills to analyze and apply research
process within quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methodologies based on literature review.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
Revised on 06/08/2018 40
WM410 Pathophysiology I
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to pathology, inflammation, infection, immunity and
immunology, non-neoplastic and neoplastic proliferations. This course provides a study of cellular adaptation to disease,
environmental factors in disease, inflammation, and neoplasia.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
WM420 Pathophysiology II
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to pathology of the body systems: musculoskeletal,
cardiovascular, pulmonary, digestive, neurological, genitourinary, and endocrine systems.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
WM430 Microbiology & Immunology
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course introduces the fundamentals of microbiology and the immune response. The course covers the principles of
microorganisms, including microbial physiology, genetics and microbial pathogenicity. The microorganisms studied in this
course include bacteria, fungi, mycoplasmas, rickettsiae, viruses and parasites. The action of antibiotics and chemotherapeutic
agents, the fundamentals of immunology, and the immune response will also be discussed
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
WM450 Western Physical Exam & Assessment
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides an introduction to the skills of history taking, physical assessment, and documentation. The student will
demonstrate the skills to conduct a comprehensive health assessment including the physical, psychological, social, functional and
environmental aspects of health. Effective communication, assessment, and documentation will be practiced in the laboratory
setting. The student will become familiar with the techniques of physical assessment consisting of inspection, palpation,
percussion.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
WM460 Biochemistry & Nutrition
# of credit 2 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 20 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides students with an introduction to the study of clinical biochemistry. The metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids,
proteins, amino acids, and nucleotides is studied, as well as the effects of enzyme deficiencies, biochemical and genetic
mechanisms of human disease, nutrition, and vitamin deficiencies. The course describes how biochemical test results are utilized
for the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of disease.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
WM510 Western Internal Medicine I
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed as an organ system approach to the pathophysiology of human disease. The course provides students
with a detailed study of the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic and therapeutic approach to various
disorders encountered in internal medicine. Diseases in dermatology, oncology, orthopedic, and rheumatology are explored.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
Revised on 06/08/2018 41
WM520 Western Internal Medicine II
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed as an organ system approach to the pathophysiology of human disease. the course provides students with
a detailed study of the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic and therapeutic approach to various disorders
encountered in internal medicine. Diseases in neurology, ophthalmology, endocrinology, nephrology, and reproductive medicine
are explored.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
WM530 Western Internal Medicine III
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed as an organ system approach to the pathophysiology of human disease. The course provides students
with a detailed study of the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic and therapeutic approach to various
disorders encountered in internal medicine. Diseases in hematology, cardiology, pulmonology, and gastroenterology are
explored.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
WM540 Orthopedic & Neurological Evaluation
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course examines musculoskeletal and neurological basis for biomechanics, assessment for movement dysfunction, and
corrective exercise strategies. Students will demonstrate functional evaluation, palpation of musculoskeletal structures,
measuring range of motion, muscle length and muscle strength analysis.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
WM610 Fundamentals of Pharmacology & Biophysics
# of credit 2 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 20 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides basic introduction to the principles of pharmacology and drug classification. The course will provide the
student of oriental medicine with a fundamental knowledge of basic pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetic and
pharmacogenomics principles, as well as the basic properties, mechanisms, uses, adverse effects and drug interaction
mechanisms of drugs. Students will also apply the concepts and methods of the physical sciences to the solution of biological
problems.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
WM620 Western Medical Diagnostic Tests
# of credit 2 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 20 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed to help students develop basic skills in reading and interpreting medical images (X-ray, CT scan, MRI)
as well as ordering, reading, and interpreting common Western medical diagnostic tests with respect to scope of practice.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
Revised on 06/08/2018 42
Mind Body Exercise: 4 Credits, 60 Hours (20 Lecture Hours, 40 Lab Hours)
TB310 Tai Chi Chuan
# of credit 2 Lecture Credit 1
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 10
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This is an introductory course in the Chinese System of movement and meditation of Tai Chi Chuan (Tai jiquan); to maintain
good health and longevity by promoting the free flow of Qi. Students will learn the 24 movement Yang-style form which will
help them to combine Tai ji‘s therapeutic attributes with traditional Chinese philosophy.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
TB320 Qi Gong
# of credit 2 Lecture Credit 1
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 10
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
Qi Gong is a set of exercises combining motion with meditation and breathing to train and nourish energy. The techniques and
movements learned in this class will encourage the smooth flow of qi, which will allow for the cultivation of the mind-body-
spirit connection. With practice, students will achieve insights to holistic self-healing and will be able to recommend appropriate
qi gong exercises to patients to enhance their healing therapies.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
Management and Ethics: 10 Credits, 120 Hours (80 Lecture Hours, 40 Lab Hours)
ME311 Practice Management & Billing
# of credit 2 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 20 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
VUIM recognizes that students should achieve a satisfactory return on the time, money, and energy invested in their education.
To achieve this end, students must be introduced to good business skills and ethical business behaviors. Important factors to be
considered are: time management, business structure and marketing (business plan), fee schedules, billing and insurance and
clinical paperwork.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
ME410 Medical Ethics & Legalities
# of credit 2 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 20 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
There are certain ethical situations to be considered in business management within the Oriental Medical field. This course
includes lectures, readings and discussions of ethics, jurisprudence and current issues that confront the modern Oriental Medicine
health practitioner, including the regulations of the Virginia Medical Board and other governmental agencies will be discussed in
detail.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
ME420 Clinical Communications I: The Patient
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course helps students improve and expand their communication skills by providing them with exposure to professional
clinical communications. Clinical, verbal and written interactions are emphasized, including those with other clinicians as well as
patients. Through exercises and discussions students will explore characteristics and approaches that benefit the
patient/practitioner and other professional relationships.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
Revised on 06/08/2018 43
ME520 Clinical Communications II: The Student
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This is a course to help cultivate interpersonal communication skills by first reflecting on their own journeys, and cultivating
understanding of others. TCM recognizes the unity of the mind/body/spirit and the healing journey shared by both the
practitioner and the patient. To navigate this well, students must endeavor the journey of self-reflection and self-evaluation. This
course provides students with skills and practices to enhance their treatments. Topics to be covered include dealing with
challenging situations such as patients who are facing depression, grief, trauma and abuse; suicide prevention, and death.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
Clinical Internship: 33 Credits, 990 Clinic Hours, 350 Treatments
CO450 Introduction to Clinical Observation
# of credit 0.5 # of Hour 15
This course is a presentation, discussion, and practice of academic and clinical issues revolving around Clinical Observation
designed to impart the knowledge and skills necessary to maximize the value of the students‘ observation in the clinic. The five
areas of study and practice covered will be: clinic rules and procedures; clinical charting; Clean Needle Technique (CNT); herb
room; and introduction to case review and grand rounds. Satisfactory passing of Clinical Phase Exam 1 is necessary to enter
CO500 Clinical Observation course.
Prerequisites Completion of 70 Didactic Credits including OM303, AC380
CO500 Clinical Observation
# of credit 6 # of Hour 180
In Clinical Observation, students observe Herb dispensary, clinic procedures and treatments. Observation notes are required. In
phase 1 of clinical observation, students will have completed C0450 and AC380 and observe on clinic shifts with no hands-on
activities. In phase 2 of clinical observation, the student will begin to integrate into the non-hands-on aspects of the clinical
encounter under the guidance of the clinical supervisor. In phase 3 of clinical observation, the students begin to integrate into all
aspects of the clinical encounter in preparation for internship level 1. Students will have practiced greeting patients, intake, pulse
and tongue diagnosis, development of diagnosis and prognosis.
Prerequisites CO450, First Aid & CPR certification, HIPAA & OSHA training confirmation
CI510 Clinic Internship 1
# of credit 13 # of Hour 390
In level 1, interns assist in diagnosing and treating patients under supervision of clinic staff. Interns will participate in all aspects
of the clinical encounter including treatment (390 hours of practice. Minimum number of treatments is 150 including 50 herbal
treatments)
Prerequisites CO500
CS510 Case Study Intensive Level 1
# of credit 0.5 # of Hour 15
In level 1, interns will hold grand rounds on interesting cases brought to the shift and work on chart review. Interns will be held
to a higher level of proficiency in case reporting and will be responsible for a comprehensive written case report. The students
are required to pass Clinical Phase Exam 2 during the case study.
Prerequisites CI510
Revised on 06/08/2018 44
CI520 Clinic Internship 2
# of credit 6 # of Hour 180
In Level 2, interns assume primary responsibility for treating patients upon consultation with supervisors. Interns are expected to
demonstrate a thorough understanding of clinical diagnosis and treatment. Interns are now leading the clinical encounter with
strong guidance from clinical supervisors. (180 hours of practice. Minimum number of treatment is 100 including 50 herbal
treatments)
Prerequisites CS510
CS520 Case Study Intensive Level 2
# of credit 0.5 # of Hour 15
In Level 2, interns are expected to conduct chart review and follow-through with any charting issues. Grand rounds will be held
on interesting cases brought to the shift by interns and a high level of case reporting is expected. In grand rounds, interns will be
able to offer alternative treatment possibilities and demonstrate their skill in rational clinical reasoning. The students are required
to pass Clinical Phase Exam 3 during the case study.
Prerequisites CI520
CI530 Clinic Internship 3
# of credit 6 # of Hour 180
This is the final stage of internship. Interns continue to assume primary responsibility for treating patients upon consultation with
supervisors. Interns are expected to demonstrate a thorough understanding of clinical diagnosis and treatment. (180 hours of
practice. Minimum number of treatment is 100 including 50 herbal treatments)
Prerequisites CS520
CS530 Case Study Intensive Level 3
# of credit 0.5 # of Hour 15
In Level 3 interns are expected to conduct chart review and follow-through with any charting issues. Interns will review peer
charts and offer constructive critiques. Grand rounds will be held on interesting cases brought to the shift by interns and a high
level of case reporting is expected. In grand rounds, interns will be able to offer alternative treatment possibilities and
demonstrate their high skill in rational clinical reasoning. Interns may be required to report a case to a western medical health
professional through referral or advice solicitation. The students are required to pass Clinical Phase Exam 4 during the case
study.
Prerequisites CI530
Electives: Total 11 Credits. See the course descriptions for details
EL300 Tui-Na: Structural Disorders I
# of credit 2 Lecture Credit 1
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 10
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
Tui-na is massotherapy (massage) to treat diseases and traumatic injuries. In this course, there will be a brief discussion of the
basic principles of Oriental therapeutic massotherapy and relationship with Yin, Yang, Qi, Blood and internal organs. Treatment
approaches to variou diseases are discussed in relationship to Tui Na treatment protocols. Special physical examination of the
vertebrae, hip joint and lower extremities will be taught in this course.
Prerequisites None
EL310 Tui-Na: Structural Disorders II
# of credit 2 Lecture Credit 1
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 10
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
Through didactic and practice students will learn disorders and protocols to treat upper extremeties utilizing Tu-Na massage
therapy. There will also be discussions introducing diseases involving the internal organs and their treatment by Tui-Na.
Prerequisites None
Revised on 06/08/2018 45
EL400 SaAm Acupuncture
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
SaAm Acupuncture is an extremely safe and powerful therapeutic system that utilizes the 12 Shu points in 24 primary
combinations of ―four predetermined acupoints‖. It draws on the full breadth of classical Chinese acupuncture tradition and
theory to effectively address both the mental-emotional and physical aspects of illnesses. This course will give an introduction to
the basic theories of SaAm Acupuncture including discussion of the climatic factors and mental-emotional characteristics of the
twelve meridians. An explanation of the predefined point prescriptions, an explanation of the concept of balancing pairs and
diagnostic considerations for selecting the appropriate Four Needle Prescription will also be presented. Correct acupuncture
needling considerations and techniques will also be covered. This course is same as AC440 in Master of Science in Acupuncture
program.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
EL401 Internal Medicine for Acupuncture
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This class is designed to synthesize and begin to apply students‘ knowledge from their previous classes. The etiology, pathology,
identification of patterns, and acupuncture treatments will be covered. The following are the topics focused on in this class:
Headache/ Dizziness/Breathless/ Wheezing/ Allergic Rhinitis/ Sinusitis/ Cough/ The Psyche in Oriental Medicine/ The
Emotions/ Etiology of Mental-Emotional problem/ Diagnosis of Mental-Emotional Problems/ Depression/ Anxiety/ Insomnia /
Tinnitus / Goitre / Hypertension / Tiredness / Chest painful obstruction syndrome / Epigastric pain / Nausea and Vomiting /
GERD / Mouth ulcers / Hypochondriac pain / Abdominal pain / Abdominal masses / Diarrhea / Constipation / Bleeding. This
course is same as AC441 in Master of Science in Acupuncture program.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
EL410 Dong Ui Bo Gam
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed to introduce and study this very important Korean medical text. Dong Ui Bo Gam translated as
―Principles and Practice of Eastern Medicine‖, is an encyclopedic bible of medical knowledge and treatment techniques
compiled in Korea in 1613. It is edited by Heo Jun under the collective support of medical experts and literati according to royal
direction. This medical classic successfully synthesizes competing contemporary theories of medicine that has accumulated in
East Asia for two millennia and goes on to integrate medical knowledge and clinical experience together in one single collection
of volumes. The work informs the evolution of medicine in East Asia and beyond.
Prerequisites OM312, AC400, 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
EL420 Sa-sang Constitutional Medicine
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course will cover the Korean medical theories of Sa Sang Constitutional Medicine, which originated with Jae Ma Lee in
1984. This theory recognizes that all human begins can be naturally divided into four groups or constitutions, each having their
own unique type of disease symptoms, signs, and principles of treatment.
Prerequisites OM303, 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
Revised on 06/08/2018 46
EL430 Jin Gui Yao Lue Golden Cabinet
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course will provide students with knowledge regarding symptoms, diagnosis, treatment principles and formulas of internal
and miscellaneous diseases as discussed in the Jin Gui Yao Lue. Specific attention will be placed on the chapters on
gynecological conditions and skin conditions.
Prerequisites OM303, 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
EL440 Wen Bing Warm Disease
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course will discuss the medical history, prominent physicians, theories, and prescriptions associated with the Wen Bing
school of thought. Case histories from such Warm disease school luminaries as Ye Tianshi and Wu Jutong will be used to
understand the underlying principles of Wen Bing. Students will also learn how to modify prescriptions based on disease
progression and diagnose utilizing the constructs created by the warm disease school.
Prerequisites OM303, 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
EL500 Master Tung's Acupuncture
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides students with an introduction, basic theories, history, and special technics of Master Tong's Acupuncture
and location, indication, manipulation and contraindication of Tong's acupoints. Course Number AC500 in MSA program is the
same course.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
EL501 Special Topics in Acupuncture
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This class introduces and covers the unique Acupuncture theory and skill needed to understand and practice specialty areas.
Students will learn through lectures, case studies, and clinical exercises. Topics may vary by quarter.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
EL510 Yellow Emperor‘s Classic
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course offers a study of the concepts and principles regarding the relationship of man and the universe and the concept of
unity of opposites in the classic ―Yellow Emperor‘s Classic (Huang Di Nei Jing).‖ This text, considered the highest of the
Chinese medical classics coming from the Han dynasty canonical period is a must study for all practitioners of TCM and
provides the theoretical basis for all branches and systems of Chinese Medicine.
Prerequisites None
EL600 Comprehensive Review of Bio Medical Science
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course offers a comprehensive review of the classes in the western medical curriculum at VUIM. Each of the classes in
VUIM‘s western medicine curriculum will be reviewed and handouts will be given for review of each topic. Main ideas and
important areas of each class will be covered and student questions will be addressed. A particular emphasis will be on covering
the main points for the NCCAOM biomedical module exam.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
Revised on 06/08/2018 47
EL601 Comprehensive Review of Acupuncture
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course directly assists students to prepare for NCCAOM Acupuncture with Point Location examination. The content
includes acupuncture channels and point selection, meridian theory and various acupuncture treatment technics such as
microsystems and orthopedic disorders.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
EL602 Comprehensive Review of Herbology
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course covers the comprehensive review of single herbs and formulas. The student receives the handouts of all necessary
herb and formula information. The results from this course will help the student guide and plan for studying for the NCCAOM
Chinese Herbology examination.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
EL610 Comprehensive Review of Oriental Medicine
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides a comprehensive review of Oriental Medicine History, Theory, Diagnosis and Internal Medicine treatments
taught at VUIM. The course covers the fundamental theories (Zang Fu, Four levels, Five phase, Root and Branch, etc.),
principles, differentiation, diagnostic methods, treatment protocols used to treat disease. It also assists students to prepare for
NCCAOM Foundations of Oriental Medicine examination.
Prerequisites Approval of Academic Dean
EL630 External Clinic
# of credit 1 – 4 # of Hour 30 – 120
Depending on community interest and supervisor availability VUIM may offer a community clinic that affords students the
opportunity to observe, or diagnose and treat patients in a VUIM-operated but external community-based setting, such as
community events, health fairs, or a regularly scheduled clinic in external locations such as a church, school, or other public
place. Patient treatments will apply to this externship, though academic credits will only be awarded through the Electives
category.
Prerequisites Approval of Academic Dean
Revised on 06/08/2018 48
IV. Master of Science in Acupuncture (MSA)
Program Description
The Master of Science in Acupuncture (MSA) requires 154 quarter credits (2,120 hours) including 690 hours
of Clinical training to complete the program. The normal program length of MSA is 3 years.
MSA program is part of MSOM program that focuses on knowledge and experience in Acupuncture only.
MSA program is created to educate students in Acupuncture while providing the population of Northern
Virginia and its surrounding areas with the best alternative medicine treatments. Students are provided a solid
foundation in the principles of Acupuncture as well as Western Allopathic Medicine. The Acupuncture
program includes an extensive study of diagnostics, methods oftreatment, acupuncture, and ethical
management. The program is specifically designed to prepare students to sit for the NCCAOM licensure
examination in Acupuncture Certification and provide the necessary skills to practice safely and skillfully.
MSA program is offered in three different languages: English, Korean and Chinese. For the courses in
different languages, only the teaching method is different: The course objective, learning outcome, study
outline and course evaluation are same as courses in English. Upon approval of the Academic Dean, students
have the option to take individual courses through the different program languages offered.
Program Objectives
The Objectives of the Master‘s Program is to create leading practitioners of Oriental Medicine through student
centered educational structures and experiences that will produce the following competencies
1. Defend an etiology of disease from an Acupuncture perspective and utilize this to create and recommend
disease prevention strategies.
2. Have the ability to formulate a logical treatment principle from an Oriental Medical diagnosis, which can
be put into action utilizing Acupuncture modalities.
3. Evaluate patients exhibiting complaints from within the appropriate scope of practice utilizing the Four
Pillars of Diagnosis to formulate a treatment plan.
4. Gain knowledge of traditional methods of assessment and appropriate treatment of patients.
5. Demonstrate competency in administering a treatment plan as part of the clinical encounter
6. Identify and demonstrate knowledge of situations and symptoms which necessitate the need for referral to
an appropriate health care professional.
7. Demonstrate the ability to communicate in a professional manner the oriental medicine concepts and
diagnoses to other qualified complementary healthcare professionals.
8. Outline and model personal and professional ethical standards.
Graduation Requirements
General graduation requirements are as follows:
1. Satisfactory completion of all required course work and clinical hours in accordance with the Residency
Requirement.
2. Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
3. Satisfactory passing of Graduation Examination
Revised on 06/08/2018 49
4. Passing of Phase Exams(each before entry of observation, intern level 1, 2, 3), among other requirements
including First-aid and Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation(CPR) certification
5. Annual training of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Occupational Safety
and Health Administration (OSHA).
6. Complete the program within one and one-half time program length.
7. Meet all financial obligations to the University
A student must satisfy degree requirements, as outlined in the catalog in effect at the time of enrollment at
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine as a degree program student, unless the student interrupts his/her
program. It may become necessary to satisfy the program requirements as outlined in the catalog in effect at
the time the student re-enters as a student.
Admissions Requirements
1. Completion of the online application for admissions and payment of $100 Application Fee.
2. Satisfactory completion of at least two academic years (60 semester credits/90 quarter credits) of education
at the undergraduate level with a grade of ―C.‖ Verification of the satisfactory completion will be
determined through the receipt of official transcripts confirming the academic requirements for program
admissions. Specifically:
a. Official Transcripts must be received in sealed envelopes directly from the student‘s previous academic
institution within the first quarter of enrollment. Students will not be allowed to continue beyond the
first quarter without VUIM having received official transcripts documenting the student has met the
academic program requirements.
b. Candidates with foreign education, or education completed outside of the U.S., must submit an official
foreign credential evaluation. Official sealed foreign credential evaluations must be submitted directly to
the University. Without official credentials, VUIM cannot transfer or evaluate student credit from
overseas.
3. Verification of English Proficiency: If English is not the student‘s first, native language, the student is
required to submit official scores from an English proficiency examination, regardless of citizenship. The
English language Proficiency requirement may be fulfilled through any one of the following options:
a. English Language Competency (TOEFL): TOEFL Score of at least 61 iBT (which also requires a
minimum speaking exam score of 26, and a minimum listening exam score of 22). For programs in the
Chinese and Korean languages, a TOEFL Score of at least 45 iBT (which also requires a minimum
speaking exam score of 18 and a minimum listening exam score of 15) must be achieved before entering
the clinical education portion of the degree program. Also, at the discretion of the Academic Dean, a
student may be accepted into the program if a student successfully meets the total iBT score but happens
to fall below an individual segment score, or a level 6 IELTS exam score,
OR
Revised on 06/08/2018 50
b. Satisfactory completion of at least two academic years (60 semester credits/90 quarter credits) of
education at the undergraduate level in English, OR achievement of a post-secondary degree from an
institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.
4. Submissions of a 300-word essay answering the questions ―What inspired you to Apply for Acupuncture
and Integrative Medicine School?‖
5. Complete an interview with the Academic Dean or Director of Admissions
6. Transfer students only: Submit official publications, including proof of the completed number of clinical
treatments from a previous acupuncture and Oriental Medicine school. Also, submit a catalog containing
course descriptions of the courses requested for transfer credits and course syllabi for those courses you
wish to gain transfer credits.
Additional Requirements for International Student Admissions
VUIM issues I-20 forms to international students. As a result, each prospective international student must
contact the Office of Admissions regarding preparation of the student VISA.
After processing your completed application, the Admissions Office will inform you of its decision. It is wise
to start the process well in advance of the term for which you are applying. After this time, students may be
admitted only as time and space permit. Any questions about applications, important dates or any other part of
the admissions process should be directed to:
Attn: Office of Admissions
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine
9401 Mathy Drive Suite101
Fairfax, VA 22031
International Students - Financial Statement Requirement
International applicants must submit financial statements showing evidence of financial support to attend
school full-time. Original (not copies) bank verification of funding must substantiate financial statements. The
statement must be original and on the institution‘s letterhead/stationery. All documentation must be dated
within 3 months of the date of initial enrollment at VUIM. The Office of Admissions has provided you with
an estimate of annual educational and living expenses for international students for an academic term. You
must document financial support equal to or greater than this amount. This estimate is subject to change
without notice and will usually increase each year.
International Student Visa Information
Most full-time students must enter the US on a student (F-1) visa. VUIM can issue the Form I-20 for eligible
students. All F-1 students are entered into the computerized Student and Exchange Visitor Information
System (SEVIS), which monitors the immigration status of international student. Details of requirements to
obtain the Form I-20 and student visa are in the How to Apply for Program Admissions section below.
Students should carefully follow proper immigration procedures in order to maintain legal status in the US.
Students on other visas may be eligible to study full-time or part-time, depending on the visa. Contact the
Admissions Office or any US Embassy or Consulate for more information.
Revised on 06/08/2018 51
How to Apply for Program Admissions
Mailing Address for Application Items:
Attn: Office of Admissions
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine
9401 Mathy Drive Suite101
Fairfax, VA 22031
In order to apply for one of our programs, the student must visit our website, www.VUIM.edu, and click
"Online Application.‖ Then a link to the online application will be sent to the applicant. The required
documents and the application steps are as following:
1. Complete the Online Application Form, including credit card payment (Visa, Master, Diner‘s Club or
Discover) for $100 non-refundable application fee.
2. Submit a photocopy of the valid I.D. online.
3. Mail an official transcript of your Bachelor‘s degree. If the degree was awarded outside of the United
States, submit an original copy of foreign credit evaluation from an agency approved by National
Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).
4. Submit proof of English proficiency, if applicable.
5. Submit a 300-word essay about ―What inspired you to Apply for Integrative Medicine School?‖
6. If you are a transfer student, submit any official publications (and proof of the completed number of
treatments in clinic if transfer credits in clinic requested) from the previous school that contain course
descriptions of the courses requested for transfer credits. If the information is inadequate, VUIM would
request a copy of course syllabi.
7. Additional Application Requirements for International Students
a. Submit an original copy of Passport.
b. Submit an original copy of a bank statement with the minimum balance. The date of the statement
should be less than 3 months from the date of the application. If the statement is not under the student‘s
name, submit the Affidavit of Support Form signed by the sponsor.
c. If you are a transfer student from other institution in the United States, submit an original copy of
VISA, I-94 and ALL Form I-20 from previous schools.
SEVIS Payment
For Information on payments, please contact the Student & Exchange Visitor Information System at 1-800-
892-4829 or go to the official Website of the U.S. government at https://egov.ice.gov/sevis/
Revised on 06/08/2018 52
Personal Interview at the U.S. Embassy
After receiving the I-20 and making the SEVIS payment, each student must make an appointment for a
personal interview at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. Students should be prepared to explain their study
plans and show evidence of intention to return home upon completion of the program. If approved, the F-1
visa is issued. For more information on visa issuance, please consult the United Citizenship and Immigration
Services (USCIS) website (http://www.uscis.gov).
When to Apply
For students requiring an I-20 Form and F-1 student visa, we recommend applying at least ten (10) weeks
before the beginning of the study term. For 10-week students not requiring student visas, we recommend
applying at least 6 weeks before the beginning of the study term.
Additional Requirement upon Arrival
All new students must come to the VUIM office before the beginning of the study term to complete the final
registration and to attend new student orientation. Students will need to bring their passport (international
students only) or a photo ID card (U.S. resident only).
Notification of Acceptance for Admissions
When the applicant is accepted for admissions and given final approval by the Director of Admissions, the
candidate is sent an acceptance package, which includes:
Acceptance letter
Summary of transfer credit (if applicable)
Enrollment Agreement
Any additional admissions forms
The Office of Admissions receives and processes all applications. All admission documents filed to the
University become the property of the University and will not be returned to the student.
Accommodation for Disability
VUIM reasonably accommodates qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. A professional
assessment of a student or employee disability is required before the services can be engaged. If such an
assessment is needed, the Director of Student Affairs or Academic Dean has a list of referrals where such
assessments can be obtained. For current or prospective students, a formal request for accommodations should
be submitted to the Director of Student Affairs and Academic Dean.
Adherence to Academic Policies, Procedures and Processes
All students enrolled at VUIM are required to comply with all of the academic policies, procedures and
processes as described in this catalog.
License Requirements
To be eligible for licensure as an Licensed Acupuncturist in Virginia, an acupuncture practitioner must have
graduated from a school sanctioned by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
(ACAOM) and have passed exams required by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and
Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). To sit for the NCCAOM exams, students must complete a course of study
Revised on 06/08/2018 53
that includes graduation from an ACAOM accredited school. VUIM (accredited by ACAOM) requires all
students to pass a Comprehensive Graduation Examination during the 12th quarter of their studies, which
includes questions from three modules: Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory, Acupuncture, and Western
Medicine. Successful completion of the Comprehensive Graduation Exams, in addition to successful
completion of coursework at VUIM, allows the student to graduate, sit for NCCAOM exams, and apply for
admission for licensure in Virginia. The requirements to be licensed may vary in each state.
Course Numbering System
Section
OM Oriental Medicine CO Clinical Observation
AC Acupuncture CA Clinical Internship (MSA)
WM Bio Medical Science CS Clinical Case Study
ME Management and Ethics
Number
300 – 400 Undergraduate Level Courses
500 – 600 Graduate Level Courses
Courses taught in Korean language have course number ending with ‗K‘
Courses taught in Chinese language have course number ending with ‗C‘
Master of Science in Acupuncture Program
Credits Hours Lecture Hours Lab Hours
Oriental Medicine 20 200 200 0
Acupuncture 51 590 430 160
Bio Medical Science 50 520 480 40
Management & Ethics 10 120 80 40
Clinical Internship 23 690 - -
Total 154 2,120 1,190 240
Revised on 06/08/2018 54
Course # Course Titles Credits Hours Lectures
Credits Hours
Labs Credits Hours
Oriental Medicine (20 Credits, 200 Hours)
OM301 History of Eastern Medicine 4 40 4 40 0 0
OM302 Basic Theory of Oriental Medicine I 4 40 4 40 0 0
OM303 Basic Theory of Oriental Medicine II 4 40 4 40 0 0
OM311 Oriental Medicine Diagnosis I 4 40 4 40 0 0
OM312 Oriental Medicine Diagnosis II 4 40 4 40 0 0
Acupuncture (51 Credits, 590 Hours)
AC360 Acupuncture Channels & Points I 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC370 Acupuncture Channels & Points II 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC375 Meridian Theory and Secondary Vessels 4 40 4 40 0 0
AC380 Acupuncture Channels & Point III 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC400 Acupuncture Channels & Point IV 4 40 4 40 0 0
AC410 Introduction to Clinical Techniques 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC420 Advanced Clinical Techniques 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC430 Acupuncture Microsystems 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC440 SaAm Acupuncture 3 30 3 30 0 0
AC441 Internal Medicine for Acupuncture 4 40 4 40 0 0
AC500 Master Tung‘s Acupuncture 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC501 Special Topics in Acupuncture 4 40 4 40 0 0
AC510 Treatment of Orthopedic Disorders 3 40 2 20 1 20
AC520 Clinical Point Selection 4 40 4 40 0 0
AC530 Advanced Clinical Point Selection 4 40 4 40 0 0
Bio Medicine (50 Credits, 520 Hours)
WM300 Western Medical Terminology 3 30 3 30 0 0
WM310 Anatomy & Physiology I 4 40 4 40 0 0
WM320 Anatomy & Physiology II 4 40 4 40 0 0
WM330 Anatomy & Physiology III 4 40 4 40 0 0
WM400 Research Methodologies 3 30 3 30 0 0
WM410 Pathophysiology I 4 40 4 40 0 0
WM420 Pathophysiology II 4 40 4 40 0 0
WM430 Microbiology & Immunology 3 30 3 30 0 0
WM450 Western Physical Exam and Assessment 3 40 2 20 1 20
WM460 Biochemistry & Nutrition 2 20 2 20 0 0
WM510 Western Internal Medicine I 3 30 3 30 0 0
WM520 Western Internal Medicine II 3 30 3 30 0 0
WM530 Western Internal Medicine III 3 30 3 30 0 0
WM540 Orthopedic & Neurologic Evaluation 3 40 2 20 1 20
WM610 Fundamentals of Pharmacology & Biophysics 2 20 2 20 0 0
WM620 Western Medical Diagnostic Tests 2 20 2 20 0 0
Management & Ethics (10 Credits, 120 Hours)
ME311 Practice Management & Billing 2 20 2 20 0 0
ME410 Medical Ethics & Legalities 2 20 2 20 0 0
ME420 Clinical Communication I: The Patient 3 40 2 20 1 20
ME520 Clinical Communication II: The Student 3 40 2 20 1 20
Clinical Internship (23 Credits, 690 Hours)
CO450 Introduction to Clinical Observation 0.5 15
CO500 Clinical Observation 4.5 135
CA510 Clinic Internship 1 7.5 225
CS510 Case Study Intensive Level 1 0.5 15
CA520 Clinic Internship 2 4.5 135
CS520 Case Study Intensive Level 2 0.5 15
CA530 Clinic Internship 3 4.5 135
CS530 Case Study Intensive Level 3 0.5 15
Revised on 06/08/2018 55
Program Outline by Quarter– Master of Science in Acupuncture (Example)
First Year Second Year
1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter 5th Quarter 6th Quarter 7th Quarter 8th Quarter
Oriental
Medicine
OM301 OM302 OM303 OM311 OM312
4/40 4/40 4/40 4/40 4/40
Acupuncture
AC360 AC370 AC375 AC380 AC400 AC410 AC420 AC430
3/40 3/40 4/40 3/40 4/40 3/40 3/40 3/40
AC440 AC441
3/30 4/40
Bio-Medical
Science
WM300 WM310 WM320 WM330 WM410 WM420 WM430 WM450
3/30 4/40 4/40 4/40 4/40 4/40 3/30 3/40
WM400 WM460
3/30 2/20
Management
Ethics
ME311 ME410 ME420 ME520
2/20 2/20 3/40 3/40
Clinical
Internship
CO450 CO500A
0.5/15 1.5/45
CO500B
1.5/45
Q. Credit 12 13 12 11 11 14 13.5 14
Hour 130 140 120 120 110 150 165 230
Third Year
9th Quarter 10th Quarter 11th Quarter 12th Quarter
Acupuncture
AC510 AC520 AC530 AC501
3/40 4/40 4/40 4/40
AC500
3/40
Bio-Medical
Science
WM510 WM520 WM530 WM540
3/30 3/30 3/30 3/40
WM610 WM620
2/20 2/20
Clinical
Internship
CO500C CI510C CI520A CI530A
1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45
CI510A CI510D CI520B CI530B
1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45
CI510B CI510E CI520C CI530C
1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45 1.5/45
CS510 CS520 CS530
0.5/15 0.5/15 0.5/15
Credit 12.5 12 15 14
Hour 225 220 260 250
Revised on 06/08/2018 56
Course Description
Oriental Medicine: 20 Credits, 200 Hours (200 Lecture Hours, 0 Lab Hours)
OM301 History of Eastern Medicine
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course presents a rich and fascinating history that brings to life the subject of Oriental medicine and its journey through
millennium, as well as into United States. Students come to understand that they are a link in the unbroken chain of this healing
tradition. Students will develop a context and overview of the topics they will be studying in the MSOM program, and the
important history behind the theory and practice of Oriental medicine.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
OM302 Basic Theory of Oriental Medicine I
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
As an introduction to Oriental Medicine, this class includes the basic theory of Oriental Medicine including terminology, the
relationship of Yin and Yang, Five Phases, Physiological Functions of Solid and Hollow Internal organs (Zang-Fu theory),
chrono-acupuncture, the formation and function of Qi, Blood, Jin, Ye, the eight parameters, twelve officials, and the nature of
human beings according to Oriental Medicine.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
OM303 Basic Theory of Oriental Medicine II
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This class builds on the information learned in OM302, Basic Theory of Oriental Medicine I. Students will study the
fundamental principles of the external etiological factors of disease which cause internal disease states (wind, cold, damp, heat,
summerheat and dryness), the internal causes (emotions) of disease, the general laws of pathological change, and the prevention
and treatment of diseases.
Prerequisites OM302
OM311 Oriental Medicine Diagnosis I
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course builds on the knowledge obtained in the basic theory courses and provides students with an in-depth study of the
Four Pillars of traditional oriental medicine diagnosis, including observation, auscultation & olfaction, inquiry, and palpation.
Students learn signs and symptoms of various disorders, tongue diagnosis, and pulse, meridian, and other palpation techniques.
Prerequisites OM303
OM312 Oriental Medicine Diagnosis II
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course builds on the diagnosis I class and provides students with in-depth study of the manifestations, etiologies,
pathologies, as well as herbal and acupuncture treatments of common Zang-fu organ patterns and complicated zang-fu organ
patterns. This course provides students with Oriental Medicine diagnosis methods according to internal organ theory (Zang-fu).
Prerequisites OM311
Revised on 06/08/2018 57
Acupuncture: 51 Credits, 590 Hours (430 Lecture Hours, 160 Lab Hours)
AC360 Acupuncture Channels & Points I
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides students with a detailed study of basic concept of meridian system, point locations and primary meridian
pathways in relation to anatomical regions, nerves, bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and vessels with an emphasis on
meridian and collateral theory and treatment. The meridians of Lung, Large Intestine, Stomach, Spleen, Heart, Small Intestine,
and Urinary Bladder will be covered.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
AC370 Acupuncture Channels & Points II
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides students with a detailed study of basic concept of meridian system, point locations and primary meridian
pathways in relation to anatomical regions, nerves, bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and vessels with an emphasis on
meridian and collateral theory and treatment. The meridians of Kidney, Pericardium, SanJiao, Gall Bladder, Liver, Ren and Du
will be covered.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
AC375 Meridian Theory and Secondary Vessels
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course presents the fundamental concepts of the meridian system, including distribution and morphology of meridians,
branches, and collaterals and their physiological functions, pathological changes and inter-relationships with all internal organs
will be covered. Topics cover the distribution of the meridian and collateral systems including 12 meridian, 8 extra meridians,
15 collaterals, the internal branches of the 12 meridians, the sinew meridians, and 12 superficial meridians with their
connections.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
AC380 Acupuncture Channels & Points III
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides students with a detailed study of functions and usage of the points on the primary meridian pathways as
well as special extra points including Back Shu, Front Mu, Yuan Primary, Xi-Cleft, Luo- Connecting, Confluent, Influential, He-
Sea, Command, etc . Students will be introduced to the basic theories involved in the creation of point prescriptions and will
study basic treatments and point combinations.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
AC400 Acupuncture Channels & Points IV
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
Continuing on the point functions introduced in AC380, this course will explore and study the usage of the remaining regular and
special acupuncture points and their traditional functions with examples for their applications in treatment. This course also
provides students with a continuation of the point categories and their purposes and general functions.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
Revised on 06/08/2018 58
AC410 Introduction to Clinical Techniques
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides students with an introduction to the techniques of acupuncture, including use of disposable needles,
insertion and removal of needles, appropriate draping, management of emergency situations with patients, and needling practice.
Practives include use of Guide Tube needling, on common and difficult acupuncture points, methods to obtain De Qi,
tonification, sedation and methods to direct Qi. Students review Clean Needle Technique (CNT), and requirements of OSHA.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
AC420 Advanced Clinical Techniques
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides students with advanced study of acupuncture techniques,and covers needle techniques for the more
sensitive acupoint locations. Needle techniques of threading, deep penetrations, through and through, scalp acupuncture, etc.
will be introduced and practiced. This class will also cover the techniques of moxibustion, cupping, three edged needle,
cutaneous needle, intradermal needle, electro -acupuncture, magnetic therapy, and other advanced techniques.
Prerequisites AC410
AC430 Acupuncture Microsystems
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
There are two major theoretical schools of auricular acupuncture – the French and the Chinese. Both schools and their respective
maps of the ear will be compared and contrasted in this class. Clinical applications and treatment formulas are emphasized.
Scalp acupuncture also has several systems. This class will introduce the Chinese system, Zhu‘s scalp acupuncture, and the MS
lines. Emphasis will be on the application of these lines and points in clinical case situations.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
AC440 SaAm Acupuncture
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
SaAm Acupuncture is an extremely safe and powerful therapeutic system that utilizes the 12 Shu points in 24 primary
combinations of ―four predetermined acupoints‖. It draws on the full breadth of classical Chinese acupuncture tradition and
theory to effectively address both the mental-emotional and physical aspects of illnesses. This course will give an introduction to
the basic theories of SaAm Acupuncture including discussion of the climatic factors and mental-emotional characteristics of the
twelve meridians. An explanation of the predefined point prescriptions, an explanation of the concept of balancing pairs and
diagnostic considerations for selecting the appropriate Four Needle Prescription will also be presented. Correct acupuncture
needling considerations and techniques will also be covered. This course is same as EL400 in Master of Science in Oriental
Medicine program.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
AC441 Internal Medicine for Acupuncture
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This class is designed to synthesize and begin to apply students‘ knowledge from their previous classes. The etiology,
pathology, identification of patterns, and acupuncture treatments will be covered. The following are the topics focused on in this
class: Headache/ Dizziness/Breathless/ Wheezing/ Allergic Rhinitis/ Sinusitis/ Cough/ The Psyche in Oriental Medicine/ The
Emotions/ Etiology of Mental-Emotional problem/ Diagnosis of Mental-Emotional Problems/ Depression/ Anxiety/ Insomnia /
Tinnitus / Goitre / Hypertension / Tiredness / Chest painful obstruction syndrome / Epigastric pain / Nausea and Vomiting /
GERD / Mouth ulcers / Hypochondriac pain / Abdominal pain / Abdominal masses / Diarrhea / Constipation / Bleeding. This
course is same as EL401 in Master of Science in Oriental Medicine Program.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
Revised on 06/08/2018 59
AC500 Master Tung‘s Acupuncture
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides students with an introduction, basic theories, history, and special technics of Master Tong's Acupuncture
and location, indication, manipulation and contraindication of Tong's acupoints. This course is same as EL500 in Master of
Science in Oriental Medicine Program.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
AC501 Special Topics in Acupuncture
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This class introduces and covers the unique Acupuncture theory and skill needed to understand and practice specialty areas.
Students will learn through lectures, case studies, and clinical exercises. Topics may vary by quarter.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
AC510 Treatment of Orthopedic Disorders
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides applications to the diagnostic skills learned in Orthopedic and Neurological Evaluations of WM 540 and
provides acupuncture treatments to the various disorders covered. This course covers treatment from a muscular and
physiological perspective as well as a channel treatment perspective. This class provides practice in oriental medical approaches
to athletic and other injuries, and refines students‘ ability to palpate anatomical structures.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
AC520 Clinical Point Selection
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course guides students in the clinical skill of how to select acupuncture treatment points and combinations to treat various
diseases and conditions in respect to traditional Oriental Medicine principles and modern acupuncture theories.
Prerequisites 2 of AC360, AC370, AC380, AC400
AC530 Advanced Clinical Point Selection
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
Through lecture and discussion this course expands clinical skills of point selection and combinations to treat various diseases
and conditions experienced in modern Oriental Medicine practice and emerging research.
Prerequisites AC520
Revised on 06/08/2018 60
Bio-Medical Science: 50 Credits, 520 Hours (480 Lecture Hours, 40 Lab Hours)
WM300 Western Medical Terminology
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides students with a study of western medical terminology and nomenclature, including major prefixes, roots,
and suffixes. The course is designed to instruct students on the construction of medical terminology used to describe anatomy
and physiology as well as the pathology of the body systems. Students will be introduced to medical terms to increase their
ability to effectively communicate with all healthcare professionals.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
WM310 Anatomy & Physiology I
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides a comprehensive study of the structure and function of the human body. Topics include body organization;
homeostasis; cytology; histology; as well as the integumentary, skeletal, and muscular systems. Upon completion, students
should be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of principles of anatomy and physiology and their interrelationships.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
WM320 Anatomy & Physiology II
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides a comprehensive study of the structure and function of the human body. Topics include the nervous, special
senses, endocrine, urinary, and reproductive systems as well as metabolism, acid-base balance, and fluid and electrolyte balance.
Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of principles of anatomy and physiology.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
WM330 Anatomy & Physiology III
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides a comprehensive study of the structure and function of the human body. Topics include the cardiovascular,
lymphatic, respiratory, digestive systems as well as nutrition and human growth & development. Upon completion, students
should be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of principles of anatomy and physiology and their interrelationships.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
WM400 Research Methodologies
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course introduces the principles of research through critical exploration of the language of research, scientific method of
inquiry and ethical considerations. Students will develop and use their research design skills to analyze and apply research
process within quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methodologies based on literature review.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
WM410 Pathophysiology I
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to pathology, inflammation, infection, immunity and
immunology, non-neoplastic and neoplastic proliferations. This course provides a study of cellular adaptation to disease,
environmental factors in disease, inflammation, and neoplasia.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
Revised on 06/08/2018 61
WM420 Pathophysiology II
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to pathology of the body systems: musculoskeletal,
cardiovascular, pulmonary, digestive, neurological, genitourinary, and endocrine systems.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
WM430 Microbiology & Immunology
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course introduces the fundamentals of microbiology and the immune response. The course covers the principles of
microorganisms, including microbial physiology, genetics and microbial pathogenicity. The microorganisms studied in this
course include bacteria, fungi, mycoplasmas, rickettsiae, viruses and parasites. The action of antibiotics and chemotherapeutic
agents, the fundamentals of immunology, and the immune response will also be discussed
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
WM450 Western Physical Exam & Assessment
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course provides an introduction to the skills of history taking, physical assessment, and documentation. The student will
demonstrate the skills to conduct a comprehensive health assessment including the physical, psychological, social, functional and
environmental aspects of health. Effective communication, assessment, and documentation will be practiced in the laboratory
setting. The student will become familiar with the techniques of physical assessment consisting of inspection, palpation,
percussion.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
WM460 Biochemistry & Nutrition
# of credit 2 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 20 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides students with an introduction to the study of clinical biochemistry. The metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids,
proteins, amino acids, and nucleotides is studied, as well as the effects of enzyme deficiencies, biochemical and genetic
mechanisms of human disease, nutrition, and vitamin deficiencies. The course describes how biochemical test results are utilized
for the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of disease.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
WM510 Western Internal Medicine I
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed as an organ system approach to the pathophysiology of human disease. The course provides students
with a detailed study of the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic and therapeutic approach to various
disorders encountered in internal medicine. Diseases in dermatology, oncology, orthopedic, and rheumatology are explored.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
WM520 Western Internal Medicine II
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed as an organ system approach to the pathophysiology of human disease. the course provides students with
a detailed study of the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic and therapeutic approach to various disorders
encountered in internal medicine. Diseases in neurology, ophthalmology, endocrinology, nephrology, and reproductive medicine
are explored.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
Revised on 06/08/2018 62
WM530 Western Internal Medicine III
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 3
# of Hour 30 Lecture Hour 30
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed as an organ system approach to the pathophysiology of human disease. The course provides students
with a detailed study of the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic and therapeutic approach to various
disorders encountered in internal medicine. Diseases in hematology, cardiology, pulmonology, and gastroenterology are
explored.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
WM540 Orthopedic & Neurological Evaluation
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course examines musculoskeletal and neurological basis for biomechanics, assessment for movement dysfunction, and
corrective exercise strategies. Students will demonstrate functional evaluation, palpation of musculoskeletal structures,
measuring range of motion, muscle length and muscle strength analysis.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
WM610 Fundamentals of Pharmacology & Biophysics
# of credit 2 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 20 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides basic introduction to the principles of pharmacology and drug classification. The course will provide the
student of oriental medicine with a fundamental knowledge of basic pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetic and
pharmacogenomics principles, as well as the basic properties, mechanisms, uses, adverse effects and drug interaction
mechanisms of drugs. Students will also apply the concepts and methods of the physical sciences to the solution of biological
problems.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
WM620 Western Medical Diagnostic Tests
# of credit 2 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 20 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed to help students develop basic skills in reading and interpreting medical images (X-ray, CT scan, MRI)
as well as ordering, reading, and interpreting common Western medical diagnostic tests with respect to scope of practice.
Prerequisites 4 of WM310, WM320, WM330, WM410, WM420
Management and Ethics: 10 Credits, 120 Hours (80 Lecture Hours, 40 Lab Hours)
ME311 Practice Management & Billing
# of credit 2 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 20 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
VUIM recognizes that students should achieve a satisfactory return on the time, money, and energy invested in their education.
To achieve this end, students must be introduced to good business skills and ethical business behaviors. Important factors to be
considered are: time management, business structure and marketing (business plan), fee schedules, billing and insurance and
clinical paperwork.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
Revised on 06/08/2018 63
ME410 Medical Ethics & Legalities
# of credit 2 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 20 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
There are certain ethical situations to be considered in business management within the Oriental Medical field. This course
includes lectures, readings and discussions of ethics, jurisprudence and current issues that confront the modern Oriental Medicine
health practitioner, including the regulations of the Virginia Medical Board and other governmental agencies will be discussed in
detail.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
ME420 Clinical Communications I: The Patient
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course helps students improve and expand their communication skills by providing them with exposure to professional
clinical communications. Clinical, verbal and written interactions are emphasized, including those with other clinicians as well as
patients. Through exercises and discussions students will explore characteristics and approaches that benefit the
patient/practitioner and other professional relationships.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
ME520 Clinical Communications II: The Student
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
Clinical Communication II is a course to help cultivate interpersonal communication skills by first reflecting on their own
journeys, and cultivating understanding of others. TCM recognizes the unity of the mind/body/spirit and the healing journey
shared by both the practitioner and the patient. To navigate this well, students must endeavor the journey of self-reflection and
self-evaluation. This course provides students with skills and practices to enhance their treatments. Topics to be covered include
dealing with challenging situations such as patients who are facing depression, grief, trauma and abuse; suicide prevention, and
death.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
Clinical Internship:23 Credits, 690 Clinic Hours, 250 Treatments
CO450 Introduction to Clinical Observation
# of credit 0.5 # of Hour 15
This course is a presentation, discussion, and practice of academic and clinical issues revolving around Clinical Observation
designed to impart the knowledge and skills necessary to maximize the value of the students‘ observation in the clinic. The five
areas of study and practice covered will be: clinic rules and procedures; clinical charting; Clean Needle Technique (CNT); herb
room; and introduction to case review and grand rounds. Satisfactory passing of Clinical Phase Exam 1 is necessary to enter
CO500 Clinical Observation course.
Prerequisites Completion of 50 Didactic Credits including OM303, AC380
CO500 Clinical Observation
# of credit 4.5 # of Hour 135
In Clinical Observation, students observe Herb dispensary, clinic procedures and treatments. Observation notes are required. In
phase 1 of clinical observation, students will have completed C0450 and AC380 and observe on clinic shifts with no hands-on
activities. In phase 2 of clinical observation, the student will begin to integrate into the non-hands-on aspects of the clinical
encounter under the guidance of the clinical supervisor. In phase 3 of clinical observation, the students begin to integrate into all
aspects of the clinical encounter in preparation for internship level 1. Students will have practiced greeting patients, intake, pulse
and tongue diagnosis, development of diagnosis and prognosis.
Prerequisites CO450, First Aid & CPR certification, HIPAA & OSHA training confirmation
Revised on 06/08/2018 64
CI510 Clinic Internship 1
# of credit 7.5 # of Hour 225
In level 1, interns assist in diagnosing and treating patients under supervision of clinic staff. Interns will participate in all aspects
of the clinical encounter including treatment (225 hours of practice. Minimum number of treatments is 100)
Prerequisites CO500
CS510 Case Study Intensive Level 1
# of credit 0.5 # of Hour 15
In level 1, interns will hold grand rounds on interesting cases brought to the shift and work on chart review. Interns will be held
to a higher level of proficiency in case reporting and will be responsible for a comprehensive written case report. The students
are required to pass Clinical Phase Exam 2 during the case study.
Prerequisites CI510
CI520 Clinic Internship 2
# of credit 4.5 # of Hour 135
In Level 2, interns assume primary responsibility for treating patients upon consultation with supervisors. Interns are expected to
demonstrate a thorough understanding of clinical diagnosis and treatment. Interns are now leading the clinical encounter with
strong guidance from clinical supervisors. (135 hours of practice. Minimum number of treatment is 75)
Prerequisites CS510
CS520 Case Study Intensive Level 2
# of credit 0.5 # of Hour 15
In Level 2, interns are expected to conduct chart review and follow-through with any charting issues. Grand rounds will be held
on interesting cases brought to the shift by interns and a high level of case reporting is expected. In grand rounds, interns will be
able to offer alternative treatment possibilities and demonstrate their skill in rational clinical reasoning. The students are required
to pass Clinical Phase Exam 3 during the case study.
Prerequisites CI520
CI530 Clinic Internship 3
# of credit 4.5 # of Hour 135
This is the final stage of internship. Interns continue to assume primary responsibility for treating patients upon consultation with
supervisors. Interns are expected to demonstrate a thorough understanding of clinical diagnosis and treatment. (135 hours of
practice. Minimum number of treatment is 75)
Prerequisites CS520
CS530 Case Study Intensive Level 3
# of credit 0.5 # of Hour 15
In Level 3 interns are expected to conduct chart review and follow-through with any charting issues. Interns will review peer
charts and offer constructive critiques. Grand rounds will be held on interesting cases brought to the shift by interns and a high
level of case reporting is expected. In grand rounds, interns will be able to offer alternative treatment possibilities and
demonstrate their high skill in rational clinical reasoning. Interns may be required to report a case to a western medical health
professional through referral or advice solicitation. The students are required to pass Clinical Phase Exam 4 during the case
study.
Prerequisites CI530
Revised on 06/08/2018 65
V. Post Baccalaureate Certificate in East Asian Nutrition Program (Cert.
EAN)
Program Description
The Post Baccalaureate Certificate in East Asian Nutrition Program (Cert. EAN) requires 55 quarter credits
(720 hours) including 240 hours of Clinical training to complete the program. The normal program length of
Cert. EAN is 1 year.
Cert. EAN program is part of MSOM program that focuses on knowledge and experience in Chinese
Herbology knowledge and clinical training. Cert. EAN program is designed to educate students who wish or
require fundamental and detailed education in Traditional Chinese Herbology. This certificate program
provides necessary traditional Chinese Herbology information to complete professional master degree
education in Oriental Medicine field. Graduates of Master of Science in Acupuncture program of VUIM are
encouraged to complete Cert. EAN program to fulfill the advanced requirement of Oriental Medicine
education.|
Cert. EAN program is not accredited or pre-accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and
Oriental Medicine (ACAOM). Graduates of this program are not considered to have graduated from an
ACAOM accredited or candidate program and may not rely on ACCAOM accreditation or candidacy for
professional licensure or other purposes. Students enrolled in this program are not eligible to participate in the
Federal grant and loan programs. Instead, this program is specifically designed to prepare students to be
eligible for the NCCAOM licensure examination in Chinese Herbology section. Together with NCCAOM
Acupuncture Certification and the passing exam in Chinese Herbology section, it can be converted to
NCCAOM Oriental Medicine Certification, which is one of the same learning objectives of Master of Science
in Oriental Medicine Program.
Program Objectives
The Objectives of the Certificate in East Asian Nutrition Program is to create leading practitioners of Oriental
Medicine through student centered educational structures and experiences that will produce the following
competencies
1. Defend an etiology of disease from the Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective and utilize this to create
and recommend disease prevention strategies.
2. Have the ability to formulate a logical treatment principle from the Traditional Chinese Medicine
diagnosis, which can be put into action utilizing the Traditional Chinese Medicine modalities.
3. Evaluate patients exhibiting complaints from within the appropriate scope of practice utilizing the Four
Pillars of Diagnosis to formulate a treatment plan.
4. Gain knowledge of traditional methods of assessment and appropriate treatment of patients.
5. Demonstrate competency in administering a treatment plan as part of the clinical encounter
6. Identify and demonstrate knowledge of situations and symptoms which necessitate the need for referral to
an appropriate health care professional.
7. Demonstrate the ability to communicate in a professional manner the Traditional Chinese Medicine
concepts and diagnoses to other qualified complementary healthcare professionals.
8. Outline and model personal and professional ethical standards.
Graduation Requirements
General graduation requirements are as follows:
Revised on 06/08/2018 66
1. Satisfactory completion of all required course work and clinical hours in accordance with the Residency
Requirement.
2. Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
3. Satisfactory passing of Graduation Examination
4. Passing of Phase Exams(each before entry of observation, intern level 1, 2, 3), among other requirements
including First-aid and Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation(CPR) certification
5. Annual training of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Occupational Safety
and Health Administration (OSHA).
6. Complete the program within one and one-half time program length.
7. Meet all financial obligations to the University
A student must satisfy degree requirements, as outlined in the catalog in effect at the time of enrollment at
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine as a degree program student, unless the student interrupts his/her
program. It may become necessary to satisfy the program requirements as outlined in the catalog in effect at
the time the student re-enters as a student.
Admissions Requirements
1. Completion of the online application for admissions and payment of $100 Application Fee.
2. Satisfactory completion of at least two academic years (60 semester credits/90 quarter credits) of education
at the undergraduate level with a grade of ―C.‖ Verification of the satisfactory completion will be
determined through the receipt of official transcripts confirming the academic requirements for program
admissions. Specifically:
a. Official Transcripts must be received in sealed envelopes directly from the student‘s previous academic
institution within the first quarter of enrollment. Students will not be allowed to continue beyond the
first quarter without VUIM having received official transcripts documenting the student has met the
academic program requirements.
b. Candidates with foreign education, or education completed outside of the U.S., must submit an official
foreign credential evaluation. Official sealed foreign credential evaluations must be submitted directly
to the University. Without official credentials, VUIM cannot transfer or evaluate student credit from
overseas.
3. Verification of English Proficiency: If English is not the student‘s first, native language, the student is
required to submit official scores from an English proficiency examination, regardless of citizenship. The
English language Proficiency requirement may be fulfilled through any one of the following options:
a. English Language Competency (TOEFL): TOEFL Score of at least 61 iBT (which also requires a
minimum speaking exam score of 26, and a minimum listening exam score of 22). For programs in the
Chinese and Korean languages, a TOEFL Score of at least 45 iBT (which also requires a minimum
Revised on 06/08/2018 67
speaking exam score of 18 and a minimum listening exam score of 15) must be achieved before
entering the clinical education portion of the degree program. Also, at the discretion of the Academic
Dean, a student may be accepted into the program if a student successfully meets the total iBT score
but happens to fall below an individual segment score, or a level 6 IELTS exam score,
OR
b. Satisfactory completion of at least two academic years (60 semester credits/90 quarter credits) of
education at the undergraduate level in English, OR achievement of a post-secondary degree from an
institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.
4. Submissions of a 300-word essay answering the questions ―What Inspired You to Apply for Acupuncture
and Integrative Medicine School?‖
5. Complete an interview with the Academic Dean or Director of Admissions
6. Transfer students only: Submit official publications, including proof of the completed number of clinical
treatments from a previous acupuncture and Oriental Medicine school. Also, submit a catalog containing
course descriptions of the courses requested for transfer credits and course syllabi for those courses you
wish to gain transfer credits.
Additional Requirements for International Student Admissions
VUIM issues I-20 forms to international students. As a result, each prospective international student must
contact the Office of Admissions regarding preparation of the student VISA.
After processing your completed application, the Admissions Office will inform you of its decision. It is wise
to start the process well in advance of the term for which you are applying. After this time, students may be
admitted only as time and space permit. Any questions about applications, important dates or any other part of
the admissions process should be directed to:
Attn: Office of Admissions
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine
9401 Mathy Drive Suite101
Fairfax, VA 22031
International Students - Financial Statement Requirement
International applicants must submit financial statements showing evidence of financial support to attend
school full-time. Original (not copies) bank verification of funding must substantiate financial statements. The
statement must be original and on the institution‘s letterhead/stationery. All documentation must be dated
within 3 months of the date of initial enrollment at VUIM. The Office of Admissions has provided you with
an estimate of annual educational and living expenses for international students for an academic term. You
must document financial support equal to or greater than this amount. This estimate is subject to change
without notice and will usually increase each year.
Revised on 06/08/2018 68
International Student Visa Information
Most full-time students must enter the US on a student (F-1) visa. VUIM can issue the Form I-20 for eligible
students. All F-1 students are entered into the computerized Student and Exchange Visitor Information
System (SEVIS), which monitors the immigration status of international student. Details of requirements to
obtain the Form I-20 and student visa are in the How to Apply for Program Admissions section below.
Students should carefully follow proper immigration procedures in order to maintain legal status in the US.
Students on other visas may be eligible to study full-time or part-time, depending on the visa. Contact the
Admissions Office or any US Embassy or Consulate for more information.
How to Apply for Program Admissions
Mailing Address for Application Items:
Attn: Office of Admissions
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine
9401 Mathy Drive Suite101
Fairfax, VA 22031
In order to apply for one of our programs, the student must visit our website, www.VUIM.edu, and click
"Online Application.‖ Then a link to the online application will be sent to the applicant. The required
documents and the application steps are as following:
1. Complete the Online Application Form, including credit card payment (Visa, Master, Diner‘s Club or
Discover) for $100 non-refundable application fee.
2. Submit a photocopy of the valid I.D. online.
3. Mail an official transcript of your Bachelor‘s degree. If the degree was awarded outside of the United
States, submit an original copy of foreign credit evaluation from an agency approved by National
Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).
4. Submit proof of English proficiency, if applicable.
5. Submit a 300-word essay about ―What Inspired You to Apply for Integrative Medicine School?‖
6. If you are a transfer student, submit any official publications (and proof of the completed number of
treatments in clinic if transfer credits in clinic requested) from the previous school that contain course
descriptions of the courses requested for transfer credits. If the information is inadequate, VUIM would
request a copy of course syllabi.
7. Additional Application Requirements for International Students
a. Submit an original copy of Passport.
b. Submit an original copy of a bank statement with the minimum balance. The date of the statement
should be less than 3 months from the date of the application. If the statement is not under the student‘s
name, submit the Affidavit of Support Form signed by the sponsor.
c. If you are a transfer student from other institution in the United States, submit an original copy of
VISA, I-94 and ALL Form I-20 from previous schools.
Revised on 06/08/2018 69
SEVIS Payment
For Information on payments, please contact the Student & Exchange Visitor Information System at 1-800-
892-4829 or go to the official Website of the U.S. government at https://egov.ice.gov/sevis/
Personal Interview at the U.S. Embassy
After receiving the I-20 and making the SEVIS payment, each student must make an appointment for a
personal interview at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. Students should be prepared to explain their study
plans and show evidence of intention to return home upon completion of the program. If approved, the F-1
visa is issued. For more information on visa issuance, please consult the United Citizenship and Immigration
Services (USCIS) website (http://www.uscis.gov).
When to Apply
For students requiring an I-20 Form and F-1 student visa, we recommend applying at least ten (10) weeks
before the beginning of the study term. For 10-week students not requiring student visas, we recommend
applying at least 6 weeks before the beginning of the study term.
Additional Requirement upon Arrival
All new students must come to the VUIM office before the beginning of the study term to complete the final
registration and to attend new student orientation. Students will need to bring their passport (international
students only) or a photo ID card (U.S. resident only).
Notification of Acceptance for Admissions
When the applicant is accepted for admissions and given final approval by the Director of Admissions, the
candidate is sent an acceptance package, which includes:
Acceptance letter
Summary of transfer credit (if applicable)
Enrollment Agreement
Any additional admissions forms
The Office of Admissions receives and processes all applications. All admission documents filed to the
University become the property of the University and will not be returned to the student.
Accommodation for Disability
VUIMreasonably accommodates qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. A professional
assessment of a student or employee disability is required before the services can be engaged. If such an
assessment is needed, the Director of Student Affairs or Academic Dean has a list of referrals where such
assessments can be obtained. For current or prospective students, a formal request for accommodations should
be submitted to the Director of Student Affairs and Academic Dean.
Adherence to Academic Policies, Procedures and Processes
All students enrolled at VUIM are required to comply with all of the academic policies, procedures and
processes as described in this catalog.
Revised on 06/08/2018 70
License Requirements
The State of Virginia does not require Chinese Herbology NCCAOM exam to acquire the license and practice
acupuncture. However, there are many states that require Chinese Herbology NCCAOM exam as a part of
their requirement to apply for a license. Also, NCCAOM Acupuncture Certification can be converted to
NCCAOM Oriental Medicine Certification after passing Chinese Herbology NCCAOM exam.
Course Numbering System
Section
HB Herbology CO Clinical Observation
CH Clinical Internship (EAN) CS Clinical Case Study
Number
300 – 400 Undergraduate Level Courses
500 – 600 Graduate Level Courses
Post Baccalaureate Certificate in East Asian Nutrition Program
Credits Hours Lecture Hours Lab Hours
Herbology 47 480 460 20
Clinical Internship 8 240 -
Total 55 720 460 20
Course # Course Titles Credits Hours Lectures
Credits Hours
Labs Credits Hours
Herbology (47 Credits, 480 Hours)
HB310 Herbology I 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB320 Eastern Nutrition 3 40 2 20 1 20
HB400 Special Topics in Herbal Medicine 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB410 Herbology II 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB420 Herbology III 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB430 Herbology IV 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB440 Herbs: Formulas I 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB510 Herbs: Formulas II 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB520 Herbs: Formulas III 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB530 Herbs: Formulas IV 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB540 Shang Han Lun Cold Damage 4 40 4 40 0 0
HB550 Herbal Medicine Advanced Formula Study 4 40 4 40 0 0
Clinical Internship (8 Credits, 240 Hours)
CO450 Introduction to Clinical Observation 0.5 15
CI510 Clinic Internship 1 3 90
CS510 Case Study Intensive Level 1 0.5 15
CI520 Clinic Internship 2 1.5 45
CS520 Case Study Intensive Level 2 0.5 15
CI530 Clinic Internship 3 1.5 45
CS530 Case Study Intensive Level 3 0.5 15
Revised on 06/08/2018 71
Course Description
Herbology: 47 Credits, 480 Hours (460 Lecture Hours, 20 Lab Hours)
HB310 Herbology I
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides students with an introduction to Chinese herbology. The first half of the class will prepare students for the
study of individual herbs through the learning of herbal history, nomenclature, properties, dosage, preparation, and basic herbal
theory. The second half of the class will begin the study of individual herbs. The herb categories covered in this course will be:
Warm Acrid Herbs that Release the Exterior, Cool Acrid Herbs that Release the Exterior, Herbs that Drain Fire, Herbs that Cool
the Blood, Herbs that Clear Heat and Dry Dampness.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
HB320 Eastern Nutrition
# of credit 3 Lecture Credit 2
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 20
Lab Credit 1 Lab Hour 20
This course will cover the theory and practical aspects of using foods and natural herbs to correct medical conditions from the
perspective of Oriental Medical Theory, and its application. Medicinal recipes utilizing Chinese herbs are presented and may be
prepared in class.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
HB400 Special Topics in Herbal Medicine
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This class introduces and covers the unique Oriental Herbal Medicine history and approaches needed to understand and practice
advanced formulas, including studies of Wen Bing, and the Jin Gui Yao Lue Golden Cabinet. Students may elect to study these
topics in greater depth as elective courses.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
HB410 Herbology II
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides students with a detailed study of individual Chinese herbs, their classification, name, taste, properties,
entering channels, actions, indications, contraindications, and preparation. The herb categories covered in this course include:
Herbs that Clear Heat and Resolve Toxicity, Herbs that Clear Deficiency Heat, Downward Draining Herbs, Herbs that Drain
Dampness, Herbs that clear Wind-Dampness, Herbs that Cool and Transform Phlegm-Heat, Warm Herbs that Transform Cold-
Phlegm, Herbs that Relieve Coughing and Wheezing, Aromatic Herbs that Transform Dampness, and Herbs that Relieve Food
Stagnation.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
HB420 Herbology III
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides students with a detailed study of individual Chinese herbs, their classification, name, taste, properties,
entering channels, actions, indications, contraindications, and preparation. The herb categories covered in this course include:
Herbs that Regulate Qi, Herbs that Regulate the Blood, Herbs that Warm the Interior, Herbs that Tonify Qi, Herbs that Tonify
Blood, and Herbs that Tonify Yang.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
Revised on 06/08/2018 72
HB430 Herbology IV
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides students with a detailed study of individual Chinese herbs, their classification, name, taste, properties,
entering channels, actions, indications, contraindications, and preparation. The herb categories covered in this course include:
Herbs that Tonify Yin, Herbs that Stabilize & Bind, Herbs that Nourish Heart & Calm the Spirit, Herbs that Anchor, Settle &
Calm the Spirit, Herbs that Open the Orifices, Herbs that Extinguish Wind and Stop Tremors, Herbs That Expel Parasites, and
Herbs for External Use. An introduction to the principle of Dui Yao and modern herbal research will also be covered in this
class.
Prerequisites No Prerequisites
HB440 Herbs: Formulas I
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides students with an introduction to Chinese formulas. The first part of the class will prepare students for the
study formulas through the learning of herbal history, nomenclature, properties, dosage, preparation, and basic herbal formula
theory. The second part of the class will begin the study formulas. Concepts of herbal formulation and detailed analysis of
formula categories and their relationships to differentiation of patterns and disease etiologies will be covered. The formula
categories covered in this course will be: Formulas that Release the Exterior, and Herbs that Clear Heat. This formula class
corresponds to the single herbs.
Prerequisites 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
HB510 Herbs: Formulas II
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course continues to cover concepts of herbal formulation and presents detailed analysis formula categories and their
relationships to differentiation of patterns and disease etiologies. The course will cover approximately 70 classical herbal
formulas, with a detailed analysis of the functions and properties of the formulae, individual herbs in each formula, the way the
herbs work in the formula, the clinical applications of each formula, and variations on the basic formula. The categories of
formulas to be addressed in this course include formulae that Drain Downward, Formulas that Harmonize, Treat Dryness, Expel
Dampness, Treat Phlegm, and Reduce Food Stagnation. This formula class corresponds to the single herbs class HB410
Herbology II.
Prerequisites 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
HB520 Herbs: Formulas III
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course continues to cover concepts of herbal formulation and presents a detailed analysis of formula categories and their
relationships to differentiation of patterns and disease etiologies. The course will cover approximately 70 classical herbal
formulas, with a detailed analysis of the functions and properties of the formulae, individual herbs in each formula, the way the
herbs work in the formula, the clinical applications of each formula, and variations on the basic formula. The categories of
formulas to be addressed in this course include formulae that Regulate Qi, Nourish the Blood, Tonify the Yang, Invigorate
Blood, Stop Bleeding, and Warm the Interior. This formula class corresponds to the single herbs class HB420 Herbology III.
Prerequisites 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
Revised on 06/08/2018 73
HB530 Herbs: Formulas IV
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course continues to cover concepts of herbal formulation and presents a detailed analysis of formula categories and their
relationships to differentiation of patterns and disease etiologies. The course will cover approximately 70 classical herbal
formulas, with a detailed analysis of the functions and properties of the formulae, individual herbs in each formula, the way the
herbs work in the formula, the clinical applications of each formula, and variations on the basic formula. The categories of
formulas to be addressed in this course include formulae that Tonify Yin, Stabilize and Bind, Anchor and Settle the Mind,
Nourish the Heart to Calm the Mind, Open the Orifices, Extinguish Wind and Stop Tremors, Expel Parasites, and that are suited
for External Application. This formula class corresponds to the single herbs class HB430 Herbology IV.
Prerequisites 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
HB540 Shang Han Lun Cold Damage
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course is designed for the advanced student at the intern levels. This class will present, discuss, and study readings from the
Shang Han Lun. Commentary and relevant prescriptions will be introduced and discussed. Pulse presentation and techniques,
abdominal palpation, teeth examination, and skin examination as described in this text will also be discussed. This course will
provide students with knowledge regarding symptoms, diagnosis, treatment principles and formulas of febrile diseases
contracted by external wind cold.
Prerequisites 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
HB550 Herbal Medicine Advanced Formula Study
# of credit 4 Lecture Credit 4
# of Hour 40 Lecture Hour 40
Lab Credit 0 Lab Hour 0
This course provides a comprehensive review of the the history, selection and application of herbs and formulas as core remedy
and protocols for treating internal and external conditions. Special attention is paid to review of Critical Herbs and Formulas for
the accomplished practitioner, as well as Herb-Drug interactions for the most commonly used drugs, and herbs.
Prerequisites 2 of HB310, HB410, HB420, HB430
Revised on 06/08/2018 74
Clinical Internship: 8 Credits, 240 Clinic Hours, 100 Treatments
CO450 Introduction to Clinical Observation # of credit 0.5 # of Hour 15
This course is a presentation, discussion, and practice of academic and clinical issues revolving around Clinical Observation designed
to impart the knowledge and skills necessary to maximize the value of the students‘ observation in the clinic. The five areas of study
and practice covered will be: clinic rules and procedures; clinical charting; Clean Needle Technique (CNT); herb room; and
introduction to case review and grand rounds. Satisfactory passing of Clinical Phase Exam 1 is necessary to enterCH510 Clinical
Internship course. Prerequisites Approval by Director of Clinical Education, First Aid & CPR certification, HIPAA & OSHA training
CH510 Clinic Internship 1 # of credit 3 # of Hour 90
In level 1, interns assist in diagnosing and treating patients under supervision of clinic staff. Interns will participate in all aspects of
the clinical encounter including treatment (90 hours of practice. Minimum number of treatments is 50 herbal treatments) Prerequisites CO500, HIPAA & OSHA training confirmation
CS510 Case Study Intensive Level 1 # of credit 0.5 # of Hour 15
In level 1, interns will hold grand rounds on interesting cases brought to the shift and work on chart review. Interns will be held to a
higher level of proficiency in case reporting and will be responsible for a comprehensive written case report. The students are required
to pass Clinical Phase Exam 2 during the case study. Prerequisites CI510, HIPAA & OSHA training confirmation
CH520 Clinic Internship 2 # of credit 1.5 # of Hour 45
In Level 2, interns assume primary responsibility for treating patients upon consultation with supervisors. Interns are expected to
demonstrate a thorough understanding of clinical diagnosis and treatment. Interns are now leading the clinical encounter with strong
guidance from clinical supervisors. (45 hours of practice. Minimum number of treatment is 25 herbal treatments)
Prerequisites CS510 CS520 Case Study Intensive Level 2
# of credit 0.5 # of Hour 15 In Level 2, interns are expected to conduct chart review and follow-through with any charting issues. Grand rounds will be held on
interesting cases brought to the shift by interns and a high level of case reporting is expected. In grand rounds, interns will be able to
offer alternative treatment possibilities and demonstrate their skill in rational clinical reasoning. The students are required to pass
Clinical Phase Exam 3 during the case study. Prerequisites CI520
CH530 Clinic Internship 3 # of credit 1.5 # of Hour 45
This is the final stage of internship. Interns continue to assume primary responsibility for treating patients upon consultation with
supervisors. Interns are expected to demonstrate a thorough understanding of clinical diagnosis and treatment.
(45 hours of practice. Minimum number of treatment is 25 herbal treatments) Prerequisites CS520
CS530 Case Study Intensive Level 3 # of credit 0.5 # of Hour 15
In Level 3 interns are expected to conduct chart review and follow-through with any charting issues. Interns will review peer charts
and offer constructive critiques. Grand rounds will be held on interesting cases brought to the shift by interns and a high level of case
reporting is expected. In grand rounds, interns will be able to offer alternative treatment possibilities and demonstrate their high skill
in rational clinical reasoning. Interns may be required to report a case to a western medical health professional through referral or
advice solicitation. The students are required to pass Clinical Phase Exam 4 during the case study. Prerequisites CI530
Revised on 06/08/2018 75
VI. STUDENT RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES
Student Code of Professional Conduct
The University and its staff of faculty and administration rely on students to conduct themselves in a manner
that upholds the University's student code of professional and academic conduct. All students of the
University should understand that they are training to be skilled medical professionals with a high level of
duty and responsibility. Students who act in a manner that violates this code will be subject to disciplinary
actions. Under no circumstances will any of the following be tolerated or excused:
Academic Dishonesty
Academic dishonesty includes providing or receiving answers from other students during an examination,
plagiarizing the works of others, using informational aids such as "crib sheets" or other types of notes during
examination, or anything else that might be construed as cheating. The use of any technology in an
inappropriate manner is also considered cheating and will not be tolerated.
Students who are found to be academically dishonest will automatically receive "F" in that particular course
and are subject to disciplinary sanctions ranging from suspension, to permanent disqualification, to revocation
of degree, and/or more, at the discretion of the University. Students are hereby placed on notice of the
seriousness with which Virginia University of Integrative Medicine treats academic dishonesty, as well as
with the wide latitude of positive action(s), as set forth more fully below, which the University may take.
Inappropriate Conduct
All students are to conduct themselves in a manner that is not injurious to University‘s name, reputation,
property or other individuals. Any act that disrupts or prevents the University staff and faculty from
performing their duties will be grounds for immediate disciplinary action.
Violation of rules and regulations include, but are not limited to the following: violation of any local, state,
and federal law, furnishing false and misleading information, unauthorized use of facilities, forgery, or misuse
of University documents, disruption of classes or administration, theft or damage to University property,
disorderly, or offensive act, any use or threat of force, sexual harassment, use or possession of alcohol,
narcotics, or being under their influence on campus.
Policy on Diversity & Non-Discrimination
VUIM embraces the principle that quality and diversity are mutually dependent. Representation of as many
groups, backgrounds, and points of view as possible results in the best decisions and actions of our
organization, and benefits our students. Ultimately, it is our goal to reflect the population we wish to attract
and serve. Our area in the Northern Virginia area offers a greatly diverse population from which we aim to
draw the finest talent to create a faculty of the highest degree for our students to learn from. The University
structure was created to support and take advantage of the diversity of our students and geographical location.
It is the intention of the University that a climate of respect for a diversity of backgrounds, ideas, and
perspectives is highly valued and issues of diversity are appropriately considered and engaged.
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine seeks to expand diversity in the areas of representation, our
campus community, including both faculty and students in the following ways:
1) University outreach initiatives for admissions will occur through attendance at college fairs, speaking
Revised on 06/08/2018 76
engagements, and through strategic alliances. These outreach efforts include targeting local high schools
and Universities with large minority enrollment and attending minority fairs.
2) Virginia University of Integrative Medicine is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Hiring strategies for staff,
faculty, and the administration adhere to an equal opportunity policy. Applicants are considered on the
basis of their qualifications for the position without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation,
national origin, citizenship, age, marital status, disability, veteran's status or any other personal trait
protected by federal, state or local law.
3) VUIM‘s community engages in outreach to underserved communities. VUIM is currently working on
increasing its community service initiatives through volunteer services provided to community
organizations as well as through our low-cost school clinic. Through these services, the community learns
about our branch of the CAM services and other services the University offers such as personal cultivation
classes, community learning engagements, and CEU opportunities. Personal Cultivation classes are
facilitated by members of the community for low to no cost for attendance. Diversity is encouraged; and
the subjects are wide-ranging, including: Medical Chinese, martial arts, and yoga.
VUIM prides itself on the acceptance of diversity of thought and traditions, while still focusing on the study
of TCM theory and practices. Elective courses provide exposure to diverse theories and practices, and
students and faculty form study and practice groups around these on campus. For example, The SaAm
Acupuncture Society represents the efforts of VUIM faculty - students, practitioners, and interested parties
dedicated to continuing an interest in Korean SaAm Acupuncture.
Non-Discrimination/Handicapped Policy
School policy is to comply fully with applicable federal and state nondiscrimination and equal opportunity
laws, orders and regulations. The school will not discriminate in its programs and activities against any person
because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, handicap,
or status as a disabled veteran. This policy applies to all programs and activities at VUIM. Disabled
individuals are welcome; facilities are wheelchair and handicapped accessible. Individual arrangements for
the disabled can be made by contacting the admissions office.
Drug and Alcohol Abuse Policy
It is the policy of the Board of Trustees of Virginia University of Integrative Medicine that the learning
environment be free of addictive substances. Specifically, all members of the University community, which
includes the administration, faculty, and staff, students and guests, will abstain from the consumption/use of
alcohol, narcotics, and/or misuse of prescription drugs while on the University property.
Violation of this policy could lead to suspension, expulsion, termination, and within the context of criminal
activity, referral to law enforcement agencies. Employees and students having difficulties with addictive
substances can seek confidential counseling from the University or referrals to agencies providing assistance
to individuals with alcohol-or-drug-related problems.
Administration of Student Discipline
The executive council may impose discipline for violations of University policies or regulations whether or
not such violations are also violations of law, and whether or not proceedings are or have been pending in the
courts involving the same acts.
Revised on 06/08/2018 77
If an alleged violation of University policies occurs in connection with an official University function not on
campus, the student accused of the violation shall be subject to the same disciplinary procedures. The loss of
University employment shall not be a form of discipline under these policies. However, when student status is
a condition of employment, the loss of student status will result in termination of the student's employment. In
imposing discipline other than suspension or dismissal, access to housing and health services shall not be
restricted unless the act that predicated the discipline is appropriately related to the restriction.
If as a result of an official appeal it is determined that the student was improperly disciplined, the president
shall, if requested by the student, have the record of the hearing sealed, and have any reference to the
disciplinary process removed from the student's record. In such case, the record of the hearing may be used
only in connection with legal proceedings. The president also may take other reasonable actions to ensure that
the status of the student's relationship to the University shall not be adversely affected.
The results of any disciplinary action by the University that alleged a forcible or non-forcible sex offense, as
defined in The Code of Virginia (Section 23-9.2:3), must be disclosed to both the alleged offender and the
alleged victim, the scope of information to be provided under this section shall be: (I) the University's final
determination with respect to the alleged sex offense; and (2) any sanction that is imposed against the alleged
offender. It is the alleged victim's obligation to keep the results of the disciplinary action or appeal
confidential, consistent with the doctrine of reasonableness.
Whether or not a hearing is conducted, the University may provide written notice to a student that his or her
alleged behavior may have violated University policy or regulations and that, if repeated, such behavior will
be subject to the disciplinary process. Evidence of the prior alleged behavior as detailed in the written notice
may be introduced in a subsequent disciplinary action in order to enhance the penalty.
Unapproved Distribution of Student Handouts, Test Questions and Educational
Materials
Students receive educational materials developed by individual faculty of VUIM administration, for their
benefit during the course of study. At no time is a student permitted to distribute this material on the Internet,
through any means of publication, or for personal gain. Any violation of this policy will result in disciplinary
action.
Student Grievances and Grievance Procedure
Any student may file a complaint about any issue, question, problem or anything else which they reasonably
believe impedes their academic studies or which they find objectively questionable about any instructor, staff
member or administrator, either orally or in writing, to any Virginia University of Integrative Medicine
administrator. Any such administrator will then transmit the concern in writing to the Director of Student
Affairs who also serves as the Compliance Designee. The Compliance Designee will then review the matter,
and if more information is required before attempting to unilaterally recommend a resolution of the matter, the
Compliance Designee will investigate the matter thoroughly, including interviewing all individuals, the
reporting student, and reviewing all documents that relate or may potentially relate to the matter in question.
Once the Compliance Designee has concluded his her investigation, the Compliance Designee will report the
matter to the Executive Office (The President and the Academic Dean, Chief Compliance Officer, and
Director of Clinical Education), along with a recommendation for resolution.
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If the Executive Office concurs with the Compliance Designee's recommendation, then the matter will be
accordingly disposed of. If not, then further discussion will be held until a majority of the Executive Office
agrees on a particular resolution of the matter.
Depending on the parties involved, the nature and seriousness of the issues concerned, and any other factors
which must be taken into account in order to properly resolve the matter, a wide variety of actions or inactions
may be taken. In the event the reporting student, or others involved, is displeased with the manner for
disposition arrived at by the Executive Office, they may petition any member of the Executive Office to
request that the matter be re-opened and reviewed as though it had been first reported to the entire Executive
Office. If no member of the Executive Office will make such a request, then the matter shall stand as
originally disposed of.
Once the matter is final, written notice of the Executive Office's decision will be transmitted within a
reasonable time not to exceed thirty (30) days to the reporting student and any other appropriate parties. The
matter shall, however, remain a private one and no publication of the matter shall be made, even with the
consent of all non-VUIM parties involved, unless not doing so, would constitute a serious breach of justice.
Should the reporting student, or any other affected party remain displeased with the outcome of the matter, an
appeal may always be made to the: (Students will not be subject to unfair treatment by the school as a
result of initiating a complaint and the student may contact SCHEV about the school as a last resort.)
State Council of Higher Education for Virginia
James Monroe Building, 10th Floor
101 North Fourteenth Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
Tel: (804) 225-2600 Fax: (804) 225-2604 Website: www.schev.edu
Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM)
8941 Aztec Drive, Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55347; phone 952/212-2434; fax 952/657-7068
Student Services
The Director of Students Affairs assists students directly or through referral. Direct services offered by the
Director include: letters of recommendation, explanation of policies and procedures relating to student records,
admission policies, evaluation & credentials, transfer credit, academic probation, disqualification and
disciplinary matters, publication of class schedules and approval of academic petitions. Many of these
activities will be done with or through the Academic Dean.
Student Visas
VUIM does offer I-20/visa services and does vouch for Student status. Please contact the Office of
Admissions for more information.
Housing
VUIM does not have dormitory facilities under its control. The University has no responsibility to find or
assist in finding housing. The Student Affairs Director may assist in finding suitable housing in the area.
Revised on 06/08/2018 79
Student Advising
VUIM offers Student Advising during normal business hours. All VUIM students are able to receive
advisement about any subject such as academic, financial, course advising and college application advising.
Study Groups
Study groups can be very valuable in the learning process. They can provide support, discipline, and ready
feedback. Study groups are most effective for discussing the material before class, discussing concepts after
class, outlining, and reviewing practice exams. The exchange of ideas in the intimate environment of a small
group of peers is helpful in understanding complex concepts. People learn in different ways and at different
rates. School studies groups help develop the collaborative skills needed to succeed in practice.
Faculty Availability and Course Advising
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine ensures that instructional faculty are accessible to students for
academic or course advising at stated times outside a course's regularly scheduled class hours. This
information is noted on the Syllabus for each class.
Expectations for Office Hours and Course Advising:
Students are expected to attend each class, participate in class, take notes, read your course materials, and
study. In order to improve your chances of doing well in a class, you should study about three hours per week
per credit. Example: For a 3 credit class, you should expect to study about 9 hours per week outside of class.
Students should come prepared to any office hour or tutoring session scheduled with a professor.Not only
does this mean bringing all the required materials, such as the textbook, workbook, handouts, etc., but also
having read the given material and attempted the homework.Faculty are available to answer questions on the
material covered in class, not to reteach the course.
Career Services
The Career Services office provides employment assistance to degree graduates. The services provided
include:
1. Maintenance of a Job Board
2. Workshops in resume writing, interview techniques, and cover letter writing.
Placement assistance is offered to all degree graduates. Employment is not guaranteed, and students are
encouraged to become active participants in their job search and readiness to secure employment
opportunities as they arise.
Library
Library Mission
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine students will master research skills needed to find, gather,
evaluate, and effectively use resources available within the VUIM Library system and beyond, thereby
developing a strong foundation in research skills vital to the success and effectiveness of their professional
careers, and useful in their personal lives.
Library Goals & Objectives
Minimally, VUIM students will:
• Recognize the need for information & identify appropriate sources of information
- Formulate questions
Revised on 06/08/2018 80
- Identify key concepts/terms
- Identify the type of information needed
- Identify sources of information
• Develop search strategies
- Formulate a search strategy
- Review search results and revise search if needed
• Evaluate the information and its source
- Analyze information retrieved
- Analyze its source
• Use information ethically and legally
Acknowledge source of information
The University recognizes a library to be a vital part of a student's education and an important element in the
overall effectiveness of the University. The VUIM Library offers an excellent collection of research and
learning materials, covering Oriental Medicine and allied health subjects. Our Library holdings consist of a
core collection of books, periodicals, and media resources. Additionally, the Library has an excellent
collection of Korean and Chinese language materials. The VUIM library collections include over 1,600 items
in our collection, along with access to thousands of online resources available via our library web guides.
Students, faculty and staff have access to materials related directly to the VUIM curriculum, as well as
coverage in the general areas of Chinese and Western Medicine. The library provides access to both print
resources and e-resources. The library has visual materials which include flash cards and models (body
skeletons, acupuncture body models, etc.), charts, DVDs, video, tapes, etc.
The VUIM library encourages students to the knowledge and resources available in the fields of oriental
medicine, acupuncture, Herbology, and western medicine. Our Library catalog and web pages are available
24/7, and provide links to major Oriental Medicine and health-related resources. Our library is housed
conveniently on site and is available to students, faculty, and the VUIM community. A Library Policy
Handbook will be available at the library web pages and at orientation.
The library‘s online public access catalog (OPAC) found at http://opac.libraryworld.com, extends the school‘s
of operation. The OPAC enables researchers to review the school‘s book and journal inventory (including e-
journals and e-books). OPAC users can create reading lists (bibliographies) and conduct subject, title, author,
or call number (shelf-browse) searches. The OPAC posts direct links to additional open access books and
journals; and database links.
The library‘s OPAC can be accessed from smart phones at www.libraryworld.com/mobile. Apps are
available for the iPhone, iPad and Android.
Additionally, the web-based library guide can be found at http://www.netvibes.com/VUIMlib. This web
resource provides links to VUIM‘s EBSCO database subscriptions, as well as relevant research databases and
web sites for open access e-resources, together with links to associations and organizations in the field of
oriental medicine. The guide also provides helpful information on citation structure and information literacy.
The VUIM Librarian is a member of the CCAOM (Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental
Medicine) Library group and monitors their efforts in setting up an interlibrary loan consortium.
Revised on 06/08/2018 81
FERPA
FERPA Annual Notification of Student Rights
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords eligible students certain rights with respect
to their education records. (An ―eligible student‖ under FERPA is a student who is 18 years of age or older or
who is attends a postsecondary institution.) These rights include:
1. The right to review and inspect his or her own education records. An eligible student has the right to
inspect and review the student‘s education records within 45 days after the day Virginia University of
Integrative Medicine (the ―university‖) receives a request for access. A student should submit to the
registrar, academic dean, or other appropriate university records custodian a written request that identifies
the record(s) the student wishes to inspect.The appropriate records custodian will make arrangements for
access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are
not maintained by the records custodian to whom the request was submitted, that person shall advise the
student of the correct records custodian to whom the request should be addressed.
2. The right to request an amendment of the education record. An eligible student has the right to seek
amendment of the student‘s education records that the student believes to be inaccurate, misleading, or
otherwise in violation of the student‘s privacy rights under FERPA.
• A student who wishes to ask the university to amend a record should write the records custodian responsible
for the record, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed, and specify why it should be
changed.
• The university will, within a reasonable time after receiving the request, decide whether to amend the record
as requested.
• If the university decides not to amend the record as requested, the university will notify the student in
writing of the decision and the student‘s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional
information will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to provide written consent before personally identifiable information is disclosed, except
when FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. An eligible student has the right to provide written
consent before the university discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student‘s education
records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
The university may, and from time to time does, disclose education records without a student‘s prior written
consent when authorized by FERPA, including to university officials whom the university has determined to
have legitimate educational interests. VUIM defines ―university officials‖ and ―legitimate educational
interests‖ as follows:
• ―University officials‖ include (a) persons employed by VUIM in an administrative, supervisory, academic,
research, or clerical or support staff position (including but not limited to law enforcement unit personnel,
attorneys, counselors, and health staff); (b) persons serving on the board of trustees; or (c) persons
(including students) serving on an official university committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance
committee.
• A university official also may include a volunteer, contractor, consultant or other party outside of VUIM (i)
who performs an institutional service or function for which the university would otherwise use its own
employees, (ii) who is under the direct control of the university with respect to the use and maintenance of
education records, such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent or a student volunteering to assist another
Revised on 06/08/2018 82
university official in performing his or her tasks, and (iii) who is subject to the obligation not to disclose PII
from any education record without the prior written consent of the student.
• ―Legitimate educational interests‖ include performing a task or engaging in an activity related to (i) one‘s
regular duties or professional responsibilities, (ii) a student‘s education, (iii) the discipline of a student, (iv)
a service to or benefit for a student, (v) measures to support student success, and (vi) the safety and security
of the campus.
4. The right to file a complaint. An eligible student has the right to file a complaint with the U.S.
Department of Education concerning alleged failures by VUIM to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
The name and address of the Office that administersFERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202
When does FERPA permit disclosure of personally identifiable information (PII) without student
consent?
FERPA permits the disclosure of PII from students‘ education records, without consent of the student, if the
disclosure meets certain conditions found in §99.31 of the FERPA regulations.Except for disclosures to
university officials (as defined above), disclosures related to some judicial orders or lawfully issued
subpoenas, disclosures of directory information, and disclosures to the student, §99.32 of FERPA regulations
requires the institution to record the disclosure.Eligible students have a right to inspect and review the record
of disclosures.
The university may disclose PII from the education records without obtaining prior written consent of an
eligible student —
• To other university officials whom the university has determined to have legitimate educational interests, as
described above under paragraph 3. This includes contractors, consultants, volunteers, or other parties to
whom the university has outsourced institutional services or functions, provided that certain conditions are
met. (§99.31(a)(1))
• To officials of another university where the student seeks or intends to enroll, or where the student is
already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes related to the student‘s enrollment or transfer, subject to the
requirements of §99.34. (§99.31(a)(2))
• To authorized representatives of the U. S. Comptroller General, the U. S. Attorney General, the U.S.
Secretary of Education, or State and local educational authorities, such as a State postsecondary authority
that is responsible for supervising the university‘s State-supported education programs. Disclosures under
this provision may be made, subject to the requirements of §99.35, in connection with an audit or evaluation
of Federal- or State-supported education programs, or for the enforcement of or compliance with Federal
legal requirements that relate to those programs. These entities may make further disclosures of PII to
outside entities that are designated by them as their authorized representatives to conduct any audit,
evaluation, or enforcement or compliance activity on their behalf. (§§99.31(a)(3) and 99.35)
• In connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received, if the
information is necessary to determine eligibility for the aid, determine the amount of the aid, determine the
conditions of the aid, or enforce the terms and conditions of the aid. (§99.31(a)(4))
Revised on 06/08/2018 83
• To certain state and local officials or authorities when authorized by state statute in certain
cases. (§99.31(a)(5))
• To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, the university, in order to: (a) develop, validate, or
administer predictive tests; (b) administer student aid programs; or (c) improve instruction. (§99.31(a)(6))
• To accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions. (§99.31(a)(7))
• To parents of an eligible student if the student is a dependent for IRS tax purposes. (§99.31(a)(8))
• To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena. (§99.31(a)(9))
• To appropriate officials in connection with a health or safety emergency, subject to §99.36. (§99.31(a)(10))
• When it is information the university has designated as ―directory information‖ under
§99.37. (§99.31(a)(11))
• To a victim of an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence or a non-forcible sex offense, subject to the
requirements of §99.39. The disclosure may only include the final results of the disciplinary proceeding
with respect to that alleged crime or offense, regardless of the finding. (§99.31(a)(13))
• To the general public, the final results of a disciplinary proceeding, subject to the requirements of §99.39, if
the university determines the student is an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence or non-forcible sex
offense and the student has committed a violation of the university‘s rules or policies with respect to the
allegation made against him or her. (§99.31(a)(14))
• To parents of a student regarding the student‘s violation of any Federal, State, or local law, or of any rule or
policy of the university, governing the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance if the
university determines the student committed a disciplinary violation and the student is under the age of 21.
(§99.31(a)(15))
• The disclosure concerns sex offenders and other individuals required to register under section 17010 of the
Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994.
Directory Information
Institutions may disclose a student‘s ―Directory Information‖ without their consent, and without violating
FERPA if the student has not restricted their personal information. VUIM considers the following to be
―Directory Information‖:
● name
● email address
● address (local & home)
● telephone number (any listed)
● college/school & curriculum
● enrollment status & credit hours
● dates of attendance
● classification
● receipt or non-receipt of degree
● academic awards received
● participation in officially recognized activities
● sports photograph(s)
● position, weight, height in athletics
Request to Restrict Directory Information
While attending VUIM, students may request to restrict the release of their Directory Information except to
university officials with a legitimate educational interest, as outlined in item 3 above.In order to restrict all
information, a signed and dated request must be made in writing to the School Registrar. Should the student
graduate or otherwise leave the university, this restriction will remain in place until the student requests for it
Revised on 06/08/2018 84
to be removed.
Note: Once a student‘s record has been made confidential, no information can be shared about the individual
without the student‘s written consent. In such a case, problems may occur thereafter when potential employers
or other parties make inquiries about the student.
Revised on 06/08/2018 85
VII. TUITION & FEES, FINANCIAL POLICIES
Tuition and Fees
Tuition
• Tuition per Didactic Quarter Credit (MSA & MSOM) $170 Per credit
• Tuition per Clinical Hour $360 Per credit
One-Time Fees (Non-Refundable)
• Application Fee for Admissions $100
• Student Keycard $10
• Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee $300
• Foreign Credential Evaluation Fee $330
• Graduation Fee $350
• Graduation Exam Fee $200
Recurring Fees (Non-Refundable)
• Registration Fee
(Including the facility, lab, Wi-Fi, library, Student online account,
administrative service, etc.)
$80 Per quarter
• Internship Fee (Interns Only)
(This fee pays for expendable supplies and equipment in the clinic as well as
cleaning and waste disposal.)
$100 Per quarter
• Malpractice Insurance
(This fee must be paid by students in the intern clinic in order to treat
patients. Students may show proof of adequate malpractice insurance from
their own provider to waive this fee, prior to clinical start.)
$ 200
For each 12-
month clinical
period
Quarterly Tuition Payment Plan (Non-Refundable)
The payment plan allows student to divide the total tuition and fees for each quarter into 2 payments.
The first payment is due by the payment due date. The remaining payment is due within 30 days. All
fees are due at time of initial payment. Late payments on this plan will incur additional fees.
• Setup Fee $40
• Late Fee for Payment Plans
(Payable if a payment made under the payment plan after the due date.) $50 per week
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Late Fees and Penalties (Non-Refundable)
• Late Registration Fee
(Payable if classes are not registered by the registration due date of each
quarter. It does not apply to new students.)
$25 Per quarter
• Late Tuition Payment Penalty Fee
(The fee will be added on a weekly basis after payment due date. After 35
days without tuition payment, student will be dismissed from the program
unless other arrangements are made with the finance officer.)
$20 Per week
• Late Drop Fee
(Payable if a course is dropped after add/drop period of the quarter.) $75 Per course
Other Fees (Non-Refundable)
• Student Identification Card (Replacements) $10
• Student Keycard (Replacements) $15
• Course Challenge Exam Fee 50% of course
tuition
• Clinic Phase Exam Retake Fee $25 per exam
• Didactic Exam Make up Fee $50 per exam
• Course Audit Fee $80 Per Credit
• Official Transcripts $20
• Diploma (Replacements) $60
• Returned Check Fee $35
• Express Mail (Domestic) $35
• Express Mail (Foreign) $75
• Library Fees
(All fees for late returns, lost books, print and copy services are detailed in
the library manual. Fines and Penalties must be paid prior to registration.)
Varies
International Student F-1 Visa Processing Fees (Non-Refundable)
• An Initial Processing Fee $120
• I-20 Re-Issue Fee $10
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Total Estimated Program Cost
Master of Science in Oriental Medicine
(Based on 16 Quarters including 8 Quarters of Clinical Internship)
Tuition ($170 x 194 Didactic Quarter Credit + $360 x 33 Clinical Credit) $44,860
Application Fee $100
Registration Fee ($80 x 16 Quarter) $1,280
Clinical Internship Fee ($100 x 8 Quarter) $800
Malpractice Insurance ($200 x 2 Year) $400
Graduation Exam $200
Graduation Fee $350
Estimated Book Cost $4,000
Total $51,990
Master of Science in Acupuncture
(Based on 12 Quarters including 6 Quarters of Clinical Internship)
Tuition ($170 x 131 Didactic Quarter Credit + $360 x 23 Clinical Credit) $30,550
Application Fee $100
Registration Fee ($80 x 12 Quarter) $960
Clinical Internship Fee ($100 x 6 Quarter) $600
Malpractice Insurance ($200 x 2 Year) $400
Graduation Exam $200
Graduation Fee $350
Estimated Book Cost $3,000
Total $36,160
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Tuition and Refunds Policy
Tuition Payment Policy
Full payment of tuition and fees is due by the registration deadline, which is posted each quarter.
Payments may be made in cash, check or by credit card. All Tuition and fees owed must be paid in full before
registering for the following quarter unless other arrangements have been made with the Registrar. No student
is allowed to participate in any class without full payment of tuition or an agreed upon payment plan. A
payment plan is offered to students who are in good financial standing with the University. Students should
not send cash through the mail.
Tuition Payment Plans
The payment plan allows the student to divide the total tuition for each quarter into 2 payments. The first
payment is due as specified in the agreement, as the tuition payment due date. The remaining payment is due
within 30 days. The setup fee is due at time of initial payment. This is the only payment plan currently
available. Late payments on this plan will incur additional fees. Students may pay by cash, check, money
order or credit cards.
Late Payments and Courses Added or Dropped After the Add &Drop Period
Payments received after the start of late registration are considered late and subject to a late registration fee.
Courses added during the late registration period are subject to late fees.
Course Cancellation
If a cancellation of registration is submitted prior to the end of business hours of the day before the first day of
instruction for the first of one or more classes in which the student is enrolled (hereafter, first day of
instruction) a full refund of tuition and fees (other than the Application Fee, and Registration Fee that are
nonrefundable).
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Students have the right to cancel the Enrollment Agreement up to the first day of instruction by submitting the
VUIM Enrollment Agreement Cancelation Form to the Registrar. This will allow the student to receive a
refund of all fees paid, less the total for non-refundable fees. Other forms of notice such as phone calls, E-mail,
verbal comments or failure to attend classes, do not constitute cancellation.
Withdrawal
Students wishing to withdraw from individual classes after the beginning of class must complete an Add/Drop
Form, which must be approved by the Academic Dean and Registrar. Never assume your class will be
dropped automatically or by someone else. There are no refunds for books or other supplies. Tuition refund
policies also apply to any student who may be dismissed from the program by the administration. The tuition
refund for any given course, quarter or special session is based on the pro-rata percentage of instruction days
of courses conducted by the University before official cancellation of enrollment up until fifty percent of the
course has been conducted.
Please note that the following is the requisite refund policy pursuant to 8 VAC 40-31-160 (N) of the Virginia
Administrative Code.
Revised on 06/08/2018 89
Tuition refunds
Tuition refunds will be determined as follows :
During the Add/Drop Period
Full Tuition Refund
Withdrawal during 25% of the period 50% of the program cost
After completing 25%, but less than 50% 25% of the program cost
Completing 50% or more than 50% No Refund
If the University cancels a registered course, you will be entitled to receive a full tuition refund for the
canceled course. You may be entitled to a refund if the new class carries fewer credits or you may owe the
University money if the new class carries more credits if you replace the dropped or canceled class with
another class for a different number of credits.
Tuition refunds for a recipient of Title IV grant or loan funds
If a recipient of Title IV grant or loan funds withdraws from all classes on or after the first day of the quarter,
the Financial Aid Office must calculate the amount of financial aid the recipient earned prior to withdrawing
based on the Return of Title IV Fund Policy. Any title IV aid received in excess of the earned amount is
considered unearned. Unearned aid must be returned back to the respective Federal Aid program. If returned
to a loan program, the outstanding balance of the financial aid recipient will be reduced by the amount of the
return.
Earned Aid is determined by taking the number of days attended divided by the total number of days in the
quarter. If a financial aid recipient withdraws after the 60% point of the quarter, there are no unearned funds.
The calculation of the Return of Title IV aid only applies to recipients who withdraw prior to the 60% point of
the quarter. And this does not apply to financial aid recipients who cancel their registration prior to the first
day of classes or to recipients who drop some but not all of their classes.
The return of aid calculated is charged to the recipients‘ school account and this balance must be paid by the
recipient. Because the tuition refund will be less than the total return of aid amount in most cases, a financial
aid recipient is responsible for paying the difference between the tuition refund and the return of aid amount
when he/she withdraws from school or from all courses for the term.
Disbursement of Tuition Refunds
All tuition refunds will be disbursed through the University‘s main office, unless the refund recipient requests
in writing that it be mailed. In such cases, the recipient must provide in writing a current mailing address, or
other address to which the refund should be sent. Refunds will be made within 45 calendar days of the
students‘ withdrawal date.
Limitation on Cost
The University makes every effort to avoid increases and to hold costs to a necessary minimum.
Normally, tuition and fee changes are announced at least one full quarter before becoming effective.
Since the economy does not stay constant and generally leading to taxes and managing costs increase, rather
than decrease, the University reserves the right to change tuition and fees when necessary without notice.
Financial Aid Policy
All financial aid programs administered by VUIM will be managed in accordance with the guidelines and
criteria applicable to the program requirements as detailed in federal legislation, regulation, and other official
guidance from the U.S. Department of Education (ED). Financial aid consists of scholarships and Title IV
loans. The responsibility for making and coordinating financial aid awards rests with the Financial Aid Office.
Revised on 06/08/2018 90
Financial Aid shall be awarded on the basis of the student‘s eligibility for the aid program(s), demonstrated
need and/or student‘s request, as well as academic achievements.A student‘s Unsubsidized Direct Loan or a
PLUS Loan borrower‘s loan amount may not exceed the student‘s cost of attendance (COA) when
considering all other aid to be received.
All financial aid applicants must be admitted to VUIM prior to the award of any financial aid. VUIM requires
all students who wish to receive Title IV funds to submit an institutional financial aid application form in
addition to the federally required FAFSA documentation. The completion and execution of the institutional
application form is regarded as the student‘s confirmation and acknowledgement of his / her receipt and
understanding of the requirements for receiving federal financial aid through Title IV funds. The submission
and execution of the institutional application form is also acknowledgement by the student that the
information he / she has provided for financial aid is true and correct to the best of his / her knowledge.
Based on the information the student has submitted via FAFSA, a student‘s Institutional Student Information
Record (ISIR) may be selected for verification. Verification is a process that the US Department of Education
requires for certain students in which the student must present documentation to substantiate their financial
aid application (FAFSA).If a student is chosen for verification, the Financial Aid Office will provide notice to
the student of what they need to bring in and the applicable verification deadline. A student selected for
verification must complete the verification process. If the student fails to correct his/her ISIR advised by the
financial aid office and/or bring the required documentation, financial aid may not be awarded or disbursed.
A notification of award (i.e. an award letter) or award changes resulting from verification will be provided to
the student along with any pertinent documents/information related to the specific awards of Financial Aid.
Generally, this will be by e-mail, but may also be by paper correspondence or by messaging/notification on
the institution‘s student information system‘s student access portal. One or more of these are also the methods
that will be used to inform students of changes to their authorized award amounts and other matters related to
the awards.
If financial aid students want to cancel or reduce the amount of aid, they have to communicate their desire
with the Financial Aid Office in writing at least one week before the anticipated disbursement date. If there is
no appropriate notification, aids will be disbursed as scheduled.
By submitting the institutional Financial Aid application, the student agrees to notify the Financial Aid Office
of any changes in financial circumstances, including receipt of additional aid from other sources. The
Financial Aid Office reserves the right, on behalf of VUIM, to review, revise, or cancel an award at any time
due to changes in the recipient‘s financial status, academic standing, academic program, residency status, or
outside financial aid awards, in accordance with applicable legislation, regulation, and/or institutional
policies.
Students receiving financial assistance through the Title IV Federal Financial Aid Program are expected to
enroll as at least half-time student status. Students enrolling less than full-time must notify the Financial Aid
Office in advance so that their aid amount is properly awarded. If a financial aid student ceases to be enrolled,
drop below half-time, or graduates from the program, all loan funds for the future disbursement will be
canceled. Financial Aid students who want to withdraw from school or from all courses for the term are
required to notify the Financial Aid Office and may be required to repay all or a portion of the funds awarded
for the applicable term of study.
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Return of Title IV Funds (R2T4) Policy
If a recipient of Title IV grant or loan funds withdraws from a school or from all courses after beginning
attendance, the amount of Title IV grant or loan assistance earned by the student must be determined. If the
amount disbursed to the student is greater than the amount the student earned, the unearned funds must be
returned. If the amount disbursed to the student is less than the amount the student earned, and for which the
student is otherwise eligible, he or she is eligible to receive a post-withdrawal disbursement of the earned aid
that was not received.
The Federal Return of Title IV funds formula (R2T4) dictates the amount of FederalTitle IV aid that must be
returned to the federal government by the school and/or the student. The federal formula is applicable to an
eligible student receiving federal aid when that student withdraws at any point during the payment period.
If a student did not start or begin attendance at the school, the R2T4 formula does not apply.
Official Withdrawal Process: If a student wishes to withdraw from school, they must notify the Academic
Dean and Registrar of the school. The notification may be in writing or orally. The date the notification is
received is the date of determination. The Registrar must begin the withdrawal process.
For unofficial withdrawals, a student‘s withdrawal date at the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine is
the student‘s last day of physical attendance. Their date of determination is 14 days after they cease
attendance.
The federal formula requires a Return of Title IV calculation if the student received or could have received
(based on eligibility criteria) federal financial assistance in the form of Pell Grants, Direct Loans or Direct
PLUS Loans, FSEOG, TEACH, and Iraq Afghanistan Service Grants (IASG) during the payment period. The
percentage of Title IV aid earned is equal to the percentage of the payment period that was completed as of
the withdrawal date if this occurs on or before the 60% point of time. After the 60% point of the payment
period the student is considered to have earned 100% of the aid for the period. The percentage that has not
been earned is calculated by subtracting the percentage of Title IV aid earned from 100%. The percentage of
the payment period completed is calculated by the days completed in the payment period as of the withdrawal
date divided by the scheduled days in the payment period.
The amount to be returned is calculated by subtracting the amount of Title IV assistance earned from the
amount of Title IV aid that was or could have been disbursed as of the withdrawal date.
If a student receives less Title IV funds than the amount earned, the school will offer the student a
disbursement of the earned aid that was not received at the time of their withdrawal which is called a post-
withdrawal disbursement. Post-withdrawal disbursements will be made from Pell Grant funds first, if the
student is eligible. If there are current educational costs still due the school at the time of withdrawal, a Pell
Grant post-withdrawal disbursement will be credited to the student‘s account. Any remaining Pell funds must
be released to the student without the student having to take any action. The funds must be released as soon as
possible but no more than 45 days after the date of determination. Any federal loan program funds due in a
post-withdrawal disbursement must be offered to the student and the school must receive the student‘s
authorization before crediting their account.
If a credit balance still exists on the student‘s account after the R2T4 and institutional refund calculations are
done, that credit balance must be used to pay any grant overpayment that exists based on the current
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withdrawal within 14 days from the date that the R2T4 calculation was performed. The overpayment must be
eliminated prior to offering a credit balance to a student.
The following Title IV return distribution is used for all FSA students.
Unsubsidized Direct Loan
Subsidized Direct Loan
Federal Perkins Loan
Direct PLUS Loan (Graduate Student)
Direct PLUS Loan (Parent)
Federal Pell Grant
FSEOG
Teach Grant
Iraq Afghanistan Service Grant
Returns must be made as soon as possible to the federal programs but no later than 45 days after the date of
determination.
The law requires that a student is responsible for all unearned Title IV program assistance that the school is
not required to return. This is determined by subtracting the amount returned by the school from the total
amount of unearned Title IV funds to be returned