Certificate in Chinese Herbal Medicine Frequently Asked Questions

Q: HOW LONG IS THE PROGRAM AND WHAT IS THE SCHEDULE?
A: The program is a total of two years in length with fall, spring, and summer terms each year. Classes start in fall term only. This is a hybrid program and lectures for our Chinese Herbal Medicine program are conducted online in both synchronous (live classes) and asynchronous format (pre-recorded, self-paced). Students can review lectures and other course materials online at their convenience. Students are required to attend in person a few weekends per term for clinical requirements. The clinical internship starts in the third term of the program. Students have a variety of clinical shift options to choose from. View our sample schedule.

Q: WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO APPLY FOR THE PROGRAM?

A: View the admissions requirements here.

Q: WHAT IS THE APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR THIS PROGRAM?

A: The priority deadline is March 1 and the final deadline is July 1.

Q: CAN I ENROLL IN THIS PROGRAM WHILE I’M STILL FINISHING MY ACUPUNCTURE DEGREE?

A: Students currently enrolled in an Acupuncture program at Won Institute may apply for admission for concurrent enrollment in the Chinese Herbal Medicine Program starting in the third year of the acupuncture program. All students currently enrolled in any acupuncture program must have their letters of recommendation completed by current faculty and have a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Q: WHAT WILL I BE LEARNING?

A: Study includes education in the use of over 300 Chinese herbs and more than 100 formulas. Students not only have extensive classroom learning but also get hands-on experience with more than 210 hours of clinical practice in our Student Clinic and on-site Chinese herbal dispensary. The program focuses on both the Chinese medical theory that underlies the practice as well as the practical application of the medicine. Topics include Shang Han Lu, Wen Bing and Jin-Yuan master’s theory, and advanced treatment topics for gynecology, fertility, pediatrics, neurology, and oncology.

Q: HOW MUCH TIME WILL I BE SPENDING IN CLASS AND OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM?

A: Students can expect to spend approximately 10-17 hours per week completing online asynchronous work. This is a hybrid program and on campus clinical requirements are required several weekends per term. Students can review lectures and other course materials online at their convenience.

Q: WHAT IS THE COST OF THE PROGRAM?

A: Please see the Tuition page for more information.

Q: DO YOU OFFER  FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID OR SCHOLARSHIPS?

A: Yes. Federal financial aid is available to students who qualify. Scholarships are also available based on need and merit, and scholarship applications are provided to those accepted into the program. Read more on our Financial Resources page.

Q: IS THE WON INSTITUTE AN ACCREDITED SCHOOL?

A: Yes, the Won Institute as a whole is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The Chinese Herbal Medicine program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (ACAHM). Graduates from this program will be eligible to sit for the NCCAOM Board Exam in Chinese Herbology.

Q: HOW DO I BECOME LICENSED TO PRACTICE HERBAL MEDICINE WHEN I GRADUATE?

A: If you are a licensed acupuncturist in PA, you will need to fill out the application for registration as a practitioner of OM at the State Board of Medicine website. If you are a licensed acupuncturist in another state and are interested in expanding your scope of practice, please contact their specific state board for instructions.