Master’s Degree

Master's Degree in Alternative and Complementary Medicine and Medical Systems

This master's degree explores alternative and complementary medicine practices, preparing students for roles in holistic health care and wellness industries.

1 to 2 years
Length
Master
Level
After bachelor's degree
Entry level
58
Schools
00
Exit level
Master
Length
1 to 2 years
Work-study
Uncommon
Selectivity
Selective
Direct careers
2 métiers
Where to study
58 établissements

About

This master's degree focuses on alternative and complementary medicine and medical systems, offering advanced knowledge about non-conventional health practices. It is designed for students who want to deepen their understanding of holistic approaches to health beyond standard Western medicine. The program suits those interested in careers that integrate natural therapies, wellness coaching, or complementary health services.

  • The degree typically lasts 1 to 2 years and is at the master's level.
  • It provides insights into various alternative medical systems, such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, and mind-body therapies.
  • Students learn to evaluate and apply complementary treatments in healthcare settings.
  • The program prepares graduates to work in wellness centers, clinics, or private practice.
  • It is suitable for those aiming to complement existing medical qualifications or enter holistic health professions.

What you study

The curriculum covers a broad range of alternative medicine topics, combining theory and practice. Students progress from foundational concepts to specialized techniques over the course of the program.

  • Initial courses explore principles of alternative medicine and history of medical systems.
  • Later modules focus on specific therapies like herbal medicine, acupuncture, and mind-body practices.
  • Students engage in practical workshops to develop hands-on skills.
  • Research methods and ethics in complementary medicine are also taught.
  • The program often includes case studies and clinical observation to connect theory with real-world applications.

How to get in

Admission to this master's degree requires a relevant bachelor's degree and a demonstrated interest in health or related fields. The process involves submitting academic transcripts and possibly letters of motivation or recommendation.

  • Applicants usually hold a bachelor's degree in health sciences, biology, or a related area.
  • Some programs may require prior knowledge or experience in alternative medicine.
  • The selection process may include an interview or assessment of motivation.
  • Admission is managed by individual universities following US higher education standards.
  • International students must meet language proficiency requirements.

Day to day

The academic year combines lectures, seminars, and practical sessions, with opportunities for internships or projects in complementary medicine settings.

  • Students attend regular classes focused on theory and practice.
  • Workshops and labs provide hands-on experience with therapies.
  • Some programs offer internships in clinics or wellness centers.
  • Group projects and case studies encourage collaborative learning.
  • The workload balances coursework, research, and practical training.

Careers this degree leads to

Graduates can pursue careers in various sectors related to holistic health and wellness. The job market includes private practices, wellness centers, and integrative healthcare facilities.

  • Common roles include complementary therapy practitioner and holistic health consultant.
  • Some graduates work as wellness coaches or in health education.
  • The degree supports roles in integrative clinics combining conventional and alternative medicine.
  • Employment opportunities depend on state regulations and certification requirements.
  • The insertion into the workforce is generally facilitated by growing interest in holistic health.

Continuing your studies

After completing this master's degree, students may consider further specialization or doctoral studies in complementary medicine or related health sciences. They can also explore certifications in specific therapies.

  • Options include pursuing a PhD in integrative medicine or related fields.
  • Some may choose professional certifications in acupuncture, herbalism, or other modalities.
  • Others might transition to healthcare administration or public health programs.

Where to study this degree (58)

Chargement de la carte…
New York Chiropractic College
Illustrative photo
00
New York Chiropractic College
School
📍Seneca Falls, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine
college
📍Vienna, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Pacific College of Health and Science
Illustrative photo
00
Pacific College of Health and Science
college
📍New York, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
New York College of Health Professions
Illustrative photo
00
New York College of Health Professions
School
📍Syosset, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
South Baylo University
Illustrative photo
00
South Baylo University
University
📍Anaheim, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Maharishi International University
Illustrative photo
00
Maharishi International University
University
📍Fairfield, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Five Branches University
Illustrative photo
00
Five Branches University
University
📍Santa Cruz, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
New York College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
New York College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
School
📍Mineola, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Oregon College of Oriental Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
Oregon College of Oriental Medicine
School
📍Portland, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Illustrative photo
00
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
School
📍Boston, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Alhambra Medical University
Illustrative photo
00
Alhambra Medical University
college
📍Alhambra, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Emperors College
Illustrative photo
00
Emperors College
School
📍Santa Monica, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
American College of Healthcare Sciences
Illustrative photo
00
American College of Healthcare Sciences
college
📍Portland, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine & Acupuncture
Illustrative photo
00
Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine & Acupuncture
college
📍Phoenix, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Northwestern Health Sciences University
Illustrative photo
00
Northwestern Health Sciences University
University
📍Bloomington, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine
college
📍Austin, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Maryland University of Integrative Health
Illustrative photo
00
Maryland University of Integrative Health
University
📍Laurel, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Florida College of Integrative Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
Florida College of Integrative Medicine
School
📍Orlando, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Texas Health and Science University
Illustrative photo
00
Texas Health and Science University
University
📍Austin, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine College-Berkeley
Illustrative photo
00
Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine College-Berkeley
college
📍Berkeley, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Academy for Five Element Acupuncture
Illustrative photo
00
Academy for Five Element Acupuncture
School
📍Gainesville, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
East West College of Natural Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
East West College of Natural Medicine
School
📍Sarasota, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Drexel University
Illustrative photo
00
Drexel University
University
📍Philadelphia, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences
Illustrative photo
00
Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences
School
📍Oakland, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
National University of Health Sciences
Illustrative photo
00
National University of Health Sciences
University
📍Lombard, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Bastyr University
Illustrative photo
00
Bastyr University
University
📍Kenmore, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Acupuncture and Massage College
Illustrative photo
00
Acupuncture and Massage College
college
📍Miami, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
University of East-West Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
University of East-West Medicine
University
📍Sunnyvale, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Eastern School of Acupuncture and Traditional Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
Eastern School of Acupuncture and Traditional Medicine
college
📍Bloomfield, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Colorado Chinese Medicine University
Illustrative photo
00
Colorado Chinese Medicine University
college
📍Denver, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Daoist Traditions College of Chinese Medical Arts
Illustrative photo
00
Daoist Traditions College of Chinese Medical Arts
School
📍Asheville, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Dongguk University Los Angeles
Illustrative photo
00
Dongguk University Los Angeles
University
📍Los Angeles, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Midwest College of Oriental Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
Midwest College of Oriental Medicine
School
📍Racine, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
St. Catherine University
Illustrative photo
00
St. Catherine University
University
📍Saint Paul, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
University of Bridgeport
Illustrative photo
00
University of Bridgeport
University
📍Bridgeport, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
American College of Acupuncture and Oriental Med
Illustrative photo
00
American College of Acupuncture and Oriental Med
college
📍Houston, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Won Institute of Graduate Studies
Illustrative photo
00
Won Institute of Graduate Studies
School
📍Warminster, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Jung Tao School of Classical Chinese Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
Jung Tao School of Classical Chinese Medicine
School
📍Sugar Grove, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine
School
📍Fort Lauderdale, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
National University of Natural Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
National University of Natural Medicine
University
📍Portland, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
EDP University of Puerto Rico Inc-San Juan
Illustrative photo
00
EDP University of Puerto Rico Inc-San Juan
college
📍San Juan, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Institute of Clinical Acupuncture & Oriental Med
Illustrative photo
00
Institute of Clinical Acupuncture & Oriental Med
college
📍Honolulu, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Wongu University of Oriental Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
Wongu University of Oriental Medicine
college
📍Las Vegas, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Arizona School of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
Arizona School of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
School
📍Tucson, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Seattle Institute of Oriental Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
Seattle Institute of Oriental Medicine
School
📍Seattle, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Pacific College of Oriental Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
Pacific College of Oriental Medicine
School
📍San Diego, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Pacific College of Health and Science
Illustrative photo
00
Pacific College of Health and Science
college
📍Chicago, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Yo San University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
Yo San University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
college
📍Los Angeles, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Midwest College of Oriental Medicine-Skokie
Illustrative photo
00
Midwest College of Oriental Medicine-Skokie
college
📍Skokie, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
American Academy of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
American Academy of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
School
📍Roseville, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
American Institute of Alternative Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
American Institute of Alternative Medicine
college
📍Columbus, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Dragon Rises College of Oriental Medicine
Illustrative photo
00
Dragon Rises College of Oriental Medicine
college
📍Gainesville, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Institute of Taoist Education and Acupuncture
Illustrative photo
00
Institute of Taoist Education and Acupuncture
School
📍Louisville, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Georgian Court University
Illustrative photo
00
Georgian Court University
University
📍Lakewood, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
California Institute of Integral Studies
Illustrative photo
00
California Institute of Integral Studies
School
📍San Francisco, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Southern California University of Health Sciences
Illustrative photo
00
Southern California University of Health Sciences
University
📍Whittier, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Lotus Professional College
Illustrative photo
00
Lotus Professional College
college
📍Richmond, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
National University
Illustrative photo
00
National University
University
📍San Diego, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
View →
Liste des 58 établissements

Frequently asked questions

What is alternative and complementary medicine?

It refers to health practices that are not part of standard Western medicine, including therapies like acupuncture, herbal treatments, and mind-body techniques.

Who can apply for this master's degree?

Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree in health sciences or related fields and an interest in holistic health approaches.

Are there practical training opportunities?

Yes, the program often includes workshops, clinical observations, and sometimes internships to develop hands-on skills.

Can this degree lead to a medical doctor license?

No, this degree does not qualify graduates as medical doctors but prepares them for complementary health roles.

Is the program offered full-time or part-time?

Most programs are full-time, but some universities may offer part-time options depending on their structure.

What careers can I pursue after graduation?

Graduates can work as complementary therapy practitioners, wellness coaches, or consultants in holistic health settings.

Is this degree recognized internationally?

Recognition varies by country; it is important to check local regulations regarding complementary medicine practice.

Can I continue studies after this master's degree?

Yes, students may pursue doctoral studies or specialized certifications in alternative medicine fields.