FAQ

FAQs will be posted here as they are reviewed and approved by the Commission.

COMMON QUESTIONS FROM NEW PROGRAMS/INSTITUTIONS

  • As an accreditation agency, ACAHM provides a set of standards and criteria for professional acupuncture programs; a self- and peer-evaluation process for program quality assurance and improvement; and for freestanding institutions for acupuncture and Oriental medicine, a pathway for participation in Title IV Federal financial aid programs.

    Educational programs and institutions generally engage with ACAHM after their initial formation. ACAHM does not provide specific guidance or counsel on how to form institutions, acquire administrators or faculty, or otherwise accomplish the operational steps necessary to establish a program or institution.

    ACAHM's minimum eligibility requirements, accreditation Standards and Criteria are available online. Potential institutions are advised to take these into account as they develop a corporate structure, craft an educational curriculum, and seek authorization to conduct operations from a recognized state higher education approval agency. Potential institutions may find it helpful to seek out an experienced administrator or faculty member with substantial experience at an ACAHM-accredited program or institution, for specific advice and counsel. There are also attorneys who specialize in higher education, who may be able to provide useful advice regarding the legal formation of and regulatory concerns for a new program or institution. ACAHM does not and cannot make recommendations for expert assistance.

    Once a program or institution is formed, it may reach out to ACAHM to initiate a formal relationship. See ACAHM’s Accreditation Procedures policy, specifically “Eligibility Phase: Preparing for pre-accreditation” (page 2 of 8).

    While new programs/institutions are expected to familiarize themselves with all ACAHM policies and resources, ACAHM encourages special attention be given to the following:

    • Glossary

    • Schedule of Fees and Dues

    • Self-Study Guide [for self-study process and preparation]

    • Site Visit Manual: A guide for institutions and site visitors

    If you have specific questions after review of these materials, feel free to contact ACAHM with further general questions regarding ACAHM's standards, criteria and policies. However, ACAHM will not provide additional advisory assistance regarding business start-up or operational decision making.

  • If an institution has achieved institutional accreditation from another U.S. Department of Education recognized accrediting agency and is interested in offering an ACAHM-accreditable program (see Glossary), it may reach out to ACAHM to initiate a formal relationship. See ACAHM’s Accreditation Procedures policy, specifically “Eligibility Phase: Preparing for pre-accreditation” (page 2 of 8)

  • The sole reference points for ACAHM pre-accreditation decisions are ACAHM’s Standards and Criteria. A good starting point for programs interested in seeking ACAHM pre-accreditation is to conduct a comparison of the existing program with the ACAHM Standards and Criteria to determine which standards are being addressed, which are being partially addressed, and which are not being addressed. Eligibility Requirements are select accreditation criteria further classified by the Commission as ACAHM’s basic threshold requirements for master's-level and doctoral programs to achieve and maintain ACAHM pre-accreditation and accreditation status. An institution/program seeking pre-accreditation must demonstrate that it complies with these select accreditation criteria further classified by the Commission as Eligibility Requirements. While all accreditation standards and criteria are assessed during the eligibility phase, compliance with the criteria designated as Eligibility Requirements is a requirement for achieving pre-accreditation status. (see the Introduction to ACAHM’s Standards and Criteria)

  • As outlined in ACAHM’s Accreditation Procedures Policy, the Commission meets twice a year to render accreditation decisions. Self-study reports submitted in the format and manner prescribed by the Commission, along with a non-refundable review fee outlined in ACAHM’s Fees and Dues Schedule, to the ACAHM office by October 1 are considered at the Commission’s summer meeting in the next calendar year, or by April 1 for the Commission’s winter meeting in the next calendar year.

  • The ACAHM accreditation process is a multi-stage process involving initial reviewers, site team visitors, and the Commission. All reviewers provide input into the process at various stages of the review process. The ultimate authority for the rendering of accreditation decisions rests with voting members of the Commission.

  • The Commission meets twice annually, typically in February and August. Schools who achieve ACAHM accreditation are awarded between 3 and 7 years of recognition, which determines the time of their next review. In addition, schools submit annual reports which provide an overview on enrollment, retention, graduation and significant changes at the institution that have occurred within the past 12 months.

  • As outlined in ACAHM’s Commissions Actions Policy:

    • initial pre-accreditation status is typically granted for a period of three (3) years.

    • initial accreditation or reaffirmation of accreditation is for a period not to exceed seven (7) years before the next comprehensive review.

  • ACAHM’s Recognition of Graduates Policy outlines the recognition of graduates of programs that are in pursuit of ACAHM pre-accreditation/accreditation. ACAHM strongly encourages programs to clearly convey the implications of timelines and information about where a program is in terms of applying or in the review process so that students do not have unrealistic or inaccurate expectations in terms of being potential graduates of an ACAHM-accredited program.

  • Refer to the Policies tab on ACAHM’s website for the full Schedule of Fees & Dues.

  • Not at this time. ACAHM’s scope of recognition from the United States Department of Education is:

    The accreditation and pre-accreditation (“Candidacy”) throughout the United States of professional non-degree and graduate degree programs, including professional doctoral programs, in the field of acupuncture and/or Oriental medicine, as well as freestanding institutions and colleges of acupuncture and/or Oriental Medicine that offer such programs.

  • The ACAHM website is updated on a regular basis. You may stay abreast of noteworthy items in the “News” section of the website. In addition, the ACAHM Policies tab lists most recent Updates and each policy/resource, including the accreditation Standards and Criteria, includes a comprehensive Revision History table.

QUESTIONS ABOUT COMPLAINTS

  • The Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (“ACAHM” or “Commission”) will evaluate all complaints that allege non-compliance with its:

    • Standards and Criteria for Accreditation, including Eligibility Requirements

    • Required accreditation policies/procedure(s).

    The ACAHM Policy Governing Complaints does not allow the Commission to intervene on behalf of individuals, serve as a mediator, or act as a court of appeal for individuals in cases of disciplinary action or dismissal.

  • ACAHM will not review institutional decisions in such matters as: admission; grade changes; graduation; faculty appointment; promotion or dismissal of faculty, staff, or students - unless the context suggests unethical or unprofessional actions that seriously impair or disrupt the educational services of an ACAHM-accredited or pre-accredited program or institution.

  • The initial step is to follow the grievance policies of the institution. ACAHM’s Comprehensive Standards and Criteria do require accredited and pre-accredited programs and institutions to have published policies in place for reviewing and responding to student grievances and complaints, that are consistently applied and documented.

    ACAHM’s complaint process may be initiated only after all the institution’s avenues of resolution have been exhausted and documented, AND the issue at hand is in violation of ACAHM’s Standards and Criteria or Policies.

    To move forward with the formal complaint process, familiarize yourself with ACAHM’Policy Governing Complaintsts which explains the types of issues that fall within ACAHM’s purview. If it is determined that the issue at hand violates ACAHM’s policies or standards, a complaint form should be completed, SIGNED, and submitted as indicated on the form.

    PLEASE NOTE: Based on due process considerations, only written and signed complaints will be considered by ACAHM. ACAHM will take every reasonable precaution to prevent the identity of the Complainant from being revealed to the program/institution; however, ACAHM cannot guarantee the confidentiality of the Complainant.

  • Complaints related to student or public safety should be immediately referred to local law enforcement.

    Complaints related to personal or public health concerns (i.e., clean needle technique, disposal of hazardous waste, etc.) should be referred to local or state health departments, and to the state acupuncture licensing board when applicable.

  • The ACAHM Policy Governing Complaints does not allow the Commission to intervene on behalf of individuals, serve as a mediator, or act as a court of appeal for individuals in cases of disciplinary action or dismissal. Further, accredited, and pre-accredited programs and institutions are expected to comply with applicable Federal, state, and local law and regulation, including those that apply to employment and safety.

    For complaints and concerns regarding discriminatory behavior, you may wish to consult these external resources:

    A. Following is a partial list of Anti-Discrimination Laws Enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

    Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII)

    This law makes` it illegal to discriminate against someone based on race, color, religion, national origin, or sex. The law also makes it illegal to retaliate against a person because the person complained about discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination, or participated in an employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit. The law also requires that employers reasonably accommodate applicants' and employees' sincerely held religious practices, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship on the operation of the employer's business.

    The Pregnancy Discrimination Act

    This law amended Title VII to make it illegal to discriminate against a woman because of pregnancy, childbirth, or a medical condition related to pregnancy or childbirth. The law also makes it illegal to retaliate against a person because the person complained about discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination, or participated in an employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit.

    The Equal Pay Act of 1963 (EPA)

    This law makes it illegal to pay different wages to men and women if they perform equal work in the same workplace. The law also makes it illegal to retaliate against a person because the person complained about discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination, or participated in an employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit.

    The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA)

    This law protects people who are 40 or older from discrimination because of age. The law also makes it illegal to retaliate against a person because the person complained about discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination, or participated in an employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit.

    Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA)

    This law makes it illegal to discriminate against a qualified person with a disability in the private sector and in state and local governments. The law also makes it illegal to retaliate against a person because the person complained about discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination, or participated in an employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit. The law also requires that employers reasonably accommodate the known physical or mental limitations of an otherwise qualified individual with a disability who is an applicant or employee, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship on the operation of the employer's business.

    Sections 102 and 103 of the Civil Rights Act of 1991

    Among other things, this law amends Title VII and the ADA to permit jury trials and compensatory and punitive damage awards in intentional discrimination cases.

    Sections 501 and 505 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

    This law makes it illegal to discriminate against a qualified person with a disability in the federal government. The law also makes it illegal to retaliate against a person because the person complained about discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination, or participated in an employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit. The law also requires that employers reasonably accommodate the known physical or mental limitations of an otherwise qualified individual with a disability who is an applicant or employee, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship on the operation of the employer's business.

    The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 (GINA)

    This law prohibits discrimination based on genetic information with respect to health insurance and employment.

    B. Following is a partial list of Anti-Discrimination Laws Enforced by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights (OCR)

    Title IX

    This law protects people from discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities that receive Federal financial assistance.

COMMON QUESTIONS FROM CURRENT/PROSPECTIVE/FORMER STUDENTS

  • Refer to the About Us tab on ACAHM’s website, What Is Accreditation?

  • ACAHM currently accredits two types of doctoral programs, professional doctorate and advanced practice doctorates. Refer to ACAHM’s Position Paper: ACAHM-accreditable Doctoral Programs for details.

  • All of the information that ACAHM is required by policy or by U.S. Department of Education regulations to share with the public is posted in the ACAHM Directory of Accredited/Pre-accredited Programs and Institutions. In the “Select Category” dropdown menu, schools can be searched by state, degree program, and accreditor. Once a school is selected, click on “Show Notes” to see their accreditation history.

  • Institutions/programs that are currently in the process of seeking ACAHM pre-accreditation/accreditation, but not yet accredited or pre-accredited by ACAHM, can provide no assurance that pre-accreditation or accreditation will be granted by ACAHM.

    ACAHM’s Recognition of Graduates Policy outlines the recognition of graduates of programs that are in pursuit ACAHM pre-accreditation/accreditation. ACAHM strongly encourages institutions/programs to clearly convey the implications of timelines and information about where a program is in terms of applying or in the review process so that students do not have unrealistic or inaccurate expectations in terms of being potential graduates of an ACAHM-accredited program. See ACAHM's Accreditation Procedures Policy for details.

    If the institution/program receives ACAHM pre-accreditation while you are still enrolled as a student, that would likely qualify you to sit for the national certification examinations (consult the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine to confirm, https://www.nccaom.org/). Many states also require graduation from an ACAHM pre-accredited/accredited program for professional licensure (consult each individual state licensing board for details).

    If the program does not receive ACAHM pre-accreditation while you are still enrolled as a student, you may not be eligible to sit for the national exams or achieve licensure in many states and none of your credits would be transferable into another ACAHM-accredited program.

  • Please see the ACAHM Complaint FAQ.

  • The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) certification examinations are a documentation of competency and requirements for licensure as an acupuncturist for the majority of states that regulate acupuncture. Enquiries regarding specific state licensure requirements should be directed to the state licensing agency. Details can be found on the NCCAOM website, under Advocacy/Regulatory > State Relations.

  • ACAHM is precluded from making recommendations for specific acupuncture and East Asian medicine-related educational programs. The selection of a professional educational program is a complex and personal undertaking, and prospective students should carefully research each institution under consideration.

    All of the information that ACAHM is required by policy or by U.S. Department of Education regulations to share with the public is posted in the ACAHM Directory of Accredited/Pre-accredited Programs and Institutions. In the “Select Category” dropdown menu, schools can be searched by state, degree program, and accreditor. Once a school is selected, click on “Show Notes” to see their accreditation history.

    A number of organizations offer rankings of various U.S. colleges and universities and their programs. Each have established their own criteria for ranking and have varying levels of transparency regarding their review process, scoring and weighting, and so on. The selection of a professional educational program is a complex and personal undertaking, and prospective students should consider a variety of factors that may or may not be addressed by a ranking system. Accordingly, ACAHM does not participate in, endorse, or comment upon any rankings of acupuncture and East Asian medicine-related educational programs.

  • When an accredited program or institution withdraws from accreditation, it must turn its academic records over to a custodian.  Former students and graduates seeking a transcript can obtain it from the custodian of records. 

    If an institution withdraws one program from accreditation – for example, if the MAc program is discontinued, but the MAcCHM continues to operate – academic records remain with that institution.  For closed institutions, the custodian is typically either another college or university, or the state higher education office in the state where the institution operated. 

    However, each state establishes its own rules around student records retention.  Some states did not require the long-term retention of records or transcripts until relatively recently.

    The Commission does not serve as a custodian of records for any closed or formerly accredited institutions – it cannot provide academic transcripts.  As a courtesy, the Commission provides a listing of known record custodians that reflects information available at the time of closure or withdrawal: Previously Accredited/Pre-accredited Programs and Institutions 

    The Commission gratefully accepts updated custodian information from agencies, institutions, and the general public and will modify its courtesy listing accordingly.

QUESTIONS ABOUT DISTANCE EDUCATION

  • Currently, ACAHM does not accredit programs in acupuncture and East Asian medicine that are offered entirely via distance education. ACAHM does have a Distance Education Policy, which allows Commission-accredited programs and institutions to seek approval to offer one or more courses via distance education. The policy places significant limitations on the use of distance education in clinical education and training activities. Many ACAHM-accredited programs offer at least some courses via distance education, and most programs utilize online technology to some degree within courses that are predominantly held in-person.

    All ACAHM standards, criteria, policies and procedures regarding programs of study and admissions apply to distance-delivered courses, including limitations on participation by non-matriculated students.

    ACAHM’s accreditation standards for Doctor of Acupuncture programs (both with and without a Chinese herbal medicine specialization) allow a program to offer a doctoral completion track for prior graduates of ACAHM-accredited/pre-accredited master’s-level programs. The completion track is considered by the Commission as a component of the overall professional doctoral program, rather than as a separate and distinct program (see Criterion 5.08 and Criterion 7.02 of the Comprehensive Standards). While some institutions have chosen to advertise such degree completion opportunities as “transitional doctorates” or “bridge” programs, the Commission will not review and accredit these programs apart from a full start-to-finish program. It is possible for the completion track to be offered entirely online, subject to distance education approval from the Commission.

  • ACAHM-accredited/pre-accredited programs leading to professional licensure are residential in nature. While some institutions/programs have been approved to offer courses online, there are currently no programs leading to licensure that offer enough online instruction to make remote study routinely possible. There are a small number of programs across the country that offer modular schedules (for example, courses may be offered during one intensive period per month). Prospective students are encouraged to consult ACAHM’s Directory of Accredited/Pre-accredited Programs and Institutions, search for schools in a desirable location, and then contact each school to determine what options they offer that might be appealing.

  • Not at this time. All ACAHM programs are required to meet the minimum program length requirements stipulated under Criterion 7.02 of the Comprehensive Standards. Individuals interested in pursuing an entry-level ACAHM-accredited program should explore the master’s-level and professional doctoral programs listed under ACAHM’s Directory of Accredited/Pre-accredited Programs and Institutions