🧾 Program Overview
The AAS in Acupressure Therapy is a career-focused degree designed to train students in the principles and practices of acupressure—an ancient healing art rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This hands-on program combines holistic theory with applied skills, preparing graduates for work in wellness centers, spas, holistic clinics, or private practice.
Students learn acupressure point location, meridian theory, anatomy and physiology, therapeutic techniques, ethics, and business practices. The curriculum emphasizes client communication, assessment, and complementary healing methods.
📚 Program Structure and Credit Requirements
Category
Credits
General Education Courses
15 credits
Core Acupressure Courses
36 credits
Clinical/Practicum Experience
6 credits
Electives/Complementary Therapies
3 credits
Total Credits
60 credits
🧑‍🏫 Core Course Descriptions & Module Breakdown
1. Introduction to Acupressure Therapy (3 credits)
Course Description:
An overview of acupressure therapy, including its origins, concepts of Qi (energy), meridians, and the Five Element Theory. Students explore the role of acupressure in integrative medicine.
Modules:
History of Acupressure and TCM
Basic Meridian Theory
Qi, Yin-Yang, and the Five Elements
Introduction to Healing Touch
Case Studies and Applications
2. Anatomy & Physiology for Bodyworkers I (3 credits)
Course Description:
Introduces human anatomy and physiology with an emphasis on body systems relevant to acupressure, including musculoskeletal, circulatory, and nervous systems.
Modules:
Structural Organization of the Body
Skeletal and Muscular Systems
Circulatory and Lymphatic Systems
Basic Pathophysiology
Anatomical Terms and Surface Landmarks
3. Meridian Theory and Point Location I (3 credits)
Course Description:
Focuses on the 12 main meridians and major acupressure points. Students practice locating and tracing meridians using anatomical landmarks.
Modules:
Overview of the 12 Primary Meridians
Point Location Techniques
Functions of Key Acupoints
Introduction to Pressure Techniques
Hands-On Practice and Mapping
4. Therapeutic Acupressure Techniques I (3 credits)
Course Description:
Covers foundational acupressure techniques for pain relief, stress reduction, and balancing Qi. Emphasis on hand/finger techniques and body mechanics.
Modules:
Pressing, Kneading, and Percussion Methods
Pressure Application and Timing
Ergonomics and Safety
Emotional Release Techniques
Practice Sessions
5. Eastern Nutrition & Lifestyle (3 credits)
Course Description:
Explores how diet and lifestyle affect energy flow and health in TCM. Includes dietary therapy according to Five Elements and seasonal adjustments.
Modules:
Food Energetics in TCM
Nutrition by Body Type
Seasonal Diet and Qi Balance
Detoxification and Rejuvenation
Dietary Plans and Client Counseling
6. Pathophysiology and Acupressure Protocols (3 credits)
Course Description:
Focuses on disease processes and how acupressure can support wellness. Students learn to identify signs of energy imbalances and design treatment protocols.
Modules:
Understanding Common Disorders (Headache, Insomnia, etc.)
Acupressure for Pain and Chronic Illness
Emotional and Mental Health Patterns
Point Combinations and Treatment Planning
Contraindications and Red Flags
7. Meridian Theory and Point Location II (3 credits)
Course Description:
Continued study of meridians, including Eight Extraordinary Vessels and advanced point location. Emphasis on clinical accuracy.
Modules:
Extraordinary Meridians Overview
Specific Use Points (Source, Luo, Xi-Cleft)
Advanced Meridian Mapping
Zone Therapy
Practice and Evaluation
8. Therapeutic Acupressure Techniques II (3 credits)
Course Description:
Advanced acupressure applications for trauma, injury rehabilitation, and holistic wellness. Includes breathing integration and visualization.
Modules:
Trigger Point Therapy Integration
Breathing and Qi Flow Synchronization
Emotional Balancing Techniques
Specialized Modalities (e.g., Facial, Foot Acupressure)
Advanced Session Structuring
9. Ethics, Communication, and Client Care (3 credits)
Course Description:
Prepares students for professional interactions. Topics include ethics, confidentiality, informed consent, and effective communication with clients.
Modules:
Professional Ethics and Boundaries
Client Intake and Documentation
Cultural Sensitivity in Healing
Building Trust and Rapport
Crisis and Conflict Resolution
10. Business Practices for Holistic Therapists (3 credits)
Course Description:
Guidance on starting and managing a private practice. Includes marketing, licensing, insurance, and practice management.
Modules:
Legal Requirements and Licensure
Branding and Marketing Strategies
Record Keeping and Scheduling
Networking and Professional Development
Building a Clientele