Program Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters)
Total Credit Hours: 60–65
Delivery Mode: Online
Credential Awarded: Associate of Science (AS) in TCM Foundations
🎯 Program Objectives
Graduates of this program will be able to:
Demonstrate foundational knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine theory and practice.
Understand the use of herbal medicine, acupuncture, and other TCM modalities.
Apply basic diagnostic techniques such as tongue and pulse analysis.
Recognize the philosophical and cultural roots of TCM, including Taoist and Confucian influences.
Integrate holistic approaches to health and wellness based on Yin-Yang and Five Element Theory.
📘 Year 1: Foundations and Core Concepts
🔹 Semester 1
Introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Credits: 3
Course Description:
An overview of the principles and historical development of TCM, including Yin-Yang, Qi, and the Five Elements.
Modules:
History and Philosophy of TCM
Concept of Qi, Jing, Shen
Yin-Yang Theory
Introduction to the Five Element Theory
Human Anatomy & Physiology for TCM Practitioners
Credits: 4
Course Description:
Basic anatomy and physiology from a Western biomedical perspective, focused on systems relevant to TCM modalities.
Modules:
Introduction to Organ Systems
Musculoskeletal System
Nervous and Circulatory Systems
Integration of A&P with Meridian Pathways
Chinese Medical Terminology & Pinyin
Credits: 3
Course Description:
Introduces students to Chinese language basics, Pinyin romanization, and important TCM terms.
Modules:
Basic Mandarin & Pinyin
Key TCM Terms (e.g., Zang-Fu, Jing-Luo)
Diagnostic Vocabulary
Communication for Clinical Practice
Yin-Yang and Five Element Theory
Credits: 3
Course Description:
Deep dive into the two foundational philosophical systems of TCM, including clinical applications.
Modules:
Interrelationships of Yin and Yang
Five Elements in Nature & the Body
Cycles: Sheng, Ke, Cheng, and Wu
Emotional and Seasonal Correspondences
🔹 Semester 2
Zang-Fu Organ Theory
Credits: 3
Course Description:
A study of the functional organ systems of the body as understood in TCM.
Modules:
Introduction to Zang (Yin) and Fu (Yang) Organs
Organ Relationships and Functions
Pathological Manifestations
Clinical Case Studies
Meridian and Acupoint Theory I
Credits: 3
Course Description:
Covers the basic channel (Jing-Luo) systems and major acupuncture points.
Modules:
12 Primary Channels
Du and Ren Channels
Introduction to Acupoints
Energetic Flow and Therapeutic Functions
Chinese Herbal Medicine Foundations I
Credits: 3
Course Description:
An introduction to herbal properties, classifications, and energetics.
Modules:
Nature, Taste, and Direction of Herbs
Categories (Qi Tonics, Heat-Clearing, etc.)
Dosage and Preparation
Herb-Drug Interactions
TCM Lifestyle and Dietary Therapy
Credits: 3
Course Description:
Focuses on holistic living and nutrition from the TCM perspective.
Modules:
Eating by Season and Constitution
Therapeutic Foods
Qi and Blood Nourishment
Stress, Emotions, and Dietary Impact
📘 Year 2: Clinical and Diagnostic Development
🔹 Semester 3
TCM Diagnosis I: Observation and Inquiry
Credits: 3
Course Description:
Introduces TCM's four diagnostic methods with focus on visual and verbal techniques.
Modules:
Observation: Tongue Diagnosis
Inquiry: Patient Interview Techniques
Shen (Spirit) Assessment
Case Study Review
Chinese Herbal Medicine Foundations II
Credits: 3
Course Description:
Deeper exploration into herbal formulas and individualized treatment planning.
Modules:
Classical Formulas (e.g., Liu Wei Di Huang Wan)
Modern Adaptations
Combining Herbs
Herb Safety and Ethics
Meridian and Acupoint Theory II
Credits: 3
Course Description:
Builds upon Meridian I, with in-depth point energetics and indications.
Modules:
Point Combinations
Empirical Acupoints
Safety and Needling Precautions
Acupoint Selection by Syndrome
Introduction to Tui Na (Chinese Medical Massage)
Credits: 3
Course Description:
Hands-on healing techniques based on meridian and channel theory.
Modules:
Basic Tui Na Techniques
Indications and Contraindications
Application for Common Ailments
Clinical Tui Na Practice
🔹 Semester 4
TCM Diagnosis II: Pulse and Palpation
Credits: 3
Course Description:
A continuation of diagnostic skills, with a focus on pulse analysis and physical palpation.
Modules:
Pulse Types and Indications
Organ-Specific Pulse Diagnosis
Abdominal Palpation
Diagnostic Synthesis