More Bay Area Schools That Teach Alternative Healing

A Companion to "Looking East for Health and a Career"

American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Below: Bauman College.

Photograph by Rebecca Wilkowski. Below: Photograph by Chris Bauman

University of East-West Medicine The university’s degree programs include Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Master of Tai Chi, and Doctorate of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. The program in Traditional Chinese Medicine, which takes at least three years to complete, incorporates acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, integrated with courses in western medical practices. Some classes are available for non-degree-seeking students, too, on topics ranging from qi gong to Chinese as a second language. 970 W. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale, , uewm.edu

Bauman College The college, which also has campuses in Berkeley, Penngrove, and Boulder, Colo., offers certificate programs that prepare students for careers as nutrition educators, nutrition consultants, and natural chefs. The nutrition educator and nutrition consultant programs are available via distance learning. An eight-week course for the public, Nutrition Essentials for Everyone, begins in April. 3912 Portola Dr., Suite 10, Santa Cruz, , baumancollege.org

Nine Star University of Health Sciences The school offers a master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Students generally have taken introductory anatomy, biology, and other courses prior to entering Nine Star University; their Traditional Chinese Medicine curriculum includes courses in acupuncture principles, herbal formulas, and medical qi gong, among many others. 441 De Guigne Dr., Suite 201, Sunnyvale, , nusuhs.org

Life Chiropractic College West The college offers the Doctor of Chiropractic degree, which students can complete during a three- or four-year program. Courses range from anatomy and physiology to philosophy and technique and analysis of chiropractic methods. The college also operates Life West Health Center, a chiropractic center open to the public. 25001 Industrial Blvd., Hayward, , lifewest.edu

Global College Of Natural Medicine The college offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees in holistic health, plus nutritional counseling, holistic health, and master herbalist certificate programs. The distance-learning format allows students to complete coursework at their own pace, although programs must be completed within a certain amount of time. Students have access to phone and online support from faculty, staff, and other students. 250 Natural Bridges Dr., Santa Cruz, , gcnm.com

American College Of Traditional Chinese Medicine Founded in 1980, the college offers a master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine and a doctorate in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. Master’s students begin their studies with courses such as fundamental Traditional Chinese Medicine, qi gong, and general biology. The college also offers classes to the public, including “Understanding Chinese Medicine” and introduction to tai chi. 455 Arkansas St., San Francisco, , actcm.edu

Palmer College of Chiropractic, West Campus The college offers a Doctor of Chiropractic degree, the goal of which is “to educate and prepare students to become doctors of chiropractic, qualified to serve as primary contact healthcare providers and to serve humanity through patient care and community education,” according to the school. Students learn life sciences and chiropractic diagnosis, technique, and philosophy. 90 E. Tasman, San Jose, , palmer.edu

National Holistic Institute This college of massage therapy was founded in 1979 and also has campuses in Emeryville, San Francisco, Petaluma, and Los Angeles. The program includes 720 hours of training, with topics ranging from anatomy to Shiatsu massage to foot reflexology. Students gain practical experience through the NHI Student Clinic or an externship program. 3031 Tisch Way, Suite 1 Plaza South, San Jose, , nhi.edu

Also read: Looking East for Health and a Career