Certificate in Chinese Herbal Medicine
Deepen Your Knowledge of Classical Herbal Medicine Through Immersive, Hands-on Education
Program Overview
The Certificate in Chinese Herbal Medicine (CCHM) program at Middle Way Acupuncture Institute (MWAI) is an immersive 24-month post-graduate program designed for acupuncture professionals who want to expand their expertise in herbal medicine and current students who want to deepen their understanding and accelerate their future practice. This modular program provides an experiential learning environment, guiding students through the study and clinical application of Chinese herbal formulas and single herbs
Key Features of the Program
- Weekend-Intensive Format – Classes meet once a month, Thursday – Sunday.
- Small Cohorts & Individualized Mentorship – Enjoy personalized guidance from faculty and strong support from a close-knit peer group.
- Built-In Clinic Hours – All didactic and clinical learning occurs during the weekend modules.
- Experienced Faculty – Learn from seasoned herbalists and scholars dedicated to furthering each student’s knowledge.
Quick Facts:
- Duration: 2 years
- Format: One Weekend a Month
- Clinic Hours: Built in
- Certification: NCBAHM Eligible
- Total Cost: $16,992
- Next Start Date: September 2026
Certificate in Chinese Herbal Medicine (CCHM) Program Highlights
A Comprehensive, Hands-on Learning Experience
Our curriculum is structured to integrate Classical Chinese Medicine texts into the routine study of herbal formulas. This approach ensures that students gain both theoretical and practical knowledge. The coursework progresses in a way that allows students to:
- Master the therapeutic actions of herbal flavors and the significance of herb pairs.
- Study over 300 single herbs and 160 formulas, including their preparation, dispensation, and clinical application.
- Understand pharmacology and herb-drug interactions to integrate herbal medicine with modern healthcare safely.
- Explore botany in both classroom and field settings.
- Learn the fundamentals of cooking with herbs to enhance their use in daily life.
Clinical Training
In the final year, students take their knowledge from the classroom to the clinic, gaining real-world experience in treating patients with Chinese herbal medicine. Our integrated clinical schedule and monthly four-day weekend intensives ensure that graduates leave the program with confidence and practical expertise.
Who can Apply?
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be a Licensed Acupuncturist, OR
- Currently enrolled in an ACAHM-accredited or pre-accredited Masters or Master’s Level Acupuncture Program
Certification & Career Advancement
Upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCBAHM Chinese Herbology Examination, enhancing their credentials and expanding their ability to treat patients holistically using herbal medicine.
Want a detailed look at our programs and course schedule?
Combine the MAc and CCHM Programs for a Broader Practice
Students can begin the Certificate in Chinese Herbal Medicine (CCHM) program after completing 1.5 years in the Master’s Level Diploma in Acupuncture (MAc) program. This structure allows them to pursue both programs concurrently and complete them within seven semesters.
The courses are designed so that each program complements the other: MAc students complete their foundational and diagnostic studies before starting the herbal program. Additionally, the final semester of the herbal program focuses mainly on clinical practice. This arrangement allows recent MAc graduates to continue practicing medicine while preparing for their board exams.
“I’m so glad I decided to study herbs in addition to acupuncture. I am a recent graduate and am amazed at how my understanding of Chinese medicine has increased exponentially since I started the program. I am so impressed by the quality of teachers and all the hands-on learning. I can’t recommend this program enough!!!”
Hallie Beaver
Current CCHM Program Student