The Master's Degree courses have weekly assignments in addition to the CE-level assignments. The Master's learning platform is more rigorous compared to CE courses.
MS0110 Veterinary Acupuncture: Level 1
(3.5 semester credit hours) hybrid
This course discusses the fundamental principles of TCVM including Yin-yang, Eight Principles, Five Elements and Zang-fu physiology and pathology. Scientific basis of acupuncture and research data are discussed as well as real-world implementation of acupuncture clinical usage including pain management, lameness, musculoskeletal disorders and osteoarthritis. Acupuncture points and techniques including dry-needling and aquapuncture are also discussed. A hands-on wet lab will be provided during the on-site portion of the class in Reddick, Fl.
MS0120 Veterinary Acupuncture: Level 2
(2 semester credit hours) online
This course discusses in-depth traditional Chinese veterinary medical theories including Jing, Qi, Shen, Body Fluids and Blood. The unique TCVM diagnosis including tongue and pulse, Eight Extraordinary Channels and etiology and pathology are also discussed. The course provides tools and techniques on how to make a sound TCM diagnosis. (Prerequisite or co-requisite: MS0110)
MS0130 Veterinary Acupuncture: Level 3
(3.5 semester credit hours) hybrid
This course reviews not only the advanced acupuncture techniques including electro-acupuncture and moxibustion, but also how to approach internal medical diseases using the traditional Chinese medical modality. The material in the class introduces case examples showing how to put everything together in order to diagnose and treat liver and renal diseases, behavior and skin problems, as well as gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and respiratory disorders. Students learn a systematic approach to the principles and practices of TCVM. Emphasis is placed on clinical application in all aspects of Five Element disorders and reproductive and endocrine diseases. Students are taught management of real-world clinical cases, tools and methods of how to promote TCVM and integrate it into daily practice. (Prerequisite or co-requisite: MS 0110, MS0120)
MS0200 Research Methods in TCVM
(2 semester credit hours) online
This course is designed to enhance a student’s ability to design and conduct research. A research project can be an experimental study or an observational study that requires a hypothesis, an objective, a research plan, data collection, analysis and interpretation, and preparation of a manuscript for publication in a scientific journal. The course serves three outcomes: 1) students identify a research question of interest and are able to design an appropriate study; 2) students prepare and submit a research protocol for evaluation and feedback; 3) students prepare a manuscript suitable for peer review and publication in a scientific journal.
MS0210 TCVM for Respiratory and Cardiovascular Diseases
(2 semester credit hours) hybrid or online
This course reviews not only the individual Chinese herbals and formulas, but also the in-depth knowledge of the TCM Lung and Heart physiology and pathology. The material in this class introduces how to use TCVM to diagnose and treat respiratory diseases including rhinitis, sinusitis, nasal bleeding, congestion and discharge, laryngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, and cardiovascular diseases. Congestive heart failure, hypertension and cardiac arrhythmia are also covered. Tongue and pulse demos with diagnosis instruction in dogs and horses are included as well.
MS0220 TCVM for Gastrointestinal Diseases
(2 semester credit hours) hybrid or online
This course provides an overview of Spleen physiology, pathology, and the importance of the Earth Element to the Chinese herbal medical practice, as well as an overview of the top 30 individual Chinese herbals and formulas. Topics include the TCVM approach to gastrointestinal diseases including stomatitis, gingivitis, gastric ulcer, inflammatory bowel disease, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and colic, constipation and impaction, and obesity. Tongue and pulse demos with diagnosis instruction in dogs and horses are included as well.
MS0230 TCVM for Hepatic and Endocrine Diseases
(2 semester credit hours) hybrid or online
This course reviews not only the individual Chinese herbals and formulas, but also the in-depth knowledge of the traditional Chinese medical Liver physiology and pathology. The course provides a systematic approach to endocrine diseases including diabetes mellitus, Cushing’s disease, hypo- and hyperthyroidism, cholangitis, jaundice, ascites, hepatitis, hepatomegaly, liver abscesses, ophthalmic disease, and seizure disorders. Tongue and pulse demos with diagnosis instruction in dogs and horses are included as well.
MS0240 TCVM for Geriatric, Urinary and Reproductive Diseases
(2 semester credit hours) hybrid or online
In this course, students learn to identify, detect, investigate, and prevent Water Element Disorders including Bi, Lin and Wei Syndromes. Other topics include how to use the TCVM approach to geriatric diseases, osteoarthritis, disc disease, nephritis, cystitis, renal failure, ear problems, urinary and reproductive disorders. Case examples are provided to ensure an understanding of TCVM Kidney physiology and pathology. This course includes TCVM sports medicine discussions. Tongue and pulse demos with diagnosis instruction in dogs and horses are included as well.
MS0250 TCVM for Dermatological, Immune-mediated and Neoplastic Diseases
(2 semester credit hours) hybrid or online
This course provides students with an opportunity to review the TCVM perspective of dermatology, immunology and oncology. The course serves two purposes for the MS-TCVM student: 1) to learn both oral medication and topical application of individual herbals and formulations; 2) how to use TCVM to diagnose and treat these disorders including hypersensitivity, pruritus, eruptions, eczema, allergic dermatitis, pemphigus and lupus, autoimmune diseases, immunodeficiency diseases, and cancers/tumors in dogs, cats and horses. Tongue and pulse demos with diagnosis instruction in dogs and horses are included as well.
MS0310 Veterinary Food Therapy
(1.5 semester credit hours) hybrid or online
Food therapy is the practice of healing using natural foods along with or instead of herbal medications. This course focuses on the most relevant facets of how to use TCVM to understand and use foods in the treatment of animals. Hands-on labs are provided for hybrid students in Reddick, Fl and video recordings of labs are provided for online students, the students gain additional practice in preparation and cooking of each recipe that is designed for a specific medical condition. Clinical case studies help students see the impact of food therapy on skin diseases and cancer. The course provides three goals for students: 1) learn and master the basic theory and principles of food therapy; 2) learn and grasp the simple recipes for veterinarians and their patients; 3) be able to assign “homework” to the pet owners to implement food therapy on their pets. (Prerequisite or co-requisite: MS0210, MS0220, MS0230)
MS0330 Veterinary Tui-na
(1.5 semester credit hours) hybrid
Tui-na is Chinese manual therapy used for preventing and treating disease. With the intensive hands-on labs (on-site in Reddick, Fl), students are provided with an opportunity to train their hands to effectively manipulate using over 30 techniques. The focus is on both quality (evenness and softness) and quantity (duration and force) of each Tui-na technique. The ability to use hands to diagnose and treat clinical conditions is emphasized in order to accommodate an animal that may have an acupuncture needle phobia. The practice of Tui-na enhances the students TCVM diagnostic skills which is an added benefit. Simple, daily take-home techniques for the caregivers are also discussed. (Prerequisite or co-requisite: MS0110, MS0120, MS0130)
MS0205 Chinese Herbal Fundamental Knowledge
(1 semester credit hour) online
This course discusses the history, origin, development, safety, toxicity and quality control of Chinese herbal medicine. Students will learn the scientific basis of Chinese herbal medicine and research data, as well as general indications and contraindications of Chinese herbal medicines.
MS0350 Advanced Veterinary Tui-na: Refinement (1 semester credit hour) hybrid
The Advanced Tui-na: Refinement course builds on the foundation laid down during the Veterinary Tui-na course (MS0330). Whereas in the Veterinary Tui-na course the emphasis was placed on developing one’s basic skills and practicing all of the 21 fundamental Tui-na techniques, the focus of this advanced course is for the student to be able to hone his/her technique. The Veterinary Tui-na course focused on acquiring a fundamental skill set and knowledge base mainly focusing on understanding quantity, (duration and force) of the techniques. This Advanced Tui-na: Refinement course has a different focus. Because the student has already learned the basics and about quantity, this course is able to apply its focus to quality; the ability to diagnose and treat with touch. Quality also implies evenness and softness of technique, as well as the ability to seamlessly integrate the 21 otherwise separate Tui-na techniques. These refined skills are what help to separate novices from experts in the field of veterinary Tui-na. (Prerequisite: MS0330)
MS0361 TCVM Diagnostics, Classical Points and Advanced Techniques: Canine
(1.5 semester credit hours) hybrid
This course covers three of the most important TCVM studies: TCVM Diagnosis, Classical Acupoints and Advanced Acupuncture Techniques. This course focuses on the canine species and provides advanced acupuncture methods including auricular and scalp acupuncture and gold implantation. In any medical system, effective treatment of disease hinges upon an accurate and complete diagnosis. With real clinical cases, the students are provided with intensive hands-on experience on-site in Reddick, Fl and therefore, gain full confidence in making a sound TCVM diagnosis. Locations and usage of additional classical canine acupuncture points are also discussed. (Prerequisite or co-requisite: MS0110, MS0120, MS0130)
MS0362 TCVM Diagnostics, Classical Points and Advanced Techniques: Equine
(1.5 semester credit hours) hybrid
This course is similar to MS0361, which covers three of the most important TCVM studies: TCVM Diagnosis, Classical Acupoints and Advanced Acupuncture Techniques; however, this course focuses on equine species. The class provides advanced acupuncture methods including auricular acupuncture, scalp acupuncture and gold implantation. In any medical system, effective treatment of disease hinges upon an accurate and complete diagnosis. With real clinical cases, the students are provided with intensive hands-on experience on-site in Reddick, Fl and therefore, gain full confidence to make a sound TCVM diagnosis. Locations and usage of additional classical equine acupuncture points are also discussed. (Prerequisite or co-requisite: MS0110, MS0120, MS0130)
MS0010 Evidence-Based Veterinary Acupuncture
(1.5 semester credit hours) online
This course provides an overview of scientific research data on acupuncture. Topics of evidence-based clinical application of acupuncture include: acupuncture for renal and urinary tract infections, lameness, respiratory diseases, gastrointestinal and neurological disorders, and pain management. Discussion of trigger points, their clinical applications, general indications and contraindications of veterinary acupuncture are included.
MS0020 Integrative Approach to Neurological Disorders
(2 semester credit hours) online
Conventional veterinary medicine and TCVM differ in their approach to the diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases. However, when integrated, these two medical paradigms can lead to a deeper understanding of dysfunction and more effective therapeutic options for neurological patients. The course offers students an opportunity to understand the methods of evaluation of the neurological patient (both small animal and equine), and also diagnosing and treating the following conditions: seizure and epilepsy, cranial nerve disorders, degenerative neurological disorders, spinal cord disorders, cognitive dysfunction syndrome, meningoenchephalitis and encephalitis, head trauma and peripheral nerve damage.
MS0401 TCVM Ophthalmology
(1 semester credit hour) online
This course discusses the TCVM fundamental principles of eyes, and etiology and pathology of ocular diseases. Students will learn the pattern diagnosis, acupuncture and herbal medicine of corneal diseases, uveitis, conjunctivitis, glaucoma, cataracts and other eye disorders. (Prerequisite: MS0110, MS0205)
MS0412 Business Management for an Integrative Veterinary Clinic
(1 semester credit hour) online
This course will cover basic business and management practices in operating a integrative veterinary practice. The goal is to prepare students to understand the products and services that his or her practice produces, how to manage client relationships, finances, employee management, marketing, organization and other key concepts in operating an integrative practice.
MS0411 TCVM Clerkship
(1 semester credit hours)
Students gain practical knowledge in real-world application through this 45 hour internship. Students are required to complete at least two on-site sessions so that they have a functional understanding of what they will observe. Students may choose any certified veterinary acupuncturist to shadow for 45 documented hours. CVAs in any area can be found by consulting the Chi Institute practitioner directory. Students may also choose any willing faculty member to complete their hours with. (Prerequisite or co-requisite: Any two hybrid courses)
MS0501-MS0502 Master’s Thesis part 1 and part 2
(6 semester credit hours total) online
This course provides students with an overview of practical and concrete information about preparing the master’s thesis and manuscript for publication taught over two semesters. The course covers four main content areas:
1. How to identify the research area that students are interested in;
2. How to use the library and other necessary resources to search for relevant research papers;
3. Data analysis and interpretation;
4. How to write the thesis and a peer-review publication.
(Prerequisite: Part 1 must be taken before part 2)