DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN ORIENTAL MEDICINE (Ph.D.)

OBJECTIVE

The American Liberty University Department of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine offers a course of study leading to the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree. The doctoral program is research oriented and is designed to provide the theoretical and scientific knowledge necessary for scholarly pursuit in oriental medicine. Students are required to show competence in appropriate areas relevant to their major area of study by completing theory and research courses in oriental medicine and related disciplines.

This advanced research program is offered to students who have completed their Master of Science in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and are looking forward to continuing their academic goals to the Ph.D. level.

The graduate of the doctoral program will:

1- Synthesize and critique knowledge in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and identify future directions for knowledge development;
2- Generate Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine theory that contributes to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine science;
3- Conduct research that contributes to the development of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine science;
4- Articulate the ethical, social, legal and moral responsibilities involved in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine research;
5- Pose research-based solutions to major issues in health care that are of social and ethical significance;
6- Articulate the Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine science perspective in interdisciplinary dialogue;
7- Collaborate with others to promote the use of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine research to improve health care.

Ph.D. Colloquium

The Ph.D. Colloquium is a monthly seminar for doctoral students on various topics of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Research Advancement. Content is based on student needs and interests.
Doctoral Student Research Annual seminars provide doctoral students with opportunities to present their research to their peers and faculty.

Criteria

Total Units: 81 units
Total Hours: 51 units courses X 15 = 765 hours
30 units clinic X 30 = 900 hours
Total: 1665 hours
Credit: Up to 30 units (900 hours) for clinical experience
Pre-Requisite: A Master�fs degree in Oriental Medicine (or equivalent).

Credit for Clinical Courses

Candidates for Doctorate Degree in Oriental Medicine may earn up to 30-unit credits for their past clinical experience. Credits may also be received for time involved with clinical research. Such credit awards relate to candidates who obtain their license in Oriental Medicine.
In order for credit to be acknowledged, candidates must provide documentation, which confirms applicable experience in reputable medical centers, research centers, colleges or universities along with their Application for Admissions.

Admission Requirements/Application Procedure

Priority placement regarding the Ph.D. program is given to graduates of accredited master�fs degree programs in oriental medicine. Individuals admitted with a bachelor�fs degree in oriental medicine are required to complete a program of master�fs courses in oriental medicine at American Liberty University as a requisite to entry into doctoral courses.

Applicants must provide evidence of the following:

1. Complete the Application for Admission and submit it with a non-refundable Check or money order for $110.00 payable to American Liberty University.

2. A master�fs degree in Oriental Medicine (or equivalent); or a Bachelor of Science degree in Oriental Medicine from an accredited or recognized institution.

3. Three letters of reference affirming the applicant�fs potential for scholarly, investigative, and creative endeavors in oriental medicine.

4. Submit official transcripts from the previous colleges and/or universities.

5. A statement of educational objectives, specific focus of research, and program and career goals.

6. Provide two current color passport size photos.

7. Optional: It is recommended that applicants submit course descriptions of Masters Degree courses to assist the Admissions Committee in determining if prerequisites have been met.

Graduation Requirements:

1. Complete a minimum of 81 semester hours of prescribed
Graduate-level oriental medicine courses.
2. Completion of course requirements.
3. A dissertation that must be relevant to the student�fs field of study.
4. Maintain a cumulative 3.2 GPA.

DISSERTATION

Each doctoral candidate is required to complete a dissertation that embodies original and independent research and demonstrates advanced scholarly achievement. As soon as possible after a student�fs admission to candidacy, and during or before enrollment in Dissertation Course, the student forms a dissertation committee. The dissertation committee consists of a minimum of three members. Two shall be chosen from the faculty of the Department of Oriental Medicine; the third may be a member of the faculty of another Department within the American Liberty University, or an appropriate doctorally prepared person outside the University. The Chairperson and committee are chosen by the student, approved by his/her advisor, and then formally appointed by the Associate Dean or Director of Department of Oriental Medicine.

The candidate in a public oral examination shall defend the dissertation. Official approval of the dissertation committee is required; committee members certify their acceptance by signing the title page of the dissertation. Three signed copies of the dissertation, one original and two clear copies should be filed in the Department of Oriental Medicine.

The submitted dissertation becomes the property of American Liberty University, but the University does not limit the author�fs right to publish the results.

Ph.D. Courses