PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The 850-Hour Acupressure Therapy Program completes your training as an acupressure professional, offering 850 hours of training in advanced acupressure, traditional Asian modalities, and related bodywork therapies. The 850-Hour Program is especially designed for students who wish to become recognized professionals in the field of acupressure.

The 850-Hour Program will enable you to practice as a professional acupressure therapist and work with other health care practitioners. If you decide to relocate, this program may fulfill other states' requirements for massage therapy and allow you to practice elsewhere in the United States.

PREREQUISITES
Basic Training Certificate or equivalent, and Entrance Exam. Students are required to take the entrance exam prior to being accepted in the 850-Hour Program to establish their basic knowledge and comprehension of acupressure and the Asian healing arts.

ENTRANCE EXAM
Students are required to take an entrance exam prior to being accepted into the program to establish their basic knowledge and comprehension of acupressure and the Asian healing arts.

COURSE LENGTH
Ranges from one to three years. Students arrange their own class schedules to meet their individual needs, so the length of time required to complete the 850 hours varies. One-month 200-hour program intensives are offered throughout the year. A student can complete the training within one year by combining the the 200-hour intensives along with other classes.

EXTENSIONS
Students may extend the program one year by paying the $100 re-registration fee. The student must complete the program within four years, otherwise he/she will be charged any program price increase in addition to the re-registration fee to complete the program and receive a diploma.

CREDIT FOR PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE
Students can receive up to 30% credit of the program hours for equivalent courses, providing these courses can be documented by official transcripts and letters. Financial credit is based on a $5 hourly for Advanced Training classes, Basic Training electives, and Anatomy & Physiology. Appropriate documentation must be provided at the time of enrollment for credit to be given.

EVALUATION
Written case studies and other assignments are required. Upon completion of 90% of the required classes and practice sessions, the student can schedule an evaluation with a core instructor which will include a verbal and hands-on test. After successfully completing the evaluation and turning in all written work, the student will receive a diploma.

INSTRUCTOR CONSULTATION
Students in the 850-Hour Acupressure Therapy Program will receive five free hours of consultation with a core instructor.

CAREER COUNSELING
Students enrolled in the 850-Hour Acupressure Therapy Program will receive on-going career guidance in classes. The Institute also supports the professional development of Acupressure Therapy graduates by providing referrals and job placement contacts.

PRACTITIONERS WITH PREVIOUS MASSAGE TRAINING
Graduates of other massage schools who pass our entrance exam may enroll directly in our 850-hour graduate program by taking our three core acupressure classes (Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Acupressure classes). The remaining advanced training classes are selected by the student.

DOCUMENTED PRACTICE
Students are required to submit case studies and assignments to their evaluating instructor in typewritten form at least one week before the program evaluation. An outline for completing documentation is given at the time of enrollment and is available in the administration office.

PRACTICE SESSIONS - ADVANCED
The Institute offers regularly scheduled practice sessions for advanced level students to practice the material they have learned in classes. All advanced students are welcome at no additional cost.

TEACHER TRAINING OR PROJECT
Students of the 850-Hour Acupessure Therapy Program must choose a special project. Project guidelines are provided upon enrollment. Students enrolled in the 850-hour program may also apply for teacher training which involves retaking the course(s), observing, assisting, and then co-teaching with a senior teacher.