Admissions
In compliance with ACAOM standards, students entering the program must have completed at least two academic years (60 semester credits / 90 quarter credits) of general education at an accredited institution, accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education, or be certified in a medical profession requiring at least the equivalent training of a Registered Nurse or a Physician’s Assistant as a prerequisite for admission. Students may enter the program three times a year (Beginning of January, May, or September). Applications are accepted throughout the year.
CSTCM does not accept credit through prior learning assessment for the admissions requirement of 60 college credits.
CSTCM is approved to issue I-20 Certificate of Eligibility for an F-1 Student Visa for foreign students. International students are responsible for their own English translation of transcripts and educational credential review of transcripts by an authorized agency if needed. (One such service is the World Education Services, Inc., PO Box 745 Old Chelsa Station, New York, NY 10013-0745, telephone (212) 966-6311). The Immigration and Naturalization Service requires that all students on an F-1 visa maintain a full-time program of study, attend classes regularly, and maintain satisfactory progress. Foreign students must also send an affidavit of financial support from the student’s sponsor or bank to show proof of sufficient funds to meet their tuition and living expenses for at least 1 year. English language proficiency is required for entering the program. Applicants from countries where English is not a primary language must show a minimum score of 500 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), and at least the currently reported mean score on the Test of Spoken English (TSE), or have at least 2 years of education at an English speaking school.
CSTCM is approved to receive veterans benefit programs and various Colorado State Vocational Rehab programs. For information talk to the Registrar.
CSTCM is looking for students who have a realistic view of education and show the desire, motivation, and firm commitment to become dedicated, compassionate and skilled practitioners of TCM. This assessment is made by the admissions committee. The committee will review each applicant from numerous perspectives, including academic achievement, professional and life experiences, communication skills, and motivation. The program requires a high commitment to learning a number of difficult skills.
Prospective applicants are welcome to schedule an appointment with a CSTCM representative who will assist the prospective applicant in making a decision about applying. They can also arrange a tour of the school and to attend some classes. We encourage all prospective applicants to visit the school. These arrangements can be made with the Receptionist.
CSTCM has a non-discrimination policy. Applicants are considered on the basis of individual merit without regard to handicap, sex, sexual orientation, age, religion, race, or national or ethnic origin. This policy applies to all matters within the school.
Completed applications are due at least 2 months prior to the start of the trimester. Class size is limited for accelerated and full-time students. If space allows, applications may be accepted up to 1 week prior to the start of each trimester, although we recommend applying early. Those who are not accepted into the entering class for space reasons will be put on a waiting list.
For CSTCM to plan a student’s program, follow academic progress and coordinate Financial Aid, all students must declare which program (accelerated, full-time, half-time, part-time) they are in, with a projected graduation date. Accelerated is considered to be 16-24 classroom hours per week/per trimester. Students in the accelerated program can graduate in a minimum of 3 years. Full-time is considered to be 12-15 classroom hours per week/per trimester. Full-time students should graduate in about 4 years. Half-time is considered to be at least 8 classroom hours per week/per trimester. Part-time is considered to be 7 or less classroom hours per week/per trimester. Half-time and part-time students must finish the program in a maximum of 8 years.
Students who would like to transfer from another Oriental Medicine school must follow the same application process. (See Academic Procedures - Transfer Students Credit).
CSTCM reserves the right to cancel a starting class or specific courses if the number of students enrolling is deemed insufficient. If a starting class is cancelled, CSTCM will fully refund all money paid by students denied admittance.
All students must meet graduation requirements that are in effect at the time of graduation, rather than at the time of application, unless written policy states otherwise.
