Oregon College of Oriental Medicine

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The building that became OCOM's new location in fall 2012, seen in 2010, before the start of renovation

Building on the Southeast Portland campus

Oregon College of Oriental Medicine (OCOM) is a private graduate school in Portland, Oregon, United States, that specializes in acupuncture and Chinese medicine. Established in 1983, OCOM is one of the oldest Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) colleges in the United States and is regarded as a leader in the field for its educational programs, research, and clinical care.

History

OCOM was founded with the mission to advance the practice, research, and teaching of Chinese medicine in the U.S. Since its inception, the college has grown significantly, moving to a larger campus in Portland to accommodate its expanding programs and student body. The institution has played a pivotal role in the integration of Chinese medicine into Western healthcare settings, contributing to the growing acceptance and utilization of TCM practices in the United States.

Programs

OCOM offers a Master of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (MAcOM) program, which integrates courses in acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and biomedicine. The college also offers a Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (DAOM) program for advanced clinical training and research in specialized areas of TCM. These programs are designed to prepare students for successful careers as licensed practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine.

Campus

The OCOM campus features modern facilities that support its educational and clinical missions. This includes classrooms, a comprehensive library with extensive resources on Chinese medicine, and a public clinic where students gain hands-on experience treating patients under the supervision of experienced practitioners. The campus environment is designed to foster a community of learning and practice that is deeply rooted in the principles of Chinese medicine.

Clinical Services

OCOM operates a public clinic that serves as a primary teaching site for its students. The clinic offers a range of TCM services, including acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and therapeutic massage. It serves as a valuable resource for the Portland community, providing affordable and effective treatments for a variety of health conditions. The clinic also participates in research initiatives aimed at evaluating the efficacy of TCM treatments.

Research

Research is a key component of OCOM's mission. The college is actively involved in studies that seek to expand the scientific understanding of TCM practices and their potential health benefits. This research contributes to the evidence base for acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, supporting their integration into mainstream healthcare.

Accreditation

OCOM is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM), which is the recognized accrediting agency for programs preparing acupuncture and Oriental medicine practitioners in the United States. This accreditation ensures that the college meets or exceeds specific educational standards for the training of acupuncture and Chinese medicine professionals.

Community Engagement

OCOM is committed to community engagement and public education about the benefits of Chinese medicine. The college hosts seminars, workshops, and events that are open to the public, aiming to promote understanding and appreciation of TCM as a valuable healthcare option.