For acupuncturists and massage therapists, continuing education is necessary to keep their licenses and certifications. One option is distance learning, allowing them to take courses at home. There are a few things to keep in mind, which these professionals should be aware of.
Definition
There are two ways to earn continuing education units, or CEU's: Sitting in a class room or lecture hall for a class and exam, or by distance education. Distance education is where you receive the class study materials and test in the mail or online. You review the material before taking a test.
Significance
Certifying bodies such as the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, along with most states, require a minimum number of continuing education credits be earned before they will renew a certification or license.
Time Frame
Most certifications last 4 years, although some licenses are issued annually or bi-annually. All CEUs required to maintain a license or certification must be obtained before the license or certification expires in order to continue with no lapses or breaks.
Where to Find
Check certifying body websites such as the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB), the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), and association websites like the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals and the American Massage Therapy Association for continuing education providers they have reviewed and accept.
Considerations
Each state that regulates massage and acupuncture will have its own standards for continuing education. Those standards will outline how much of the continuing education credit can be distance learning and how much must be in-class.
Tags: National Certification, continuing education, continuing education, Acupuncture Oriental, Acupuncture Oriental Medicine, Board Therapeutic, Board Therapeutic Massage
