Accreditation Standards

Doctoral & Advanced Professional Program Standards

The American Alternative Medical Association (AAMA) accredits select educational programs that align with the professional standards of integrative, alternative, and complementary medicine.

While AAMA is not a governmental accrediting agency, accredited institutions are reviewed to support educational quality, professional preparation, and ethical standards consistent with the AAMA community.

AAMA accreditation is intended to promote consistency, educational integrity, and alignment with professional pathways.

Accreditation Framework

Programs are evaluated across several core areas:

Curriculum Depth

Programs should demonstrate educational content appropriate to the discipline and intended academic or professional level, including both theoretical and applied learning.

Instructional & Clinical Preparation

Programs should include sufficient instructional, practical, clinical, or experiential learning opportunities appropriate to program objectives and educational outcomes.

Faculty Qualifications

Faculty and instructional leadership should possess appropriate:

  • Academic credentials
  • Professional experience
  • Clinical expertise
  • Subject matter qualifications

Instructional leadership should reflect the standards and expectations of the disciplines represented.

Program Outcomes

Programs should prepare graduates for:

  • Professional practice within their field
  • Ethical and professional conduct
  • Ongoing continuing education and professional development
  • Alignment with professional standards and responsibilities

Accreditation Lifecycle

AAMA accreditation is granted for a five-year term.

Institutions maintain Active accreditation through:

  • Annual School Membership participation
  • Continued alignment with accreditation standards
  • Notification of significant organizational or program changes

Examples of material changes include:

  • Institutional relocation
  • Ownership changes
  • School name changes
  • Major curriculum revisions
  • Delivery modality changes
  • Significant operational restructuring

Certain changes may require additional review.

Benefits of Accreditation

Accredited institutions may:

  • Be listed in the AAMA Accredited Program Directory
  • Demonstrate alignment with an established professional association
  • Provide students with structured post-graduate pathways
  • Participate in future visibility and promotional opportunities
  • Utilize the AAMA Accredited designation and seal according to policy

For Students & Graduates

Graduates of accredited programs may choose to pursue:

  • AAMA Professional Membership
  • Board Certification opportunities where applicable
  • Continued professional development within the AAMA community

Completion of an accredited program does not automatically grant certification eligibility but may support alignment with AAMA professional pathways.

AAMA School Accreditation is a professional accreditation designation and does not constitute governmental, regional, or academic accreditation.