MCPHS Celebrates New England School of Acupuncture’s 50-Year Legacy
Reflecting on Five Decades of Innovation
The Boston campus of Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) recently hosted an event that brought together more than 100 alumni, faculty, and staff to honor the New England School of Acupuncture (NESA) as it marks its 50th anniversary. The celebration was not only a nostalgic look back at where the program began – a modest diploma course in 1975 – but also a forward‑looking showcase of how acupuncture is shaping the healthcare landscape in the United States.
From a Small School to a National Leader
Founder Dr. James Tin Yao So opened the first acupuncture program in the country in Watertown, Massachusetts. Over the past five decades NESA has grown into a nationally recognized center for education, research, and clinical practice. Today the school offers both Doctorate and Master’s level degrees, and its graduates hold positions in hospitals, private practices, and interdisciplinary research teams across the country.
Impact on the U.S. Health System
Acupuncture’s evidence base has expanded dramatically. Recent NIH and CDC reports highlight its benefits for chronic pain, chemotherapy nausea, and post‑operative recovery. NESA’s curricula reflect this progress with courses in integrative medicine, pain science, and health economics. The school’s students enter residency, practice, and research environments equipped with both traditional theory and contemporary science.
Celebrating the Community Backed by Alumni
The event in November served as a reminder that the strength of NESA lies in its community. Alumni from 15 states mingled with current students, sharing stories of how the program provided a platform for compassionate care and scientific curiosity. The celebration included a retrospective look at the school’s milestones, speeches from senior faculty, and a showcase of the newly inaugurated Acupuncture Treatment Center in Boston.
Alumni Stories That Inspire
One anecdote that stood out involved Dr. So’s last class, where students had the opportunity to learn directly from him before he retired. The warmth of that experience is echoed in the new alumni gatherings, where former students revisit the spirit of mentorship that originated in the 1970s. Another speaker recalled the historic moment when NESA became part of MCPHS, describing the change as “essential for survival” and “a positive step toward the future.”
New Facilities and Expanded Learning Opportunities
The opening of a second Acupuncture Treatment Center in Boston marks a pivotal moment for NESA. Located on the main campus, the facility offers community acupuncture, private sessions, and intern rotations. Students can now complete clinical practicums within a fully licensed, patient‑centered environment—something that was limited in the previous decade.
Interprofessional Collaboration at MCPHS
Future NESA students will have the chance to take courses on the Boston campus, creating opportunities for joint learning with pharmacy, medicine, nursing, and physical therapy programs. This interdisciplinary exposure equips graduates to work within diverse healthcare teams, enhancing care coordination and patient outcomes.
How to Join the NESA Community
Prospective students looking for a program that blends ancient knowledge with modern science might consider applying to NESA now that the school offers robust research opportunities and state‑of‑the‑art facilities. Application periods open twice a year; interested candidates should review the application portal for deadlines and requirements.
Staying Connected After the Celebration
Alumni can maintain connections through the MCPHS alumni network, which offers yearly reunions, continuing education courses, and mentorship programs. Additionally, the new treatment center invites alumni to participate as volunteers or guest speakers, keeping the tradition of knowledge sharing alive.
Upcoming Events and Resources
Visit the news page to stay up to date on upcoming alumni events, new research findings, and policy shifts affecting acupuncture practice. The publication also hosts photo galleries from events like the recent 50th‑anniversary celebration, offering a visual archive of the school’s rich history.
Take Your Next Step Toward a Career in Acupuncture
Students, alumni, and professionals are encouraged to explore the full range of programs by visiting the NESA page. From introductory clinics to advanced doctoral research, MCPHS provides pathways that accommodate varied career goals.
Contact the Admissions Team
If you have questions about curriculum, financial aid, or scheduling, the admissions office is ready to help. Reach out via the contact form or call the office directly. We look forward to guiding you through the application process.
Suggested Next Steps
– Register for an information session at Request Info to learn about tuition, scholarships, and the unique benefits of NESA’s curriculum.
– Download the Tuition & Fees guide to plan your financial strategy.
– Follow MCPHS on Twitter for real‑time updates on research breakthroughs and clinical opportunities.
