Master of Science in Aromatherapy

Overview

The mission of the MS in Aromatherapy degree program is to develop a practical and theoretical understanding of clinical aromatherapy and professionally apply this knowledge to educate clients and consumers about a mind-body-spirit approach to health and wellness.

The use of aromatherapy as a viable integrative holistic health modality in hospitals and in many aspects of the wellness industry has shown a progressive upward trend for a number of years. Non-profit organizations such as Planetree Hospitals Inc. are a group of US hospitals who are aware that the way a patient feels has an enormous impact on the speed and success of recovery. Planetree hospitals have adopted the holistic patient care model, which integrates complementary therapies with conventional medical treatment on mental, emotional, spiritual, social and physical levels and aromatherapy is a large part of this model.[1]

Consumer use of Complementary and Alternative Modalities (CAM), which includes aromatherapy also continues to increase, fueled by a number of factors, including increasing access to new research that shows the therapeutic value of aromatherapy, dissatisfaction with allopathic models (particularly for chronic health problems), and an aging population.

This growing awareness and adoption by major hospitals of aromatherapy and other related holistic health modalities in innovative patient-centered care models is positively influencing the development of new opportunities in the health care and health and wellness-related industries. Professionals with knowledge and training in modalities such as aromatherapy provide coaching, support, encouragement, and education to help people live healthier lives and prevent illness or injury.

Highlights

Meets the curriculum requirements of the Alliance of International Aromatherapists’ Level Advanced Practitioner Aromatherapy education standards

Graduates are eligible to sit the Aromatherapy Registration Council national examination to become a Registered Aromatherapist (RA)

Exceeds NAHA Level III Aromatherapy Education Standards

Learning Outcomes

  • Examine aromatherapy research to understand how essential oils interact with the body’s systems and produce physical and psychological effects.
  • Evaluate modern and historic aromatherapy definitions, philosophy, practices, and methods of essential oil extraction and quality evaluation.
  • Integrate human anatomy, physiology, and appropriate medical terminology into the professional practice of aromatherapy.
  • Asses essential oil chemical components to effectively apply their aroma, therapeutic effects, toxicity, and interactions with body systems for professional aromatherapy uses.
  • Implement detailed essential oil materia medica knowledge to utilize botanicals sustainably, ethically, and safely in professional aromatherapy.
  • Simulate the components of creating an aromatherapy business to effectively implement record keeping, required insurance, scope of practice, ethics, legal issues, marketing, and professional networking.
  • Design safe, effective, evidence-based, holistic aromatherapy lifestyle support plans to follow best practices for informed consent, intake skills, the scope of practice, assessment skills, and aromatherapy applications.
  • Synthesize a study or research review on a current issue or theory in aromatherapy.

Career Goals:

  • The Master of Science in Aromatherapy degree prepares graduates to fulfill the eligibility requirements for approval as a Registered Aromatherapist (RA) [2] and to enter the health and wellness industry as a(n):
  • Aromatherapist, Aromatherapy Consultant, or Aromatologist
  • Clinical Aromatherapist
  • Aromatherapy Coach
  • Registered Aromatherapist (RA)
  • Alliance of International Aromatherapists (AIA) Advanced Practitioner
  • Aromatherapy Product Formulator and Manufacturer
  • Health Care Industry Assistant - Day Spa, Holistic Retreat, Spa Facility
  • Aromatherapy Retailer
  • Aromatherapy Educator, Author, Speaker
  • Administrative or support role in any company in the health care industry
  • Customer service role within the health care industry
  • Sales associate role within the health care industry
  • Aromatherapy Product Formulator and Manufacturer
  • Lifestyle Coach or Consultant
  • Perfumer
  • Massage Therapist specializing in Aromatherapy
  • Esthetician specializing in Aromatherapy
  • Medical Assistant, administrator, reception, or other support role in a licensed naturopathic clinic
  • Medical professionals wishing to increase their knowledge of this effective and growing field and integrate it into a new or existing practice, including licensed health professionals such as Medical Doctors, Psychologists, Pharmacists, Naturopaths, Nurses, Veterinarians, Respiratory Therapists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, Massage Therapists, Dietary Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Physician Therapists, Clinical Psychologists and Social Workers
  • Consumers looking to integrate aromatherapy and wellness principles into their life for personal health and well-being

Current Instructors:

View all ACHS instructors, including bios, photos, and courses taught.

Admissions Requirements:

Candidates must possess a baccalaureate degree or higher from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the US Department of Education. Candidates must submit official transcripts directly from the issuing institution along with one professional letter of recommendation. All applicants must be recommended for admission by the ACHS Admissions Committee.

Tuition and Fees:

To estimate the program tuition and fees, click on the required course name to view each Total Course Price. Information is also provided in the Program Fact Sheet.

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