American Institute of Alternative Medicine

AIAM specializes in career-focused programs in alternative medicine and allied health, with popular majors including Nursing Assistant, Massage Therapy, and Acupuncture. The curriculum blends online coursework with in-person labs, taught by practitioners with real-world experience. Notably, the acupuncture program integrates traditional Chinese medicine with biomedical science. The school offers certificates and associate degrees but no bachelor’s or advanced degrees. Graduation rates are modest at 44% within 150% of normal time, per College Factual, though Niche reports a higher 60% figure.

AIAM’s culture is defined by its intimate class sizes (12 students per cohort) and emphasis on self-motivation. The Facebook page stresses that students must be prepared for independent study, completing online modules and homework before hands-on lab sessions. The acupuncture program, in particular, fosters a close-knit community, with Yelp reviewers noting its rigorous blend of Eastern and Western medical training. There’s no mention of traditional campus amenities like dorms or athletics—this is a commuter school for career-changers and vocational learners.

Graduates report a median income of $41,710 one year post-graduation, per Niche, though AllNurses cites a lower $40,805 figure at the 10-year mark. The school’s focus on licensure-driven fields (e.g., massage therapy, nursing assistance) means many alumni enter regulated professions. However, the 44% graduation rate (per College Factual) indicates significant attrition, possibly due to the program’s intensity or non-traditional student demographics (66% receive Pell Grants).

The average net price after aid is $27,493/year, with 83% of full-time undergraduates receiving financial aid via grants or scholarships. AIAM offers a net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator on its website, emphasizing transparency for prospective students. While costs are lower than many four-year colleges, the investment is significant for a certificate or associate degree, particularly given the modest post-graduation earnings.

AIAM carves a unique niche with its hyper-focused vocational training in alternative medicine, particularly acupuncture and massage therapy. The 12-student cap per class ensures hands-on mentorship, while the hybrid online/in-person model accommodates working adults. However, its low graduation rate and middling earnings outcomes suggest it’s best suited for highly motivated students committed to specific licensure paths. For those seeking non-traditional healthcare careers, AIAM offers a pragmatic—if unpolished—alternative to conventional degree programs.