Degree Overview: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree in Aromatherapy
Majors Overview January 4, 2014Aromatherapy consists of complementary and alternative medicine that balances the body through essential oils and herbs. Students willing to become aromatherapists may earn an A.A.S. in Complementary medicine while specializing in Aromatherapy.
A.A.S. Programs in Aromatherapy
Students enrolled in an accredited full-time or online Associate of Applied Science Degree Program in Aromatherapy are imparted knowledge about alternative and complementary medicine. They are taught about holistic and natural healing techniques and procedures, in addition to the practice and philosophy of holistic health.
Additionally, in a degree program, in aromatherapy, there is a focus on general chemistry, human anatomy and physiology, whereby students are provided with a scientific core of knowledge. That core can be built on through exploration on the manner in which bodily systems are affected by flowers, herbs and aromatherapy procedures, and a sense of balance is restored to an ailing body. Correspondingly, courses related to business ethics and principles are taught in a few associate’s degree programs in aromatherapy – this is aimed at equipping graduates to start their own aromatherapy businesses.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria require applicants to hold an accredited postsecondary degree or high school diploma. An open mind and fluency in the English language are also expected of students seeking admission.
Coursework
Basic principles of holistic healing are the focus of several courses, in an aromatherapy degree program — which includes coursework that covers certain principles related to sense therapy and aromatherapy. Coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Introduction to aromatherapy
•Iridology
•Holistic pathophysiology
•Medical terminology
•Homeopathy
•Flower essence
•Holistic nutrition
•Anatomy and physiology
•Complementary medicine
•Herbalism
Career Choices
Graduates of an aromatherapy associate’s degree program can seek various positions in holistic health such as:
•Wellness coach
•Herbal consultant
•Aromatherapy product manufacturer
•Aromatherapy retailer
•Aromatherapist
•Holistic health practitioner
•Herbal educator
Job and Wage Outlook
From 2010-2020, professional healthcare support employment is expected to increase by 34% (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics), which is known to be an above-average rate. The average wage for a professional healthcare support occupant, in 2012, was $27,780.
Certification Information
Licensure and certification are not mandatory for individuals interested in practicing aromatherapy alone; however, some states require massage therapists, who rely on the topical application of aromatherapy oils, to obtain licensure. A voluntary listing of Registered Aromatherapists (RAs) is maintained by the Aromatherapy Registration Council – passage of an exam in aromatherapy principles would qualify an individual to appear in the listing.
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