What are the requirements to apply under the apprenticeship route?

Apprenticeship is defined as clinical and didactic training completed under qualified preceptors who assume responsibility for the theoretical and practical education of the apprentice. The curriculum is designed by the preceptor and should use ACAOM Standard 8: Program of Study as a guideline. Please wait to submit the NCCAOM application and training documentation packet until the apprenticeship is completed. 

Important Information – Policy Change for Applications Submitted as of January 1, 2017: 

All applicants for NCCAOM certification applying through Route 3: Apprenticeship U.S. and International are required to satisfactorily complete at least two academic years (60 semester credits) of formal education in addition to the required apprenticeship contact hours. The 60 semester credits must be completed in areas such as healthcare related coursework or life sciences from a non-vocational institution of higher education accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education or an equivalent accrediting agency in the country in which the education was received. The academic transcript must be submitted, in English, to the NCCAOM directly from the academic institution. 

For detailed information and requirements please download the NCCAOM® Certification Handbook . 

Route 3 Apprenticeship Elimination Notice 

The Apprenticeship for US and International Applicants (Route 3) will be eliminated as of December 31, 2021. The apprenticeship program must be completed and the application for certification through the Apprenticeship for US and International Applicants (Route 3) must be received by the NCCAOM no later than December 31, 2021. Please review the Apprenticeship Route FAQ for more information. The Combination of Formal Education and Apprenticeship for US and International Applicants (Route 4) will remain in effect.