I already have a US master's — can I still do another degree at the same level?
Whether "starting over at the same level" makes sense — or is even allowed — really splits into two different questions, and it's worth separating them cleanly. Both let your existing degree count for something, rather than treating you as a first-time student.
Whether "starting over at the same level" makes sense — or is even allowed — really splits into two different questions, and it's worth separating them cleanly.
If you're a domestic (U.S.) student: there's no rule against enrolling in a second master's-level program. But for someone who already holds a TCM-related or health-science master's, Five Branches offers two paths that build on that credential rather than repeating it — which is usually the better fit than a second same-level degree:
| Path | What it does | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Bridge / Completion Program | Upgrades an existing field master's (MAcHM / MTCM / MAc) to the DAcHM/DAc doctorate | 100% online |
| DAOM (針灸及東方醫學博士) | A separate advanced doctorate a master's-holder can apply to directly — no bridge/entry doctorate needed first | Hybrid (~49% online per the DAOM Catalog, checked 07/2026, rest on-campus) |
Both let your existing degree count for something, rather than treating you as a first-time student.
If you're on (or planning) an F-1 visa, this question has real legal weight and deserves a direct answer: as of a rule DHS finalized in July 2026 (effective September 15, 2026), F-1 students are generally not permitted to enroll in a new program at the same or lower education level — a second master's — the framework expects progression to a higher level instead, which is exactly what the Bridge and DAOM above are built for. This is still a new rule that may see further guidance or legal challenge, so it should not be treated as final for your own situation — confirm current specifics with USCIS, your current school's DSO / international student office, and a licensed immigration attorney before making any plan.
So — are you asking this as a domestic student weighing your options, or are you currently on an F-1 visa?
Sources
- Five Branches University — Applying To Five Branches checked 2026-08
- Five Branches University — published materials checked 2026-07
- Five Branches University — Guidance For Future Students checked 2026-08
- Five Branches University — Programs Degrees checked 2026-08
- The school's own published catalog and website checked 2026-07
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