Naturopathic Physicians: Training

Licensed naturopathic physicians have attended four-year professional-level programs at accredited institutions, where they have been educated in the same basic sciences as allopathic physicians. Some member schools in the Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges actually require more hours of basic and clinical science than many top allopathic medical schools.

During their first two years of study, the curriculum focuses on basic and clinical sciences, covering…

* Biochemistry
* Human Physiology
* Histology
* Anatomy
* Macro- and Microbiology
* Immunology
* Human Pathology
* Neuroscience
* Pharmacology

Take your first step to becoming a naturopathic physician today.

For at least the final two years of their medical program, students intern in clinical settings under the close supervision of licensed professionals.

Students of naturopathic medicine use the Western medical sciences as a foundation on which to build a thorough knowledge of holistic, non-toxic therapies and develop skills in diagnosis, disease prevention and wellness optimization.

While earning their degree, doctors of naturopathic medicine learn virtually all the modalities of proven natural therapies…

* Clinical Nutrition
* Botanical Medicine
* Homeopathy
* Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
* Lifestyle Counseling
* Massage
* Physical Medicine
* Hydrotherapy

Graduates from naturopathic medical schools must pass the comprehensive naturopathic physicians licensing examinations (NPLEX) to be licensed as primary care physicians. Candidates for full licensure must also satisfy all licensing requirements for the individual state or province in which they plan to practice.

Today’s naturopathic physicians artfully blend modern, cutting-edge diagnostic and therapeutic procedures with ancient and traditional methods. They offer the world a healing paradigm founded on a rational balance of tradition, science and respect for nature.

Naturopathic Doctor Career Paths

Because of the exploding interest in natural health care, there are more career opportunities in natural medicine than ever before. Graduates of naturopathic programs are establishing thriving practices, with many choosing multi-faceted careers. They are working as primary care physicians in private practice and in integrative clinics. They are working as research scientists and faculty members in alternative or conventional medical institutions. And they’re filling positions as:

* Natural pharmacists
* Wellness educators
* Public health administrators
* Research and development scientists in the natural products industry
* Consultants to industry, insurance companies, public service, political and other organizations

The broad scope and flexibility of natural medicine allows naturopathic physicians to create careers and lifestyles suited to their personality, their goals and dreams.

Source: Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges