Naturopathic doctors are health care providers specializing in natural medicine and therapies. They focus on using natural health to treat the underlying cause of medical conditions rather than symptoms. Naturopathic medicine often involves a combination of therapies such as acupuncture, massage, plant-based medicine, nutrition, homeopathic medicine and counseling. To become a licensed naturopathic doctor, you need to qualify to take the licensing exams. This involves three years of pre-med courses, four years of full-time study at an accredited program in naturopathic medicine, successful completion of NPLEX board exams and ongoing continuing education credits.
Get Ready
Step 1
Apply to a university program that offers pre-med courses. Sign up for courses that will give you a strong background in clinical and biomedical sciences, as well as natural medicine. These include biology, biochemistry, chemistry, organic chemistry and psychology. Also sign up for required elective courses in the humanities.
Step 2
Earn a minimum grade point average of 3.00 out of 4.00 on three years of pre-med courses. Schedule your class and homework time carefully. Many pre-med courses have an additional laboratory component and require significant study.
Step 3
Seek an accredited natural health program. Ensure it has the accreditation of the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education. Attending an accredited program will allow you to apply for the naturopathic licensing examination after you graduate. Programs are offered at general universities and specialized naturopathic colleges throughout the United States and Canada.
Become Certified
Step 1
Apply to your chosen program when you have met the educational prerequisites. The application process varies among the different university and college programs. Familiarize yourself with the application process for your program so you do not miss any steps. Some program applications include a personal interview where they assess your motivation and experience in the field of natural medicine.
Step 2
Finish all course requirements for your program in naturopathic medicine. This will involve four years of full-time courses covering more than 4,500 hours of lecture and 1,500 hours of clinical practice. Write and pass your second- and fourth-year Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX). Once you have successfully completed your program and exams, you will be a certified Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND).
Step 3
Check with your state or provincial regulatory board to learn the continuing education requirements. Sign up for the required courses in your area. As a naturopathic doctor, you need to keep your training and knowledge current.
References
- Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine: About CCNM
- Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors: Naturopathic Training
- Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine: Essential Skills and Abilities Required for the Study of Medicine
- Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine: Personal Interview
- Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors: About Naturopathic Medicine
Member Comments