How are Naturopathic Doctors Trained?

Admission to an accredited naturopathic medical institution requires a minimum of three years of undergraduate study at a recognized university. This undergraduate program must include premedical science courses such as, biochemistry, biology, and psychology. Once accepted into the post-graduate naturopathic program, the curriculum involves an intensive four-years of study which includes more than 4,200 hours of courses and clinical education in biomedical and clinical sciences (anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology), clinical practice, and treatment methodology. The program also requires 1500 hours of direct patient contact under the guidance of a licensed naturopathic doctor. Naturopathic students must pass two sets of standardized board examinations before they may legally use the title of Naturopathic Doctor in regulated states and provinces. In Canada, naturopathic doctors are regulated in Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan with legislation pending in Alberta and Nova Scotia.