How are Naturopathic Doctors trained?
NDs take a minimum of three years premedical studies at university, followed by four years of specific training at a recognized college of naturopathic medicine. The education encompasses basic medical sciences, naturopathic principles and therapeutics, and 1500 hours of supervised clinical experience. There are five accredited schools of naturopathic medicine in North America:
- The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (Toronto)
- Bastyr University (Seattle & San Diego)
- National University of Naturopathic Medicine (Portland)
- Sonoran University (formerly known as Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine) (Scottsdale)
- University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine (Connecticut)
- Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine(Vancouver)
Graduates from these institutions receive a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) degree or diploma.
In regulated (licensed) provinces and states across North America, graduates must also pass rigorous standardized exams to qualify for practice. In Canada, NDs are regulated in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories.
Be aware that there are people in Alberta representing themselves as Naturopathic Doctors when they do not have the appropriate education and training nor do they belong to a regulatory body. The NDs at Natural Terrain are properly trained and belong to both the College of Naturopathic Doctors of Alberta/ Alberta Association of Naturopathic Doctors and the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors. Our services are covered by most extended health care plans – please ask your employer to cover naturopathic medicine.