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)
• National College of Naturopathic Medicine (Portland)
• 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 British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Nova Scotia and Saskatchewan. Legislation is pending in Alberta.

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 regulating body.  Dr. Bjorndal is properly trained and belongs to both the College of Naturopathic Doctors of Alberta/ Alberta Association of Naturopathic Practitioners and Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.  Dr. Bjorndal is recognized by insurance companies for coverage.