What type of training does a naturopath receive?

Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are family practice-oriented primary health care doctors. Naturopathic training consists of a four year, graduate level, accredited naturopathic medical school. The four existing naturopathic colleges in the US are accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education, a specialized accreditor recognized by the US Department of Education. The first two years of schooling are like those of a conventional medical doctor (MD), the majority of classes consisting of basic sciences (anatomy, cellular biology, microbiology, pathology, etc). The additional two to four years consist of specialized academic courses (i.e. cardiology, EENT, gynecology, gastroenterology, urology, etc) as well as courses in naturopathic therapeutics like herbal medicine, homeopathy, body work, spinal manipulation, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, clinical nutrition, and counseling. After graduation, NDs must pass national board examination to become licensed.

For a detailed course listing go to the National College of Naturopathic Medicine Academics Page and click on View Program Layouts.