Choosing Holistic Medicine Colleges for Your Educational Needs
According to the National Institutes of Health, the number of adults using complementary and alternative medicine rose slightly (2.3 percent nationwide) between 2002 and 2007. With greater acceptance and a more universal appeal, you can expect those numbers to increase dramatically by 2020. As traditional medicine becomes costlier and more controversial, more people are seeking holistic approaches to healing than ever before.
This means there is room for many more practitioners to make their mark within the holistic medicine community. It also means that more holistic colleges are cropping up online and across the country.
Choosing the right college for your holistic medication can make a world of difference in your success and happiness as an alternative health practitioner. These are some of the things you should consider when choosing between the large selection of holistic colleges.
Accessibility
Does the college offer classes and instruction during times that work for your schedule? Many people decide to pursue holistic medicine after experiencing time in other healthcare fields or while working in different industries altogether.
Most need to continue to work while earning your holistic medicine degrees or certifications. Is the college you’re considering compatible with your needs for access?
Programs Offered
Another consideration to keep in mind involves the types of degrees offered by the college. Are they compatible with your career goals? For instance, some holistic colleges offer the following programs:
- Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in holistic medicine and healing nutrition
- Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Ph.D. in holistic nutrition
- Bachelor/Master of science, and Ph.D. in holistic natural health and nutrition
- Naturorthopathic doctor w/5 prerequisites
- Bachelor/Master of Science, and Ph.D. in Holistic Natural Health and Healing
- Master of Science degree in whole medicine and food healing nutrition
- Holistic HygioPhysician certification program
- Certified Natural Health Practitioner Certification
- Holistic Nutrition Practitioner Certification
- Natural Health Practitioner and Holistic Nutrition Practitioner Combined Certification
Leaving many options open to students interested in a more holistic approach to nutrition, medicine, and healing.
Accreditations
Finally, it’s essential to make sure the appropriate authorities accredit the holistic colleges you choose. Otherwise, you could find yourself fighting an uphill battle when it comes to putting your education into practice.
National and international accreditations to consider include:
- The American Association of Drugless Practitioners, which allows graduates to apply to become board certified Holistic Natural Health Practitioners.
- The World-Wide Accrediting Commission of Christian Educational Institutions
The key is to make sure you have a pathway to certification or board certification in your chosen field upon graduation.
Online degrees in the holistic medicine field offer flexibility and affordability that makes this critical education affordable for many students. Choose wisely when selecting holistic medicine colleges. Allowing you to get the education you desire and deserve.
