A student seeking to begin an alternative medicine career may attend a college, university or specialty school that offers certificate and degree programs in this field. There are a number of certificate programs available in alternative medicine specialties, such as holistic health, massage therapy, herbal medicine, yoga instruction and oriental body therapy. Anatomy and physiology courses are common to many types of alternative medicine programs; other coursework varies.

Students can prepare for an alternative medicine career as an herbalist, for example, in a Bachelor of Science program that provides courses in science and herbal science. Some Master of Science programs combine studies of traditional Western medicine and non-traditional Eastern medicine in preparing one for a career in holistic medicine. Areas of study in an alternative medicine doctoral program include acupuncture, oriental medicine and homeopathy. Students in a doctoral program, such as a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (N.D. or NMD) program, gain the opportunity to improve their holistic skills and assist patients in private practices.

Depending on an individual's area of practice, state licensure in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) may be necessary. As of August 2016, the Doctor of Naturopathy (N.D.) and the Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (NMD) were recognized in 16 states and four U.S. territories; naturopathic doctors in these regions must pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examination Board exam (NPLEX) after completing their education. Most states require acupuncturists to earn a license by passing the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine exam. Other areas, like reflexology and iridology, are not approved, recognized or regulated by any state.

Alternative medicine is still emerging in the medical field. Depending on the state, a doctorate in naturopathy may be recognized as a valid doctoral degree, while in others, a doctorate in a different medical field can help the aspiring alternative medicine practitioner. Specialized training is needed no matter what field one is entering into. Licenses, certifications, or associate's degrees are examples of the kinds of programs available.

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Alternative Medicine Career Information and Education ...