Consider the following when looking for integrative medicine schools:

Associate's degree programs in integrative medicine introduce students to the basics of using alternative medical techniques to maintain health and treat disease. Students take foundational courses in human anatomy, physiology and medical terminology, and they may have the opportunity to choose a concentration in a particular area of interest, such as aromatherapy, herbal medicine, holistic spa or massage. Prior to graduation from one of these two-year programs, students must also fulfill general education requirements.

Similar to associate's degree programs, Bachelor of Science (BS) programs in integrative medicine provide students with a broad overview of the field, but they also allow students to more thoroughly explore particular aspects of the field. Beyond core coursework, students may have the opportunity to learn more about specific healing modalities, such as homeopathy or Ayurveda, or they may take advanced courses in healthcare ethics or psychology. Some programs also provide internship opportunities in the field. There are also programs that are specifically intended for students who plan to enter a graduate program in the field upon graduation.

There are several types of master's degree programs in integrative medicine. One option is a research-focused Master of Science (MS) in Integrative Medicine, in which students conduct publishable research in a topic such as nutrition, herbal medicine, hydrotherapy or acupuncture. These programs culminate in a final master's thesis. An alternative is an MS program that includes a series of advanced courses that cover advanced topics in the field and common research methods. Students in these programs also gain clinical experience through practicums. These programs often appeal to trained healthcare professionals who want to boost their careers by increasing their knowledge in alternative health, so they are often offered in online or part-time formats.

Education for aspiring naturopathic doctors is available through Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) degree programs. These four-year programs include a combination of traditional biomedical coursework and alternative health-focused classes. In addition to classroom and lab-based studies, students also fulfill extensive clinical training requirements. When they finish, they are prepared for the Naturopathic Licensing Examinations (NPLEX) so that they can practice in the field. An alternative doctoral program for experienced nurses is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a specialization in integrative health and healing. In these three-year programs, students learn about the scientific, organizational, social and political aspects of integrative medicine.

Students can find both undergraduate certificates and graduate certificates in integrative medicine. Undergraduate certificates typically cover the same basic topics as associate's degree programs, but they do not require students to complete general education classes. At the graduate level, certificates allow students to take more advanced courses in the field without committing to a full master's degree. These programs are typically aimed at experienced healthcare workers who want to expand their knowledge of the subject, and they are commonly available online.

Students who wish to integrate alternative healing methods into traditional practices may pursue programs ranging from undergraduate certificates to doctoral degrees at a number of colleges and universities around the country.

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Integrative Medicine Universities and Schools in the U.S.