There are four items to consider when choosing the best naturopathic college: admission requirements, accreditation, industry connections, and faculty. Naturopathic college is usually a separate school, although the best schools are associated with a university or community college. In most states, naturopaths are unregulated, but there are plans to regulate this industry in the next five to ten years.
Deciding on the best naturopathic college is a difficult process. Look at the specialized programs offered through the school and determine how these courses can be related to employment opportunities. In order to qualify for admission to naturopathic college, you will need to have high marks from high school courses in biology, chemistry, English, and health. Many programs require applicants to complete a personal interview or essay to discuss your motivation to become a naturopath.
When looking for a naturopathic college, check the accreditation status of the school. An accredited school has been reviewed by an independent third party. Courses from an accredited school can be transferred to other post-secondary institutions and are accepted by certifying and licensing boards. Accredited schools are able to offer students access to government student aid programs.
If you are looking at the best naturopathic college in the country or state, look for schools that have formal partnerships with university medical schools. These programs are very competitive, so only students with the very best combination of marks, personal interview, and letters of recommendation are offered admission. If you don't have the very best marks in your class, think about applying to schools that offer specialized programs in an area that you are interested in.
Most naturopathic colleges provide the biographies of their top faculty on their official website. The information provided typically includes their academic credentials, publications, and any awards they have received. Review this information to learn more about the interests and focus of the course instructors. When reading the biographies, make sure that the actual instructors you will have are listed on the site. Many schools provide the biography of the dean and top advisers, but they rarely teach.
Naturopathy is a growing field, and the best schools provide cross-training opportunities, as well as specialized courses for other medical professionals, such as nurses and doctors. Look for schools where the courses are recognized by the local medical association as continuing education credits. There are specific educational quality requirements that must be met by these associations. Should the laws be changed to recognize naturopaths, the colleges that are already accepted by the medical associations will be the first ones granted status.