Programs in Natural Health - Certificate, Diploma and Degree Courses

Were you aware that educational programs in natural health can lead to a certificate, diploma or degree? In a naturopathic course, for starters, aspiring candidates can achieve a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine Degree by successfully completing up to six* years of in-depth studies. (*Check individual programs in natural health for exact curricula and time-table.) In this particular field of study, students gain comprehensive training and education the history, application and philosophies of naturopathy; including common subject matter like anatomy, pathology and microbiology; homeopathy, colonics, herbal/botanical medicine, natural pharmacology, bodywork and somatic education, Chinese medicine, and integrative medicine, among other relative studies.

Other degree programs in natural health, like the Master's in Herbology can be earned in just a few years' time. Typical curriculum in this natural healthcare discipline includes but is not limited to fundamental theories and diagnostics of TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), and of course, herbal medicine. Relative studies in these programs in natural health are comprised of over 300 herbs, Chinese Materia Medica, herbal prescription and pharmacology, and clinical/laboratory applications.

Certificate and diploma programs in natural health are vastly diverse; and may include career-training courses in massage therapy, reflexology, herbal remedies, aromatherapy, iridology, and holistic health.

Some of the more popular and growing programs in natural health that offer certification and/or diplomas of completion are studies in massotherapy. Today, prospective healing arts practitioners can earn a diploma from any one of a number of natural healing or massage therapy schools in less than one or two years. Dependent upon the level of education and practical training you choose to pursue in bodywork, you will find that typical massage programs in natural health range between 300 and 500 hours; however, to achieve National certification level, students must complete a minimum of 500 training hours. In these natural healing courses, candidates are introduced to anatomy, physiology, pathology and kinesiology. Additional hands-on training in somatics often includes Swedish massage, deep tissue massage and sports massage; but with growing competition in the field, many natural health programs have begun integrating advanced training in holistic healthcare, aromatherapy, reiki, hydrotherapy, and a number of other bodywork modalities.

An iridology course, as one of many programs in natural health, often combines education and training in the study of the iris; with herbal medicine and holistic nutrition. In many cases, this course of study can be completed through home studies, in addition to convenient seminars and workshops. Upon successful completion, individuals are awarded a certificate; and have the option to apply these professional credentials to an already-established holistic health/wellness clinic, or as a stand-alone practice.