Academics

NATUROPATHIC PROGRAM
The Naturopathic School

Earn your Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine Degree
The Naturopathic College's Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine is a four-year program that trains holistic primary care physicians. The program is identical to the degree program offered at the NCNM in Portland Oregon.

The program at the ICIM naturopathic school emphasizes a distinctive approach to health and healing — an approach that considers the whole person when treating specific conditions, one that seeks to diagnose and treat causes wherever possible. Naturopathic medicine is heir to the vitalistic tradition of medicine in the Western world. This is evidenced by its emphasis in treating disease through the stimulation, enhancement, and support of the inherent healing power of the body. Chosen methods of treatment respect this natural healing process.

To begin the journey toward your Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree, click here to fill out our application form. We look forward to reviewing your application!

Program of Study for Naturopathic Doctors
The ND degree course of study at ICIM is an intensive four-year doctoral program that prepares candidates for state board licensing examinations (NPLEX) and the general practice of naturopathic medicine in the US. Upon graduation, alumni are eligible to sit for board examinations in states and provinces in the US and Canada that license naturopathic physicians. The core, or required, curriculum provides the foundation and skills necessary for establishing a naturopathic family practice.

First year studies include the normal structure and function of the body with a solid introduction to naturopathic theory, philosophy, and therapeutics.

Second year focuses on the study of disease and diagnosis while beginning course work in botanical medicine, therapeutic manipulation, clinical nutrition, and homeopathic medicine sequences. To enter into the clinical training of the third year, students must pass all basic science courses and diagnostic courses, as well as a clinic entrance examination.

Third year continues focusing on the botanical medicine, manipulation, clinical nutrition, and homeopathic medicine sequences, begins the organ systems courses (which emphasize case management), and gives major emphasis to clinical training. Students must pass a clinical primary status exam to proceed in the clinic.

Fourth year continues the organ systems courses. The major focus of the fourth year is practical clinical training, working side by side with licensed physicians caring for patients. A clinic proficiency exam ensures clinical competency prior to graduation.

Because the program is rigorous and the course load heavy, students may choose to complete the ND degree in five rather than four years. In some cases, students may be required to be in the five-year track. Students may take no more than seven years to complete the program.