Bastyr University - Naturopathic Medicine Program

Two-thirds of adult Americans have used some form of complementary and alternative medicine, according to a recent national survey. As primary care physicians, naturopathic doctors play an increasingly significant role in this growing field. Bastyr University's scientifically rigorous naturopathic medicine program focuses on holistic principles, natural therapies and an orientation to patients as partners in their own healing.

Choose a Bastyr University education in naturopathic medicine

Bastyr's naturopathic medicine doctoral (ND) program is the largest in the country, offering a demanding four/five year medical school curriculum.

Key advantages of Bastyr University's ND program:

• International reputation for science-based natural medicine
• Outstanding faculty in basic sciences
• More supervised clinical hours than required by accrediting standards
• Preceptorships and off-site clinic placements
• Research opportunities
• Diverse career options, including primary care, research, industry, teaching, administration
• Electives in other natural health fields, allowing for rich cross-fertilization of ideas and skills
• Connection with the Bastyr University Research Institute

I received the best natural medicine education in the world at Bastyr. I know from clinical experience that I am a well-trained practitioner.

-- Laurie Steelsmith, ND, MS ('93)
Bastyr University Alumna

Bastyr plans for your future

Graduates of Bastyr's ND program are qualified primary health care practitioners who, as they diagnose and treat disease, are focused on treating the whole person and promoting optimal health. Their scope of practice includes all aspects of family care - from pediatrics to geriatrics - and relies on a broad spectrum of modalities, including

• Botanical medicine
• Nutrition
• Homeopathy
• Hydrotherapy
• Naturopathic manipulation
• Psychological counseling

Succeeding as a Bastyr ND student requires dedication and an open heart and mind.

Graduates leave Bastyr University qualified to pass professional licensure exams and prepared to set up and maintain private practices.

Bastyr students benefit from hands-on training

Students receive their clinical education through supervised internships at the university's own teaching clinic, Bastyr Center for Natural Health (BCNH), as well as at various off-site clinic placements.

The student has the opportunity to enjoy, explore and discover. We're on the forefront, with license to build treatment strategies out of the latest published research data."

-- John Hibbs, ND
ND clinical coordinator, BCNH

A paid residency position at BCNH is another practical way to strengthen clinical skills.

Students in the ND/acupuncture and Oriental medicine (AOM) dual program are eligible to participate in clinical internships in China. Every year, some Bastyr students continue their academic studies in China -- either at Chengdu University of TCM or Shanghai University of TCM. Chengdu University has been Bastyr's sister college since 1993 and is one of the four colleges approved by the State Council in 1956.

Bastyr has done a great job of hiring clinical faculty with a wide variety of philosophies and approaches. I believe there's an instructor for each student to look up to as a mentor. We may differ in our personal beliefs about natural medicine, but what's beautiful is that we have come together as a group of people who have all said, 'There's got to be a better way.'

-- Adam Rinde, ND ('06)
Bastyr University Alumnus

Bastyr offers academic options

• Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine (ND) - 4-5 years
• Naturopathic Midwifery Certificate (available to ND candidates and licensed NDs only)
• Integrated Program: Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine/Master of Science in Acupuncture (ND/MSA) - 5 years
• Integrated Program: Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine/Master of Science in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ND/MSAOM) - 6 years

Bastyr University mission

Bastyr educates future leaders in natural health sciences that integrate mind, body, spirit and nature. Through natural health education, research and clinical services, we improve the health and well-being of the human community.

Vision: Bastyr University will be the world's leading academic center for advancing knowledge in the natural health sciences.

Bastyr University, School of Naturopathic Medicine mission

We educate naturopathic physicians who care for the health and well-being of their communities and advance our profession.

The school of naturopathic medicine at Bastyr educates future physicians in the tradition of medical science and the art of natural healing. We do this by providing a comprehensive understanding of the basic medical sciences, accurate diagnostic skills and the ability to apply the natural and minimally invasive methods of whole-person health care characteristic of naturopathic medicine.

Vision of Bastyr's School of Naturopathic Medicine:

Bastyr's School of Naturopathic Medicine will be a leading academic center for inspired and scholarly learning in the cultivation of naturopathic doctors. It will accomplish this through education, research, professional leadership, community and clinical services that bridge the worlds of science, nature and spirit.

Additional programs

Bastyr University is an accredited private institution, internationally recognized as a pioneer in the study of natural healing. Founded in 1978 as a college of naturopathic medicine, the institution has continuously broadened its academic offerings, adding other natural health sciences degree programs:

• Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
• Nutrition
• Exercise Science and Wellness
• Health Psychology
• Herbal Sciences

Campus location

Bastyr University's campus is located in Kenmore, Wash., just 12 miles north of Seattle. Bastyr students enjoy easy access to cultural offerings, including the city's live music scene, theaters and art galleries. Outdoor recreational opportunities also abound in the Puget Sound area.

If you are interested in any of our programs and would like to find out more, please Request Information.