How are naturopathic doctors trained?

Admission to an accredited naturopathic medical institution requires a minimum of three years of undergraduate study at a recognized university. This undergraduate programme must include certain science courses such as, biochemistry, physics, biology, and psychology. Once accepted into the post-graduate naturopathic programme, the curriculum involves an intensive four-year study of clinical sciences (anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology) and treatment methodology. The programme also requires 1500 hours of direct patient contact under the guidance of a licensed naturopathic doctor. Naturopathic students must pass two sets of standardized board examinations before they may legally use the title of Naturopathic Doctor in regulated states and provinces. In Canada, naturopathic doctors are regulated in Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan with legislation pending in Alberta and Nova Scotia.