What kind of training does a naturopathic doctor (ND) receive?
Like conventional health care practitioners, such as a medical doctor or a dentist, a naturopathic physician is required to successfully complete pre-medical studies at the university level. After being accepted into one of the accredited naturopathic medical programs, the naturopathic candidate must complete a four-year, full-time course of study. The training is similar to a medical doctor, including basic science and clinical courses, with an emphasis on scientific and traditional medical interventions. In addition to this training, the future naturopathic physician is extensively educated in the philosophy and implementation of safe and effective natural therapeutics with a strong focus on disease prevention. During the course of this training, the candidate is required to pass two professional board examinations: one at the end of their basic science courses and one upon graduation. After completing their formal training, the graduating naturopathic physician also needs to satisfy
