Naturopathic Education & Training
Like conventional doctors, dentists, and chiropractors, naturopathic doctors must first complete pre-medical undergraduate studies at university/college prior to applying to naturopathic medical school. The four-year, full-time medical program at an accredited school of naturopathic medicine includes basic, medical, and clinical science; diagnostics; naturopathic principles and therapeutics; and extensive clinical experience under the supervision of licensed naturopathic doctors. Graduates receive the title "N.D." or Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine.
To be licensed in one of the regulated provinces in Canada (including British Columbia), graduates must successfully pass the North American standardized Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Exams (NPLEX). Continuing medical education credits are a requirement to maintain licensure.
Naturopathic doctors who have graduated from an accredited naturopathic educational institute and who are licensed in Canada to practice naturopathic medicine can be part of the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND). For more information on naturopathic medicine in Canada, please visit the CAND website.