Education · 1 of 4

The path

A degree, then a 4-year program that runs like a small medical school.

1. 1

   High school

   Grades 11 and 12

   Biology, chemistry and math. You need marks good enough for a science degree.

2. 2

   Bachelor's degree

   3 to 4 years

   Any major with the prerequisite sciences: biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physiology, psychology. Most students take life sciences.

3. 3

   Accredited naturopathic program

   4 years

   The CCNM (Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine) has campuses in Toronto and New Westminster, BC. It is the only accredited option in Canada. Basic and clinical sciences, then a year in the teaching clinic seeing real patients.

4. 4

   Board exams

   During and after the program

   The NPLEX (Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations): Part I on biomedical science after year two, Part II on clinical science at the end. Ontario also runs its own entry-to-practice exams.

5. 5

   Register with your province

   A few months

   For example the College of Naturopaths of Ontario. Add a jurisprudence exam, a police check and insurance.