How to Become a Naturopathic Doctor in Canada
A naturopathic doctor concentrates on holistic and preventative ideas of health. They must complete many years of postgraduate training and education to be certified. The Association of Accredited Naturopathic Colleges published an article in 2009 that stated almost half of all North Americans use some kind of alternative medicine. Therefore, pursuing career as a naturopathic doctor can help many.
Things you need to become a naturopathic doctor in Canada:
- Specific undergraduate courses
- Graduation from an accredited naturopathic medical school
- Undergraduate degree
- Minimum 3.0 grade point average
- Obtain an undergraduate degree before starting naturopathic studies. If you are thinking about naturopathy as a career, you will need to complete undergraduate classes in humanities, introductory psychology, biology, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and chemistry.
- Go to one of Canada’s accredited naturopathic medical schools. Or you can go to one of five American schools recognized by Canada’s Association of Naturopathic Doctors. The school must also have the approval of the Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges.
- Earn your degree. You can expect four years of full time classes that focus on several holistic health topics. So you will have more than 3,000 classroom hours and a minimum of 1,200 hours of clinical work. Another option is to study part time and spend six years earning your degree.
- Take the board exams and pass them. This will qualify you to be a naturopathic doctor in Canada.
- Complete the Continuing Medical Education credits needed by the regulatory board of the province where you plan to practice. Once you finish the credits you will be on your way to becoming a naturopathic doctor in the great country of Canada.