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Naturopathic Medicine

Want to become a naturopathic physician (N.D.)? Most student choose to major in the sciences at UNC before going to naturopathic college, but you can choose any undergraduate major.

Choosing a major outside of the sciences might increase the time it takes you to earn your degree as you'll also need to complete the graduation requirements for that major.

Contact Information

NHS Advising Center

970-351-3082

nhsadvising@unco.edu

Ross Hall, Room 1210

Suggested courses

The following courses are usually required for most naturopathic colleges:

  • Two semesters introductory biology with lab
  • Two semesters introductory chemistry with lab
  • Two semesters organic chemistry with lab
  • Physics with lab 
  • One semester introductory psychology
  • Two semesters of English 
  • One semester of math (include algebra)

Other recommended courses

These courses could also help you on your next journey:

  • Biochemistry
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Botany

Illustration of footsteps

Timeline

During your time here, you should do your best to stick to this timeline. It will help make sure you're ready for naturopathic school.

  • First Year

    During your first year, it's important that you focus on your coursework and learn how to be a successful student. Knowing how to study and manage your time is critical and can help you earn a strong GPA. You should also:

    • Begin to work on prerequisite courses, especially both semesters of biology (BIO 110 and 111) and chemistry (CHEM 111 and 112)
    • Shadow a naturopathic physician — either over breaks or during the summer
    • Obtain volunteer or work experience in a medical setting — either over breaks or during the summer
    • Research and learn more about naturopathic medicine
    • Join the Pre-Health Professionals Club (PHPC) student organization
    • Meet with your pre-health advisor
  • Sophomore Year

    You should continue doing as best you can in your courses to earn a strong GPA during your sophomore year, as well as continuing to look for community service and shadowing (or other clinical experience) opportunities. You should also:

    • Look for leadership opportunities
    • Meet with your pre-health advisor
  • Junior Year

    During your junior year, you should still strive to earn a strong GPA as well as continuing your community service and shadowing (or other clinical experiences) and leadership activities. You should also:

    • Continue leadership opportunities
    • Inquire about letters of recommendation 
    • Begin work on your personal essay
    • Meet with your pre-health advisor
    • Apply to naturopathic schools 
  • Senior Year

    You should continue your community service and shadowing (or other clinical experiences) and leadership activities during your senior year. You should also:

    • Meet with your pre-health advisor
    • Go to naturopathic school interviews
    • Write thank-you notes to references and admissions officers
    • Let your pre-health advisor know about your final decision
    • Apply for financial aid as needed

How to apply to naturopathic school

Four of seven naturopathic schools use the Naturopathic Medicine Centralized Application Service (NDCAS). For remaining schools you must visit their website for application information. 

We've outlined the general process below, but you can also learn more about the NDCAS admissions process.

  1. You will need to complete and submit your application along with your official transcripts to NDCAS. Each application includes references, letters of recommendations, personal statement and resume.
  2. After reviewing your application and letters of recommendation, naturopathic schools may then invite you for interviews.
  3. From here, you will either be accepted, denied or placed on a waitlist for each school. The next choice is all yours!

General information about applicants

Students accepted to naturopathic school typically have an overall GPA of 3.1-3.3, with a science major preferred.

Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine Centralized Application Services

The application opens August 31st but deadlines vary by each program. 

Start Your NDCAS Application