How to Become a Naturopathic Doctor
Evidence-Based Education in Natural Health at Bastyr University
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A pioneer in natural medicine, Bastyr University is a private, non-profit university offering graduate and undergraduate degrees that integrate mind, body and spirit with nature. At Bastyr, you’ll find science-based natural medicine education that’s focused on developing future leaders in natural health arts and sciences.
Our Vision
As the world’s leading academic center for advancing and integrating knowledge in the natural health arts and sciences, Bastyr University will transform the health and well-being of the human community.
Our Mission
Respecting the healing power of nature and recognizing that body, mind and spirit are intrinsically inseparable, we model an integrated approach to education research and clinical service.
What is a Naturopathic Doctor?
Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) are primary care providers who blend current research on health and human systems with centuries-old knowledge and the philosophy that nature is the most effective healer. Licensed NDs are educated in the same rigorous biomedical sciences as MDs and must complete a four-year, accredited, graduate-level naturopathic medical program.
Naturopathic practitioners are trained as primary care doctors and can work in all aspects of family health, from pediatric to geriatric care. Most NDs work in a private practice, but an increasing number are working in multi-practitioner, integrative medical settings.
The six principles of naturopathic medicine
All naturopathic doctors follow six principles that honor the body’s innate wisdom to heal and provide patients with tools for lifelong wellness.
1
First, do no harm
Utilize the most natural, least invasive therapies
2
The healing power of nature
Trust in the body’s inherent wisdom to heal itself
3
Identify and treat the cause
Look beyond the symptoms to the underlying cause
4
Doctor as teacher
Educate patients in the steps to achieve and maintain optimal health
5
Treat the whole person
View the body as an integrated whole in all its physical and spiritual dimensions
6
Prevention
Focus on supporting overall health, wellness and disease prevention