Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
Our task is not to treat the disease, but the patient. VINCENT PREISSNITZ
Doctor of
Naturopathic Medicine The Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) degree is an intensive four-year program that prepares candidates to become primary care physicians. It is a distinct system of health care; an art, science, philosophy and practice of medicine that focuses on prevention and treating the root cause of disease. The curriculum emphasizes an approach to health and healing that considers the whole person when treating disease, and prepares candidates for state board licensing examinations and clinical practice. As the oldest naturopathic medicine program in North America, NCNM educates students as primary care physicians with an expertise in natural medicine. The expansive scope of practice and designation of NDs as primary care physicians by the state of Oregon allows our students to be trained in a broad range of therapeutics from nutrition and botanical medicine to pharmacology and minor surgery.
Program Overview The first year of training focuses on the structure and function of the human body. After taking basic coursework in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, histology and immunology, students move into a deeper exploration of disease diagnosis and natural medicine therapeutic modalities. Coursework includes botanical medicine, hydrotherapy, therapeutic manipulation, clinical nutrition, homeopathy, minor surgery and pharmacology. Clinical training begins in the first year and continues throughout the program. About a quarter of our students are involved in projects at NCNM’s Helfgott Research Institute, including studies that have been funded by the National Institutes of Health and other organizations.
Residency Program NCNM’s naturopathic residency program is rigorous and competitive, and provides invaluable clinical experience to assist students in completing the transition toward becoming practicing physicians. In addition to completing a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution, candidates must demonstrate professionalism, maturity, commitment to serve, excellent clinical abilities, and an aptitude for enhancing their clinical skills.
Potential careers • Private practice • Integrative care with conventional providers • Research • Public policy work
The groundwork for all happiness is good health. LEIGH HUNT
Naturopathic Medicine Principles: • First, do no harm: Naturopathic physicians use the most natural, least invasive and least toxic therapies appropriate to the patient and condition they are treating. • The healing power of nature: The human body is in tune with a natural force that moves living things toward a healthy state. • Identify and treat the cause: Symptoms are signals of underlying imbalances and ailments that must be addressed in order to achieve healthy function. • Treat the whole person: Overall health is a reflection of physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. Each of these factors must be addressed in a healing regimen. • Doctor as teacher: Naturopathic physicians empower patients to care for their own health as much as possible. • Prevention: Naturopathic physicians focus on promoting health to avoid disease.
Program Outcomes 1. Medical Knowledge Apply appropriate biomedical knowledge and clinical skills to patient-centered naturopathic primary care. 2. Patient Management Apply the philosophy of naturopathic primary care to effectively encourage prevention, treat health problems, and foster optimal health. 3. Communication and Collaboration Apply communication skills that result in an effective connection with patients, their loved ones, and other health professionals. 4. Practice-Based Learning and Improvement Appraise, assimilate and apply scientific evidence to improve patient care. 5. Ethics and Professionalism Demonstrate a commitment to carrying out professional responsibilities, adherence to ethical principles, and sensitivity to a diverse patient population. 6. Practice Management and Business Skills Identify opportunities and develop resources for establishing and maintaining a viable career using your naturopathic medical education. 7. Systems-Based Practice Effectively call on system resources to provide care that is of optimal value.
Estimated Program Cost Current tuition, as of 2015/2016, for the ND program is $402 per credit. Tuition is subject to change. Please contact the Office of Admissions for current information. Estimated first-year tuition: 82.75 credits x $402/credit = $33,266*
Total Degree Credits
*subject to change
Required Course Credits
Note that the first-year credit load is heaviest; credit load decreases in years two through four.
Elective Course Credits
16
Total Credits
302
286
Admissions Requirements GPA: 3.0 or higher (strongly recommended) Course Prerequisites: Mathematics Algebra, calculus or math-based statistics
One course
General Chemistry with lab Science-major level
Two courses
Organic Chemistry I Science-major level
One course
AND Organic Chemistry II or Biochemistry Science-major level
One course
General Biology with lab Science-major level Must cover cellular biology
Two courses
Physics One course Must cover mechanics OR Kinesiology Must be approved
One course
Social Sciences One course must be human psychology (life span or developmental)
Two courses
Humanities One course must be English composition
Two courses
Personal Statement: Please provide a personal statement. (maximum 1,000 words, double spaced) Essay 1: How do you see yourself using the ND degree five years beyond graduation from NCNM? (maximum 1,000 words, double spaced) Essay 2: The field of naturopathic medicine has changed substantially over the last 10 years with the pharmaceutical formulary expansion and the classification of NDs as primary care physicians in many states. Please discuss your vision of how you will strive to integrate your work as a naturopathic physician into the greater healthcare system. (maximum 1,000 words, double spaced) Resume: Please include job experience, internships, extracurricular activities, and publications relevant to natural medicine.
Required Courses Structure and Function I – III
This year-long sequence is an in-depth exploration of the microscopic and gross structure and function of the human body. Students examine the anatomy, physiology and embryology of each organ system, including the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, endocrine, integumentary, nervous, lymphatic, respiratory, urinary and reproductive systems. Biochemical structures and pathways of metabolism, including the roles of vitamins and minerals, are also be covered.
Anatomy I & II
This series covers the anatomy of the muscular, skeletal, vascular and nervous elements of the extremities, spinal column and skull. The lab component includes participation in palpation and biomechanics labs, and cadaver dissection as an aid to learning the interrelationships of the parts of the human body. Students study the microscopic anatomy of all major body tissues with an emphasis on histopathology.
Naturopathic History and Philosophy I & II
This series introduces the philosophical basis of naturopathic medicine and the role of the naturopathic physician in today’s world. Students examine the history of naturopathic medicine, historical figures that played key roles in the development of naturopathic medicine, and the formation of naturopathic philosophy.
Naturopathic Medicine Retreat
In this weekend experiential course, naturopathic philosophy comes to life as students discuss and experience nature-cure and related therapies in a natural setting.
Microbiology, Public Health and Immunology
This course explores infectious diseases, microbial structure and function, and the normal flora and common pathogens of the human body. The etiology, epidemiology, prevention and control of communicable diseases from a public health perspective are also covered. Special emphasis is given to how practitioners effectively interact with public health agencies. The class also explores the basic functions of the immune system with emphasis on its role in the protection against microbial infections and tumors, immune deficiency states, autoimmunity and psychoneuroimmunology.
Introduction to Medical Systems
The history and philosophy of the major medical systems of the world. Characteristics of the U.S. medical system will be explored, as well as the developing role of naturopathic medicine within the larger context of our healthcare system. Insurance practices, strategies for delivering quality care, and best practices in referral and management of patients are also covered.
Introduction to Therapeutic Modalities I & II
This series introduces each major naturopathic therapeutic modality: clinical nutrition, hydrotherapy, physical medicine, homeopathy, botanical medicine and pharmacology. History and philosophy, terminology, mechanism of action, general therapeutic applications, indications, contraindications, safety and monitoring for each modality are covered. Students analyze evidence for the effectiveness of each modality.
Every human being is the author of his own health or disease. SWAMI SIVANANDA SARASWATI
“Naturopathic physicians are trained as primary care providers with an expertise in prevention and natural medicine. Our unique approach to patient care combines the traditions of natural healing with the integration of conventional modalities, each supported by a balance of research, scientific validation and clinical expertise.” MELANIE HENRIKSEN, ND, LAc, CNM DEAN, SCHOOL OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE
Required Courses Community Education
Through promoting naturopathic medicine to the greater community, students enhance their public speaking, communication, presentation, organizational, networking and outreach skills. Community education guidelines and required paperwork are reviewed prior to public event involvement. Examples of community education projects include developing educational materials, giving lectures, staffing a wellness table and teaching a class.
Clinical Observation
Clinical observations provide students with learning experiences under the mentorship of licensed physicians in practice. Students observe NCNM faculty physicians on clinical rotations with student interns while witnessing routine clinic procedures, diagnoses and treatments, therapeutic modalities and referral management. During the first year, students are assigned to NCNM clinic shifts; in the second, third and fourth years, students mentor with licensed physicians outside NCNM.
Introduction to Clinic
This course gives an overview of NCNM clinic procedures, and includes required HIPAA and OSHA trainings.
Preceptorship
Students participate in external preceptorships throughout all four years under the mentorship of licensed physicians outside NCNM. Students will observe and may participate in medical interviewing, physical examination, diagnostic techniques and analysis, and application of therapeutic modalities. Students will also observe routine clinic policies and procedures, doctor/patient communications, coding and billing practices, and referral management.
Hydrotherapy Rotation
Students provide hydrotherapy treatments to NCNM Clinic patients under the supervision of a licensed naturopathic physician. Students continue to develop their patient communication skills; assess patients for indications and contraindications to hydrotherapy treatments; refine their hydrotherapy treatment skills; monitor patients during treatment; and recommend hydrotherapy home treatments.
Business Seminars I – V
This series covers the steps necessary to start and maintain a private naturopathic medical practice, including an in-depth review of clinic business operations and management, development, administration and marketing. Students will have the opportunity to explore other professional paths as naturopathic physicians, such as starting a career in academics, research, consulting, sales, or joining existing integrative medicine practices.
Required Courses Jurisprudence
This course surveys medical healthcare law as it applies to naturopathic physicians. Topics include licensing and regulation, reporting requirements, informed consent, patient confidentiality, advanced directives, HIPAA, malpractice and provider service agreements.
Grand Rounds
Grand Rounds lectures are given by physicians or subject matter experts, typically from outside the NCNM community. Topics may include the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), OSHA and other regulating agencies, best practice charting principles, cultural sensitivity, clinical cases, and other areas that are important in a physician's practice. Students are exposed to a variety of clinical conditions and treatments designed to augment material delivered in the core curriculum.
Case Integration Mentorship
Under the guidance of an experienced clinician, students present and analyze cases, discuss and review the evidence behind therapeutic options, and support their peers in determining diagnosis, treatment and management protocols for their patients.
Secondary Rotation
Students serve as secondary student interns at NCNM clinics under the supervision of a licensed naturopathic physician. As a secondary, students are responsible for the initial patient interaction, including taking patient vital signs, reviewing medications, etc. In addition, the secondary student participates in patient care by assisting the primary intern, which may include interviewing patients, conducting physical exams, etc.
Primary Rotation
The primary student intern rotation is the culmination of a students’ naturopathic medical education with NCNM. Under the supervision of a licensed naturopathic physician, a primary is responsible for interviewing patients, conducting physical exams, ordering and assessing diagnostic lab work, developing a diagnosis and treatment plan, and managing patients long term. Students are expected to synthesize knowledge and skills from all courses in the ND program, and demonstrate the ability to apply critical thinking skills, evidence-informed practice, and diagnostic skills to the treatment and management of patients in a primary care setting.
Electives
Students are required to take a minimum of 16 elective credits focusing on advanced therapeutics or modalities. Electives such as NW herbs or massage may be taken early in the program. Advanced electives such as advanced gynecology, pediatrics and gastroenterology are more appropriate once students have completed the majority of their didactic instruction. For a complete list of electives, please refer to the NCNM catalog.
Required System Block Courses • Cardiology and Pulmonology • Dermatology and Minor Surgery • Gastroenterology and Proctology • EENT: Eyes, Ears, Nose and Throat • Hematology and Oncology • Parenteral Therapy and Environmental Medicine • Metabolism and Endocrinology • Musculoskeletal, Orthopedics, Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation • Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology • Neurology • Pediatrics and Geriatrics • Psychology and Mental Health • Reproductive Systems (Andrology, Gynecology and Natural Childbirth) • Urology and Nephrology All courses within the clinical sciences curriculum begin with a brief overview of structure, function, anatomy, physiology and whole-system wellness. The bulk of the courses are devoted to diagnosis, assessment and treatment of pathology. Within the context appropriate to that discipline, clinical science courses will address criteria for referral to specialists and integration of naturopathic medicine with conventional medicine. Courses will also integrate cultural competency, ethics, evidence-informed practice, inter-professional practice, jurisprudence and practitioner cultivation. These courses place a strong emphasis on case-based learning and practical clinical skills.
Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine—Four-Year Program FIRST YEAR
CREDITS
Structure and Function I – III
39.00
Anatomy I & II
11.00
Naturopathic History and Philosophy I & II
2.00
Naturopathic Medicine Retreat
0.75
Microbiology, Public Health and Immunology
5.00
Intro to Medical Systems
2.00
Intro to Therapeutic Modalities I & II
17.50
Clinical Observation I & II
2.25
Preceptorship (credits charged in 4th year)
0.00
Intro to Community Education
0.25
Early Electives (e.g. Massage, NW Herbs, etc.)
3.00
SECOND YEAR Musculoskeletal, Orthopedics, Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation
18.00
Neurology
7.25
Intro to Clinic
0.25
Cardiology and Pulmonology
13.50
Hematology and Oncology
8.75
Gastroenterology and Proctology
10.75
Urology and Nephrology
8.50
Metabolism and Endocrinology
10.00
Preceptorship (credits charged in 4th year)
0.00
Hydrotherapy Rotation
2.00
THIRD YEAR
CREDITS
Reproductive (Andrology, Gynecology and Natural Childbirth)
14.50
Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology
6.00
EENT: Eyes, Ears, Nose and Throat
7.25
Dermatology and Minor Surgery
10.50
Psychology and Mental Health
7.00
Pediatrics and Geriatrics
8.00
Parentaral Therapy and Environmental Medicine
6.00
Business Seminars
2.00
Community Education
2.00
Preceptorship (credits charged in 4th year)
0.00
Secondary Rotations
7.50
FOURTH YEAR Primary Rotations
32.50
Grand Rounds
4.50
Case Integration Mentorship
6.00
Jurisprudence
1.00
Business Seminars
3.50
Preceptorship
9.00
Electives: Special Topics, Advanced Topics and Advanced Therapeutic Courses
13.00
TOTAL REQUIRED CREDITS
302
FACULTY HIGHLIGHT
Kimberly Windstar, ND Dr. Windstar’s past experience as a special education teacher, along with 25 years of personal growth work and medical practice, has helped her develop a distinctive style of care. “I strive to create a space of unconditional acceptance for my patients,” she says. “I understand that it requires trust and time to truly treat the whole person and find the deepest cause of a patient’s health issues.” Dr. Windstar uses a variety of treatments in her practice including lifestyle education, botanical medicine, diet and nutritional supplementation, homeopathy, hydrotherapy and more. A recognized authority in women’s health, Dr. Windstar supervises student interns on clinical rotations at the NCNM Clinic and teaches courses in gynecology, palpation and clinical case presentation. Her love of teaching led her to create unique clinical mentorship opportunities for naturopathic students for nearly 15 years. Dr. Windstar received a Master of Education degree from California State College in 1982, and graduated from NCNM in 1991 with a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree.
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08/2015