Naturopathic Doctors (ND/NMD) unlike traditional naturopaths are trained at one of these seven federally accredited naturopathic schools:
- Bastyr University
- Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine
- Bridgeport University*
- Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
- National University of Health Sciences
- National University of Natural Medicine
- Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine
*Bridgeport University is no longer accepting new students.
Once ND candidates have graduated, they are required to sit for 2 sets of federal licensing exams as well as a state/province jurisprudence exam. Once all of these exams are passed the candidate can then apply for an ND license, which would need to be renewed every 12-24 months.
There are currently 22 states, 2 US territories, and 5 Canadian provinces in which have licensure. Fortunately, this number is growing every year as to provide natural healthcare to all.
Is Ohio a licensed state?
Ohio is currently a pre-licensed state, however, the Ohio Naturopathic Doctors Association (OHNDA) has been actively seeking licensure for all qualified naturopathic doctors. As of 2018, the OHNDA hired a lobbyist to represent the interest of NDs around the state. Thus far the OHNDA has brought to the state medical board appropriate documentation of ND education, examinations, and procedures covered in licensed states. For the 2020-21 session, the OHNDA is putting forth a request for emergency licensure to provide additional support for those affected by COVID-19.
