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What is a Licensed Naturopathic Doctor and what is their Education?

In order to be licensed as a Naturopathic Doctor (ND) in California, ND’s must graduate from a school accredited by the Council of Naturopathic Medical Education that offers a graduate degree of Doctor of Naturopathy or Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine.  The education requirements consist of at least 4,100 hours of training, of which not less than 2,500 hours are academic training and not less than 1,200 hours are supervised clinical training.  ND license candidates must also pass a three day licensing exam that is administered by the North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners.

The California Bureau of Naturopathic Medicine was established by the Legislature as part of the Department of Consumer Affairs, and began licensing ND’s in January 2005.  The Bureau is designed as a resource for California consumers who chose licensed naturopathic doctors for their healthcare. 

Licensure ensures that naturopathic doctors have the required education and training, have passed the required examination(s), and have met ongoing educational requirements that help them stay current with professional practice. 

For further information please visit the Bureau’s web site at www.naturopathic.ca.gov

Naturopathic Colleges and Associations

Currently only six colleges in North America, four in the United States and two in Canada, are accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME), the recognized accreditor for naturopathic medical programs in North America. 

The California Department of Consumer Affairs Bureau of Naturopathic Medicine licenses Naturopathic Doctors in the state of California.  www.naturopathic.ca.gov

The California Naturopathic Doctors Association (CNDA) is the professional membership association that represents California Naturopathic Doctors.  www.calnd.org

In order to practice medicine in the state of California, ND’s must meet all requirements set by the Bureau and most are members of the CNDA.  

Nationally, the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians represents ND’s for purposes of political and health issues.  www.naturopathic.org