Alternatice Medicine – Online Degrees & Courses

Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Bachelor of Science – Alternative Medicine from Everglades University
Everglades University is proud to be one of the few accredited universities offering such a comprehensive alternative medicine degree program.
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Online Certificate Programs

Natural Health Consultant from Stratford Career Institute
Stratford’s Natural Health Consultant course provides a broad based knowledge of the disciplines of homeopathy, herbal medicine, chiropractic treatments, and several related fields.
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Relaxation Therapist from Stratford Career Institute
Stratford’s Relaxation Therapist course focuses on a wide variety of strategies and methodologies for dealing with stress-related health issues.
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About Alternative Medicine Careers

Alternative medicine is an umbrella term for healing practices that stand outside established treatments accepted by the medical community. These varied alternative practices differ in application and effect, but have in common a desire to promote the long-term healing of the entire body as a whole rather than treating symptoms individually. As alternative medicine gains a reputation for its positive results on everything from back pain to cancer, the field is booming like never before. More and more patients are now seeking out alternative medicine practitioners to either supplement or replace Western medicinal methods.

Recognized Forms of Alternative Medicine

Here is a list of practices presently recognized as alternative medicine with definitions informed by the Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine:

• Acupuncture – A thousand year old healing practice that reinvigorates health through stimulation, usually applied with thin metallic needles, of specific pulse points on the body.
• Ayurvedic Medicine – One of the oldest forms of medicine in the world, Ayurveda is similar to Naturopathy in its prescription of lifestyle changes and heavy reliance on herbs, plants, and oils to cleanse the body.
• Homeopathy – A form of alternative therapy created in Germany that promotes healing through low dose administration of naturally occurring herbs and plants.
• Massage Therapy – Manipulation of the muscular structure to promote healing and general well-being. This ancient practice is one of the more popular alternative methods currently practiced.
• Naturopathy – A form of treatment that prescribes an individualized lifestyle plan for every patient, which may include everything from dietary changes to hydrotherapy and herbal supplements.
• Yoga – A combination of physical postures and breathing exercises meant to attain a state of relaxation or meditation.

The goal of all alternative medicine disciplines is to achieve a healthy balance between mind and body. As a result, many of the above practices complement each other as forms of treatment. Some practitioners choose to focus specifically on one method, although it is possible to specialize in one or more. It may expand your client base to offer a varied skill set.

Where to Work

Alternative medicine is a blanket term that encompasses a broad scope of healing techniques. This flexibility combined with the emerging popularity of alternative medicine indicates that the career options available to practitioners are numerous than ever. Depending on the level of education you have achieved and the type of alternative medicine you practice, it is possible to work in a gym, a hospital, a private clinic, or even out of your own home.

Graduates of alternative medicine programs have started their own businesses selling or growing herbal remedies. Acupuncturist and massage therapists are high in demand for positions at health clubs and clinics. With the correct background and certification it is even possible for alternative medicine practitioners to generate their own, customized career path which encompasses a number of different techniques.

Education & Certification

There are several degree and certificate tracks available if you’re interested in pursuing a career in alternative medicine. These programs vary in length and thoroughness, so be sure of the time obligation and qualification you want to receive before enrolling.

Top universities around the country offer a wide variety of alternative medicine programs, resulting in a Bachelor of Science degree. These programs offer the most selection in courses and disciplines, making them a good option for students who want a well-rounded education in alternative medicine.

The most common path to launching a career is to receive a Master of Science degree in alternative medicine after an undergraduate education in any health science. Many schools offer graduate level classes in very specific methods, such as acupuncture, which require up to 3 years to complete. These programs can be competitive and only admit students fully committed to learning the art of healing. A supervised internship is compulsory for graduation.

Some schools also offer a Doctoral Degree in alternative medicine. Recipients of such a degree will be able to teach and research on a graduate level, if desired.

For alternative medicine practitioners with a thriving business who want to supplement their skills, introductory classes or short-term courses that result in certification may be the best option.

To practice alternative medicine professionally, some States ask for a license or certification. Other states require certifications to practice a certain type of alternative medicine, such as massage therapy, but not others. Always investigate the legal requirements for alternative medicine in your area before setting up shop.