Balancing flexibility with academic rigor in Naturopathic medical education

Starting medical school is a big decision—one filled with excitement, purpose, and sometimes uncertainty. For Naturopathic Medicine students, the transition can feel even more complicated when balancing career and personal life.   For many, relocating to pursue their education adds another layer of stress. To help reduce barriers, the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) offers a First-Year Online option for its Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) program.   

As the oldest accredited naturopathic medical school in North America, NUNM designed this one-of-a-kind program to reduce barriers for incoming students, while staying true to core naturopathic principles.   

By prioritizing student well-being through flexible and accessible learning, students are encouraged to cultivate personal balance and healing from Day One—for both themselves and their patients.  

What the First-Year Online Program Looks Like 

Students in the ND First-Year Online track follow the same curriculum, credit load, and expectations as those on campus – more than 25 credits each term. On average, students spend around 60 hours each week engaged in academic work, which includes:

• 20+ hours per week of asynchronous, self-paced coursework   
• 5+ hours per week of scheduled, live tutorials with faculty   
• Additional time for studying, collaboration, and exam prep  

At the end of the first year, students participate in a four-week on-campus lab intensive during the summer. This helps students transition smoothly into the clinical phase of their education, with a chance to connect in person with peers and instructors before beginning Year 2 in Portland.   

Who This Program is For

The First-Year Online Option is designed for students who are committed to a career in Naturopathic Medicine but need a flexible entry point. This program may be good for those who:   

• Balance academics with work or family responsibilities  
• Prefer to delay relocation or reduce costs in the first year
• Learn well in a structured, online environment  
• Want to begin their ND education without waiting for the “perfect time”  

This program helps students maintain personal wellness and academic performance as they build momentum for their second year on campus at NUNM.   

Why NUNM 

NUNM is the oldest accredited naturopathic medical school in North America and has trained generations of physicians who go on to shape the future of natural medicine. Students in the ND program benefit from:

• Expert Faculty: Courses are taught by experienced clinicians, business owners, and entrepreneurs who offer real-world insights and professional mentorship. 
• Hands-on Experience: ND students train at NUNM Health Centers, a Tier 3 Patient-Centered Primary Care Home recognized for its coordinated, whole-person approach to care. 
• Professional Development: Students have opportunities to attend national conferences, participate in community-based learning experiences, and receive early clinical skills training—all of which can prepare them for today’s evolving healthcare landscape. 

A Flexible Path Into Naturopathic Medicine

The First-Year Online Naturopathic Doctor program enables students to begin their Naturopathic medical education without immediately relocating, while receiving the same education as on-campus students. By blending flexibility with academic rigor, NUNM supports students in building both resilience and momentum as they begin their journey toward becoming Naturopathic doctors.