University of Western States' Naturopathic Medicine Program Receives Candidacy Status

University of Western States' Naturopathic Medicine Program Achieves Candidacy Status



The Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (NMD) program at the University of Western States (UWS) has successfully obtained candidacy status from the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME). This is an important step toward formal accreditation and signifies UWS’s commitment to high standards in naturopathic education.

Located in Portland, Oregon, UWS is recognized for its holistic approach to health care, educating professionals in diverse fields such as chiropractic and naturopathic medicine, clinical nutrition, and mental health counseling. The university’s President, Nathan Long, Ed.D., expressed pride in this recognition, emphasizing the program’s intent to cater to the growing need for comprehensive and evidence-based naturopathic education.

Launched in autumn 2023, the NMD program was developed in response to increasing demand for health care professionals capable of addressing the root causes of illness through individualized and preventative approaches. As chronic health issues and mental health challenges escalate across the nation, UWS aims to equip practitioners with the necessary skills to integrate nutrition, functional medicine, lifestyle changes, and natural therapies into patient care.

Marcia Prenguber, ND, Dean of the College of Naturopathic Medicine at UWS, noted that achieving this milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the faculty, staff, and students. She highlighted that the program is built around a solid foundation of clinical excellence, preparing future naturopathic doctors to meet the evolving health requirements of their communities.

The curriculum is not only academically rigorous but also emphasizes clinical experience. Students will benefit from hands-on training at Connected Whole Health, UWS's on-campus clinic. Here, they will provide integrated and affordable care to community members, exemplifying how higher education can drive both academic and public health objectives.

The UWS NMD program aligns with the institution's historical strengths in various medical disciplines, including chiropractic and clinical nutrition, and champions a collaborative approach to health education. Students will engage in interdisciplinary learning, gaining insights into how different fields of health can work cohesively to enhance patient outcomes.

The first cohort of the NMD program commenced in the fall of 2023, and interest continues to grow. Applications for future cohorts are currently open for students interested in pursuing a career in naturopathic medicine. For further details regarding the Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine program, prospective students can visit the UWS website at UWS.edu.

With over 120 years in operation, University of Western States has a strong reputation for turning out health professionals who are skilled and compassionate. The university is part of The Community Solution Education System, a non-profit network aimed at enhancing educational opportunities and outcomes for students across various health disciplines.

In closing, UWS aims to continue its role at the forefront of whole-person health education, adapting its offerings to meet the changing demands of the health care landscape. The candidacy status of the NMD program is indicative of its commitment to not only academic excellence but also to the well-being of the communities it serves.

Topics Health)

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