Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Alternative Medicine and Natural Health
Majors Overview August 24, 2014A limited number of schools offer a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree program in Natural Health. There are a few alternative programs that cover what a natural health program covers. For example, a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) program in Integrative Therapeutic Practices, Alternative Medicine, and Wellness and Alternative Health.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Alternative Medicine and Natural Health
Students enrolled in Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Alternative Medicine and Natural Health programs are offered instruction in alternative medicines, such as meditation, nutrition, Native American healing, massage yoga, herbology and botany, acupuncture, and traditional Chinese medicine.
Biological and behavioral development is also explored by students, in addition to reviewing the scientific evidence of natural and conventional healthcare. Students can expect to become adept at making healthcare decisions about alternative medicine, using critical thinking in the investigation of alternative therapies and demonstrating knowledge of the biological evolution of healing. They may enhance their degree by choosing a minor from numerous choices, such as human performance and sport, health care management, psychology, biology, pre-healthcare and nutrition. Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma.
Coursework
The curriculum in natural health or natural medicine combines ancient healing tradition and basic science. Coursework is devised to assist students with acquiring skills in medical research, disease prevention, health promotion and holistic health. Core coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Homeopathy
•Natural health
•Ayurveda
•Exercise science and sports
•Clinical pathology
•Human health theories
•Nutrition
•Aromatherapy
•Anatomy and physiology
Career Choices
Those who complete a bachelor’s degree program may seek many entry-level careers in health arts facilities wherein they can apply their knowledge of holistic health, nutrition, alternative medicine, and health care management. These principles may also be incorporated into their current healthcare positions by current healthcare workers. Students who graduate from the bachelor’s program can choose from popular career options such as:
•Naturopath
•Health researcher
•Spa director
•Massage therapist
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2010 – 2020 decade, job growth rates of 23% have been predicted for massage therapists. During the same period, the field as a whole – including, hypnotherapists, acupuncturists, and naturopathic physicians – is expected to see a job growth rate of 20% (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2012, massage therapists brought home an average annual wage of $35,970, with as many as 71,040 employed in the profession (BLS).
Continuing Education Information
Graduates from the bachelor’s degree program can seek continued education by earning graduate degree programs in natural science and wellness. They can also boost their career prospects by completing certificate programs in health education, yoga instruction, massage therapy, gerontology, and aromatherapy.
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