Overview of the Master Degree Program in Holistic Health and Medicine
Majors Overview April 4, 2018This article talks about the master’s degree program in holistic health and medicine and its educational requirements, coursework, career options, job and wage outlook, and continuing education options.
Master’s Programs in Holistic Health and Medicine
All aspects of the individual – body, spirit, and mind – are taken into account in the analysis of a person’s health using holistic medicine. There is a similarity between holistic health and medicine and integrative medicine or integrative healing. However, the master’s degree program in holistic health and medicine will not suffice the need of prospective holistic physicians.
Applicants are required to have a bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree program is devised to teach students about addressing causes of illnesses through a focus on areas such as meditation, physiology, and healing techniques. Students are allowed to customize their coursework to include a specific area of holistic health through electives, and practical, hands-on experience marks the culmination of the program.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a 4-year degree from an accredited school. Applicants for admission to some schools may be required to have degrees in natural science, health, or social science fields and meet a cumulative GPA standard of 3.0. Applicants may also have to submit a purpose statement, and recommendation letters, along with attending an interview.
Coursework
Program coursework requires participation by students in practical work experience or completion of a master’s project. Electives may also be available to students in areas such as homeopathy or Ayurvedic healing, while simultaneously completing required courses in:
•Energy healing techniques (i.e. electromagnetic therapy)
•Spirituality and health
•Holistic pathophysiology
•Anatomy and physiology
•Meditation and stress reduction strategies
Career Options
Sometimes, allied health and medical professionals such as athletic trainers, physical therapists, or nurses pursue medicine and holistic health programs. However, a master’s degree in holistic health and medicine may also lead to careers such as:
•Holistic health studies instructor
•Holistic health and wellness counselor
•Holistic nutrition consultant
Job and Wage Outlook
All health diagnosing and treating practitioners can expect to see an above-average 17% job growth, over the 2016-2026 decade. Dietitians and nutritionists are projected to witness a 15% growth (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2016, dietitians and nutritionists brought in an average annual wage of $58,920 (BLS).
Continuing Education Options
Program graduates may enroll in more specific complementary alternative medicine certificate programs. They may avail specialty programs in areas such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicines, or aromatherapy. Alternatively, prospective holistic physicians may earn a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree.
