Alternative Medicine School FAQs

Alternative medicine schools instruct in health and medical disciplines that are used in place of, or in addition to, conventional medicine. In most cases, alternative medicine schools involve an in-depth course of study that frequently incorporates metaphysical or spiritual attributes; more specifically, mind-body-spirit medicine that is applied to the "whole" person, and not just the disease.

Today's students are finding that alternative medicine schools and many traditional schools are offering diverse curriculums in alternative medicine. This is due in part to a greater reception of the field. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, 36% of U.S. adults over the age of 18 use some type of alternative or complementary medicine.

Main coursework that is provided at an alternative medicine school will usually include acupuncture, chiropractic, herbal medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), mind/body medicine, massage, naturopathy, homeopathy, holistic medicine, reiki, and numerous other alternative studies.

Other non-conventional medical therapies that are taught at alternative medicine schools may be Ayurveda;, osteopathy, macrobiotics, orthomolecular medicine, craniosacral therapy, hypnotherapy, iridology, aromatherapy, and even visualization techniques.

Widely-known treatments, such as acupuncture and Oriental medicine, will commonly include instruction in a second language (Chinese) to accommodate the understanding of foreign medical terminology that accompanies the coursework.

By character, most alternative medicine schools aim to teach students about non-invasive, natural therapies and treatments that are primarily used to prevent disease and injury, and to promote overall health and wellbeing. Research has shown that many alternative and complementary medicines can not only prevent illnesses, but also have curative agents as well. This is just one of the reasons why students and patients are interested in alternative medicine. ..... Read More