Overview
CNME and naturopathic education
The Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME) accredits four-year, in-residence Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) programs in the U.S. and Canada. USDE-recognized.
The Gate
CNME accreditation, the NPLEX, and licensure
Only graduates of a CNME-accredited (or pre-accredited) ND program can sit for the NPLEX — the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations, administered by NABNE. Passing the NPLEX is required to be licensed as a naturopathic doctor in the states and territories that regulate the profession.
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Licensed in some states, not all
Naturopathic medicine is regulated in some U.S. jurisdictions and not others — roughly two dozen states, plus D.C. and several territories, license naturopathic doctors, while other states do not regulate the field. A CNME-accredited ND is the standard path where licensure exists; check your state’s current status before enrolling.
Do It Yourself
Verify a naturopathic program
Go Deeper
Official sources
Questions
Frequently asked questions
- Who accredits naturopathic medical programs? The Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME), which accredits four-year ND programs in the U.S. and Canada. It is USDE-recognized.
- Do I need a CNME-accredited program to be licensed? Yes, where the profession is regulated. Only CNME-accredited (or pre-accredited) ND graduates can sit for the NPLEX, which is required for licensure.
- What is the NPLEX? The Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations, administered by NABNE, required for naturopathic licensure in regulated jurisdictions.
- Is naturopathic medicine licensed everywhere? No. Roughly two dozen states, plus D.C. and some territories, license naturopathic doctors; other states do not regulate the field. Check your state before enrolling.
- What degree do naturopathic doctors need? A four-year, in-residence Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) from a CNME-accredited program.
- Is CNME recognized by the government? Yes. CNME is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- Does an online naturopathic degree qualify? CNME accredits four-year, in-residence programs; a fully online 'ND' would not meet CNME accreditation or NPLEX eligibility.
- How do I verify a naturopathic program? Search the CNME list of accredited programs and confirm licensure and exam eligibility with NABNE and your state.