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Become a Naturopathic Doctor

Transforming Healthcare, Naturally

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Are you ready to redefine the future of healthcare through evidence-based naturopathic training integrated with real-world clinical practice? Then welcome to Sonoran University, where our alumni, students and faculty embody the mission to transform healthcare through holistic, patient-centered approaches that treat the whole person. From cutting-edge research at the Ric Scalzo Institute to hands-on learning in state-of-the-art facilities, Sonoran will prepare you to make a meaningful community impact and drive change in the medical field. We invite you to discover your purpose and start your journey in natural medicine at Sonoran University.

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Widest Scope of Practice[1]

Gain exposure to more procedures, including acupuncture, PCP training and the ability to prescribe medications.

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Fuel Your Success

Help shape a healthier future for your community and discover a multitude of nature-based employment opportunities.

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High NPLEX Pass Rates

Students at Sonoran University have consistently outperformed others, achieving superior NPLEX I & II pass rates.[2]

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Innovative Research

Work with the Ric Scalzo Institute for Botanical Research to bridge the gap between traditional and natural medicine. 

Why Choose Sonoran University?

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Naturopathic Doctorate

Sonoran University is committed to sending naturopathic physicians into the world with industry-leading knowledge and rich experience in nature-based healing practices. We prepare graduates for a successful career in health care[3] and as innovators in the field of naturopathic medicine and nutrition, we are dedicated to shaping the future.

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NPLEX Exam Preparation

For your success, Sonoran University includes NPLEX preparation within the curriculum. The NPLEX is a two-part exam. The first part focuses on Biomedical Sciences and is taken after the second year of coursework. The second part is focused on Core Clinical Sciences and is taken after graduation.

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Scope of Practice

The broadest scope of practice for naturopathic medicine in the United States is in Arizona, where naturopathic physicians (NDs also credentialed as NMDs) have increased scope beyond NDs in other US states. In Arizona, NDs may perform many of the same activities performed by allopathic physicians, such as MDs or DOs.

We’re Here for Your Success

Our Students

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Our Alumni

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Our Faculty

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ND vs MD/DO

NDMD/DO
Years of Undergraduate Medical Education44
Two Years of Classroom Instruction✓✓
Average Credits First Two Years19191
Minimum Hours of Clinical Training/ Clerkship (before residency)12001760
Department of Education Accreditation✓✓
Biomedical Sciences (Anatomy, Biochemistry, Neuroanatomy, Embryology, Histology, Pharmacology)✓✓
Pharmaceutical Training✓✓
Clinical Judgment / Problem-Solving Skills✓✓
Cultural Competence and Health Care Disparities / Societal Problems✓✓
Medical Ethics✓✓
Communication and Inter-professional Collaboration✓✓
Scientific Method / Clinical Research✓✓
Years in Residency Training1-3 (Optional)3
Lifestyle Counseling✓
Botanical Medicine✓✓ (DO Only)
Nutrition100-220 Hours0-70 Hours
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References

  1.  Naturopathic Medicine – Scope of Practice
  2.  Compared to: NPLEX Part I – All Schools without Sonoran – 68% and NPLEX Part II – All Schools without Sonoran – 82%
  3.  Demographic and statistical information on graduate employment data and available university services.
  4. ND, MD/DO, NP: What’s The Difference?
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