Sonoran University of Health Sciences

Sonoran University of Health Sciences

TEMPE, ARIZONA

The Healing Power of Nature

Sonoran University of Health Sciences is many things. A world-class university for those studying nutrition and naturopathic medicine. An innovative research and development institution. The healthcare provider for multiple community health and empowerment clinics. And much, much more. So, what ties it all together? From our faculty to our students, from our alumni to our administration, we are all passionately dedicated to shaping a healthier future through the healing power of nature. 

Mailing address:
2140 E. Broadway Rd.
Tempe, AZ 85282

Phone: 480.858.9100
Website
 

Discover More

  • Take Sonoran University’s virtual tour
  • Listen to Sonoran University’s Daily Dose Podcast HERE
  • Read about Sonoran University in the news HERE
  • Stay up to date with Sonoran University’s latest events HERE

      

Degrees Offered

  • Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine Learn More
  • Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition (MSCN) Learn More
  • Master of Science in Nutrition Business Leadership (MSNBL) Learn More

College of Naturopathic Medicine

​Sonoran University has the only accredited, full-time, four-year Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree program in the southwest. Our innovative curriculum consists of rigorous academic study and extensive supervised clinical experiences in a variety of settings, including our on-site Medical Center and Neil Riordan Center for Regenerative Medicine. In addition to exposure to the widest scope of naturopathic therapies, students will also learn the same basic sciences as they would in a conventional medical program.

Clinical milestones are achieved throughout the program and provide the appropriate progression of medical education for graduates to become successful naturopathic physicians. Unique to Sonoran University, students will also be empowered to prepare and sit for the NPLEX examinations. One of the many areas our university outpaces peer institutions—our students produce the highest NPLEX pass rate compared to the all-schools average.

College of Nutrition

​Sonoran University focuses on the fundamental importance food and nutrition play in integrative healthcare, natural products, and nutraceuticals. Our MS curricula was built with practical input from global industry experts and thought leaders and our courses are designed and delivered using best practices in online learning and evidence-based knowledge and skills. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in clinical environments, non-profits, academia, business, industry, and manufacturing.

Unique Student Opportunities at Sonoran University

Be a Force of Nature.

Education at Sonoran University’s College of Naturopathic Medicine will reshape your life and career in naturopathic medicine and make the world a better place. At Sonoran University, we prepare our students to make a genuine difference in the ever-changing world of healthcare.

Ric Scalzo Institute for Botanical Research 

A first-of-its-kind molecular biology/phytochemistry research laboratory. Dedicated to developing new products and improving existing botanical therapeutics through scientific exploration grounded in clinical herbalism’s rich tradition. From benchtop to bedside, our lab provides the landscape for researchers to measure real-life patient change on our campus. Ensuring patient safety, the efficacy of botanicals, and patient outcomes, proving the end-to-end evidence-based practice Sonoran University provides.

From our integrated curriculum and wide scope of practice to our state-of-the-art medical center, outstanding evidence-based research, and community-centered core, Sonoran University is an elevated learning experience full of innovation and purpose. Honoring the principles of naturopathic medicine and nutrition. Our graduates establish flourishing practices, either on their own or alongside conventional medical practitioners, while changing how our world views healthcare.

  • Dedicated Career Services Director
  • Ric Scalzo Institute for Botanical Research
  • Neil Riordan Center for Regenerative Medicine
  • Career Success Skills in Medicine & Nutrition
  • NPLEX Preparation & Training
  • CMS Preparation & Training
  • Rigorous Curriculum
  • Cadaver Lab
  • Honor Tracks
  • Natural Medicinary
  • Medicinal Herb Garden

A History of Making History – Make Your Mark

In addition to medicine, we teach and practice, we have a long history in the Valley of the Sun providing education and care for those looking for an integrative approach. We’ve blended new ways of learning and teaching infused with timeless principles of naturopathic medicine, conventional medicine, and healthcare.

Located in the heart of Tempe, a part of Phoenix metropolitan area, one of the top 10 largest metro areas in the US. Sonoran University offers a dynamic campus life, combined with the feeling of big city life without the cost. Desert mountains, outdoor recreation, and many more attractions offer a complete spectrum to fit any style of living. Feeling the college atmosphere?

Our campus is located near the largest university in the country, Arizona State University, where an abundance of affordable housing and convenience resides. Needless to say – more than a desert, with a short drive in any direction discover national forests, parks, lakes, and even snow.

Message From The President

“To paraphrase Winston Churchill, in your career as a naturopathic physician you will make a life by giving to others – improving the health and wellbeing of your patients, their families, and their communities. Sonoran University’s College of Naturopathic Medicine shapes a healthier future in three ways: by supporting students as they train to excel as naturopathic physicians, by enhancing the health and wellbeing of our patients and communities, and by discovering effective treatments for humanity grounded in the healing power of nature. As a Sonoran University medical student, you will have the opportunity to participate in all three.

The College of Naturopathic Medicine is measured by the success of its students and alumni, including graduation rates and professional licensure scores. Learn how best practices in teaching and learning, innovative technology and curricular design, faculty support and development, and collaboration between Academic, Student Affairs and Inclusive Excellence departments foster student success.”

Paul Mittman, ND, EdD, President
Sonoran University of Health Sciences

Academic Requirements

Academic Requirements

The following are general admission requirements that must completed and submitted:

  • Complete a four-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) prior to matriculation. Total post-secondary coursework must be completed at a regionally accredited or candidate college or university. To search for your institution in the U.S. Department of Education’s database of accredited postsecondary institutions visit http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/.
  • Official Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended must be sent directly to Sonoran University electronically to transcripts@sonoran.edu or directly to NDCAS.
  • Complete all prerequisite coursework with a minimum GPA of 3.0 at a regionally accredited or candidate college or university prior to matriculation into the ND program. (Applicants with science courses older than seven (7) years must demonstrate competency in the discipline(s) in question and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.)
  • Laptop and reliable high-speed internet for use in completing college course work.  For a complete listing of Sonoran University’s technical requirements please visit our IT Tech Check.
  • To ensure that incoming naturopathic medical students are able to complete the entire curriculum, Sonoran University requires that each student be able to meet the technical standards defined in this document.

Academic Prerequisite Coursework

  • 12 semester credits in biology with labs (for science majors)
  • 3 semester credits in general organic chemistry with lab (for science majors)
  • 3 semester credits in biochemistry OR an additional 3 semester credits in organic chemistry (for science majors)
  • 3 semester credits in psychology (developmental psychology is recommended, behavioral or cognitive learning courses will also be considered in lieu of psychology)

*Highly Recommended Courses Prior to Matriculation

In addition to the above prerequisite course work, the following coursework (with lab when available) is highly recommended: Medical Terminology, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Nutrition, Cell Biology, Genetics, English Composition.

**Please note – Although the ND degree program does not have an English composition prerequisite course requirement, the ND program does involve significant writing, including scientific papers. Therefore mastery of written/spoken English is critical.

Application Requirements

Sonoran University accepts either the Admissions Portal application –or– the NDCAS application. Please select and submit only one application and submit required application documents as directed through that application service.

  1. Applicants for the College of Naturopathic Medicine need to submit application through either Sonoran University direct portal or through NDCAS.
  2. Three letters of recommendation mailed directly to either NDCAS or Sonoran University: One academic reference, one reference from a regulated health care professional, one additional reference from either of the above categories or a past employer/volunteer supervisor.
  3. Personal essay
  4. Curriculum vitae (CV) or professional resume
  5. Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, including military training transcripts for veterans, traditional college coursework, and vocational training, showing completion of academic requirements.
  6. In-person interview (qualified applicants selected for interview will be contacted by the Admissions Office)
  7. If accepted into the College of Naturopathic Medicine, you will be required to undergo a criminal background check (CBC) and give permission for the results to be provided to Sonoran. All expenses associated with the CBC are the responsibility of the applicant. The offer of admission will not be considered final until completion of the background check, with results deemed acceptable by Sonoran.

Compare all of the AANMC-member schools ND program Academic Prerequisites here

• Four and five year tracks

Tuition and Fees: (first year) $43,349