Sonoran University of Health Sciences (Sonoran University) is the premier institution in holistic and scientific approaches to natural medicine. Sonoran University’s Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree program boasts the widest scope of practice including acupuncture, applied kinesiology, pharmacology, and more. In addition to the four-year ND program, Sonoran University offers an online Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition.
While changes from the pandemic impact our clinical training, we continue offering telemedicine at our campus clinics, allowing students to gain experience in this innovative form of patient care. In January of 2021, upon passing safety and health protocols including COVID-19 tests and daily temperature and wellness screenings, clinical students returned to campus for clinic shifts and labs.
We use the experience and insights we gained in the rigorous planning and strategy of our online School of Nutrition Master’s program to establish and fine-tune an online education model for our Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine program. This model allows for student/faculty interaction and maintains the standard of education and excellence expected of Sonoran University curriculum.
“My passion for naturopathic medicine has grown tremendously over the last year. While I miss in-person, I feel fortunate to be a student at Sonoran University during this era of virtual learning! The professors have all worked so hard and always jump at the chance to help, adapt, and listen to concerns. They really set the tone for our classes and their commitment continues to help foster my passion.” – Kelsey H., 2nd Year Medical Student
As medicine and higher education continues to evolve, our mission continues being to nurture and prepare our students with all the tools available for their success as they become Sonoran University Alumni and beyond.
Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine Program
Our doctorate program blends patient care with innovative research and a cutting-edge naturopathic curriculum. Sonoran University students and graduates use a natural, evidence-based mindset to change the future of healthcare. Sonoran University’s faculty, physicians, and staff work together to prepare students for success, both in school and as they join the field of naturopathic medicine.
I really enjoy the sense of community I feel through being surrounded by intelligent and motivated doctors in training who are passionate about healing the whole patient instead of just the patient’s symptoms.” – Courtney, 4th Year Medical Student
Our innovative curriculum consists of rigorous academic study and extensive supervised clinical experiences in a variety of settings, including at our on-site Medical Center and Neil Riordan Center for Regenerative Medicine. The Neil Riordan Center is the first and only integrative pain center on a naturopathic medical school campus. The Neil Riordan Center is a leader in opioid-free options for living pain free including acupuncture, applied kinesiology, bio modulator, cold laser, neuro bio feedback, injection therapies and more.
While Sonoran University students are exposed to the widest scope of naturopathic therapies, they’ll still learn about the same basic sciences through a body systems format, similar to conventional medical programs.
Keep up with the latest news about Sonoran University and the Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine program by visiting Sonoran University of Health Science’s website , Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube channel.
Honors Tracks: Customized Clinical Education in a Concentrated Area
The Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) program has five distinct honors tracks: Community Health, Nature Cure, Pain Management, Pediatrics, and Regenerative Medicine. These focused areas of clinical education can help better prepare and elevate an honors track student’s position for competitive post-graduate opportunities and residencies. Students participate in hands-on learning, both in classrooms and within our on-site Medical Center, Neil Riordan Center for Regenerative Medicine, and Medicinary. Off-site opportunities exist for students seeking additional patient experiences, providing care for underprivileged and underserved communities throughout Maricopa County.
Sage Foundation: Impacting the Community while Increasing Student/Patient Experiences
In addition to clinical experiences at the two on-campus centers, Sonoran University third- and fourth-year ND medical students treat patients at various community clinics throughout Maricopa County.
The Sage Foundation is our award-winning community health program that provides quality healthcare to underprivileged and underserved populations in Arizona. Our community clinics empower underprivileged and underserved communities by providing a healthy foundation upon which to live their lives.
At these clinics, students will see a range of patients including children in low-income school districts, domestic violence survivors, low-income families, individuals coping with HIV/AIDS, and patients recovering from drug and alcohol addiction. Sonoran University students are given the opportunity to help the underserved in their own community while broadening their patient experiences.
Pioneers in Research: The Ric Scalzo Institute for Botanical Research
The Ric Scalzo Institute for Botanical Medicine is getting ready to open its doors in 2021. This state-of-the-art molecular biology and phytochemistry laboratory will work in collaboration with the natural products industry and other academic institutions to develop new products and improve existing botanical therapeutics grounded in herbalism’s rich tradition through scientific exploration.
The Institute will conduct analytical testing, cellular and molecular biology assays, and metabolomic testing. Furthermore, the Ric Scalzo Institute for Botanical Research will expand clinical research opportunities for students.
For more information on these exciting additions to Sonoran University, visit www.sonoran.edu
