Despite the majority of ND’s going into clinical practice, earning your Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine or ND degree opens the door to more than private practice. As per the AANMC 2024 Alumni Workforce Survey, approximately 60-70% of NDs go on to provide direct patient care; however, the training in clinical medicine, nutrition, lifestyle counselling, herbal medicine, and navigating health systems positions you to contribute to the healthcare workforce in a variety of impactful ways. Whether you are a recent ND graduate exploring your options or a more seasoned ND considering a career shift, this guide explores the variety of ways you can use your ND degree both in the clinic and beyond.
1. Clinical Practice
As a licensed ND, you can work independently or in collaboration with other healthcare professionals such as medical doctors (MDs), nurses, chiropractors, acupuncturists, and registered massage therapists (RMTs) in integrative clinics. The most common path for Naturopathic Doctors is to go into private clinical practice at an established clinic or as a solo practitioner starting a new clinic. There is also the option of joining a group practice, working within an integrative setting, or even doing a residency to further expand your skills and knowledge in specific areas.
The main options for clinical practice are:
- Solo private practice
- Group integrative clinics
- Community health centers
- Concierge or mobile care services
2. Teaching and Academia
If you are passionate about education and mentorship, then teaching future naturopathic doctors or other healthcare professionals may be a fulfilling option. ND programs at accredited schools, continuing education institutions, and health professions programs are always seeking experienced clinicians and educators to become part of their teams and support the training of the new generations of professionals. You can also contribute to the development and advancement of curricula, clinical supervision, and academic research.
3. Writing, Speaking, and Health Communication
Have you always enjoyed writing or public speaking? Your ND degree gives you the authority to educate and inspire the public through these means. From publishing articles, books, and blogs to hosting podcasts and webinars, there’s a growing demand for credible, well-spoken healthcare professionals who can translate the research and science into an accessible form for the public.
Possible roles:
- Health and wellness content creator
- Podcast host or creator
- Public speaker or corporate wellness representative
- Ghostwriter or medical editor for wellness brands and associations
4. Product Development and Wellness Industry
Your clinical training as an ND makes you uniquely qualified to consult with supplement companies, natural product brands, and health tech startups. You may help with conception, formulation, research, and development of products, educating others at the company or within the field, or regulatory and governing body compliance.
Positions include:
- Medical advisor
- Formulation specialist
- Educator or sales trainer
- Quality assurance or regulatory consultant
5. Research
Naturopathic Doctors support the advancement of the integrative health industry as well as indirectly help patients through their contributions to research through clinical trials and other publications. Contributing to peer-reviewed journals or working with research institutions or partners to study Naturopathic therapies can be an interesting and important way to use your ND degree and training in research methods and writing. It is not uncommon for health professionals to gain additional education l when seeking a career in research.
6. Health Coaching or Corporate Wellness
Naturopathic doctors can design and implement lifestyle-based wellness programs for companies, schools, or online audiences through individualized or program-based coaching. Through your educational training and clinical experience, you can easily pivot into health coaching, wellness consulting for companies and employees, or facilitating group programs online or in-person in your community. As well as leading groups, you could also join a retreat center to work with a team of other wellness-focused practitioners.
Opportunities include:
- Corporate wellness director
- Group program facilitator
- Retreat facilitator or wellness coach
- Creating online courses or resources
7. Nonprofit, Public Health, and Global Medicine
Some NDs apply their training to public health, nonprofit organizations, or go abroad to join global health initiatives. This may include working in underserved communities, disaster relief, or in international health education. Naturopaths Without Borders is an organization that provides medical care services in Mexico, Haiti, and at a low-barrier clinic in Phoenix, AZ. This is a volunteer-based program but it is a great way to use your degree in a different way and make an impact on populations that could otherwise not access Naturopathic Medicine.
8. Regulation, Licensing Boards, and Professional Advocacy
If you are passionate about shaping the future of naturopathic medicine, consider being a part of regulatory boards, professional associations, or advocacy groups that are in your local city or state. ND’s who know and understand what we do and what our profession needs are essential in leadership roles to influence legislation, expand licensure, and protect the scope of practice. These roles are also most often volunteer-based, but can be a great way to utilize your degree and aid in the development of the field of Naturopathic Medicine in a more big-picture sense.
Your ND Degree is Incredibly Versatile
One of the most powerful facets of a degree in Naturopathic Medicine is its versatility. Whether you go into one-on-one clinical practice with patients or scale your impact through education, coaching, or advocacy, your skills as a naturopathic doctor are needed now more than ever. Exploring different ways to use your ND degree can open new doors, align your career with your passions, and help you make a lasting contribution to health and healing in unique ways. As you begin to plan for your future career, seek out mentors who are successfully accomplishing the path you want to take.
Still unsure if you want to start the journey to pursue an ND degree? Learn more about what it’s like to go through Naturopathic Medical School here.
