Lack of licensing for naturopaths in Minnesota prevents them from practicing to the full scope of their training. Naturopathic medical colleges are four-year, graduate level medical schools with admission requirements comparable to those of other medical schools. The Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree (ND) is awarded after classroom, clinic and practical study. NDs are trained in medical sciences including:
- Anatomy
- Neurology
- Pathology
- Obstetrics
- Pharmacology
- Lab diagnostics
- Cardiology
- Biochemistry
- Minor surgery
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
- Clinical & physical diagnosis
- Physiology
- Radiology
- Microbiology
- Gynecology
- Dermatology
Throughout the four years, there is training in naturopathic therapeutics, including therapeutic nutrition, botanical medicine, homeopathy, natural childbirth, acupuncture, hydrotherapy, naturopathic manipulative therapy, and other therapies.
The accrediting agency for naturopathic medical schools and programs in North America is the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME). The CNME is the only naturopathic accrediting body in the United States that is recognized by the US Department of Education.
THE STATE OF MINNESOTA HAS NOT ADOPTED ANY EDUCATIONAL AND TRANING STANDARDS FOR UNLICENSED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONERS. THESE STATEMENTS OF CREDENTIALS IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
Under Minnesota law, an unlicensed complementary and alternative health care practitioner may not provide a medical diagnosis or recommend discontinuance of medically prescribed treatments. If a client desires a diagnosis from a licensed physician, chiropractor, or acupuncture practitioner, or services from a physician, chiropractor, nurse, osteopath, physical therapist, dietitian, nutritionist, acupuncture practitioner, athletic trainer, or any other type of health care provided, the client may seek such services at any time.
