Course Descriptions

Global Health

Integrative Medicine Research

ND Basic and Biomedical Sciences: Clinical Anatomy Series

This series covers the anatomy of the muscular, skeletal, vascular and neurological elements of the extremities, spinal column and skull. The lab component includes participation in palpation and biomechanics labs, and cadaver dissection as an aid to learning the interrelationships of the parts of the human body. Students study the microscopic anatomy of all major body tissues with an emphasis on histopathology.

ND Basic and Biomedical Sciences: Structure and Function Series

This yearlong sequence is an in-depth exploration of the microscopic and gross structure and function of the human body. Students examine the anatomy, physiology and embryology of each organ system, including the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, endocrine, integumentary, nervous, lymphatic, respiratory, urinary and reproductive systems. Biochemical structures and pathways of metabolism, including the roles of vitamins and minerals, are also covered.

ND Clinical Education

Students gain practical clinical skills as they work under the close supervision of licensed naturopathic physicians in NUNM’s many healthcare facilities, on campus and throughout the city of Portland. Students begin learning through observation and gradually gain more responsibility for patient care. All patient care is under the direct supervision of licensed physicians.

Requirements for the completion of the clinical practicum include 1,264 clock hours of direct patient contact with a minimum of 500 patient contacts and 225 primary contacts. Under the guidance and assessment of the clinical faculty, students must demonstrate competence in specific areas, including medical knowledge, clinical skills, judgment, professional and ethical behavior, and communication skills.

Clinical experience begins during winter term of the first year. The first year and a half of clinical experience is chiefly observational and technical—with students observing various clinical rotations and performing hydrotherapy treatments (and massage if qualified) on clinic patients. Students enter the clinic as secondary interns after their second year is completed, and as primary interns after their third year. As interns, students become part of the treatment teams that deliver naturopathic care in the university health centers.

Each student has a required summer clinic rotation as a primary intern. Summer rotations prior to the summer before a student’s last year are available at the request of the student and are not required.