Admissions

Undergraduate Programs-Applicable from Summer 2024-Spring 2025

NUNM offers three Bachelor of Science degrees: Bachelor of Science in Integrative Health Sciences (BSiHS), Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN), and an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nutrition to Master of Science in Nutrition (BScN-MScN). These programs offer students the opportunity to complete the final two years of their degree, while building a solid scientific foundation in pre-health/pre-med education.

For admission consideration to undergraduate degree programs, students must have completed 60 semester or 90 quarter credits of transferable coursework with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 prior to the program start date. Transferable coursework is defined as college-level courses from regionally accredited colleges and universities that meet lower division, general education requirements for baccalaureate degree programs. Generally, professional/technical courses will not transfer. Only courses with a grade of “C” or higher will be considered for transfer credit. Grades of P/NP or S/U grading will not be accepted unless additional supporting documentation is provided showing a “P” equals a grad of “C” or higher.

Application Process

Applicants for undergraduate programs in the School of Undergraduate & Graduate Studies must submit the following required items to complete an application:

• Application for Admission: A file is created for the applicant once a complete application is received and accompanied by the application fee. Prospective students may start their applications at nunm.edu.
• $75 Application Fee: This fee is nonrefundable.
• Transcripts: Applicants are required to submit official sealed transcripts from each college and/or university attended. Electronic transcripts will be accepted if PDF transcript is delivered from verified/secured source, encrypted/digitally certified and marked official by the issuing institution.
• Essays: Applicants are required to submit essays to be considered for admission. Essays provide applicants the opportunity to share their background, abilities, interests and experiences, and how these will make them a good candidate for the programs at NUNM. Applicants should share some personal experiences and genuine thoughts in their essays. Explaining why you are applying to NUNM and how you would enrich this community is also helpful. The Admissions Committee will look for writing ability, as well as content when reading the essays. The application for admission indicates the length or word limitation based on the program to which the applicant is applying.
• Recommendation: The recommendation form should be completed by a person who knows you well and can evaluate your skills and abilities. Once the application is submitted, the recommendation form will be sent out to the recommender. Professors make great recommenders (assuming you have taken a class with them). If you have been out of school for a while, employers are also acceptable sources.

Applicants are selected regardless of race, gender, gender identity, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disabilities, or any other protected class under local, state or federal law.

Application Deadline 

NUNM begins to accept undergraduate applications Sept. 1, 2023, for fall 2024. The preferred application deadline is May 1, 2024.

Please follow the application’s detailed instructions and direct all application materials to:

Office of Admissions
National University of Natural Medicine
49 South Porter Street
Portland, OR 97201

It is the sole responsibility of the applicant to ensure that materials are received by NUNM on time. Application materials become the property of NUNM and will not be returned or forwarded to other institutions.

Undergraduate Program Prerequisites

Requirements for Admission to the Accelerated Nutrition Program (BScN-MScN)

New students may apply to be admitted to the accelerated BScN to MScN program if they meet the following requirements that are over and above the regular admissions requirements for the BScN program:

1. A minimum cumulative GPA from a regionally accredited college or university of 3.0 or higher is strongly encouraged.
2. Submit an essay that specifically discusses why they believe they are a good candidate for the accelerated nutrition program.

Current NUNM students already enrolled in the BScN program may apply for entry into the accelerated BScN to MScN program no later than July 1 of the student’s first year at NUNM in the BScN program. In order to qualify for the accelerated program, the student must meet the following requirements:

1. Have obtained a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and successfully completed all courses in the first three terms of the BScN program at NUNM.
2. Submit an essay that specifically discusses why they believe they are a good candidate for the accelerated nutrition program.

Graduate and Professional Programs-Applicable from Summer 2024-Spring 2025

Applicants interested in the Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND), , Master of Science in Nutrition (MScN), Master of Science in Clinical Research (MSCR), Master of Science in Global Health (MScGH), , programs must have a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) from an institutionally accredited college or university. 

Applicants interested in the Doctor of Acupuncture with a Chinese Herbal Medicine Specialization (DAcCHM), Master of Acupuncture with a Chinese Herbal Medicine Specialization (MAcCHM) and/or the Master of Acupuncture (MAc) program do not need a bachelor’s degree in order to apply/enroll in CCM programs at NUNM. Instead, applicants must have the following to apply/enroll in CCM programs:  

• Applicants must have completed a minimum of 90 semester credits (or 135 quarter credits) of undergraduate coursework, including all current prerequisite courses that align with the foundational knowledge required for our programs (general biology, general chemistry, psychology, & humanities). 

Applicants may apply to undertake two programs concurrently, with the exception of the ND/DAcCHM combination. All application and prerequisite coursework requirements must be met for both programs. Students taking online programs may apply for a secondary program after their first year. While at NUNM, students may add a concurrent program by applying for admission to the second program. For admission consideration, students must meet the criteria for Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) in their current program at the time of application. 

A GPA of 3.0 or higher is strongly encouraged. Credit will only be given for prerequisite coursework earning a “C” or better. Applicants may apply with prereq coursework still in progress; however, the Office of Admissions must receive all official transcripts showing completed coursework prior to 

matriculation. For the purpose of prerequisites, the Office of Admissions defines a “course” as either a quarter or semester term. 

Application Process 

Applicants for the graduate and professional programs must submit the following required items to complete an application: 

• Application for Admission: A file is created for the applicant once a complete application is received and accompanied by the application fee. Prospective students may start their applications at nunm.edu. 

• $75 Application Fee: This fee is nonrefundable. 

• Transcripts: Applicants are required to submit official sealed transcripts from each college and/or university attended. Electronic transcripts will be accepted if PDF transcript is delivered from verified/secured source, encrypted/digitally certified and marked official by the issuing institution. For applicants who have prerequisite coursework in progress or will have an undergraduate degree conferred after receiving an admission decision, an official and updated transcript must be submitted prior to matriculation at NUNM. 

• Essays: Applicants are required to submit essays to be considered for admission. Essays provide applicants the opportunity to share their background, abilities, interests and experiences, and how these will make them a good candidate for the programs at NUNM. Applicants should share some personal experiences and genuine thoughts in their essays. Explaining why you are applying to NUNM and how you would enrich this community is also helpful. The Admissions Committee will look for writing ability, as well as content when reading the essays. The application for admission indicates the length or word limitation based on the program to which the applicant is applying. 

• Recommendations (OPTIONAL): Two recommendation forms can be completed by persons who know you well and can evaluate your skills and abilities. Once the application is submitted, recommendation forms will be sent out to the two listed recommenders. Professors make great recommenders (assuming you have taken a class with them). If you have been out of school for a while, employers are also acceptable sources. Recommendations from family members, significant others or close, personal friends are not viewed favorably by the Admissions Committee. 

• Resume: The resume should include work experience, research, activities, community service and any honors/awards received. 

• Supplemental Materials: These include statements regarding academic dismissal, criminal charges, scholarship statements, diversity statements, and/or an addendum with any additional 

information the applicant wishes to share with the Admissions Committee. Videos and lengthy manuscripts will not be reviewed, and will be returned to the applicant. 

Applicants are selected regardless of race, gender, gender identity, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disabilities, or any other protected class under local, state or federal law. 

Application Deadlines

Initial consideration goes to candidates who apply by the dates listed below. However, NUNM continues to consider applicants on a space-available basis thereafter. Applicants may apply up to one year in advance for admission.

ND, CCM and Graduate programs: Fall 2024
Early Consideration Scholarship Application Deadline: Feb. 1, 2024
Application Deadline: May 1, 2024

Online MScN program: Winter 2024
Application Deadline: Dec. 8, 2023

Candidates who have selected NUNM as their first choice are encouraged to apply on or before the scholarship deadline.

Please follow the application’s detailed instructions and direct all application materials to:

Office of Admissions
National University of Natural Medicine
49 South Porter Street
Portland, OR 97201

It is the sole responsibility of the applicant to ensure that materials are received by NUNM on time. Application materials become the property of NUNM and will not be returned or forwarded to other institutions.

Prerequisites

Prerequisite courses are designed to ensure entering students are academically prepared for the curriculum of the program. Prerequisite courses may be substituted with comparable coursework if the program dean (or designee), utilizing the transcript evaluation procedures, determines that the learning objectives are met. NUNM does not accept life experience in lieu of prerequisite credits.

Co-Requisites for Applicants

In rare instances, and for students with otherwise strong backgrounds in science courses, a conditional admission due to missing a singular pre-requisite may be offered by the Program Dean based on the applicant’s GPA and transcript review. An applicant may be granted the exception to take only one outstanding course in the fall (or winter term for the MScN-online cohort) while beginning their NUNM enrollment. To be fully admitted to the program, an approved co-requisite course must be satisfactorily completed prior to the start of NUNM’s winter term. If the student fails the co-requisite course or does not complete the registered co-requisite course, the conditional admission will be automatically rescinded. Students whose conditional admission status is rescinded will be placed on a leave of absence until the pre-requisite is met.

Co-requisite is defined as a singular outstanding pre-requisite requirement that a student may be allowed to complete in their first term of enrollment at NUNM.

On-Campus Interview

Applicants to the Colleges of Naturopathic and Classical Chinese Medicine, who competitively meet requirements, will be required to complete an interview on campus. Telephone and online interviews are normally not granted, but may be considered under extenuating circumstances. The interview allows students to visit the university and decide if it is a good fit. The School of Undergraduate & Graduate Studies does not require an interview.

ND Program Prerequisites

Global Health (MScGH) Program Prerequisites

Clinical Research (MSCR) Program Prerequisites

Nutrition (MScN) Program Prerequisites

MAcCHM & MAc & DAcCHM Program Prerequisites

International Applications-Applicable from Summer 2024-Spring 2025

In addition to the requirements previously outlined, international applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Complete an international student Certificate of Finance. In order to issue an I-20, the U.S. government requires NUNM to verify that applicants have sufficient funds to pay for all expenses while studying at NUNM.
• If English is a second language, submit official scores within the past two years from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). NUNM requires a score of 550 on the written exam, or 213 on the computer exam and 80 on the internet-based test. NUNM’s institutional TOEFL code is: 4528. 
  • Also accepted is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) with a score of 6.0 or higher or the Pearson Test of English (PTE) with a score of 53 or higher.
• Submit all non-U.S. accredited transcripts for translation and evaluation to one of the following approved evaluation services:

International Education Research Foundation, Inc.
310.258.9451 | ierf.org

World Education Services, Inc.
212.966.6311 | wes.org

Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE)

ECE | NACES Member | Foreign Credential Evaluation Services

Transcripts from accredited Canadian colleges and universities are generally exempt from this requirement. NUNM reserves the right to require outside evaluation in certain cases. Canadian transcripts in French must be submitted for translation to one of the services above.

Transfer Credit Policy

Applicants wishing to transfer to any of NUNM’s programs must meet the following requirements:

1. An applicant who applies for transfer credit must meet the current admission requirements at NUNM on the date the student applies for admission, including the verification of good academic standing. All transfer students must meet the prerequisites as stated in the catalog.
2. Credits being considered for transfer to the graduate or first professional programs must be graduate level and completed at a U.S. Department of Education recognized accredited institution and/or a U.S. Department of Education approved programmatic accreditor. Transfer credit will only be approved for courses from a professional degree program or a graduate program closely related to the health sciences.
3. Only credits recorded on an official transcript of the issuing institution with an equivalent grade of 2.0 or better on a 4.0 scale will be considered for transfer. If an application is received before coursework at another institution has been completed, transfer credit will be considered to be conditional until satisfactory completion of the outstanding coursework.
4. Credits accepted for transfer must be determined by NUNM to be substantially equivalent to the courses offered by NUNM. This determination is to be made by the program dean or designee. All requests for transfer credit are considered on a course-by-course basis, and a catalog or course description will be required. Challenge examinations may be required to determine whether coursework is comparable.
5. Credits accepted for the transfer of coursework must have been awarded within seven years of the date of admission to NUNM, except that NUNM may, at its discretion, accept older credits if the entering student holds a graduate degree in an academic discipline closely related to the health sciences and has been working in the field.
6. The ND, MAcCHM, MAc, DAcCHM degree programs could take a minimum of three years education at NUNM, even with maximum transfer credit awarded, due to differences between programs.
7. NUNM does not give transfer credit for life experience.
8. Applications for transfer credit must be accompanied by a form/letter from the applicant’s previous program dean stating that the applicant is in good academic and behavioral standing at the time of application.
9. Credits will be evaluated preliminarily for transfer before an offer of admission is made. The applicant will receive a copy of the formal transfer credit evaluation with a list of courses that must be taken at NUNM, if they are admitted. Students will sign a letter agreeing to the final list of approved transfer credits.
10. Any veteran receiving GI Bill® benefits while attending NUNM is required to obtain transcripts from all previously attended schools and submit them to the VA School Official (located in the Registrar’s Office)for review of prior credit.

Second professional degree candidates, defined as a health care practitioner with a doctoral or master’s level degree, may apply for fall or winter admission to the MAcCHM, MAc, DAcCHM programs. Depending upon prior completed coursework, a full-time schedule may not be available for one of these terms of entry. A proposed class schedule for the intended term of entry and a degree completion plan can only be created after a candidate’s prior coursework has been evaluated. Please note that there is a non-refundable transcript evaluation fee.

The following are transfer policies specific to each NUNM college and school beyond those in the general transfer policy section above:

Transfer Credit Specific to the College of Naturopathic Medicine

• Transfer credit will be considered for applicants to the ND program who are eligible to sit for a first professional medical licensing examination in the United States.
• Transfer credit will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for ND courses. Credit for clinical experiences or clinical education at another school may not be transferable. Typically, transfer students may receive transfer credit for no more than 50% of the total program credit requirements.
• NUNM has a requirement that all ND students complete 16 elective credits, in addition to the required core curriculum, in order to encourage students to take additional coursework in areas of special interest and round out their education at NUNM. Transfer students may be allowed transfer credit for some of their non-core coursework if completed in a doctoral program at a US Department of Education accredited institution. This determination will be made by the ND program dean or designee.
• Applicants seeking advanced-standing status into the ND program must hold a first professional medical degree. Accepted are medical (MD), osteopathic (DO), and chiropractic (DC) doctors who have graduated from a US Department of Education recognized accredited institution.  Satisfaction of this requirement meets the NUNM prerequisite condition for a bachelor’s level degree.

Transfer Credit Specific to the College of Classical Chinese Medicine

Chinese Medicine transfer students may receive transfer credit for up to 50% of the total program credit requirements. Of that 50%, no more than 25% of the program clinical training requirements may be accepted as transfer credit.

Applicants with completed coursework in U.S. institutions: Only coursework completed at a school approved by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (ACAHM) will be accepted for transfer.

Applicants with completed coursework in international institutions: Transfer credit will be considered for applicants to the CCM degree programs who are deemed eligible to sit for NCCAOM licensing examinations. They must first submit their educational records to either the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO), Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) or World Education Services (WES) for a course-by-course educational transcript evaluation. 

Applicants with completed coursework in China: All applicants who choose to apply to AACRAO must first have their credentials verified via the China Academic Degrees and Graduate Education Development Center (CDGDC) and submitted directly to AACRAO. To apply with CDGDC, go to: chinadegrees.cn./en/.

Transfer Credit Specific to Graduate programs in the School of Undergraduate & Graduate Studies

Master’s-level programs within the School of Undergraduate and Graduate Studies (SUGS) at NUNM may accept up to one quarter of the total credits required for graduation from the graduate program as transfer credits. Individual programs may have stricter limitations, so applicants should contact the program dean and course catalog for more specific limitations.

In general, to qualify as transfer credits, the following requirements must be met:

• Courses being transferred are obtained at a US Department of Education recognized accredited institution.
• Courses being transferred are at the graduate level.
• They are determined by the program dean to have met course competencies of similar courses required for graduation from NUNM’s program.
• They must have been awarded a grade of B- or higher. A pass (P) grade or similar grading methods are not acceptable unless there is supporting documentation from the institution showing a pass (P) grade equals a B- or higher.
• They must be no older than seven (7) years old at the time of admission into the program. (Exceptions may be granted in cases where the individual has been working in the field related to the course content since the time they took the course to be transferred. The program dean would make this determination.)
• Students must complete an NUNM Transfer of Credit Agreement upon admission to the university. Transfer credits will not be considered after matriculation
• Contact the Office of Admissions for information on transfer courses from international institutions as these require additional documentation.

Specific transfer credits may be used to satisfy requirements for specific courses in multiple programs. In other words, if a person were to enroll in the Master of Science in Clinical Research program and the Master of Science in Global Health program, a statistical analysis course might be transferred in that would meet the requirement of Biostats in both programs. The basic principle is that we do not wish to force students to retake course material they have already mastered. 

Transfer Credit Specific to Undergraduate programs in the School of Undergraduate & Graduate Studies

Studies may transfer credit for courses that are substantially similar to courses offered as part of NUNM’s undergraduate programs. Students are required to complete a minimum of 50 credits in the Bachelor of Science in Integrative Health Sciences program and 51 credits in the Bachelor of Science in Nutrition program. All transfer credits must be completed at a US Department of Education recognized accredited institution, and are evaluated for relevance and subject to approval by the program dean.

Transfers from NUNM to Other Institutions

Transfer of credit from NUNM to other institutions is at the discretion of the receiving institution. Credit generally depends on comparability of curricula and may depend on comparability of accreditation. NUNM is a US Department of Education recognized accredited institution. Inquiries should be directed to the receiving institution to determine the transferability of credits from NUNM.

Transfer of Core Credits and Electives Between NUNM Programs

Some course credits may be eligible for transfer among NUNM programs to satisfy program requirements. For more information regarding which courses might be transferable, contact the Academic Advising Office and/ or program dean. All transfer credits are evaluated for relevance and are subject to approval by the program dean.

College of Naturopathic Medicine 

For the ND program, at least half of the required number of elective credits must be taken from courses designated as electives within the ND program. The remainder may come from elective courses offered at NUNM, as long as course prerequisites are met and the course has been approved by the program dean as counting toward the ND program. Approval from the program dean is required in order for a core course from another program to count toward elective credit.

Example: A student in the ND program is required to take a total of 16 elective credits. Eight credits must be from courses within that program. The other eight credits may come from electives approved to count toward that program.

College of Classical Chinese Medicine and the School of Undergraduate & Graduate Studies 

For each program, at least half of the required number of elective credits must be taken from courses designated as counting toward that program. The remainder may come from any elective course offered at NUNM, as long as course prerequisites are met. Approval from the program dean is required in order for a core course from another program to count toward elective credit.

Example: A student in a specific program is required to take a total of 14 elective credits. Seven credits must be come from courses designated as counting toward that program. The other seven credits may come from electives in any program.

Graduate-Level Programs

Some core course credits may be eligible for transfer among NUNM programs to satisfy program requirements. All transfer credits are subject to approval by the program dean. Master and doctoral students may take elective credit from any NUNM graduate-level degree program, as long as they meet the prerequisites.

Undergraduates Taking Cross-Listed Graduate-Level Course

Undergraduate students who are pursuing a baccalaureate degree at NUNM may take any elective course in the undergraduate program and cross-listed courses in graduate programs, as long as they meet the prerequisites. In addition, core courses in other undergraduate programs can be taken for elective credit (maximum of 18 credits).

Certificate Programs-Applicable from Summer 2024-Spring 2025

NUNM offers certificates in several naturopathic and classical Chinese medicine modalities. To be eligible for consideration, applicants must already be enrolled in a degree program at NUNM, be in good academic standing, and meet the certificate program requirements.

Homeopathic Medicine Certificate

Homeopathic medicine, a medical system developed in Germany at the end of the 18th century, is based on the principle of “like cures like.” Homeopathic remedies are derived primarily from substances that come from plants and minerals. Clinical observation indicates that it works on a subtle, yet powerful, energetic level, gently acting to promote healing on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels.

The Homeopathy Certificate is open to current naturopathic medicine students, and begins to prepare the recipient to apply for the Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians (HANP) credential after they graduate. The certificate requires a student to take all the required coursework in the naturopathic program, as well as three elective courses. There are additional requirements for case analysis, and written papers, to complete this certificate. Students are required to apply to be included in the program, to ensure that they will be able to schedule the necessary classes around their naturopathic schedule while they are pursuing their naturopathic degree. All courses are taught by NUNM homeopathy department faculty. Full certificate requirements are available on campus.

Naturopathic Childbirth / Midwifery Program Certificate

The Natural Childbirth/Midwifery program at NUNM is a synthesis of the philosophies of both naturopathic medicine and traditional midwifery. NUNMs didactic program prepares students planning to practice naturopathic midwifery and students who, although not pursuing midwifery as a career, plan to care for women and children in their practice. With dual training in naturopathic medicine and midwifery, naturopathic physicians are uniquely qualified to provide comprehensive health care for women and their families. NUNM’s Natural Childbirth Certificate coursework meets the didactic licensure requirements for Oregon, New Hampshire, Montana, Utah and Vermont and is recognized by the Washington State midwifery Board. The coursework can also apply to CPM requirements for licensure in other states. Individuals interested in practicing naturopathic midwifery in other areas should contact their local governing agencies to inquire about these requirements. Additionally, each state requires practical clinical experience which is not included in this certificate program. NUNM does not formally offer clinic training but there are often local opportunities available to student to gain the clinical experience in the private practices of local naturopathic doctors.

Application for the Program

Students may apply to the program at any time throughout the ND program and must be in good academic standing. Passing of the Reproductive block (CLS7310 , CLS7310T , CLS7310L) is required before starting these elective courses. For those who have already taken/passed the Reproductive Block, it is highly recommended to apply to the program before registering for the first elective as it assures that the electives will be offered. The application may be requested from the Registrar’s office. The Natural Childbirth electives are open to all students regardless of acceptance into the certificate program. Students not in the certificate program may enroll for any electives but will not be given priority during registration to ensure availability. 

Requirements for NUNM certificate in Natural Childbirth

1. Acceptance into program (application and payment of program fee)
2. Completion of CLS7310  , CLS7310T  , CLS7310L   - Reproductive Block
3. Completion of the following electives
   1. NDER 7330E Natural Childbirth II: Pregnancy  
   2. NDER 7340E Natural Childbirth III: Labor and Delivery  
   3. NDER 8420E Natural Childbirth IV: Postpartum  
   4. NDER 8430E: Natural Childbirth V: Neonatology   
   5. NDER 8440E: Natural Childbirth VI: Special Topics  
   6. NDER 8441E: Natural Childbirth VII: Legal Aspects  

Certificate of Advanced Studies in Classical Chinese Medicine

Classical Chinese medicine represents one of humanity’s richest and uninterrupted streams of traditional knowledge. It is a highly sophisticated clinical system that offers a real alternative for the serious healthcare needs of our time. It is a holistic system of medicine that combines the art and science of human care developed over millennia and is rooted in the ancient tradition of practitioner as medical scholar. The study of classical Chinese medicine involves merging modern innovations with ancient whole-systems science in order to gain new insights into health and healing for the benefit of patients.

Fully aligned with the CCM mission, this certificate program enables motivated students to delve more deeply into the classical roots of Chinese medicine. It consists of nine Classical Texts courses, Bazi Suanming and two courses in Chinese Cultural Arts. These courses are rarely included in Chinese medicine programs in China or the US, and they are specifically designed to connect the serious student of classical Chinese medicine with the authentic milieu of the ancient scholar practitioner.

Qigong Certificate

The Qigong Certificate program is taught in two levels, with each level having a separate admissions screening process. The first level has an academic focus and the second level trains the student to teach their own qigong classes.

Shiatsu Certificate

The Shiatsu Certificate Program consists of six courses (204 hours) taken over two years. It is designed to be pursued concurrently with the MAcCHM, DAcCHM, MAc or ND programs. At the end of the certificate program, students will be fully prepared to use shiatsu as an independent treatment modality.

Non-Degree Seeking Students-Applicable from Summer 2024-Spring 2025

A non-degree seeking student is someone who is not enrolled in a degree program, but seeks to take a course at NUNM. Those who wish to enroll in a course, but not a degree program may apply as a non-degree seeking student in the School of Undergraduate & Graduate Studies. Approval is based on space availability, pre-requisite completion, as well as, instructor and program dean approval. Graduates of NUNM who seek to add a certificate program may apply to do so, provided specific requirements are met. Practitioners seeking continuing education units (CEUs) should contact the Office of Advancement. 

• Application fee of $25 (non-refundable). Check payable to NUNM. Current students, NUNM employees and alumni are exempt from the application fee.
• No lab courses may be audited (for example: histology lab).
• Payment is required prior to starting the course.
• Audit fee is 80% of regular tuition for academic courses.
• No refund will be given after the first class meeting.

Non-Degree Admission Registration Requirements 

Non-degree seeking students are responsible for submitting all application requirements to the Office of Admissions. To audit or take a course for credit, please complete the required Non-Degree Seeking Students Registration Form  and submit the following supporting supplements:

• Please complete the Certificate of Immunization Form.
• Please provide proof of TB testing.

*Individuals who have been enrolled at NUNM within the last twelve months are not required to provide proof of TB test.

If you need to take a TB test, testing is available at the NUNM Health Centers – Lair Hill on 3025 South Corbett Avenue. Please submit a copy of the following NUNM TB Test Request Form to the clinic. Lab appointment required. For clinic and lab hours/lab fees, please call 503.552.1551.

Background Check Policy and Request – Please complete a student background check through CastleBranch by following these instructions. Review information policy and submit a complete copy of the Release of Information Form and confirmation receipt from CastleBranch with your registration form.

Please confirm:

• Registration form is complete with authorized signatures from the program dean and instructor of the course,
• Certificate of Immunization,
• Proof of TB testing
• Release of Information
• CastleBranch receipt are COMPLETE prior to submitting application to:

Mailing Address:
NUNM Office of Admissions
49 South Porter St., Portland, OR 97201

Physical Address of Location:
NUNM Office of Admissions
2828 SW Naito Parkway – Suite 350, Portland, OR 97201

Office hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Telephone: 503.552.1660 | Fax: 503.499.0027
Email: admissions@nunm.edu

Scholarships

Through the generosity of donors, National University of Natural Medicine is pleased to offer the following scholarships to assist students with their cost of education. Visit each scholarship page to learn more about the scholarship and any scholarship–specific application requirements. New students, please contact the Admissions Office for all incoming student scholarships. Visit https://nunm.edu/scholarships/ for more information. 

Immunization and Health Screening Policy

All immunization records are required upon matriculation. Failure to meet this requirement could be grounds for an admissons deferment to the next academic entry point. 

As a NUNM health care worker, students and residents must comply with NUNM immunization and health screening requirements which are obligatory by Oregon state law (OAR 409-030-0100 to 409-030-0250). Students and residents must obtain and provide documentation of appropriate immunizations and TB clearance and/or documents of positive serology, as well as a negative 10 panel urine drug screen prior to matriculation (students) or starting a clinical assignment (residents). See Section 11.7 of the Student Handbook for greater detail on NUNM drug testing policy. Students and residents must maintain compliance with all applicable immunization and health screening requirements throughout their programs. Individual requirements may vary depending on training location.  Students in programs within the School of Graduate Studies who do not have clinical rotations within the NUNM Clinics/Health Centers will be responsible for meeting immunization requirements for any external clinical rotation sites.

Students from the School of Undergraduate and Graduate Studies who will not be working within the NUNM Clinic System and who wish to claim non-medical exemptions must obtain OHA Exemption and Immunity documentation as well as meet with the CMO and Dean of Students for review of requirements. Students will document acknowledgement that by requesting exemptions they may have limited clinical rotations available and the limitations may delay graduation from their program. 

Students and residents who do not meet the initial immunization and health screening requirements by their scheduled start date will not be permitted in the clinical environment until all requirements have been met. Students will have a hold placed on their registration. If it is determined that a student or resident does not meet these requirements at any point in time, it is the responsibility of the Chief Medical Officer, with the support of the program Dean, to remove the student or resident from clinical service until they have met all immunization and health screening requirements.

Requirements:

I. Immunizations

1. Completed Immune Status Form upon matriculation.
2. Documentation of Immunity: Incoming students and residents must provide the following documentation of immunity to the relevant vaccine preventable diseases to NUNM prior to student or resident orientation. The deadline for students starting at the beginning of the academic year is the first day of classes. For residents starting later in the academic year, paperwork must be submitted no later than the official appointment start date.
3. Evidence of immunization may be demonstrated through the following:
   • A document appropriately signed or officially stamped and dated by a qualified medical professional or an authorized representative of the local health department, which must include the following.
   • Written documentation by a qualified medical professional indicating the month and year the diagnosis of the disease was confirmed.
   • Documentation of proof of immunity to the disease via titer; or
   • The month and year of each dose of each vaccine received; or
   • An official record from the Oregon ALERT Immunization Information System.
4. Exemptions: Individual student medical exemptions from specific immunizations will be maintained by the office of the Chief Medical Officer as part of the overall record of the student. Documentation for medical exemption requires a written statement of exemption signed by a qualified medical professional. Medical exemption statements must include the following:

• Student’s name
• Birth date
• Medical condition that contraindicates vaccine
• List of vaccines contraindicated
• Approximate time until the condition resolves, if applicable,
• Healthcare provider’s signature
• Healthcare provider’s contact information including the phone number.

Non-medical exemptions from immunizations are not allowed under Oregon state law for students in healthcare profession programs.

Specific vaccines required:

1. Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)

For students and residents born after December 31, 1956, one of the following is required:

• Documentation of TWO properly administered immunizations.
• Immune titers for measles (rubeola), mumps, and rubella.

• Healthcare provider documented disease history.

Students and residents born before 1/1/1957, must meet one of the following requirements:

• Documentation of 1 dose (each or as MMR) of live measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines given after 12 months of age.
• Positive measles and mumps IgG serology.
• Students and residents born before 1/1/1957, are considered immune to Rubella.

2. Varicella

Students and residents must meet one of the following requirements:

• History of varicella infection per physician documentation
• Documentation of 2 doses of live vaccine given after 12 months of age. Recommended interval is 4-8 weeks between doses.
• Varicella titer indicating immunity if the student has previously had the chicken pox.

3. Hepatitis B

Students and residents must meet one of the following requirements:

• Documentation of 3 dose vaccine series.
• Positive anti-HBs serology.

4. Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis

• Documentation of single dose of TDaP vaccine and/or Td booster within the past 10 years. TDaP vaccine can be administered without concern for the length of time since the most recent Td vaccine. If it has been longer than 10 years since the TDaP, a Td or TDaP booster is required. 
• Titer demonstrating immunity to all three (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis).  

Vaccines recommended but not required

1. Polio

NUNM follows CDC recommendations. The CDC recommends polio vaccine for healthcare workers treating patients who could have polio or have close contact with a person who could be infected with poliovirus.

2. Influenza

Currently, Oregon law (ORS 433.407) states that facilities employing healthcare workers must offer the flu vaccine, but may not require employees or students to be immunized unless a state and federal rule requires it.

Required Screenings

1. Tuberculosis Screening

Tuberculosis screening must occur at NUNM during orientation prior to student or resident matriculation for those students/residents who will be on NUNM campus for any reason during their training. Screening consists of Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA). The two IGRAs that have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration are:

• QuantiFERON®-TB Gold In-Tube test
• T-SPOT® TB test

Students testing positive for TB by either of these methods must undergo further testing with a chest x-ray. 

Students with a current or prior positive test and positive chest x-ray are required to provide documentation from their health care provider including the following:

1. TB test result
2. Chest x-ray report
3. Determination by the health care provider if this is a latent TB infection or active TB disease
4. Treatment; including what it was, when started, when completed, etc.

Students who have active TB disease will be restricted from school and patient contact until certified free of disease, in accordance with CDC and Multnomah County Health Department policy.

For further information about TB testing and compliance, see section 12.16 of the NUNM Student Handbook.

2. 10 Panel Drug Screen

In compliance with ORS 409-030-0100, clinical students and residents must obtain a valid 10-panel urine drug screen and receive a negative result within 30 days of matriculation at NUNM. See section 11.7 of the Student Handbook for detail.

Student Exemption from TB Testing, Immunizations, and Drug Testing 

Policy 

This policy outlines the exemption criteria for non-degree seeking online students who are enrolled in programs at NUNM from completing Tuberculosis (TB) testing, immunizations, and drug testing requirements. 

Exemption Criteria: 

Non-degree seeking online-only students at NUNM are exempt from the following health-related requirements: 

1. Tuberculosis (TB) Testing: Non-degree seeking online-only students are not required to undergo TB testing, including any related chest X-rays or other diagnostic tests. 

2. Immunizations: Non-degree seeking online-only students are not required to provide documentation of immunizations or vaccinations typically mandated for degree-seeking students. 

3. Drug Testing: Non-degree seeking online-only students are exempt from any drug testing requirements applicable to degree-seeking students. 

Exceptions: 

If at any time, there is an exceptions to the type of course a non-degree seeking online student is enrolled in, and that course has a clinical component, the policies mandating compliance with all screening and testing take precedence over this policy.   

Procedure 

Verification of Status: 

To qualify for exemption from TB testing, immunizations, and drug testing, students must meet both of the following criteria: 

a. Non-Degree Seeking: Students must have been formally classified as non-degree seeking by NUNM’s admissions office. 

b. Online-Only Enrollment: Students must be enrolled exclusively in online courses or programs and must not be physically present on any of NUNM’s campuses. 

Application for Readmission Policy -Applicable from Summer 2024-Spring 2025

The purpose of this policy is to describe some of NUNM’s practices when a student seeks readmission to a program. Not all circumstances are described, and NUNM reserves the right to use its judgment when determining whether to readmit a student who was formerly enrolled.

Undergraduate Programs

Returning after academic suspension: Undergraduate students who have been academically suspended must apply for readmission. Such students may not apply for readmission until the following criteria have been met:

• Demonstrated success of a minimum of 12 credits from an accredited college or university with a GPA of 2.50 or higher (submit transcript to the Office of Admissions); and
• Submission of a reapplication to the Office of Admissions. The student should include a personal assessment of their poor academic performance, and a plan of action for successful completion of their NUNM degree.

NUNM may also impose the following requirements upon readmission for a student who was academically suspended:

1. Student must meet with the Center for Academic Success to sign and comply with all conditions of an academic contract; and
2. Student will be on academic probation until the student earns a minimum term GPA of 2.50 and has a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00.

Expelled students: Students expelled for any reason are ineligible for readmission to NUNM.

Additional considerations: There is no guarantee of readmission to NUNM. When reviewing an application for readmission, NUNM may take into account any factors and impose any requirements it deems appropriate under the circumstances.

Masters and Doctorate Programs

Returning after academic suspension: Students who have been academically suspended must apply for readmission. Such students may not apply for readmission for a minimum of one calendar year from time of suspension, unless noted differently in the suspension letter.

Documentation may be required to prove that the circumstances leading to the academic suspension have been remedied. NUNM may impose the following requirements upon readmission for a student who was academically suspended:

1. Satisfactory completion of remedial work prior to readmission,  including repeating some courses and clinic shifts.
2. A meeting with the Center for Academic Success to sign and comply with all conditions of an academic contract.

Return on academic probation for a minimum of one academic year or until all previously failed courses have been resolved, whichever is longer.

Expelled students: Students expelled for any reason are ineligible for readmission to NUNM.

Additional considerations: There is no guarantee of readmission to NUNM. When reviewing an application for readmission, NUNM may take into account any factors and impose any requirements it deems appropriate under the circumstances.

Students who have Withdrawn from an NUNM Program

Students who have withdrawn, either administratively or voluntarily, from NUNM or an NUNM program must wait at least one application cycle to apply for readmission. Withdrawn students are required to follow the same process as first-time applicants. In addition, NUNM may impose one or more of the following requirements for a student who applies for readmission and has been separated from NUNM for more than one year:

1. Satisfactory completion of an entrance exam prior to entering the clinic to assess skill level.
2. Satisfactory completion of remedial work, which may include repeating some courses and clinic shifts.
3. A meeting with the Center for Academic Success to sign and comply with all conditions of an academic contract if the student was on academic probation when withdrawn. The student will remain on academic probation until all previously failed courses have been resolved.
4. Submit and pass an additional drug screening and background check.

Completing these steps does not guarantee readmission to NUNM. NUNM reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant or impose additional requirements.

Questions regarding this policy may be directed to the director of admissions, academic dean(s) or dean of students.