Understanding exactly how long it takes to become a licensed naturopathic doctor gives useful context for what that “ND” after a provider’s name actually represents.
Quick Answer: Becoming a licensed naturopathic doctor typically takes 7 to 8 years of higher education total: at least 3 to 4 years of undergraduate premedical coursework, followed by a 4-year, graduate-level accredited naturopathic medical program. After graduating, candidates must pass the NPLEX licensing exams, and in Oregon specifically, an additional NPLEX EPE exam, before they can practice as a licensed ND. Some NDs pursue additional residency training or specialty certifications after graduation, extending the timeline further for those who choose that path.
The Full Timeline, Step by Step
Undergraduate Premedical Coursework (3 to 4 years)
Naturopathic medical schools require completion of premedical coursework similar to what MD and DO programs require: biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and related sciences, typically completed through a bachelor’s degree.
Naturopathic Medical School (4 years)
The first two years closely parallel conventional medical school: anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, and pharmacology. The final two years shift toward naturopathic diagnostic and treatment methods, clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, physical medicine, and supervised clinical training seeing real patients.
Licensing Exams
Graduates must pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX), covering basic sciences, clinical sciences, and therapeutics. Oregon is one of only four states (alongside Idaho, New Mexico, and Vermont) that also requires passing the NPLEX EPE (Entry Exam Prescriptive) for prescriptive authority.
State Licensure
Once exams are passed, candidates apply for licensure through their state’s naturopathic board, in Oregon, the Oregon Board of Naturopathic Medicine, which also sets ongoing continuing education requirements to maintain an active license.
By the Numbers
- Total education time is typically 7 to 8 years of higher education: undergraduate premedical study plus a 4-year doctoral program.
- There are currently only about 7 federally accredited naturopathic medical schools worldwide.
- Oregon requires an additional NPLEX EPE exam beyond the standard licensing exam, one of only 4 states with this requirement.
- Ongoing continuing education is required to maintain an active Oregon ND license after initial licensure.
Comparing the ND Timeline to Other Paths
| Credential | Typical Total Timeline |
|---|---|
| Naturopathic Doctor (ND) | 7 to 8 years (undergrad + 4-year doctoral program) |
| MD/DO (without residency) | 8 years (undergrad + 4-year medical school) |
| MD/DO (with residency, primary care) | 11+ years total, including 3+ years of residency |
| Registered Dietitian | 4 to 6 years (bachelor’s plus supervised practice) |
Myth vs. Fact
Myth: “Becoming a naturopathic doctor takes a lot less time than becoming a conventional doctor.”
Fact: The core educational timeline is genuinely comparable to an MD or DO’s medical school years, roughly 7 to 8 years total including undergraduate study. The main difference from a primary care MD/DO is the additional multi-year hospital residency that follows medical school, which naturopathic training does not include in the same form.
Myth: “Once you graduate naturopathic medical school, you’re automatically licensed.”
Fact: Graduates must still pass the NPLEX licensing exams, and in Oregon, an additional exam, before they can legally practice as a licensed ND.
Myth: “All naturopathic schools have different, inconsistent standards.”
Fact: The small number of federally accredited naturopathic medical schools follow a consistent core curriculum framework, which is part of why the “ND” credential means something specific and checkable, unlike the unregulated “naturopath” title.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many years of school does it take to become a naturopathic doctor?
Typically 7 to 8 years total: 3 to 4 years of undergraduate premedical coursework plus a 4-year, graduate-level accredited naturopathic medical program.
Do naturopathic doctors complete a residency like MDs?
Naturopathic training includes supervised clinical work built into the 4-year program itself, rather than the separate multi-year hospital residency MDs and DOs complete after medical school. Some NDs pursue additional residency or specialty training voluntarily.
What exams does a naturopathic doctor have to pass?
The NPLEX (Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations), and in Oregon specifically, an additional NPLEX EPE exam for prescriptive authority.
Is naturopathic medical school accredited?
Yes, at the small number of federally accredited naturopathic medical schools recognized by the profession, which is an important distinction from unaccredited programs.
Do naturopathic doctors need continuing education to stay licensed?
Yes. Oregon, like other licensing states, requires ongoing continuing education to maintain an active ND license.
ProActive Choice in Bend, Oregon
Dr. Drew Collins, ND completed his full naturopathic medical training and is a licensed naturopathic physician in Bend, Oregon (Oregon license 1332):
- About Dr. Drew Collins: His training and background
- What Is a Naturopathic Doctor?: A complete guide to training and scope
- How to Verify a Naturopathic Doctor’s License: Checking credentials before you book
ProActive Choice is located in Bend, Oregon and serves patients throughout Central Oregon including Redmond, Sisters, La Pine, and Sunriver. Call +1 (858) 333-5196 or schedule a consultation online.
Further reading
- Naturopathic Education, Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME). The accrediting body describes the four-year ND program and its clinical training requirements.
- Professional Education, American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP). Outlines the four-year accredited program and the NPLEX board exams required for licensure.
- Applicant Requirements, Testing, Fees for Initial Licensure and Licensure by Reciprocity, Oregon Board of Naturopathic Medicine. The exams and other steps a graduate must complete to be licensed in Oregon.
Want to talk this through for your own health? Book a visit with Dr. Drew Collins, ND at 601 NW Harmon Blvd in Bend, or call (858) 333-5196.
