An undergraduate degree in alternative medicine can prepare you for a variety of career opportunities in holistic medicine as well as traditional healthcare. Depending on your area of specialty and your goals, you might earn a degree in alternative medicine that will allow you to set up a private practice, find a position with an established health- or wellness-focused organization, or provide you with the foundation needed to pursue ... an advanced degree
Within the area of complimentary and alternative medicine (CAM), you may be able to choose a specialty for your undergraduate study. These include massage therapy, where you will be trained in anatomy and various techniques — from Swedish massage to Asian bodywork. Your coursework may also prepare you to meet licensing and certification requirements. Once you have your credentials, you may be able to work as an independent massage therapist or serve in a variety of settings such as hospitals, gyms, and spas.
Other areas you can focus on within alternative medicine include acupuncture and oriental medicine or more general complimentary medicine. These programs require extensive study of anatomy and traditional Chinese medicine. You may also need to take classes in holistic nutrition, herbology, botany, bodyworks, and homeopathy.
In the coming years, career opportunities are expected to grow for practitioners of alternative medicine. An increased interest in non-invasive medical treatments and an aversion to taking too much medication has led many people to seek out alternative health care. Many traditional medical facilities now hire experts in alternative medicine to provide a more holistic approach to treatment at hospitals, nursing facilities, and offices for medical specialties such as nutrition or obstetrics and gynecology.
As a future practitioner, however, you should consider the fact that most alternative medical services may not be covered by insurance. If you plan to establish a private practice, you may want to take some business and computing courses. These can teach you important skills to help you manage your own business.
If you are considering continuing your studies beyond the bachelor degree, be sure that you fulfill the undergraduate requirements for acceptance to another degree. For instance, before applying to an advanced degree program at a chiropractic college you may need to complete specific courses in biology, psychology, physics, organic and inorganic chemistry. You may also need to pass English and humanities courses.
