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Frequently Asked Questions

•    How do I start my own residency?
Students cannot generate or start their own residency site.  CNME guidelines for site accreditation state that “all qualified applicants must be considered”- Therefore a student cannot be preselected as a resident when a site is being developed.  Students can be extremely valuable in helping to generate interest in a residency at which point they are encouraged to have the interested doctor/practice contact the Office of Postgraduate Medical Education.  We can then follow up and assist in site development.

•    What is a CNME certified residency?
CNME is the accrediting body for Naturopathic Medical Education.  By selecting a CNME certified residency an applicant can be sure that a site is held accountable for providing a well rounded education with appropriate mentoring, continuing education, salary, etc.

•    How do I make sure that I know about all residency options? 
At this time there is no central residency site location.  All CNME certified residencies are run through NCNM, Bastyr, or SCNM.  Applicants wishing to explore all residency options should review applications from each of the three schools.

•    Can I apply to one school if I attended another school? 
Any graduate of a CNME accredited 4 year Naturopathic Medical program may apply to any of the CNME certified residency programs.

•    As an international student am I eligible to apply for a residency?
Please be aware that you are required to be licensed as an ND in the USA to participate as a resident in the NCNM residency program.  Many states have differing licensure laws and we suggest that you research the licensure rules and regulations for the state in which you are applying for a residency position.  Also if you are selected to be a resident, you will be required to demonstrate that you are legally eligible to work in this country no later than September 30, 2010.  Historically, applicants have found it beneficial to hire an immigration attorney.  This would be at the applicant’s expense.

•    How much do Naturopathic Residents make?
Salaries ranges vary from 26,000 to 40,000 per year depending on the site.  Residency sites must cover malpractice insurance for the resident and are strongly encouraged to provide full benefits.

•    Are Naturopathic Doctors required to do a residency?
At this time Utah is the only state that requires a residency for licensure, but as more states become licensed, many are looking at making a residency required.