CAREER SERVICES
The Office of Continuing Education and Alumni Affairs provides career and business resources and information for students and alumni in addition to the current business curriculum. Our staff is available to advise students and graduates on a variety of career-related topics, including:• Alumni contacts
• Scope of practice laws
• Licensing information
• Regional demographics
• Resume/cover letter writing
• Small business resources
• Networking
Careers in Natural Medicine
While the majority of graduates from NCNM enter practice as sole proprietors, opportunities for careers in research, integrative practice, corporate wellness, academics, and other fields are increasing. The Office of Career and Alumni Services manages an online database of professional opportunities where practitioners and graduating students can search for job openings, practices for sale, space to rent, and other professional resources. Some graduates from the naturopathic program choose to complete a residency program that assists in the transition from student to practicing physician.
Practitioner Surveys
In summer 2004 the Curriculum Committee of National College of Natural Medicine, in cooperation with the Office of Institutional Research and Assessment, surveyed NCNM alumni. The purpose of the survey was to obtain alumni opinion regarding success of the College in meeting its educational goals as well as to obtain information on the financial success of alumni.
Review an analysis of data from the completed surveys[open pdf file]
The Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges has also published a survey of practicing naturopaths:
AANMC Practitioner Survey – Summary[open pdf file]
AANMC Practitioner Survey – Full Data[open pdf file]
Seminar and Lecture Series
The Office of Continuing Education and Alumni Affairs hosts several supplementary business workshops and seminars during the academic year. Past topics include:
• Web Marketing
• Insurance Billing
• Branding and Marketing
• Curriculum Vitae and Resume Writing
• Public Speaking
We also invite alumni and other practitioners in the community to speak to students about their unique paths to practice. Our alumni have shared experiences in research, public health, international aid, sports medicine, and other exciting careers.
Upcoming Lectures and Workshops
To register, contact e-mail or call 503.552.1625
Academic Advising
The associate deans administer academic advising for each of the academic programs. Guidance is available to assist in creating a personal timetable for students on an extended program, as well as for academic and professional progress. Although students are not required to consult with an advisor, students who are not making satisfactory academic progress must consult with their program’s associate dean. Students who are pursuing any program other than the standard four-year ND, four-year MSOM, or six-year dual degree program must confer with their program’s associate dean to ensure all requirements are met.
Each program’s associate dean is responsible for advising on:
• Academic probation
• Changing tracks (four to five year, etc.)
• Leave of absence (regular or medical)
• Questions regarding the dual degree program
• Requests for permission to take exams early or late (in extraordinary circumstances only)
• Independent studies
• Grade appeals