Wie werde ich Naturarzt?
How do I become a naturopath?
ATTENTION: Are you interested in training to become a "naturopath"? - Then you should know: These designations are no longer permitted in Switzerland, as the word components "doctor" and "physician" are only permitted for people with a university degree and qualification. The term "naturopath", on the other hand, is just right for you.
Training to become a naturopath is based on a sound education in the field of alternative medicine. It takes at least four years, is part-time and costs from CHF 35,000 upwards*.
For the four specialties Traditional European Naturopathy (TEN), Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurvedic Medicine and Homeopathy, the educational pathways in Switzerland are regulated by the OdA AM (Organization of the Alternative Medicine Workplace), lead to the OdA AM certificate and enable the acquisition of the federal diploma as a naturopath in the corresponding specialty. Other healing arts - such as Traditional Tibetan Medicine - follow their own rules.
The training leading to the OdA AM certificate consists of six modules:
- M1 Basic medical training
- M2 specialty (TEN, TCM, Ayurvedic medicine or homeopathy)
- M3 Health and ethics
- M4 Working as a therapist
- M5 Leading and managing operations
- M6 Practical training
With subsequent practical work under supervision (M 7), you can prepare for the Advanced Federal Professional Examination (AFPE) and the Federal Diploma.
Please note: To work as a self-employed naturopath, you need a license to practice in most cantons; this in turn usually requires a federal diploma.
You can find more details and lots more information in ourGuide to training and continuing education, further training in naturopathy and complementary therapy.
* An overview of the direct and indirect costs of such training can be found athere.
