Online Homeopathy Schools: How to Choose

Homeopathy programs are uncommon in the United States, especially online, and there are no uniform standards for accreditation. While Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (D.N.) degree programs may include homeopathy courses, accredited programs are not offered online. Already-licensed health care professionals in some states may be able to enroll in a state-licensed online homeopathy school.

How to Choose an Online Homeopathy Education Program

Accreditation

Homeopathy is controversial because current scientific principles do not explain how a massively diluted substance could have any effect on a person's body. According to the National Institute of Health's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, the field lacks accepted standards for education, career preparation and licensing. There are no United States Department of Education-recognized agencies that accredit homeopathy schools.
Online homeopathy programs may be licensed or approved by the state in which the school is located. This process may be less rigorous than United States Department of Education-recognized national or regional accreditation procedures.

Program Goals

Some schools stress homeopathic first aid and prescription skills for practicing doctors of osteopathic medicine (D.O.s) and doctors of medicine (M.D.s). Other schools emphasize business practices for homeopathic consultants or homeopathic knowledge for self-treatment. Programs may also prepare students for certification exams offered by homeopathy organizations.
Programs in certain states may prepare only physicians or other licensed health care professionals for state licensing exams. Because of this, students interested in homeopathy programs may want to explore other educational options that may require on-campus study prior to undertaking the study of homeopathy.

Online Homeopathy Education Options

Certificate in Homeopathy Consulting

Working physicians may enroll in this program in order to offer consulting services in homeopathic medicine to their clinical practice. Students may attend class through online course management applications and participate with fellow students via online forums, e-mail and instant message communications. Coursework may concentrate on anatomy, physiology and general business and consulting skills.

Homeopathic Online Practitioner Certificate

Medical professionals can enroll in this program to add homeopathic care to the services they offer patients. In addition to online coursework and assignments, students may be able to access live or streaming video lectures. Homeopathic remedies, their preparation and use are usually studied, along with practice management skills.

Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine

Legitimately accredited naturopathic schools don't offer the Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree online. Normally, this degree, which can include courses on homeopathy, requires applicants to have completed a bachelor's degree, usually in a medicine-related area. Students may be able to complete part or all of their prerequisites online.