Study Alternative Medicine Abroad

The methods of alternative medicine are characterized by their holistic approach : In this sense, man is a unity of body, soul and environment. Diseases result from an imbalance between these parts. Treating the sick is primarily about activating the body's self-healing powers. Meditation and forms of movement such as Qi Gong are used to prevent diseases, for example.

In the meantime, alternative treatment methods are also increasingly recognized in western conventional medicine. Many doctors are now using them to supplement traditional therapies. For this reason, the term complementary medicine is increasingly being used here instead of alternative medicine. Universities are also paying tribute to this development and are now increasingly offering courses in complementary medicine.

Study programs in the field of alternative medicine

The Bachelor programs are primarily aimed at trained alternative practitioners. But it is also a good idea for physiotherapists, pharmacists and pharmaceutical- technical assistants to continue their training in alternative medicine programs. There are also bachelor programs on offer that can be completed without prior training and prepare for the alternative practitioner exam.

The master’s courses are aimed primarily at doctors who want to train in complementary medicine. Some study programs are also open to graduates of other courses in the field of health science. Many of the Bachelor and Master courses offered are designed to be part-time.

Bachelor

In the bachelor's program, students are taught the basics of alternative medicine. The curriculum starts with medical subjects such as anatomy and pathology. They also learn about the different approaches of naturopathic procedures. Depending on the study program and university, they choose a focus and specialize, for example, in homeopathy or European naturopathy. In addition to medical expertise, the universities also offer modules such as medical law or practice management. These prepare the students comprehensively for later independence in their profession.

Master

The master’s courses offer doctors, naturopaths, psychotherapists and graduates of other health science courses the opportunity to deepen their knowledge in the field of complementary medicine. Most universities offer programs in which the focus is on a specific healing method, such as traditional Chinese medicine or manual medicine. Legal, economic and ethical aspects also play a role in the course.

Studying alternative medicine: personal skills

The interest in alternative healing methods and a holistic view of the human being are of course basic requirements for studying complementary medicine. Applicants should bring scientific knowledge to study, which is necessary to understand the medical content. Since some of the specialist literature is only available in English, good knowledge of English is an advantage.

After graduation: career opportunities

As alternative healing methods are becoming increasingly popular, the career opportunities for graduates are also good. Anyone who has completed a primary-qualifying bachelor's degree in order to become an alternative practitioner must take the "official medical examination for practicing medicine" at the health department after completing their studies. Only then can graduates practice as a non-medical practitioner in a foreign or their own practice.

For doctors, further training in the field of alternative healing methods means a valuable additional qualification. The knowledge acquired can increase the prestige of your own practice and attract completely new customer bases. Clinics, hospitals and rehabilitation centers also increasingly employ doctors with knowledge in the field of complementary medicine.

Health scientists with a degree in alternative medicine can advise health insurance companies and companies in the medical and pharmaceutical industry on alternative healing methods. Working as a specialist journalist or working in associations and publishers is also possible. Master's graduates are often in managerial positions. They can also pursue an academic career.

Reasons for studying abroad

Many alternative healing methods known here come from outside Europe. A study stay in the respective countries offers students the unique opportunity to gain intensive insights into the healing arts and way of life there. In addition to the technical knowledge, the foreign language skills and intercultural skills gained are valuable additional qualifications.