What Can I Do with a Bachelor's Degree in Alternative Medicine?

Depending on the specific type and focus of the program, a 4-year bachelor's degree in alternative medicine could open up a number of job options for graduates. They might go on to practice alternative medicine, seek employment in the wellness industry or build careers in holistically oriented companies. Graduates might also consider teaching or continuing their education. Read on to learn more about these job options and their requirements.

Practicing Alternative Medicine

Many graduates of an alternative medicine program choose to practice various forms of this healing art. Some of the most popular types include herbology, acupuncture, Reiki, reflexology, acupuncture and ayurveda. The practice of some types of alternative medicine does not require any additional degree or certification, although graduates may seek further training in a specific area. Practitioners might work as part of larger alternative medicine institutes or they might become self-employed.

Important Facts About This Occupation

Common Courses	Botany, Herbology, Homeopathy, Chinese Medicine, Nutrition & Aging
Work Environment	Private practice; Clinics and healthcare settings
Online Availability	Some programs offered entirely online
Possible Careers	Massage therapy, acupuncturist, reflexologist, natural medicine practitioner
Median Salary (2021)	$100,300 (for health diagnosing and treating practitioners, all other)
Job Outlook (2021-2031)	0% growth (for health diagnosing and treating practitioners, all other)

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Work in the Wellness Industry

People with a bachelor's degree in alternative medicine may explore careers in the health and wellness industry. They might become personal trainers, nutritionists, life coaches or massage therapists. These positions are often sought at gyms and spas. Such careers also allow for self-employment and contract work. An increasing number of physicians and medical facilities also offer positions, particularly for massage therapists. Some of these careers require state licenses.

Work in Business

More business-minded graduates could consider careers wherein they supply goods and services to the alternative health industry. These jobs might include the manufacture and distribution of herbal supplements and remedies or the importing of Oriental medicine supplies. Moreover, graduates might choose to work in an administrative capacity for companies that operate alternative medicine facilities.

Teaching

Graduates who have bachelor's degrees in alternative medicine might consider teaching. For instance, they could potentially help to educate practitioners by becoming instructors of continuing education courses at alternative medicine centers. It might also be possible for them to offer their own courses through participating community colleges.

Further Education

Having earned bachelor's degrees, graduates might choose to pursue advanced degrees in order to expand their career opportunities. Further education options might include a master's, professional or doctoral degree programs in nutrition, homeopathy, chiropractic, naturopathy, medicine or nursing.