Master's degree programs in the field of homeopathic medicine train practitioners to heal through holistic methods and alternative medical therapies. Depending on the state where you practice, you may need a license as a homeopathic physician, though the federal government doesn't oversee regulatory guidelines. Keep reading for more information about homeopathy and related degree programs.
What Is Homeopathy?
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), homeopaths use small doses of diluted medicines to help their patients' bodies heal themselves (www.nih.gov). A highly individualized treatment method, homeopathy involves two principles: 'like cures like' and the 'law of minimum dose.' Homeopathy is often used as a wellness and prevention treatment, and many practitioners use homeopathic remedies as complementary treatments in conjunction with Western medical practices.
The NIH says that homeopathy is a controversial alternative medical therapy because it's difficult to test through established scientific methods. Medicines are often given in such small doses that it's difficult to measure them, and treatments differ so much between patients that there isn't always consistency. Homeopaths, patients and groups like the AIH point to anecdotal evidence and some research that indicates its effectiveness, though.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Field Details</b></td><td>Homeopathic philosophy focuses on wellness, illness prevention, individualized treatments, using small doses of medicine</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Degree Types</b></td><td>Master's in homeopathic medicine are rare; a student could pursue an M.D. or O.D. and then go on to receive specific homeopathic training</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Other Options</b></td><td>Naturopathic medicine doctoral degrees, complementary and alternative medicine master's degrees, holistic medicine master's degrees</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Practice Regulations</b></td><td>Regulations will vary by state, though membership in a professional organization like the AIH may help you meet requirements</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td> $82,420 (<i>for health diagnosing and treating practitioners, all other</i>)*</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td> 0% (<i>for health diagnosing and treating practitioners, all other</i>)*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---CanIEarnAMasterSDegreeInHomeopathicMedicine">Can I Earn a Master's Degree in Homeopathic Medicine?</h3><p>Homeopathic practitioners come by their training through various means and, while courses in homeopathy are offered in other master's degree programs, programs specifically in homeopathic medicine are difficult to find. Some homeopathic medical professionals have earned a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathy (O.D.) degree and then received training in homeopathy. Homeopathic professional organizations, such as the American Institute of Homeopathy (AIH) and the Arizona Homeopathic and Integrative Medical Association offer courses in homeopathy that might count toward some states' requirements for licensing.
</p><h3 id="section---CanILearnHomeopathyThroughOtherPrograms">Can I Learn Homeopathy Through Other Programs?</h3><p>Homeopathy courses are often included in complementary and alternative medicine master's degree programs. You can also earn a naturopathic medicine degree, which is a doctoral program that also includes some discussion of homeopathic remedies. Online options accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council include master's degrees in holistic medicine and other alternative therapies.
</p><h3 id="section---HowDoIBeginToPracticeHomeopathy">How Do I Begin to Practice Homeopathy?</h3><p>You'll have to check with your state to determine the regulations that apply to you. Some states require you to be an M.D. or an O.D., receive training approved by state boards and pass a number of exams. Others regulate homeopathy under the umbrella of other fields, like naturopathy or other alternative medical practices. Membership in organizations like the AIH or other state-based groups can also signify that your qualifications meet recognized standards.</p>
