In today's rapidly changing healthcare landscape, professionals with a passion for making a difference and reshaping the way healthcare works are in high demand. The Doctor of Science in Integrative Health program offered by the American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS) is designed to equip health and wellness professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to create positive change in their communities. This online degree is tailored for practitioners, educators, healthcare professionals, and individuals driven to contribute to research in the field of integrative health.
The Rising Demand for Integrative Health
Market research indicates that the use of integrative health and wellness practices continues to grow steadily. In fact, nearly 40% of Americans now incorporate complementary and alternative treatments into their healthcare routines, ranging from dietary supplements to services like chiropractic care and massage therapy. Additionally, medical insurance policies increasingly cover these services, recognizing their value in promoting holistic well-being. However, despite this growing demand, there remains a shortage of accredited terminal degrees in integrative health in the United States. Graduates of ACHS's Doctor of Science program will play a crucial role in filling this gap by becoming skilled integrative health professionals.
A Promising Career Outlook
With healthcare occupations projected to grow by 13% from 2021 to 2031, professionals with advanced degrees in integrative health are well-positioned for diverse and rewarding career opportunities. Graduates of the Doctor of Science in Integrative Health program will possess the skills and training required to educate others, apply specialized knowledge in professional and clinical settings, and actively contribute to community and global health initiatives.
What You Will Learn
The Doctor of Science in Integrative Health program at ACHS focuses on imparting a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge to its students. The program offers various specializations, such as functional nutrition, aromatherapy, and herbal medicine.
Some of the key learning outcomes graduates will achieve include how to:
- Analyze current research including the major literature, theories, practices, problems, ethical issues, and research methods in integrative health and area(s) of specialization such as functional nutrition, aromatherapy, or herbal medicine;
- Use theory and research evidence to identify, design, and assess behavioral and action-focused functional nutrition and integrative health education protocols;
- Create activities and coalitions with global, national, state, or community organizations to promote health policies and environments that support food and health sovereignty;
- Synthesize and review evidence-based research and literature to apply best practices in integrative health;
- Evaluate the impact of ethical, socioeconomic, and racial influences on health outcomes;
- Implement integrative health professional scope of practice and code of ethics based on specialization;
- Design, conduct, and publish original research in integrative health and functional nutrition as demonstrated by the Doctoral Dissertation Project.
Explore ACHS's Integrative Health Programs
If you're passionate about advancing your knowledge and helping others through wellness, ACHS offers a range of online programs within the Integrative Health Department. These programs cater to various interests and career goals, including Master's degrees, Graduate Certificates, and Micro-credentials. Visit our Integrative Health Program page to explore the programs and find the one that aligns with your aspirations.
Nutrition State Law Disclosures
It's important to be aware that different states have enacted laws regulating the practice of dietetics and nutrition services. Certain states have restrictions on the use of titles like "Nutritionist" or "Nutrition Counselor," while others do not. It's crucial to note that ACHS programs do not train graduates to become Registered Dietitians. ACHS provides comprehensive information on nutrition practice regulations by state on our Nutrition State Law Disclosures page. Furthermore, ACHS partners with the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP) to educate students and graduates about professional opportunities in the holistic nutrition field. New students in the program also receive a student membership to the NANP for one year.
Embrace Your Future
ACHS's Doctor of Science in Integrative Health program is approved by the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP) and meets the education requirements for graduates to sit for the Board Exam in Holistic Nutrition certification, offered by the Holistic Nutrition Credentialing Board. The program provides an opportunity for scholars, educators, advocates, and lifestyle coaches to further their careers and contribute to the field of integrative health.
Eligibility
If you hold a Master's degree or higher from an accredited institution, you are eligible to apply for the Doctor of Science in Integrative Health program. The admissions requirements include official transcripts and a recommendation for admission by the Program Dean and ACHS Admissions Committee.
Take the Next Step
- Speak with an advisor.
- Tuition: Learn more about tuition and talk with your advisor about payment options to fit your budget.
- Submit your application.
