If you enjoy working with people and have an interest in holistic health, you may want to consider studying alternative medicine.

An alternative medicine degree prepares you for a career in a variety of fields, including natural wellness centers, health spas, rehabilitation clinics, and even some traditional medical settings.

Alternative medicine degrees provide a cross-functional education that integrates a variety of health and wellness disciplines, from nutrition to chiropractic, to help you learn a holistic approach to healing. 

In this post, we discuss what kinds of careers you can pursue after a degree in alternative medicine. 

What Is Alternative Medicine?

Also known as integrative medicine, alternative medicine focuses on ways to improve health outside of standard medical treatment. It emphasizes wellness, natural remedies, and holistic health. Most importantly, it treats the whole person — integrating physical, mental, and spiritual aspects — rather than just the symptoms of disease.

Some people seek alternative medicine in addition to traditional medicine, giving it the field’s other name: complementary medicine. 

Alternative medicine is a broad umbrella term that includes the following fields, among others:

  • Chinese Medicine 
  • Acupuncture
  • Homeopathy
  • Ayurvedic Medicine
  • Herbology and Botany

What Jobs Can I Get After Completing an Alternative Medicine Degree?

A degree in alternative medicine provides a solid background for multiple healthcare careers, including the following. 

Massage Therapist

Massage therapists work in a huge variety of environments: health spas, sports clinics, resorts, and fitness centers. All massage therapists use their hands to manipulate muscles to ease pain and promote relaxation. However, those who specialize in alternative medicine may also incorporate other elements into their practice, such as aromatherapy, Reiki, and reflexology.

Aromatherapist

Aromatherapy uses essential oils and plant extracts for therapeutic benefits, both physical and mental. Some practitioners combine aromatherapy with other practices, such as yoga, massage, or meditation.

Movement Therapist

Some people seek out personal trainers who integrate holistic healing techniques into their practices. This may include yoga, stretching, strength training, and other movement-oriented training to improve the body and mind. 

Other potential career options in alternative medicine include the following:

  • Chinese medicine practitioner
  • Ayurvedic practitioner
  • Chiropractor
  • Homeopath
  • Energy healer
  • Meditation trainer
  • Beauty expert

Depending on state requirements, certain jobs (like personal trainers, massage therapists, and acupuncturists) may require additional certification or licensure.

Step into the Field of Alternative Medicine at Everglades University

As more alternative therapies move into the mainstream, an alternative medicine degree can help you make the most of expanding opportunities. Whether you want to own your own business, work in a holistic health setting, or integrate alternative techniques into traditional medicine, Everglades University is a great place to start.

Take the first step towards your career in holistic health today by enrolling in the Bachelor of Science with a major in Alternative Medicine.