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Also known as alternative medicine, the study of Integrative Health is the intersection between complementary alternative therapies and techniques and traditional medical practices. Additionally, it can also mean the use of non-western medicine to heal the mind, body, and spirit of every individual.
Emphasizing health and wellness education, as well as health and wellness management, it teaches students and professionals the benefits and integration of yoga, acupuncture, nutrition, wellness, and herbal medicine, among many others.
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Throughout the program, students discover a variety of non-invasive and drug-free methods of healing, including the spiritual aspects of integrative health. It will build upon the expertise of each learner, often a certified health education specialist, in the area of traditional medicine and immerse them in non-conventional healing techniques while paying attention to clinical research.
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The Lowdown
The best line master’s in integrative health degree programs are integrated with unique courses highlighting the connection between physical and mental health, including meditation, self-hypnosis, self-healing, mind-body healing, energy medicine, yoga, and herbal medicine.
Aspiring healthcare and wellness professionals, as well as integrative health practitioners, become proficient in different areas of alternative medicine while keeping wellness and lifestyle management in mind. Indeed, a rewarding career and diverse range of career opportunities attract many graduates to pursue advanced studies in the field!
Take note, a general program is only a stepping-stone to learning more about the highly diverse aspects of alternative medicine! Be sure to find an academic program that suits your interests and goals, including certifications and other credentialing requirements.
Methodology
Although a number of schools have already offered a 100% online graduate program in Integrative Health, aspiring students must find the best program suitable to their academic and professional aspirations. In this one-stop-shop guide, we’ve curated the best online master’s in integrative health programs according to the following set of criteria:
- Delivered in a 100% online learning format, with the option to pursue a full-time or part-time opportunity, allowing students to complete their degrees anytime, anywhere,
- Features a variety of integrative health or alternative medicine-related courses that encompasses a diverse range of specializations,
- Provides financial aid options, generous transfer credit policies, and comprehensive student support services for non-traditional learners,
- Taught by faculty members with industry-based knowledge and proficiencies,
- Fulfills credentialing requirements of different prestigious organizations in the integrative health field.
Visit our Methodology page and see our comprehensive ranking and school selection process.
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10 Best Online Master’s in Integrative Health Programs
Drexel University
Online Master of Science in Complementary and Integrative Health
Drexel University offers an M.S. in Complementary and Integrative Health program that can be completed in 45 credits, including core required courses and electives. The academic program is organized into four 10-week quarters annually, allowing students to complete more courses in a shorter duration.
- The M.S. in Complementary and Integrative Health is open to all healthcare professionals from a diverse range of disciplines. Interested applicants must have a health-related major to qualify for admission.
- Enrollment requirements include an accomplished application form, official transcripts, two professional letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume.
- The academic program is eligible for a variety of financial aid options. Special tuition discounts are available for members of Partner Organizations, the military, and alumni.
- The evidence-based program allows distance learners to simultaneously enroll in the Integrative Health & Wellness Coaching certificate program at the University of Arizona.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The Integrative Health Program has met the academic standards facilitated by the American Holistic Nurses Association. Distance learners are guaranteed to have an academic program that meets the core competencies of the Academic Consortium for Integrative Medicine and Health.
Additionally, graduates with the Complementary and Integrative Health graduate program and who have simultaneously completed the Integrative Health & Wellness certificate program from the University of Arizona are qualified to take the National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach exam.
Did You Know?
Drexel University provides a plethora of graduate minors that students can add to their master’s degree program. Most graduate minors include 3 to 4 courses that may or may not be related to the student’s academic program. They can either enroll in Public Health, Computing and Informatics, Arts and Sciences, and Nursing and Health Professions, among many others.
The George Washington University
Online Master of Science in Health Sciences in Integrative Medicine
George Washington University has a 100% online M.S. in Health Sciences in Integrative Medicine featuring a scientifically rigorous and interdisciplinary plan of study. The academic program is ideal for professionals wanting to focus on personalized lifestyle medicine, as well as integrative health and well-being.
- All programs feature patient-centered care methods using integrative medicine core competencies and evidence-based research from advanced techniques, such as metabolomics, proteomics, and genomics.
- The 36-credit graduate program can be completed within 30 months on average duration.
- If they aren’t ready to take the entire graduate program, aspiring students can enroll in the Graduate Certificate in Integrative Medicine. The 18-month certificate program allows students to transfer academic credits into the MSHS in Integrative Medicine online program.
- Students who are already Registered Dietitians and are already pursuing the graduate program with a Nutrition concentration are qualified to take the Certified Nutrition Specialist examination immediately after graduation. They are also recognized by the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists.
- The graduate program offers an academic track for licensed physicians seeking more advanced knowledge and expertise in the field. The MSHS in Integrative Medicine includes a 2-week in-person Fellowship tailored to fit interested students’ needs and goals.
What Makes This Program Unique:
GWU’s M.S. in Health Sciences in Integrative Medicine program is accredited by the American Board of Integrative Medicine. The academic program is designed to align with students’ academic and professional aspirations, offering three program tracks, namely the Graduate Certificate in Integrative Medicine, the M.S. in Integrative Medicine + Nutrition Concentration, and the M.S. in Integrative Medicine + Fellowship.
Did You Know?
While enrolled in the integrative health graduate program, students will receive a free membership in the Academic Consortium for Integrative Medicine and Health, including research updates, free webinars, and discounted registration for the International Congress on Integrative Medicine and Health.
Thomas Jefferson University
Online Master of Science in Integrative Health Sciences
Thomas Jefferson University’s M.S. in Integrative Health Sciences program is offered by the College of Health Professions and the Institute of Emerging Health Professions. The academic program is developed specifically for licensed and future healthcare professionals.
- The academic program includes ten courses offered during the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. A total of 30 credits is required for degree completion.
- To enroll, candidates must have a current enrollment in a healthcare program leading to licensure or already have a professional healthcare license.
- Full-time and part-time learning options are available to accommodate all types of students.
- A preview of courses includes the Foundations in Mind-Body Medicine, Advanced Concepts in Integrative Nutrition, Functional Genomics, Proteomics and Metabolomics, Foundations in Integrative Nutrition, and Advances in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
- A capstone course is required for the culminating experience. However, the program director will determine if a research course is also required.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The academic program is taught by physicians from Sidney Kimmel Medical College’s Department of Integrative Medicine & Nutritional Sciences, a national frontrunner in the field of integrative medicine. They are also practicing clinicians within the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health.
The Integrative Health Sciences graduate program is offered through the partnership between the Institute of Emerging Health Professions and the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health.
Did You Know?
The university’s M.S. in Integrative Health Sciences program already stacks three Advanced Practice Certificates, such as Integrative Health Education & Leadership, Integrative Nutrition, and Mind-Body Medicine. Interested students from different academic disciplines can pursue any of the certificate programs and can complete them within three semesters.
Northwestern Health Sciences University
Online Master of Health Science in Integrative Care
The Master of Health Science in Integrative Care at Northwestern Health Sciences University is ideal for professionals who aspire to become leaders in the healthcare industry or advance their careers in health coaching. The academic program highlights a trauma-informed approach to the curriculum, building upon students’ backgrounds in healthcare and helping them progress in a more integrative approach.
- The MHS in Integrative Care is a 100% online program that can be completed within a year or at students’ preferences with a customizable timeframe tailored to their needs.
- Aspiring students can start their program either in the fall, spring, or summer semesters.
- Students can choose one out of three specializations, such as Integrative Healthcare Administration, Integrative Health Coaching, or Trauma Informed Integrative Care, allowing them to focus their expertise and proficiencies that immediately apply to their profession.
- Each course has a 7-week duration, including a brief break between sessions. Distance learners can complete two classes at a time if they wish to complete their degree within a year.
- The 30-credit graduate program includes the Integrative Care Capstone as a culminating requirement. It involves a written proposal that focuses on a project within a community, clinical setting, or in combination with current public health initiatives.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The Master of Health Science in Integrative Care is distinguished by the American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation and is aligned with the philosophy grounded in holistic integrative care. Graduates with an Integrative Care degree are eligible to sit for the AHNCC National Certification.
The academic program is also ideal for candidates requiring academic content for meeting the continuing competency hours essential for recertification of nurse coaching or holistic nursing credentials.
Did You Know?
Northwestern Health Sciences University is a people-centered and holistic academic institution, making it one of the frontrunners in integrative care. Apart from educating students on the necessary tools for patient care, the university helps students learn how to apply a holistic framework in their lives, including developing resiliency, health, and personal growth. For more than 80 years, the university has been preparing and training students in Minnesota through holistic health sciences programs.
California Institute of Integral Studies
Online Master of Arts in Integrative Health Studies
California Institute of Integral Studies features a non-clinical M.A. in Integrative Health Studies program that prepares students to become wellness and integrative health professionals. Throughout the academic program, distance learners learn from rigorous experiential coursework and an engaging scholarly setting. The curriculum combines evidence-based science with mind-body-spirit integration.
- Throughout the graduate program, distance learners complete all required courses as a cohort. They also participate in supportive and collaborative learning.
- Full-time and part-time learning are available, with an average completion time of 24 months for full-time learners.
- The 36-unit program highlights strong affiliations with leaders in the health coaching industry. Students who are graduates of The International Nurse Coach Association, and The Institute for Integrative Nutrition are qualified to receive three units of academic credits when enrolling in the program.
- The final semester includes a capstone project on the students’ preferred integrative health research subject. It allows them to design, facilitate, and evaluate applied research in integrative health.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Graduates with the M.A. in Integrative Health Studies degree will also earn three certificates, including Health Coaching, Patient Navigation, and Transformative Imagery. All certificates provide graduates with specialized training in a multidisciplinary knowledge base approach, as well as additional competencies for setting them apart in the integrative health field.
The Health Coaching Certificate provides students with the requirements and credentials to qualify to take the National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach examination.
Did You Know?
At the start of the Integrative Health Studies program, the California Institute of Integral Studies facilitates a 6-day academic intensive at a retreat facility. It combines rigorous educational study with activities that support the mind-body-spirit, including shared meals, hikes, meditation, and yoga.
For interested applicants, its evening programs include various complementary medicine studies in topics such as community health advocacy, energy medicine, and sound healing.
John Patrick University of Health and Applied Sciences
Online Master of Science in Integrative and Functional Medicine
The John Patrick University of Health and Applied Sciences has an online M.S. in Integrative and Functional Medicine that holistically educates individuals to become skilled health and wellness professionals in a diverse range of settings, including healthcare, community organizations, and private organizations.
- The M.S. in Integrative and Functional Medicine offers six concentrations to choose from, such as Cannabinoid Medical Sciences, Lifestyle Medicine, Nutrition, Sports Medicine, Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Memory Care, and Precision Medicine and Bioinformatics.
- Enrollment requirements include a completed application form, three letters of reference, a CV/resume, official transcripts, a personal statement, and a non-refundable application fee.
- All concentrations require the completion of prerequisites in microbiology, biochemistry, chemistry, biology, and human anatomy & physiology. In contrast, the Cannabinoid Medical Sciences concentration requires the completion of Cannabis and CBD Product Formulations and Cannabis Therapy as prerequisite courses.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The Integrative and Functional Medicine program features a variety of concentrations that provide graduates with the necessary credentials and requirements for several institutions. Depending on the student’s preferred specializations, the following highlights the necessary credentialing:
- Nutrition, Lifestyle Medicine, Sports Medicine, and Cannabinoid Medical Sciences graduates meet the core nutrition requirements and competencies to take the Certified Clinical Nutritionist exam.
- Graduates with a doctoral degree and who have completed the Nutrition concentration are qualified to take the Diplomate American Clinical Board of Nutrition exam.
- Additionally, Nutrition graduates are qualified to submit for candidacy for the Diplomate of the Chiropractic Board of Clinical Nutrition through the Chiropractic Board of Clinical Nutrition. At the same time, the Sports Medicine concentration qualifies graduates to take the Certified Sports Nutritionist exam through the International Society of Sports Nutrition.
Did You Know?
Apart from the specialization-specific qualifications, graduates with Integrative and Functional Medicine degrees can apply for exam candidacy for the American Council on Exercise’s Health Coach Certification, the American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences’ Certified Nutrition & Wellness Educator, and the Registered Nutritional Therapist for professionals who have a minimum of three years of work experience.
Ohio University
Online Master of Integrated Health Studies
Ohio University offers a 100% online Master of Integrated Health Studies program that prepares graduates to become proficient in a diverse range of healthcare settings. It is a suitable graduate program for working professionals requiring the flexibility and convenience of completing post-baccalaureate studies.
- Enrollment in the MIHS program doesn’t require applicants to submit their GRE or GMAT scores.
- Instead of a traditional curriculum, students must complete a set of core required courses, as well as choose at least two certificate programs.
- The program certificate selection includes Clinical Informatics, Global Health, Healthcare Leadership, Healthcare Policy, and Veterans Health.
- A total of 33 credits is required for completion of the MIHS degree.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The unique aspect of the Integrated Health Studies program is that distance learners can customize their degree by completing a minimum of two areas of concentration instead of a traditional or prescribed curriculum. Unlike most academic degrees, it is an innovative stackable certificate graduate program consisting of graduate certificates in different areas of study.
Did You Know?
Students who already have completed one of the certificate programs and want to pursue a graduate degree can be accepted into the program. The completed certificate will be considered as part of the selection of certificates to fulfill degree completion requirements. However, they must ensure they’ve completed the certificate program within six years of their enrollment in the graduate degree.
Logan University
Online Master of Science in Integrative Pediatrics
Logan University’s Master of Science in Integrative Pediatrics academic program is a two-year, part-time degree offered 100% online, featuring yearly in-person sessions for hands-on learning and supervised practice. It is a clinically focused graduate program that prepares online students to be pediatric specialists in the chiropractic healthcare field.
- Students must have 36 credit hours to complete the program requirements of the Integrative Pediatrics graduate degree.
- A preview of unique courses includes Pediatric Neurology, Pediatric Nutrition, Pediatric Public Health, Fundamentals of Chiropractic Pediatrics, and Pediatric Diagnostic Imaging.
- Aspiring students must have a Doctor of Chiropractic degree to enroll in the M.S. program.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Given the academic program is founded by one of the frontrunners in chiropractic pediatrics, the M.S. in Integrative Pediatrics is the first program of its kind in the U.S.
The program features a holistic curriculum that allows students to gain an understanding and knowledge of the nutritional needs, neurology, and physiology of pediatric patients. Apart from that, students explore different methods on how to manage common and uncommon pediatric health challenges.
Did You Know?
Logan’s clinically focused and high-quality online master’s degree in Integrative Pediatrics highlights specialized training for Doctors of Chiropractic and Chiropractic students. The academic degree is ideal for these healthcare professionals wanting to take their pediatric proficiencies to more advanced practice.
The university accepts international chiropractors with a DC-equivalent academic degree, as well as those who have advanced standing in the field.
Maryland University of Integrative Health
Online Master of Arts in Integrative Health Studies
The M.A. in Integrative Health Studies at the Maryland University of Integrative Health is a non-clinical interdisciplinary program designed for healthcare professionals and other related occupations wanting to introduce integrative health approaches in their profession. It provides students with the opportunity to gain advanced knowledge of integrative healthcare practices.
- The M.A. program comprises 18 credits of core courses and 12 credits of electives, totaling 30 credit hours for degree completion.
- Students must take six credits per trimester in which they can graduate within five semesters on average.
- Distance learners can integrate a set of elective courses into their plan of study, providing them with an in-depth learning experience of their preferred area of integrative health practices.
- As part of elective requirements, the university offers five major categories to choose from, such as Whole Medical Systems, Mind-Body Practices and Self-Care, Health Promotion and Education, Herbal Medicine, and Integrative Nutrition.
- Students can only enroll during the fall term as the program’s semester of entry.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The academic program is the only program of its kind to combine the practical and business models of integrative health with evidence-based practices in traditional healthcare and medical settings.
The primary target of the Integrative Health Maryland University academic program is two-fold, with one for healthcare practitioners, nurses, allied healthcare professionals, and other licensed medical providers and the other is for professionals who advocate in the healthcare field through their roles as managers, administrators, and policymakers as well as science and health communication and writing.
The Health Promotion and Education category of the M.A. program can be used as a preparation for the Certified Health Education Specialist exam administered by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing.
Did You Know?
The university offers the Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Integrative Health Studies, which serves as an entry point and advanced study for the graduate program. The four courses integrated into the certificate program can be transferred toward the M.A. degree.
Georgian Court University
Online Master of Arts in Integrative Health
Georgian Court University offers an M.A. in Integrative Health program that explores Western and Eastern approaches, research methods, and healing techniques for wellness and preventative medicine as it interconnects with human health. The graduate program accepts students regardless of academic and professional backgrounds, building upon their current skillset to become proficient in the integrative health field.
- The M.A. in Integrative Health requires 36 credit hours for completion, including 27-credit hour core courses and 9-credit hour electives.
- Distance learners complete unique courses in Holistic Spirituality, Holistic Stress Management, Integrative Counsel Coach Tech, Energy Medicine, and Advanced Healing Methods.
- Although completion time depends on students’ scheduling and commitments, the graduate program can be completed within one to two years.
- Interested students can enroll during spring, summer, or fall as the program’s semester of entry.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Given that Georgian Court was one of the pioneering universities to offer a master’s program in integrative health, students will have rare and unique opportunities to participate in collaborative work in integrative health study. The faculty has diverse specialty areas, including energy therapy, conventional medicine, chiropractic medicine, mindfulness and mindful movement, botanical medicines, and physical therapy.
Did You Know?
Aspiring students who want to learn more about holistic health but aren’t ready to complete a master’s program can pursue the Integrative Health Graduate Certificate. Through the certificate program, students will accomplish two 3-credit core courses in Foundations of Holistic Healing, and Anatomy & Physiology: A Holistic Approach. Plus, they must take 12 elective credits to complete the 18 credit hours for certificate completion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with an Online Master’s in Integrative Health Degree?
Many graduate programs in Integrative Health prepare graduates for several career opportunities where they can perform holistic healing and related research. Depending on the academic program, students without extensive backgrounds to practice in the field.
The Integrative Health degree will prepare graduates to pursue any of the following career specializations:
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Feng Shui
- Herbal Medicine
- Homeopathy
- Kinesiology
- Life Coaching
- Massage Therapy
- Meditation
- Osteopathy
- Personal Training
- Reflexology
- Reiki
Complement to Traditional/Modern Medicine Techniques
Non-licensed and licensed healthcare practitioners can use this graduate program to learn new integrative health practices to supplement their current proficiencies. Many of the latest techniques can be used in combination with modern healthcare practices to provide patients with well-rounded treatment plans.
Advanced Research
Graduates interested in developing integrative health research can also benefit from completing the Integrative Health degree. They can work within government agencies, departments, and medical/healthcare facilities to determine the best holistic techniques and treatment plans for treating different medical conditions and diseases.
What are some of the specializations offered in an Online Master’s in Integrative Health Degree?
Although most Integrative Health degrees provide a comprehensive overview of alternative medicine practices, some academic programs offer a specialization to focus on a particular area of interest for students. Some of the most common specializations include the following:
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chinese Medicine
- Chiropractic Practice
- Energy Medicine
- Herbal Medicine
- Homeopathy
- Massage Therapy
- Natural and Holistic Health
- Naturopathic Medicine
- Nutrition
- Sports Medicine
Summary Points
- As the need for integrative healthcare practitioners is becoming widely accepted, the online Master’s in Integrative Health program has increased its popularity throughout the modern age.
- Integrative Medicine programs offer a unique opportunity to explore the role of psychology, as well as learn more about Western and Eastern medicine in an interactive learning environment. Healthcare professionals gain up-to-date scientific knowledge as well as experience and apply a variety of diagnostic and alternative medicine techniques focused on complementary health practices for the overall well-being of an individual.
- The Master’s in Integrative Health is ideal for anyone seeking a diverse and non-traditional concept of healing, wellness, and health, whether for personal or professional objectives.
- Healthcare professionals, business leaders, life coaches, experts in wellness programs, health educators, and teachers can benefit from learning integrative and holistic tools, theories, and practices that are approved for training by the Holistic Nutrition Credentialing Board and similar associations providing professional certifications.
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