How to Become A Naturopath In South Africa

Naturopaths, is a form of alternative medicine that employs an range of natural, non-invasive, practices to promote self-healing.

What exactly does a naturopath do?

Naturopathic doctors are considered primary care physicians that are able to diagnose, prevent and treat illnesses in licensed states. In most pre-licensed states, naturopaths cannot diagnose or treat ailments but are able to serve as health consultants or wellness coaches, and may use botanical medicine or homeopathy.

How long is a naturopath degree?

A Bachelor of Health Science majoring in Naturopathy takes four years to complete if you study full time. Part-time education could take longer like eight years.

What’s it like to be a Naturopath?

Naturopaths diagnose, treat and prevent illness through the use of natural medicines and techniques, as well as promoting improved mental health through spiritual and emotional guidance.

How to Become A Naturopath In South Africa

There are no formal prerequisites for becoming a Naturopath, however the majority of practising Naturopaths have qualifications in the field. It is recommended to register with the Australian Register of Naturopaths and Herbalists (ARONAH) upon completing your studies.


Complete a qualification in Naturopathy, such as a Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy).

Hold a current First Aid certificate.

Hold a current working with children check card.

Register with ARONAH and renew every 12 months, including demonstrating the mandatory Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

Personal Requirements

strong motivation to help people

interest in preventive medicine

mature and confident personality

versatile and inquiring mind

patient, tactful and empathetic

good communication skills

able to develop relationships of trust

highly developed sense of responsibility

physically fit

Tasks and duties

Assessing and interviewing patients.

Identifying and treating emotional and physical imbalances and disorders.

Developing and implementing treatment plans.

Evaluating and documenting patients’ progress through treatment plans.

Providing dietary and lifestyle advice and guidelines.

Referring clients to other health professionals and alternative medicine practitioners where necessary.

Administering physical treatments such as a massage, acupuncture and Bowen therapy.

Applying counselling techniques to improve emotional wellbeing and reduce stress.

How to Enter

Schooling & School Subjects

Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences
Recommended subjects: Life Sciences 
Additional: 

Pass matric with a Diploma or a Bachelor’s pass

Meet the admission requirements (APS) set by the university.

What to Study

Degree: Bachelor of Naturopathy – UWC


Diploma: N.Dip: Natural Medicine – DUT
To become a naturopath one usually has to complete a diploma or a degree in naturopathy.

Registration with the The Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA) is a legal requirement for this occupation. Consult the AHPCSA website for the most up-to-date information relating to accredited qualifications and registration requirements.


Employment

industries such as health food and manufacturing of natural products

self-employment, in own practice or in partnership with other alternative health practitioners

How do I get a degree in naturopathy In South Africa?

Duration and Eligibility criteria for the degree course of BNYS

The student must complete their 10+2 in Science stream from a recognized educational board.

The students should have PCMB (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology) as the compulsory subjects in their 10+2 board exams.

How long is a naturopath degree In South Africa?

A Bachelor of Health Science majoring in Naturopathy takes four years to complete if you study full time. Part-time education could take longer like eight years.

Where can I study homeopathy in South Africa?

There are currently only two tertiary institutions in South Africa that offer an M. Tech. Hom. Qualification in Homeopathy; the University of Johannesburg and Durban University of Technology.

What is the difference between a homeopath and a naturopath?

While both homeopathy and naturopathy believe in providing non-invasive treatment for their patients there is one major difference. Homeopathy only uses its principles to treat the sick, while naturopathy uses homeopathy as one of its many tools to treat patients.

Is naturopathy a degree In South Africa?

There’s one main naturopathic qualification in South Africa a Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy), which is a four year naturopathy degree.

Is Naturopathy a good career choice In South Africa?

Thus a career in naturopath is a good choice if you are inclined towards it. This field requires a lot of study and qualifications to practice and can be tiresome. Overall the job growth of the field is positive and fast-paced as the world is becoming more organic.

What exactly does a naturopath do In South Africa?

Naturopathic doctors are considered primary care physicians that are able to diagnose, prevent and treat illnesses in licensed states. In most pre-licensed states, naturopaths cannot diagnose or treat ailments but are able to serve as health consultants or wellness coaches, and may use botanical medicine or homeopathy.

What can I expect from a naturopath In South Africa?

Typically during the initial visits your naturopathic doctor will take a detailed history of your current and past health concerns, conduct a physical exam and order laboratory tests to make an assessment and diagnosis.