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Healthcare

Naturopathic Doctor

Diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases using a system of practice that is based on the natural healing capacity of individuals. May use physiological, psychological or mechanical methods. May also use natural medicines, prescription or legend drugs, foods, herbs, or other natural remedies.

Annual openings

75

Median wage

$101,570

Typical education

A Professional degree obtained from one of the accredited Naturopathic medical schools, with more information at the [Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges](https://aanmc.org/). There is an option of doing a 1-2 year residency after school.

Growth 2026–2032

+6%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

A Professional degree obtained from one of the accredited Naturopathic medical schools, with more information at the Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges. There is an option of doing a 1-2 year residency after school.

Credential requirement

There is a 2-step licensing exam called the NPLEX. The 1st step in taken after the second year of Naturopathic medical school and the 2nd is after graduation. Once those are passed then you would be eligible to apply for a registration to practice in CO.

Work experience

This can be entry-level, but it could be an additional step on a career pathway.

For more information visit the Colorado Association of Naturopathic Doctors or the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Automation exposure

Low exposure

Tasks here lean on judgement and people skills that are hard to automate.

A typical day

  1. Document patients' histories, including identifying data, chief complaints, illnesses, previous medical or family histories, or psychosocial characteristics.
  2. Educate patients about health care management.
  3. Advise patients about therapeutic exercise and nutritional medicine regimens.
  4. Conduct physical examinations and physiological function tests for diagnostic purposes.
  5. Administer, dispense, or prescribe natural medicines, such as food or botanical extracts, herbs, dietary supplements, vitamins, nutraceuticals, and amino acids.
  6. Interview patients to document symptoms and health histories.
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