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National University of Natural Medicine

Portland, OR

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

The profession's college since 1956

1956
Founded
28
Total Students
Special Focus Four-Year
Classification
President: Melanie Henriksen

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About National University of Natural Medicine

North America's oldest accredited naturopathic medical school, pioneering natural health education since 1956.

Step into the legacy of natural medicine education at the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM), the oldest programmatically accredited naturopathic medical school in North America. Founded in 1956, NUNM emerged from a pivotal moment in healthcare history, quickly establishing itself as a beacon for those dedicated to holistic and integrative approaches to wellness.

NUNM's journey began in Portland, Oregon, uniting the vision of professionals from across the Pacific Northwest. After initially operating satellite campuses, the college consolidated its operations in Portland, eventually settling into its distinctive main campus in 1996 – a historic building originally constructed in 1912. This commitment to a central, unified campus reflects NUNM's enduring dedication to fostering a close-knit and focused academic community.

Today, NUNM serves a vibrant student body of 575 under the leadership of President Melanie Henriksen, offering comprehensive programs designed to equip future practitioners with deep knowledge in natural medicine. Students benefit from learning within a historic setting and access to consolidated on-campus clinics, which have served the community since 2009.

Prospective students should be aware of financial considerations, as reported in 2024 by Oregon Public Broadcasting. NUNM had a median student loan of $263,594 and median earnings of $34,431, resulting in a significant debt-to-earnings ratio of 766%. This information is crucial for those planning their educational investment and career path in natural medicine.

Key Highlights

  • The oldest programmatically accredited naturopathic medical school in North America.
  • Founded in 1956 with a rich history rooted in the natural medicine profession.
  • A student body of 575 individuals dedicated to natural health sciences.
  • Main campus located in a historic 1912 building in downtown Portland.
  • Led by President Melanie Henriksen, guiding the institution's mission.
  • In 2024, reported a median student loan of $263,594 and median earnings of $34,431, with a 766% debt-to-earnings ratio.

Timeline

1950
Termination of naturopathic program at Western States Chiropractic College sparks NUNM's founding.
1956
Articles of Incorporation for the National College of Naturopathic Medicine (NCNM) executed in Portland, Oregon.
1996
Classes relocated to the college's current main campus in downtown Portland.
2006
NCNM changed its name to the National College of Natural Medicine.
2009
On-campus clinics consolidated into the NCNM Clinic.
2016
The school changed its name to the National University of Natural Medicine.
2024
Oregon Public Broadcasting reported on the institution's student debt-to-earnings ratio.
🏛️
70 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Melanie Henriksen
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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