Bastyr University Admissions' Blog

Which Holistic Program is Right for You?

Written by Bastyr | Aug 21, 2024 1:42:53 PM

At Bastyr University, we pride ourselves on offering a variety of accredited holistic degrees that not only prepare you for prominent careers but nurture your commitment to holistic principles. 

Before deciding on the right program for you, take our tailored quiz that helps pinpoint the best pathway! It’s a great starting point to understand where you can make the most impact. After you are done, come back here and learn more about the programs that would be best-suited for your unique path!

Specialized and Dual Nutrition Degrees

Master of Science in Integrative Nutrition (Online)

Designed for those who want to pursue a career in nutrition from a holistic and whole-person wellness standpoint, the Online Master of Science in Integrative Nutrition Program covers research, culinary medicine, counseling skills, disease prevention, whole foods nutrition, dietary supplementation, food systems and justice. Graduates often proceed to patient-care, nutrition education, and health coaching.


Master of Science in Nutrition/Didactic Program in Dietetics

The MS in Nutrition/Didactic Program in Dietetics combines clinical nutrition education with the necessary dietetics internship requirements. This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) and perfectly set up for careers as registered dietitians in various clinical settings such as private practice, hospitals, eating disorder treatment centers, rehabilitation and addiction centers, and more.


Master of Science in Nutrition and Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology

The MS in Nutrition and MA in Counseling Psychology Dual Degree Program integrates nutrition education with counseling psychology principles, offering a deep understanding of the interplay between physical and mental health from a social justice and advocacy lens. This program uniquely prepares students to help those who struggle with eating disorders, as well as other mental health nutrition hurdles. Graduates often pursue careers in clinical nutrition counseling, wellness coaching, or integrated healthcare.

Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine

The Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine is a robust four-year program that strongly focuses on clinical experience and training in natural modalities like botanical medicine, homeopathy, and hydrotherapy. This degree program incorporates rigorous science coursework in the first two years while incorporating natural health studies. Throughout the program, you will train  to diagnose and treat disease using a wellness-first, natural model focusing on improving the function of the whole body versus an over-reliance on medications and surgical procedures.  Careers post-graduation include roles in private practice, corporate wellness programs, or integrative health clinics.


Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology

The MA in Counseling Psychology Program adopts a holistic approach to psychotherapy and counseling, with practical experiences through hands-on practicums and internships. Our whole person approach to counseling education means that students will study topics such as behavioral medicine, spirituality and health, multiculturalism and social justice, human sexuality, and chronic and terminal illness, among several others. Graduates are well-prepared for community mental health, private practice, or school counseling roles.


Master of Arts in Maternal-Child Health Systems

This MA in Maternal-Child Health Systems Program delves into the social, cultural, policy, and management dimensions of maternal-child health. It promotes collaboration with community partners, providing valuable, hands-on experience along with networking opportunities. The program can be completed in one year, as it is primarily taught online, with two required weekends of instruction at Bastyr’s Seattle campus.  Graduates typically find fulfilling careers in public health organizations, hospitals, and nonprofits, where they make significant contributions to family health.


Master of Science in Midwifery

Offering a comprehensive education in midwifery practice, theory, and research, the Master of Science in Midwifery Program includes clinical placements guided by experienced preceptors. Students learn to be a guide for families in the birthing process and train in all aspects of midwifery care, from preconception through pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period for parents and newborns. It opens doors to careers in diverse environments such as birth centers, hospitals, and home birth practices.


Master of Acupuncture and Doctor Acupuncture

Whether you opt for the Master of Acupuncture, focusing on the foundations of traditional Chinese medicine, or the Doctor of Acupuncture, which places greater emphasis on clinical training and integrative approaches, both paths prepare you for rewarding careers in private practice, integrative health clinics, or community health settings.


Master of Acupuncture with a Chinese Herbal Medicine Specialization

This path enables a dual focus, equipping students not only with skills in acupuncture but also in Chinese herbal medicine. Extensive clinical training prepares graduates for comprehensive practice or opportunities in herbal product development.

Master of Science in Exercise Science and Integrated Wellness

Through a holistic, 18-month, fully online curriculum, the Master of Science in Exercise Science Program prepares students to work with active individuals and groups, and pursue certifications from top industry associations. Students will have the opportunity to prepare for nationally recognized professional certifications from the National Academy of Sports Medicine, American College of Sports Medicine, National Strength and Conditioning Association, and the American Council on Exercise. Graduates are equipped to craft tailored exercise programs for diverse populations, opening the doors to work in a multitude of professions, such as a fitness training consultant, personal trainer, fitness specialist, and a wellness coach.


A Quiz to Choose the Right Holistic Degree For You

At Bastyr University, we are dedicated to fostering expertise in holistic and natural health. Our goal and dream is to transform the health and wellbeing of the human community, and you can play an integral role in making this continue to become reality.

Unsure which path to take? Our quiz is an excellent tool to determine what kind of impact you’re destined to make in the world.

Questions? Contact an advisor.

Ready to take the next step? Begin your application.