* The INTEGRATION of independent study, plus practical and residential training options designed for professionals and students seeking advanced degree and diploma programs. This approach allows the student or practitioner to expand their knowledge and training without sacrificing their personal and professional lives.
* The establishment of a WORLDWIDE FACULTY of respected practitioners and educators who have excelled in their professions.
* The availability of DIPLOMA COURSES that may be completed without the commitment to a full degree program. These certificates enable the student to practice various modalities while completing the more extensive degree programs. Each completed diploma course earns credit hours that can be used toward a degree program.
* The availability of COST-EFFECTIVE Programs that are STUDENT-CENTERED .
* Degree and diploma programs where students have the option of completing HANDS-ON TRAINING at the University, affiliate clinics and/or with individual practitioners offering advanced techniques, healing methods and technological innovations in the student's field of study.
* PROFESSIONAL MENTORSHIP for the Master's Thesis and Doctor of Philosophy Dissertation to ensure the synthesis of knowledge and practical applications.
* The availability of competent CLINICAL PRACTICE in the student's chosen field through an integrated network of natural health clinics to maximize student training and experience.
* Directed independent RESEARCH PROJECTS AND CASE STUDIES combined with real life experience and clinical situations to lead the student into in-depth inquiry, integrated knowledge, practical applications, and competency in the field.
DISTANCE LEARNING
The University offers specialized Distance Learning degree and diploma programs. Because students may enroll at any time during the year, it provides a convenient, flexible and specialized way to study that has a diminished impact on a student's job and/or family. The independent study curricula combine modern day tools and technologies enhancing the quality of instruction and learning for each individual. Below is a general outline of the structure and sequence of an independent study degree program.
Structure & Sequence of Study
1. Degree programs are divided into a module-style. Each module is divided into courses, which include instruction methods such as: study guides, syllabi, exams, books, audio, video, disc/CD ROM, and recommended reading and research on english language or in languages in CAMPUS.
2. Each student will be required to obtain a library card in his/her area. A bibliostrategy course may be required if the student is unfamiliar with his/her library system.
3. Each student may be assigned a Dean and/or an Academic Counselor to assist him/her in the distance learning process.
4. Upon completion of a course, the student may be required to sit for a proctored exam. Each student will be required to locate a proctor in his/her area. Some courses do not require a proctored examination. Most exams are open-book as it has been demonstrated to be an effective learning process to become adept at resourcing reference materials.
5. Most distance learning degree programs require the student to complete a certain amount of credits in practical, residential or clinical training. Specifics will be outlined in the student's course of study.
6. Diploma courses may be independent study, practical training, or a combination of the two.
Thesis & Dissertation
A thesis is optional in the Master of Natural Health Sciences Degree Program, but is required for the Master of Arts Degree Program. A dissertation is required in the Doctor of Philosophy Degree Program. Each student will choose a mentor or core faculty advisor to assist him/her in the dissertation process. A complete outline of the requirements are found in the Student Handbook.
Research Projects & Case Studies
Incorporated into specific degree and diploma programs are research projects and case studies. These are designed to enhance each student's learning and discovery. Each research project or case study will require the student to draw upon the learning from each module as well as research in the field.
Clinical Externship
If a Clinical Externship is required, the student's Dean and/or Clinical Director will assist the student in selecting a location that will benefit the student. A Clinical Externship is direct hands-on, observation and practical experience by the student, in a health-related setting, with an instructor/practitioner known as a preceptor, to fulfill the clinical requirements.
The University has a growing list of clinics and centers nationally and internationally to assist the student in fulfilling clinical requirements. A student may also decide to complete the clinical externship with more than one practitioner to receive a diversity of experience and training. All students and preceptors in the externship program must complete an application and be approved by the Dean and/or Clinical Director.
