Program Duration: 2 Years (Full-time)
Credits Required: 60 Semester Credits
Delivery Mode: Online 
Award Level: Associate of Arts (A.A.)
 
📘 Program Overview
The Associate of Arts in Natural Health Studies is an interdisciplinary program designed to provide students with foundational knowledge in natural and holistic approaches to health and wellness. The curriculum integrates principles from herbal medicine, nutrition, anatomy and physiology, lifestyle coaching, and wellness philosophy. Students will explore both scientific and traditional perspectives of healing, enabling them to assist individuals in achieving optimal health through natural means.
🎯 Program Goals
Graduates of this program will be able to:
Understand the principles and practices of natural and holistic health.
Apply basic knowledge of nutrition, herbal medicine, and wellness techniques.
Assess and advise on lifestyle changes to improve individual well-being.
Communicate effectively within wellness-focused environments.
Pursue entry-level roles in wellness centers, health stores, or holistic clinics or transfer to a related bachelor’s program.
🏫 Core Curriculum (General Education) – 21 Credits
English Composition I – 3 Credits
Introduction to Psychology – 3 Credits
College Algebra or Statistics – 3 Credits
Fundamentals of Communication – 3 Credits
Environmental Science – 3 Credits
Sociology of Health and Wellness – 3 Credits
Critical Thinking and Ethics – 3 Credits
🌿 Major Core Courses – 30 Credits
1. Introduction to Natural Health (3 credits)
Course Description:
This course provides an overview of holistic health systems, including naturopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, and other natural healing modalities.
Module Breakdown:
History of Natural Medicine
Comparison of Traditional and Modern Health Models
Key Principles of Natural Health
Legal & Ethical Considerations
Case Studies of Natural Health Applications
2. Anatomy and Physiology I (3 credits)
Course Description:
Focuses on the structure and function of the human body systems, emphasizing the musculoskeletal, circulatory, respiratory, and nervous systems.
Module Breakdown:
Levels of Organization
Skeletal & Muscular Systems
Cardiovascular System
Respiratory System
Nervous System Basics
3. Anatomy and Physiology II (3 credits)
Course Description:
Continues A&P I by covering the endocrine, digestive, urinary, reproductive, and immune systems.
Module Breakdown:
Endocrine System Functions
Digestive System & Nutrient Absorption
Urinary System & Detoxification
Immune System Support
Reproductive Health in Holistic Context
4. Nutrition and Wellness (3 credits)
Course Description:
Examines the relationship between diet, health, and disease prevention. Students learn about macronutrients, micronutrients, and dietary planning.
Module Breakdown:
Macronutrients and Energy
Vitamins & Minerals
Special Diets (Vegan, Paleo, etc.)
Functional Foods and Superfoods
Nutritional Counseling Basics
5. Herbal Medicine Fundamentals (3 credits)
Course Description:
An introduction to the therapeutic use of herbs, including plant identification, preparation techniques, and safety considerations.
Module Breakdown:
History of Herbal Medicine
Common Herbs and Their Uses
Herbal Preparation Methods (Teas, Tinctures, Salves)
Herbal Safety and Contraindications
Case Applications
6. Holistic Health Coaching (3 credits)
Course Description:
Trains students in client-centered coaching strategies that encourage healthy lifestyle change using natural methods.
Module Breakdown:
Principles of Health Coaching
Building Rapport with Clients
Goal Setting & Motivational Interviewing
Stress and Behavior Management
Practice Coaching Sessions
7. Mind-Body Medicine (3 credits)
Course Description:
Explores techniques that bridge physical and emotional health such as meditation, yoga, breathwork, and biofeedback.
Module Breakdown:
Introduction to Mind-Body Connection
Meditation & Mindfulness
Yoga Therapy Principles
Breathwork & Visualization
Integrating Mind-Body Tools into Daily Life
8. Natural Health Assessment Techniques (3 credits)
Course Description:
Introduces students to holistic assessment practices including tongue and pulse reading, iridology, and symptom analysis.
Module Breakdown:
Overview of Traditional Diagnostic Methods
Basic Iridology
Symptom Interpretation
Holistic Intake Forms
Ethical Boundaries in Assessment
9. Natural Health Capstone Project (3 credits)
Course Description:
A culminating experience where students synthesize their learning into a practical project, case study, or portfolio in natural health.
Module Breakdown:
Research Topic Selection
Case Study Design
Wellness Plan Development
Presentation and Peer Review
Reflective Learning Report
📁 Electives (Choose 3 credits)
Introduction to Aromatherapy
Energy Healing Modalities
Fundamentals of Ayurveda
Introduction to Homeopathy
Health and Spirituality