Today students can pursue a vast variety of educational courses, including alternative health programs in an array of healing arts. In addition to certificate and diploma courses, a growing number of alternative health programs may offer students the ability to earn a degree or diplomat status.

Some typical alternative health programs that provide certificates and/or diplomas to graduates are courses in massage therapy, reflexology, holistic health, natural health, energy healing, and herbal medicine, among others. These healing arts courses generally range in length and studies, but may be completed in less than one year.

For example, to achieve certification in massage therapy, you can expect to graduate from a typical course in about nine months. Depending on the State in which you reside, and in accordance with board requirements, you may be able to fulfill training requirements in as little as 300 hours. Word to the wise - many massage schools have begun mandating classes to meet National certification standards, which is a minimum of 500 training hours.

There are some that are designed for animal lovers. If you like working with dogs or horses, there are a number of natural health courses in acupressure and other massage therapies like sports massage that are specifically geared toward animal healthcare. Just like their human counterparts, dogs and horses suffer from a wide assortment of musculoskeletal disorders that can be relieved naturally through basic bodywork techniques.

Alternative health programs that offer degrees are generally longer than diploma or certificate courses. Degree programs are frequently offered through acupuncture, chiropractic, naturopathy, or homeopathic schools. Though each discipline varies in curriculum, these promise rigorous education and training; and usually require prerequisite education from an accredited school or university.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in learning more about these or other alternative health training options, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore alternative health programs near you.