Trent University and the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) are launching Canada’s first formalized double degree pathway between a public university and a naturopathic medical college, allowing students to earn both a Bachelor of Arts and Science and a Doctor of Naturopathy in just seven years.
By uniting Trent’s interdisciplinary undergraduate strengths with CCNM’s professional naturopathic training, the pathway creates a seamless, integrated academic journey that prepares graduates with the foundational knowledge and clinical competencies for careers in integrative health.
“This agreement with CCNM creates a clear and compelling pathway for students to pursue enriching careers in the expanding field of naturopathic medicine,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, president and vice-chancellor of Trent University. “By combining Trent’s interdisciplinary academic strengths with CCNM’s clinical expertise, we’re helping students pursue careers that align with the evolving ways people are thinking about health and wellness.”
Students admitted directly from high school will begin their studies at Trent, receiving tailored academic advising to meet prerequisites and prepare for competitive entry into CCNM’s professional program. Once at CCNM, students may complete their training at the Toronto campus or apply to the Boucher campus in British Columbia.
“CCNM is thrilled to deepen our longstanding relationship with Trent,” added Dr. Rahim Karim, president and CEO of CCNM. “Together, we are preparing practitioners who will combine a solid foundation in the liberal arts and sciences with naturopathic medical training, bringing benefits to patients and the healthcare system as a whole.”
In addition to the new double degree, the agreement also strengthens pathways for students in Trent’s Medical Professional Stream (MPS). A structured 4+4 route provides MPS students with a direct path into CCNM’s four-year Doctor of Naturopathy program, including early admission, housing incentives, and unique opportunities to engage in CCNM research even before matriculation.
“This partnership combines the unique strengths of both institutions to create a more seamless and enriching academic journey for students,” said Dr. Sarah West, dean of Science at Trent University. “The double degree pathway integrates the humanities and social sciences, sciences, and health fields, equipping future healthcare leaders with the interdisciplinary and well-rounded perspective that is essential to meeting the complex needs of today’s communities.”
The initiative represents a strategic collaboration between Trent and CCNM, including joint oversight, coordinated recruitment, and shared student support systems—ensuring a seamless academic experience across both institutions.
Learn more about the new pathways to a Doctor of Naturopathy degree here.
About Trent University
One of Canada’s top universities, Trent University was founded on the ideal of interactive learning that’s personal, purposeful and transformative. Consistently recognized nationally for leadership in teaching, research, and student satisfaction, Trent attracts excellent students from across the country and around the world. In a learning environment that builds life-long passion for inclusion, leadership, and social change, Trent’s students, alumni, faculty, and staff are engaged global citizens who are catalysts in developing sustainable solutions to complex issues. Trent’s Peterborough campus boasts award-winning architecture in a breathtaking natural setting on the banks of the Otonabee River, just 90 minutes from downtown Toronto, while Trent University Durham Greater Toronto Area delivers a distinct mix of programming in the east GTA. Learn more at trentu.ca.
About the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM)
The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM), established in 1978, is Canada’s premier, pan-Canadian academic institution for education and research in naturopathic medicine. CCNM has two campuses, one in Toronto and another in the Metro Vancouver area known as the Boucher Campus. CCNM graduates are eligible to write the licensing examinations for all regulated jurisdictions in Canada and the United States to become naturopathic doctors. Visit ccnm.edu for more information.
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