Master of Science in Integrative Health Sciences

Overview

The ACHS Online Master of Science in Integrative Health Sciences provides a comprehensive foundation and understanding of the structure and function of the body, a transdisciplinary approach to wellness that considers individual and community health, and a foundation in the use of diverse integrative modalities.

Consumer use of integrative health and wellness continues to increase, with a market size valued at USD 144.68 billion in 2023, compared to 82.27 billion as of 2020. According to Grandview Research, the market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25.3% from 2024 to 2030, driven by consumer demand and government initiatives to promote prevention. The industry needs trained professionals now more than ever with expertise in areas such as:

  • Safe use of dietary supplements
  • Lifestyle modifications for diverse populations
  • Education and advocacy to promote growth, innovation, and development of the integrative health and wellness sector.

The Master of Science in Integrative Health Sciences interdisciplinary degree allows students to customize their degree within a wide range of specializations for an individualized focus that will distinguish them in the industry and prepare them to apply studies in the workforce.

Nutrition State Law Disclosures
Many states have enacted laws that regulate the practice of dietetics and nutrition services. For example, some states have restrictions on using the title “Nutritionist” or “Nutrition Counselor”, while others do not. Please note that ACHS programs do not train graduates to become a “Registered Dietitian.”

ACHS provides nutrition practice information by state online here and also partners with the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP) to continually educate students and graduates about professional opportunities in the holistic nutrition field.

Note: This program was formerly called the Master of Science in Complementary Alternative Medicine.

Highlights

Approved by the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP) (http://www.nanp.org)

Meets the education requirements for graduates to sit for the Board Exam in Holistic Nutrition certification, offered by the Holistic Nutrition Credentialing Board (https://www.nanp.org/board-certification)2

Learning Outcomes

  • Apply the principles and theories of integrative health sciences, including the interplay between mind, body, and spirit, to contribute to the health and wellness industry.
  • Develop expertise in integrative health modalities to educate and support wellness practitioners and consumers using products and protocols.
  • Communicate effectively and ethically about integrative health concepts and practices to diverse stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, clients, and the public.
  • Create evidence-based integrative health support plans for individuals and health programs to facilitate graduates’ professional organization requirements.
  • Design educational approaches on evidence-based integrative modalities and wellness protocols to meet the needs of global populations.
  • Synthesize a study or research review on a current issue or theory in integrative health sciences.

1 Please note that this program does not prepare students to be eligible to sit for the NCHEC CHES exam and become a Certified Health Education Specialist.

2 In addition to completing this program, documentation of 500 hours (includes a minimum of 250 direct contact hours and up to 250 indirect contact hours) of professional experience in holistic nutrition is also required. NANP also offers an exception for new graduates that defers these requirements for two years if the exam is taken within 12 months of graduation. Please visit achs.edu/alumni/professional-exams-registration for more information or contact www.nanp.org/board-exam-eligibility.

Elective Courses

AROMA 501 – Foundations of Aromatherapy Online

AROMA 503 – Aromatherapy I Online

AROMA 504 – Aromatherapy II Online

AROMA 507 – Essential Oil Chemistry for Integrative Health Professionals Online

BUS 510 – Organizational Effectiveness and Leadership

BUS 512 – Managerial Economics

BUS 514 – Business Law

BUS 516 – Accounting and Financial Management

BUS 518 – Project Management

BUS 520 – Business Analytics

BUS 522 – Entrepreneurial Skills for Wellness Professionals

BUS 531 – Human Capital

BUS 533 – Operations & Value Chain Management

BUS 535 – Sustainable Community Economies

CHEM 501 – General, Organic, and Biochemistry Online

HED 503 – Stress Management and Emotional Health Online

HERB 502 – Advanced Herbal Materia Medica I Online

HERB 503 – Advanced Herbal Materia Medica II Online

HERB 504 – Advanced Herbal Materia Medica III Online

HERB 521 – Principles of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Online

HERB 531 – Botany and Plant Identification for the Holistic Practitioner Online

HERB 541 – Safety & Metabolism of Botanical Supplements Online

HLED 553 – Foundations of Health Education Online

HLED 554 – Program Planning for Health Educators Online

HOM 501 – Homeopathy Online

IHS 500 – Introduction to Integrative Health Theory Online

NAT 501 – Anatomy & Physiology I Online

NAT 502 – Anatomy & Physiology II Online

NAT 503 – Integrative Pathophysiology I Online

NAT 504 – Integrative Pathophysiology II Online

NAT 515 – Wellness Coaching & Communication Skills Online

NUT 501 – Integrative Health and Nutrition Fundamentals Online

NUT 502 – Macronutrients for Integrative Health Online

NUT 503 – Micronutrients for Integrative Health Online

NUT 504 – Advanced Sports Nutrition Online

NUT 509 – Graduate Topics in Holistic Nutrition Online

NUT 510 – Nutrition and Dietary Supplements Online

Professional Pathway: Botanical Research & Clinical Formulation Mastery

This graduate-level pathway develops advanced expertise in botanical medicine and research. Students engage in high-level study of phytochemistry and pharmacognosy, gaining deep knowledge of the chemical constituents of herbs and essential oils and their effects on the body. They also refine clinical skills in herbal and aromatherapy formulation and key professional skills at an advanced level. Graduates of this pathway are prepared for leadership roles in botanical research, product design, or integrative health practice, with the ability to design evidence-based botanical interventions and ensure the safe, effective use of plant-based therapies.

Badge Name: Advanced Practice in Botanicals

Professional Pathway: Advanced Integrative Nutrition Strategies

This pathway provides an in-depth exploration of nutrition science at the graduate level. Students analyze macronutrients and micronutrients in detail, examining how to support optimal health through advanced dietary strategies. Coursework also integrates the latest research on holistic nutrition and the use of dietary supplements, emphasizing evidence-based approaches to designing personalized, comprehensive nutrition plans. Graduates are equipped to become nutrition consultants and educators who can develop customized, clinically evidence-based nutrition programs. With these advanced skills, they can contribute to improving health and wellness at the individual, community and global levels.

Badge Name: Advanced Practice in Holistic Nutrition

Professional Pathway: Strategic Wellness Coaching & Program Leadership

This pathway focuses on master-level coaching techniques and health education leadership. Students master advanced coaching communication and behavior-change strategies (for example, through a graduate-level wellness coaching practicum). The curriculum also covers public health education theory and program planning at an advanced level, enabling students to design, implement, and evaluate large-scale wellness programs. By combining one-on-one coaching skills with competencies in health education and program management, graduates are prepared for roles as lead wellness coaches, corporate wellness directors, or public health educators who can drive strategic wellness initiatives.

Badge Name: Advanced Practice in Wellness Coaching

Career Goals:

  • Scholar
  • Educator [1]
  • Advocate
  • Lifestyle Coach
  • Adjunct to an existing healthcare professional

Current Instructors:

View all ACHS instructors, including bios, photos, and courses taught.

Admissions Requirements:

Candidates must possess a baccalaureate degree or higher from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the US Department of Education. Candidates must submit official transcripts directly from the issuing institutions. All applicants must be recommended for admission by the ACHS Admissions Committee.

Tuition and Fees:

View tuition and fees and learn more about funding your education.

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