- Accredited Master’s Degree
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.
Research from the Global Wellness Institute forecasts that the wellness economy will be valued at $9 trillion annually by 2028, representing 6.8% of global gross domestic product (GDP) (Global Wellness Institute, 2024). As health priorities shift across personal, organizational, and societal levels, integrative wellness has become a thriving field encompassing diverse areas such as mental health, nutritional and wellness coaching, herbal medicine, corporate wellness, clinical aromatherapy, and more. The industry needs trained professionals now more than ever with expertise in areas including the safe use of dietary supplements, lifestyle modifications for global communities, and professionals dedicated to the growth, innovation, and development of the integrative health and wellness sector. This interdisciplinary degree provides students with options 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.
Flexible Learning Format
Follow adaptable weekly schedules with structured support from faculty and dedicated academic advisors.
Think Beyond a Single Modality
Build expertise across integrative health disciplines — with the flexibility to specialize in what matters most to your career.
Customize Your Degree
Shape your education around your professional goals and build a focus that sets you apart in the field.
Transdisciplinary Approach
Develop expertise across integrative health modalities — from dietary supplements and lifestyle modification to community health and wellness advocacy.
Personalized Support
Learn from experienced instructors who guide you with direct feedback and professional mentorship.
Professional Pathways & Credentialing
Alliance of International Aromatherapists (AIA)
Recognized by AIA for advancing aromatherapy education that meets professional standards and supports graduates in pursuing careers as skilled, ethical practitioners.
Aromatherapy Registration Council (ARC)
Qualifies graduates to sit for the national registration exam with the Aromatherapy Registration Council to become a Registered Aromatherapist (RA).
National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA)
Meets the curriculum requirements of the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy Level II education standards for students selecting the Aromatherapy Specialization.
Free Whitepaper: Insights & Opportunities Shaping the Future of Wellness Work
Find out what employers expect from wellness professionals in 2026, and how the right education can put you ahead of the curve.
Apply Your Education in Real World Settings
Graduates of the online Master of Science in Integrative Health Sciences program work across a broad range of roles, from educators and advocates to lifestyle coaches and healthcare adjuncts.
The transdisciplinary nature of this degree means your skills apply wherever integrative health intersects with people’s lives, whether you’re deepening an existing healthcare career or stepping into something new.
Popular careers include:
Scholar
Educator* or Lifestyle Coach
Advocate
Adjunct to an Existing Healthcare Practice
Admission Requirements
Here’s what you’ll need to do to get started:
Step 1: Hold a Bachelor's Degree
Provide official transcripts for a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution. Learn more.
Don’t have a bachelor’s degree yet?
Start your journey with an ACHS bachelor’s program and build the foundation for graduate study.
Step 2: Apply Online
Complete and submit your application online to begin the admissions process. Learn more.
Step 3: Achieve Acceptance for Admission
Your application will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee for an admission recommendation.
Step 4: Confirm Your Funding
Work with the ACHS team to finalize your funding, including payment plans, tuition assistance or military benefits, or financial aid for those who qualify. Learn more.
Step 5: Complete Your Enrollment
Review and sign your Academic Plan and Enrollment Agreement once accepted.
Step 6: Attend Orientation
Explore ACHS learning and student support resources through our online Orientation and Welcome Week activities.
Required Courses
The Master of Science in Integrative Health Sciences is built around two required courses and a broad selection of electives, giving you the freedom to customize your degree around a specialization track or your own combination of graduate coursework. Prerequisites must be met where applicable.
Professional Pathways
For a more structured specialization, choose one of three professional pathways. Each pathway earns you a badge upon completion.
1. Botanical Research & Clinical Formulation Mastery
Badge: Advanced Practice in Botanicals
Develop advanced expertise in phytochemistry, pharmacognosy, and botanical formulation for leadership roles in research, product design, or integrative health practice.
2. Advanced Integrative Nutrition Strategies
Badge: Advanced Practice in Holistic Nutrition
Analyze macronutrients, micronutrients, and dietary supplements in depth, building the skills to design personalized, evidence-based nutrition programs.
3. Strategic Wellness Coaching & Program Leadership
Badge: Advanced Practice in Wellness Coaching
Master advanced coaching techniques and health education leadership to design, implement, and evaluate large-scale wellness programs.
Elective Courses
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.
Plan Your Integrative Health Science Path With an Advisor
Connect with an admissions advisor to talk about your goals. Get personalized guidance and explore your path in herbal medicine.
The Value of Accreditation
ACHS is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
This status ensures that your education meets high academic and professional standards, giving you confidence in the quality and credibility of your training.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Estimate your total tuition by selecting any required course below to view its price. Tuition and fees are subject to change. You may also be able to reduce your total cost through credit transfers, challenge exams, and eBook textbooks. Financial aid opportunities are available as well. The projected maximum cost for the Doctor of Science in Integrative Health program is outlined below.
$32,830
Estimated Total
$200
Registration Fee
$32,830
Tuition
$8,641
Books and Supplies
$50
Graduation Fee
This estimate includes all textbooks, materials, and the online ACHS eTextbook. It reflects the courses with the greatest out-of-pocket costs and is based on 2026–2027 tuition rates. Your actual cost may be lower if you qualify for transfer of credit, pass a challenge exam, or opt for eBook options.
Program 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.
- Approved by the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP)
- Meets the education requirements for graduates to sit for the Board Certification in Holistic Nutrition exam offered by the Holistic Nutrition Credentialing Board of the National Association of Nutrition Professionals**
- 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.
- ** 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 https://nanp.org/board-certification/.
FAQs
What is integrative health sciences?
Integrative health sciences is a transdisciplinary field that considers the whole person — mind, body, and spirit — and draws on a wide range of health modalities to support individual and community wellness. Professionals in this field work across conventional and complementary approaches to promote prevention, education, and evidence-based care.
What can you do with a master's degree in integrative health sciences?
You can pursue a wide range of career paths with a master’s degree in integrative health sciences. Graduates of this program go on to work in roles that include scholar, educator, advocate, lifestyle coach, and adjunct to an existing healthcare practice. The degree’s flexible specialization options make it applicable across industries — from nutrition consulting and botanical research to wellness coaching and health program leadership.
Is the MS in Integrative Health Sciences recognized by any professional organizations?
Yes. The MS in Integrative Health Sciences is approved by the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP) and meets the educational requirements for graduates to sit for the Board Exam in Holistic Nutrition, subject to additional eligibility requirements. The program also offers coursework that can support eligibility for the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES®) exam, depending on the courses selected.
Can I specialize within this degree?
Yes, you can specialize within the degree. The program offers three professional pathways — Botanical Research & Clinical Formulation Mastery, Advanced Integrative Nutrition Strategies, and Strategic Wellness Coaching & Program Leadership — each earning a badge upon completion. If you prefer a more customized approach, you can also select electives from across the full course catalog to build a degree that reflects your specific goals.
Ready To Turn Your Passion Into a Profession?
Apply now, or speak to one of our expert advisors.