- Associate Degree
Associate of Applied Science in Integrative Health Sciences
Shape the future of healthcare with an online Associate of Applied Science in Integrative Health. Choose a specialization in aromatherapy, herbal medicine, or create a custom path with electives. Graduates gain expertise in holistic practices that blend science and nature, with the skills to support wellness for individuals and communities across all walks of life.
Flexible, online learning
to keep you engaged while you earn an associate’s degree on your own schedule.
Whole-person health
backed by research to support overall wellness of mind and body.
Build professional skills
including the tools and strategies needed to support community health.
Industry-recognized credentials
that meet education requirements to sit for the Board Exam in Holistic Nutrition.
Specialize your path
by focusing on aromatherapy, herbal medicine, or an elective path unique to you.
Professional Pathways & Credentialing
National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP)
Approved by NANP to prove that graduates have completed a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare them for professional practice and eligibility to sit for the Holistic Nutrition Board Exam.
Aromatherapy Registration Council (ARC)
Qualifies graduates to sit for the national registration exam with the Aromatherapy Registration Council to become a Registered Aromatherapist (RA).
American Herbalist Guild
Qualifies graduates to sit for the national registration exam with the Aromatherapy Registration Council to become a Registered Aromatherapist (RA).
Free eBook: Top Tips for Funding Your Wellness Education
We’re here to help you navigate your investment in education, starting with this free resource
Apply Your Education in Real-World Settings
With an Associate of Applied Science in Integrative Health Sciences from ACHS, you’ll create personalized wellness plans, promote healthy habits, and use holistic practices to support whole-person care.
This degree opens doors to entry-level positions in healthcare and wellness — whether in hospitals, clinics, community programs, corporate wellness, or education — so you can make a meaningful impact on individual and community health.
Earn titles such as:
Educator, Writer, Speaker
Nutritional Therapy Consultant
Herbal Products Formulator
Aromatherapy Product Formulator and Manufacturer
Admission Requirements
Here’s what you’ll need to do to get started:
Step 1: Request your transcripts.
Provide high school or self-certification of completion with College transcripts.
Step 2: Apply Online
Complete and submit your application online to begin the admissions process.
Step 3: Achieve Acceptance for Admission
A recommendation by the Admissions Committee is required. Review and sign your Academic Plan and Enrollment Agreement once accepted.
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 Orientation
Discover ACHS’s learning and support resources to guide you throughout your studies.
*Applicable for all programs except the following certificates: Nature’s Remedies: Crafting Aromatherapy, Herbal, and Nutritional Solutions for a Healthier Family and Community and Holistic Approaches to Mental Health: Essential Oils, Herbs, and Nutrition.
Required Courses
This 60-credit program combines English and general education with core integrative health courses in anatomy, physiology, wellness coaching, nutrition, and holistic practices.
Students can choose electives or specialize in aromatherapy or herbal medicine, gaining practical skills for real-world healthcare and wellness settings.
English Composition:
Students must complete at least 6 semester credit hours of English composition or equivalent OR Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC)-approved writing courses; testing options also available.
General Education:
ACHS students complete a total of 21 credits of general education. HECC requires students to complete at least 15 semester credit hours in general education courses including the undergraduate English composition requirement.
Core Requirements:
ACHS students complete 30 credits of core requirements in this program. HECC requires students to complete at least 24 semester credit hours in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences, or in closely related non-vocational courses.
Electives
To complete this program, students may select a specialization track or nine credits of elective study.
Elective Track Option: Herbal Studies
Professional Pathway: Botanical Formulation Fundamentals
This pathway provides a foundation in botanical wellness modalities by combining herbal medicine and aromatherapy. Students study medicinal herbs – learning botanical identification, properties, and safe uses – alongside the therapeutic uses of essential oils and basic blending techniques. Through hands-on coursework, they learn to prepare herbal remedies and formulate simple aromatic products, building practical skills valued in entry-level roles at health food stores, spas, or holistic clinics. Graduates of this pathway have a well-rounded botanical skill set to support natural wellness plans using herbs and aromatherapy.
Badge Name: Foundational Skills in Botanicals
Professional Pathway: Holistic Nutrition Planning Skills
This pathway covers the fundamentals of holistic nutrition, giving students a broad understanding of human nutrition and healthy eating. Coursework explores essential concepts of nutrition science – including macronutrients and micronutrients, and life-cycle nutrition – alongside safe food handling and ingredients for practical skills. Students learn how nutrition impacts health across the lifespan and gain experience developing balanced, culturally aware foods. These foundational nutrition skills prepare graduates for entry-level roles in community health, wellness coaching, or as knowledgeable advocates for healthy living.
Badge Name: Foundational Skills in Holistic Nutrition
Professional Pathway: Foundations in Wellness
Coaching Techniques
Coaching Techniques
This pathway covers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with essential knowledge and practical skills for promoting optimal health and wellness. Students learn to design evidence-based wellness plans that include exercise, nutrition, and stress. The pathway also emphasizes foundational wellness coaching, exposing students to contemporary coaching models and holistic health applications, including lifestyle and nutritional counseling. Coursework fosters key competencies in building collaborative, interactive conversations that support client growth and lasting lifestyle improvements, while preparing students to deliver culturally appropriate and customized wellness coaching in diverse clinical, organizational, and public health settings.
Badge Name: Foundational Skills in Wellness Coaching
Learning Outcomes
Human Body Knowledge & Communication
Explain aspects of the human body’s structure, function, and disease to individuals of all knowledge levels.
Comparative Treatment Approaches
Compare allopathic and holistic treatment protocols to provide options for optimal client wellness.
Anatomy, Physiology, and Medical Terminology
Explain human anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology in the professional practice of integrative health modalities.
Safe Application of Wellness Modalities
Apply knowledge of safe and effective use of integrative health and wellness modalities in the creation of personalized wellness plans.
Professional Practice in Wellness
Develop professional skills and business standards in a health and wellness setting or role, including record keeping, required insurance, scope of practice, ethics, legal considerations, marketing, and networking.
Plan Your Health and Wellness Path With an Advisor
Connect with an academic advisor to talk through your goals, get personalized guidance, and explore your path in integrative health sciences.
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
You can estimate your total tuition and fees by clicking on each required course below to view its total course price. Tuition and fees are subject to change. Explore options to reduce costs through credit transfers, challenge exams, and eBook textbooks here. Financial aid opportunities are also available.
$30,153
Estimated Total
$200
Registration Fee
$22,680
Tuition
$7,223
Books and Supplies
$50
Graduation Fee
* This estimate includes all required textbooks, materials, and the online ACHS eTextbook. It reflects the courses with the greatest out-of-pocket costs and is based on 2024–2025 tuition rates. Actual cost may be lower if you qualify for transfer of credit, pass a challenge exam, or opt for eBook options.
Program Disclosures
If you’re planning a career in nutrition or dietetics, check with your state board to make sure your credentials align with local regulations. Many states have rules around dietetics and nutrition services, with location-specific information available online.
FAQs
What are some career opportunities with an Associate of Applied Science in Integrative Health Sciences?
Graduates with an Associate of Applied Science in Integrative Health Sciences can pursue entry-level roles in hospitals, clinics, public health agencies, and integrative health organizations. They may work as wellness or lifestyle coaches, holistic health practitioners, aromatherapists, herbalists, nutrition consultants, health educators, or in support roles such as administrative assistants, customer service, or spa and wellness staff.
How long does it take to earn an Associate of Applied Science in Integrative Health Sciences?
This depends on several factors, such as how many credits you transfer and how much time you can dedicate to your studies. If you attend full time (12 semester credits) and need all 60 credits, you can finish in about two years with year-round study. ACHS offers flexible scheduling so you can study full time or part time, whatever fits your schedule. Your advisor will also help you design a plan that works best for you.
What will the program teach me?
This program teaches you the science and practice of integrative health, including anatomy, physiology, nutrition, wellness coaching, and holistic modalities. You’ll learn to create personalized wellness plans, communicate health concepts clearly, and apply professional skills.
What kind of support is available for career planning after graduation?
ACHS offers robust career support after graduation, including one-on-one coaching to help you strengthen your resume, interview skills, LinkedIn profile, and networking. You’ll also have access to mentorship programs through Career & Alumni Services, plus a job and internship board, regular webinars, virtual career events, and the Employer Summit — all designed to connect you with employers and keep you up to date on industry trends.
ACHS Partnerships & Affiliations
Ready To Turn Your Passion Into a Profession?
Apply now, or speak to one of our expert advisors.