Bachelor of Science in Holistic Nutrition

Overview

Throughout the ACHS Bachelor of Science in Holistic Nutrition (BSHN) program, students learn to integrate modern science with holistic nutrition principles. After exploring biological sciences such as anatomy, physiology, psychology, biology and chemistry, students delve into the scientific world of holistic nutrition. ACHS offers a hands-on approach to learning—many classes include practical lab kits, which students use to explore concepts related to nutrition.

Graduates will learn how to gather nutrition information, evaluate that information, and develop customized nutritional suggestions and protocols for individuals and communities alike. The holistic nutrition program emphasizes evaluation of the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—while developing diverse perspectives on wellness.

Professional Credential Pathways

This program is aligned with industry professional credentialing educational standards, including the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP)1 Please note this degree does not satisfy the requirements to become a CHES Health Educator at this time.

[1] Please note: 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 https://achs.edu/alumni/professional-exams-registration for more information or contact https://www.nanp.org/board-exam-eligibility.

Completing This Degree

This program is designed to meet all requirements of an undergraduate bachelor of science degree. Credits are completed in the following areas:

Request more information to learn more and chat with one of our advisors.

Recommended Sequence

Your advisor will work with you prior to enrollment to prepare your academic plan for this program, including your eligible transfer of credit and opportunities to challenge courses by exam. Our guided pathways are developed by ACHS faculty, subject matter experts, and your advisor and are designed with your success in mind! Chat with an advisor today and learn more!

Highlights

Meets the education requirements for graduates to sit for the Board Exam in Holistic Nutrition certification, offered by the Holistic Nutrition Credentialing Board [1]

Learning Outcomes

  • Compare the different types of nutraceuticals, such as vitamins, minerals, herbal supplements, and functional foods.
  • Evaluate current research, including theories, practices, and ethical and cultural considerations in the practice of functional nutrition and integrative health modalities.
  • Apply theories and models of behavior change to promote optimal wellness across diverse populations.
  • Develop skills in delivering engaging and informative nutrition education sessions to clients, communities, and organizations to promote optimal health.
  • Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify business opportunities, assess risks, and make informed decisions.
  • Assess new ideas, trends, and approaches to drive growth, innovation, and sustainability in a holistic wellness business.
  • Develop the components of a nutrition business to effectively implement record keeping, required insurance, scope of practice, ethics, legal considerations, marketing, and networking.

English Composition: Students must complete at least 6 semester credit hours (SCH) of English composition or equivalent OR Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC)-approved writing courses; testing options also available.

Electives or Specialization Track: To complete this program, students may select a specialization track or 30 credits of elective study.

Introduction to Aromatherapy Online – AROMA 101

Aromatherapy I Online – AROMA 203

Aromatherapy II Online – AROMA 303

Aromatherapy III Online – AROMA 304

Essential Oil Chemistry for Integrative Health Professionals Online – AROMA 305

Business Communications for Wellness Professionals Online – BUS 304

Entrepreneurial Marketing for Integrative Health Professionals Online – BUS 390

Stress Management and Emotional Health Online – HED 303

Foundations of Herbal Studies I Online – HERB 101

Foundations of Herbal Studies II Online – HERB 201

Herbal Materia Medica I Online – HERB 302

Herbal Materia Medica II Online – HERB 303

Herbal Materia Medica III Online – HERB 304

Physical Activity & Wellness Online – HLTH 201

Community Health Planning Online – HLTH 410

Public Health Education Online – HLTH 416

Principles & Practices of Integrative Health Online – IHS 100

Integrative Health Approaches for Wellness Online – IHS 101

Nutrition, Bodycare & Herbalism Online – NAT 101

Energetic Modalities I: Flower Essences Online – NAT 202

Historical Modalities I: Iridology Online – NAT 203

Energetic Modalities II: Homeopathy Online – NAT 204

Integrative Pathophysiology I Online – NAT 302

Integrative Pathophysiology II Online – NAT 303

Wellness Coaching & Communication Skills Online – NAT 305

Entrepreneurial Skills for Wellness Professionals Online – NAT 306

Healthcare Terminology Online – NAT 307

Food Production & Healthy Cooking Online – NUT 311

Nutrition Profession and Practice Online – NUT 312

Personal Fitness Training Online – PFT 101

Career Goals:

  • Health and Wellness Coach, Consultant, Educator2, Writer, or Speaker - [2] 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.
  • Health and Wellness Consultant within Community Health Organizations, Government, Residential Care Facilities, Schools, Prisons, Community Wellness programs, Retirement Villages, Old Age Homes, Frail Care Centers, Nursing Homes and Home Healthcare Agencies
  • Nutrition Coach
  • Certified Nutrition Therapy Practitioner
  • Nutritional Therapy Practitioner
  • Nutritional Therapy Consultant
  • Master Nutrition Therapist
  • Administrative or support role in any company in the healthcare industry, such as medical center, fitness or wellness center, private practice yoga studio, natural food store, restaurant, or educational facility
  • Nutrition Consultant (in accordance with state law) for health food store, restaurants, fitness centers
  • Allied health professional, or other support role in an integrative medicine clinic or other integrative healthcare setting
  • Continued study in an integrative health program

Current Instructors:

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

Admissions Requirements:

Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalency and recommendation for admission by the ACHS Admissions Committee.

Tuition and Fees:

To estimate the program tuition and fees, click on the required course name to view each Total Course Price. Information is also provided in the Program Fact Sheet.

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