Medical procedures and items that are typically not a part of mainstream medical care are referred to as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Complementary and Alternative Medicine techniques include herbal medicines, dietary supplements, homoeopathy, hypnosis, yoga, meditation, acupressure, and acupuncture, to name a few. Complementary medicine is used in addition to conventional medical care, whereas alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medical care.

Alternative medical systems, mind-body interventions, manipulative techniques, and energy therapies are the four basic domains under which CAM practises fall. Therapies from complementary and alternative medicine can be used to improve quality of life, stimulate the immune system, and reduce symptoms and pain.

As part of the course curriculum, students will learn about topics including physiology, health sciences, biosciences, and natural sciences. Topics including psychology, anatomy, acupuncture, aromatherapy, spirituality, and eastern medicine are all covered in the course curriculum.

Studying for a degree in complementary and alternative medicine exposes students to a variety of alternative medical practises and their several subcategories. In order to assess the success and safety of CAM practises, they will also need to understand the concepts and principles behind them.

Students will gain critical abilities like communication, self-assurance, empathy, problem-solving, and presenting during the course. They will be able to comprehend the patient's issues, identify their cause, and provide effective treatment options.

Study Levels:

Degrees in complementary and alternative medicine are available at several levels of education, including:

• Bachelor of Science in Medical Sciences
• Bachelor Degree in Medical Imaging
• Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Services
• Bachelor of Science in Health Science (Chinese Medicine)
• Bachelor of Science in Health Science (Western Herbal Medicine)
• Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
• Bachelor of Science in Radiation Technology
• Bachelor of Arts in Medical Humanities
• Bachelor Degree in Music Therapy
• Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy
• Bachelor of Science in Complementary Medicine
• Bachelor of Science in Beauty Care
• Bachelor of Science in Naturopathy and CAM Therapies
• Master of Arts in Medical Radiation Science
• Master Degree in Rural and Remote Medicine
• Master of Arts in Drama Therapy
• Master of Arts in Music Therapy
• Master of Arts in Art Therapy
• Master Degree in Tropical Medicine
• Master Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine Ethics
• Master Degree in Acupuncture and Tuina
• Master of Science in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
• Master of Science in Translational Medicine
• Master of Science in Experimental Medicine
• Ph.D. in Complementary Medicine
• Ph.D. in Comparative and Experimental Medicine
• Ph.D. in Chinese Medicine

Specialisation:

Students who pursue degrees in complementary and alternative medicine have access to a range of specialisation options based on their areas of interest, enabling them to develop a deep understanding of the subject. These consist of:

• Acupuncture
• Homeopathy
• Naturopathy
• Body Movement Therapies
• Ayurveda
• Yoga
• Meditation
• Chinese or Oriental Medicine
• Hypnosis
• Acupressure
• Chiropractic
• Electromagnetic Therapies
• Dietary Supplements
• Herbal Medicine
• Reiki
• Magnetic Field Therapies
• Tai Chi
• Art, Dance, and Music Therapies
• Visualization and Guided Imager

Employability:

Graduates with degrees in complementary and alternative medicine are qualified to work in a variety of industries since they have the information and abilities necessary. Hospitals, clinics, healthcare facilities, international health organisations, and many more places are hiring these people.

Job opportunities for students with complementary and alternative medicine in India are:

• Chiropractic
• Acupuncture
• Naturopathic  Physician.
• Customer Service Representative
• Neurologist
• Post-doctoral Fellow
• Nursing Staff
• Homeopathic Doctor
• Online consultants in Complimentary Medicine

Job opportunities for students with complementary and alternative medicine abroad are as follows:

• Therapist
• Nutritionist
• Physician
• Nurse
• Ayurveda
• Yoga Instructor
• Acupuncturist
• Naturopath
• Homeopath
• Massage Therapist
• Life Coach
• Energy Practitioner
• Holistic Spa Worker
• Meditation Instructor
• Feng Shui Practitioner
• Stress Reduction Coach
• Guided Imagery Trainer
• Complementary and Alternative Medicine Research Assistant