Second year focuses on the study of disease and diagnosis with the beginning of the botanical, therapeutic manipulation, clinical nutrition, and homeopathic medicine sequences. The early clinical experience continues with specific clinical duties and observation. In order to enter into the clinical training of the third year, students must gain Candidacy for Degree status. Requisites include successful completion of all first and second year requirements and the clinic entrance exam. Third year continues with the botanical, therapeutic manipulation, clinical nutrition, and homeopathic medicine sequences, begins the organ systems courses, and gives major emphasis to clinical practice in the Portland Naturopathic Clinic, located on the campus of National College.
Fourth year completes the organ systems courses.
The major focus of fourth year is practical clinical training, working side by side with licensed physicians caring for patients. The student learns those skills that are basic to a naturopathic family practice in the core curriculum. Additional course work and clinical training are required for specialties in natural childbirth and homeopathy. The College' s teaching clinic, located on campus, is the center for clinical training. The clinic provides a rich, practical learning environment.