Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach Certificate
Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach Certificate
- Overview
- Program of Study
- Message from the Program Director
- Faculty & Advisory Board
- Admissions Requirements
- Tuition & Scholarships
- Program News
Overview
Overview
Learn to unlock health and happiness in yourself and others through one of the world’s oldest holistic healing systems.
Originating in India thousands of years ago, Ayurvedic Medicine (or “Ayurveda”) is based on the principle that three fundamental energies, known as doshas, govern all biological and psychological functions—and that maintaining harmony and balance in the doshas is essential to physical and mental wellbeing.
SCU’s Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach program will equip you with an understanding of fundamental Ayurvedic principles and related lifestyle practices (like diet, yoga, and meditation) for keeping doshas in balance—plus motivational coaching skills to inspire behavioral change—empowering you to transform your own life and the lives of others.
Upon completing this course, you’ll earn a Certificate of Completion and have the option to continue your Ayurvedic education, applying your earned credits toward our Ayurvedic Wellness Educator (AWE) program, and then advancing your studies even further in our Ayurvedic Practitioner (AP) program.
Program at a Glance:
- Entry-level program for those who are new to Ayurveda
- Completed in just 8 months (2 terms)
- 100% online, featuring live, interactive sessions on weekday evenings and weekends
- Curriculum focused on lifestyle-related healing practices (e.g. diet, yoga, meditation, mindfulness) as well as motivational interviewing and coaching to support behavior change for wellness care
- Provides transfer credits into our Ayurvedic Wellness Educator and Ayurvedic Practitioner programs.
- Graduates will receive a certificate of completion, signifying their status as an Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach
- Fixed tuition guarantee, federal financial aid for those who qualify, and a range of institutional and program-specific scholarship opportunities
Upcoming Start Dates:
- Summer: May 5th, 2025
What Sets Our Program Apart?
FLEXIBLE FORMAT TO SUPPORT LIFE BALANCE
Ayurveda is all about balance—and we want that for our students. All of your courses will take place live online, exclusively on weekday evenings and weekends, enabling you to pursue your educational goals without sacrificing your other passions and commitments.
A STEPPING-STONE FOR A CAREER IN HEALING
Ayurvedic Medicine is a vast healing system that includes both lifestyle-based treatments as well as clinical interventions. Our entry-level Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach program will prepare you to support healing through lifestyle practices such as:
- Food as Medicine: Diet changes to balance the doshas and support gut health for improved digestion, nutrient absorption, toxin elimination, immunity, mental well-being, disease prevention, and more
- Mind- Body Practices: Yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices to improve concentration and sleep, reduce anxiety, aid in digestion and detoxification, and more
- Personalized Lifestyle Practices: Develop customized Daily, nightly, and seasonal healthcare routines aimed at balancing the doshas by aligning one’s lifestyle with the natural rhythms of nature
After completing the program, if you choose, you may transfer your credits toward our Ayurvedic Wellness Educator (AWE) program, and then advance your studies even further in our Ayurvedic Practitioner (AP) program. In these programs, you’ll build expertise in the clinical aspects of Ayurvedic Medicine, taking coursework and receiving extensive hands-on training in Western anatomy and physiology, pathology, diagnostic testing, herbal medicine, treatment planning and prescribing, and more.
TEACHING SKILLS FOR BEHAVIOR CHANGE
While many programs teach the fundamental principles and practices of Ayurveda, SCU’s program goes further by equipping you with proven skills for motivating and empowering clients to adopt those practices and embrace change. You’ll learn motivational interviewing techniques that help clients identify and unlock their own internal motivation—and you’ll gain powerful coaching skills to help them set goals and enact actionable plans for change.
INTEGRATIVE, WHOLE HEALTH APPROACH
All too often, healthcare providers “stay in their lanes” rather than building comprehensive care plans that include other disciplines, professionals, and approaches. In addition, they look strictly at the physical body as opposed to all the factors that may be influencing a patient’s health and well-being—genetics, lifestyle, mental health, relationships, physical environments, community support, and beyond. But at SCU, no matter what program you are in, you’ll learn to blend the best of conventional and complementary approaches (integrative healthcare) and to treat the entire mind, body, and spirit (whole health)—for true lasting wellness.
Where Might the Program Take Me?
After completing the Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach program, you’ll be prepared to work in various settings, from private practice to integrative healthcare clinics and beyond. You’ll be prepared to:
- Guide clients, family, and community members in implementing daily, nightly, and seasonal routines, Ayurvedic diets, lifestyle practices, and personalized self-care practices
- Conduct one-on-one or group Ayurvedic lifestyle coaching sessions
- Lead educational workshops, seminars, or courses on health promotion, Ayurvedic nutrition, meditation, and yoga
- Write and/or contribute to Ayurvedic and holistic publications
- Integrate Ayurvedic knowledge into your current profession, whether as a medical doctor, chiropractor, licensed acupuncturist, nurse practitioner, licensed healthcare provider, yoga instructor, nutritionist, massage therapist, or wellness coach
- Or, you can continue your Ayurvedic Medicine education and training by applying your earned credits toward our Ayurvedic Wellness Educator (AWE) program and then advancing your studies even further in our Ayurvedic Practitioner (AP) program.
SCU Ayurveda Program Mission and Values
The Ayurveda Program at Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) prepares students to become empathetic, competent Ayurvedic professionals who improve lives through a person-centered, outcome-focused, whole-health approach to health and healing.
The Ayurveda program’s mission aligns with SCU’s mission by preparing professional, competent and caring Ayurvedic Wellness Educators and Practitioners. Through skill mastery and a strong evidence-based curriculum, graduates have the tools to be successful as independent Ayurveda professionals or collaborative members of an integrative healthcare team.
SCU’s Ayurveda program Values are:
- Patient-centered care
- Individualized care
- Evidence-based teaching
- Clinical learning framework
- Healthy lifestyle
- Holistic approach
- Health promotion & wellness care
Program of Study
Program of Study
The Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach program is designed for individuals who wish to deepen their understanding of Ayurveda and holistic medicine while empowering themselves and others to lead healthier, more balanced lives. Students completing the program will earn a Certificate of Completion. The curriculum includes:
- Basic principles of Ayurveda.
- Preventive healthcare practices, including daily, night, and seasonal routines.
- Yoga and meditation to support health and wellness.
- Ayurvedic approaches to diet and gut health for optimal well-being.
- Motivational interviewing and coaching approaches.
- Tools for promoting health and preventing disease through mindful diet and lifestyle practices.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Foundational Knowledge: Develop a comprehensive understanding of Ayurvedic foundational principles.
- Assessment Skills: Assess body and mind constitution and identify imbalances in doshas, dhatus, malas, and agni.
- Health Promotion: Apply Ayurvedic principles to recommend lifestyle, nutrition, and yoga practices that promote health and prevent disease.
- Professionalism and Communication: Exhibit professionalism and communicate effectively with an awareness of ethical practices.
Class Schedule
Program Sequences – 2-Term Schedule
Term 1
| Course Number |
Course Name |
Modality | Hours | Credits |
| AY1105 | Ayurvedic Basic Principles I | Online Interactive | 45 | 3 |
| AY1205 | Ayurvedic Nutrition | Online Interactive | 60 | 4 |
| AYWC51 | Ayurvedic Wellness Clerkship I | Online Interactive | 30 | 2 |
| Total Hours and Credits (Term 1) | 135 | 9 | ||
Term 2
| Course Number |
Course Name |
Modality | Hours | Credits |
| AY1355 | Ayurvedic Preventive Science | Online Interactive | 45 | 3 |
| AY1705 | Yoga I | Online Interactive | 45 | 2 |
| AY1950 | Motivational Interviewing and Coaching | Online Interactive | 30 | 2 |
| Total Hours and Credits (Term 2) | 120 | 7 | ||
| TOTAL | 255 | 16 | ||
Curriculum
| Course Number |
Course Name |
Modality | Hours | Credits |
| AY1105 | Ayurvedic Basic Principles I | Online Interactive | 45 | 3 |
| AY1205 | Ayurvedic Nutrition | Online Interactive | 60 | 4 |
| AYWC51 | Ayurvedic Wellness Clerkship I | Online Interactive | 30 | 2 |
| AY1355 | Ayurvedic Preventive Science | Online Interactive | 45 | 3 |
| AY1705 | Yoga I | Online Interactive | 45 | 2 |
| AY1950 | Motivational Interviewing and Coaching | Online Interactive | 30 | 2 |
| TOTAL | 255 | 16 |
Message from the Program Director
Message from the Program Director
Namaste,
Welcome to the Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) Ayurveda Medicine Department. Congratulations on embarking on this transformative journey through the Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach Certification program. Your commitment to deepening your understanding of Ayurveda and holistic health is an inspiring step toward not only improving your own life but also empowering others to live with balance and wellness. Our Ayurveda programs are uniquely designed to meet the diverse needs of our students while fostering a deep connection to the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda.
Through our innovative curriculum and live, interactive classes, students gain both practical and theoretical knowledge, preparing them for success in the integrative health field. By embracing preventive care and mindful living, you will be at the forefront of promoting health and wellness in the world.
At SCU, we are deeply passionate about teaching Ayurveda as both an ancient healing art and a modern healthcare solution. Ayurveda emphasizes physical, mental, and spiritual wellness through disciplined practices, proper nutrition, and daily routines—a philosophy that is deeply woven into the fabric of our programs. Remember, this journey is as much about personal transformation as it is about professional development. The knowledge and skills you acquire here will allow you to become a catalyst for positive change in your life and the lives of those you touch. We are excited to support you every step of the way as you embark on this empowering path. Upon completing this program, you have the opportunity to transfer your credits to the Ayurvedic Wellness Educator program and further advance your studies toward the Ayurvedic Practitioner program.
I invite you to explore this transformative path and discover how Ayurveda can enrich your life and the lives of those around you. Together, let’s create a healthier and happier world through the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda.
Warm regards,
Anupama Kizhakkeveettil, BAMS, MAOM, L.Ac, FAIHM, C-IAYT, PhD
Program Director, Ayurveda Medicine Department
Southern California University of Health Sciences
Faculty & Advisory Board
Faculty
Anupama Kizhakkeveettil, PhD, BAMS, MAOM, L.Ac, FAIHM, C-IAYT
Program Director, Ayurveda Medicine Department
Jayagopal Parla, BAMS, Masters in Ayurveda, MAOM, FAIHM, C-IAYT
University Faculty
SCU Health Faculty
Manjusha Vinjamury, BAMS, Masters in Ayurveda, DACM, FAIHM, L.Ac
University Faculty
SCU Health Faculty
Advisory Board
SCU’s Academic Advisory Board is composed of senior university academics, industry leaders, and content experts from around the world focused on continually improving the SCU Ayurveda Medicine programs. Academic Advisory Board associates volunteer their time and are an appreciated and valuable resource to the program and university.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions Requirements:
To apply for the Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach Certificate program, you must submit the following:
- Completed application form.
- Proof of high school graduation or equivalent.
- Valid driver’s license, state ID, or permanent resident card verifying age (18+).
Admissions Standards:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum age: 18 years before the program starts.
- Ability to meet physical and technical requirements (with or without accommodation).
Application Deadlines
- To ensure an admission decision prior to the desired start term, applicants are encouraged to submit their application, all application documents and supporting documents three to six months before their intended start date.
- SCU admits students on a rolling basis.
Certificate of Completion Requirements:
To earn the Ayurveda Lifestyle Coach Certificate of Completion, students must:
- Complete 16 credits within the required coursework.
- Fulfill all program requirements within 4 years of matriculation.
International Students
- SCU welcomes applications from qualified students from other countries. The general admission requirements are identical for all applicants, regardless of citizenship.
- For additional information, please visit our International Students page.
Accessibility and Disability Services
Students seeking reasonable accommodations or support services while enrolled at SCU can do so through the Student Services Office (SSO). We encourage you to register with SSO as early as possible to allow sufficient time for the approval and notification process.
Tuition & Scholarships
Tuition & Scholarships
$3,950 tuition to complete the program.*
SCU’s distinctive Fixed Rate Tuition Guarantee for the Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach program provides students with confidence in planning for their educational investment.
Fixed Tuition Guarantee Benefits:
- Your per term rate is guaranteed for the scheduled duration of your program**
- No tuition price uncertainty
- Plan your finances in advance
- If you would like to learn more about fixed rate tuition, please contact the
Office of Financial Aid at FinancialAid@scuhs.edu.
You can also visit the Office of Financial Aid website to learn more about available scholarships, loans, and more.
*Tuition rate reflected above represents the fixed rate for a student entering during the 2024-2025 academic year. Tuition rates are subject to change and may not be reflected on this website or other SCU materials. In all cases, changes in a student’s enrollment status due to adding, dropping, repeating, or withdrawing from a course may impact tuition and fees. Please contact us for the most updated information,
**Some limitations apply. View the Fixed Rate Tuition Guarantee page for more information.
Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach Certificate – 2 Terms
| Term | Tuition* | Fees** | Certificate of Completion Fee** | Total Term Cost*** |
| 1 | $1,800 | $150 | $1,950 | |
| 2 | $1,800 | $150 | $50 | $2,000 |
| Totals | $3,600 | $300 | $50 | $3,950 |
Per term tuition amounts listed above were calculated using the current curriculum plan for credit hours in the term shown times the rate per credit hour and assumes that the student stays on cohort and follows the normal academic progression.
*Tuition is charged at $225 per credit. Tuition is billed by credit hour and rates reflected above represent the fixed rate for a student entering during the 2024/2025 academic year. Tuition rates are subject to change and may not be reflected on the website or other SCU materials. Please contact us for the most updated information. Restrictions on our fixed rate tuition guarantee apply. To remain eligible for the fixed rate guarantee, students must graduate either on time or within one additional term of the published program length they are enrolled in. Refer to the Fixed Rate Tuition Guarantee section of the academic catalog for more information. Actual tuition per term will vary depending upon the number of credit hours enrolled.
**Program fees listed are for the 2024/2025 academic year and are subject to change. Program fees include a charge for technology, and are charged every term that the student is enrolled.
***Books, supplies, and other equipment not included in this tuition and fee schedule may be required for this program.
Program News
Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach Certificate Program News
SCU’s Ayurvedic Medicine Program Makes History with National Accreditation
Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) has made history! SCU’s Ayurvedic Medicine Program is the first in the U.S. to receive national accreditation from the Ayurvedic Accreditation Commission (AAC). This achievement solidifies SCU’s leadership in integrative health education, offering students top-tier training, hands-on clinical experience, and international learning opportunities. Discover how this milestone is shaping the future of Ayurveda in the U.S.
Southern California University of Health Sciences Graduates 536 New Healthcare Professionals In 2024
Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) celebrated the Class of 2024 with 536 graduates ready to transform healthcare through integrative, whole-person care. Highlights include inspiring speeches by Dr. John Scaringe and Dr. Mimi Guarneri, valedictorian Courtney Lynn Rasic’s reflection, and the Health Equity Award honoring Stacy Jocelyn Bencomo.
Celebrating Excellence: Dr. Anupama Kizhakkeveettil Appointed Chair of the APHA ICTHP Section
Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) is thrilled to announce that Dr. Anupama Kizhakkeveettil, PhD, BAMS, MAOM, LAc, FAIHM, C-IAYT. and Program Director of SCU’s Ayurveda Medicine Department, has been appointed Chair of the American Public Health Association’s (APHA) Section on Integrative, Complementary, and Traditional Health Practices (ICTHP).
AIHM, SCU, and Cornerstone Collaboration to Co-Host Inaugural Whole Health Conference in October 2024
AIHM, SCU, and Cornerstone Collaboration to Co-Host Inaugural Whole Health Conference in October 2024 Interprofessional continuing education credits available to all conference attendees Whole Health is emerging as the next evolutionary step […]
Interprofessional Education Model Builds Bridges Between Academic and Clinical Communities, Students and Faculty
March is National Nutrition Month, which promotes the importance of making informed food choices and developing healthy eating habits. Along with a balanced diet, taking vitamins and supplements can also improve overall health. While there are many options available, if I could only choose three, they would be Omega 3 fish oil, Vitamin D, and Magnesium. These three vitamins offer a range of benefits, from improving brain function to reducing inflammation and supporting bone health.
SCU Health announces half-off Ayurveda therapy services, March 27-30, 2023
Southern Californians can receive free consultations and half-priced Ayurveda therapy services during an upcoming SCU Health promotional event from Monday, March 27 – Thursday, March 30, in Whittier.
Ayurveda healthcare providers use herbs, diet, lifestyle recommendations, specialized Ayurveda therapies, and yoga to help patients re-establish harmony and achieve greater health, balance and happiness. SCU Health’s Ayurveda practitioners bring over 50 years of collective experience supporting patients on their journey to achieve optimal health with personalized therapy plans.
SCU Health announces half-off Ayurveda therapy services, Jan. 17-20, 2023
Southern Californians can receive free consultations and half-priced Ayurveda therapy services during an upcoming SCU Health promotional event from Tuesday, Jan. 17 – Friday, Jan. 20, in Whittier.
Ayurveda healthcare providers use herbs, diet, lifestyle recommendations, specialized Ayurveda therapies, and yoga to help patients re-establish harmony and achieve greater health, balance and happiness. SCU Health’s Ayurveda practitioners bring over 50 years of collective experience supporting patients on their journey to achieve optimal health with personalized therapy plans.
SCU Ayurveda Program announces renewed agreement with Amrita University in India
Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) has announced that its
Ayurveda Department has recently renewed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) agreement with Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University, in India. Amrita is one of India’s top-ranked private universities, with seven campuses located in Amaravati, Amritapuri, Bengaluru, Chennai, Coimbatore, Kochi, and Mysuru and a new upcoming campus at NCR Delhi (Faridabad). Amrita is accredited ‘A++’ by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), an autonomous body established in 1994 by the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India to assess and accredit institutions of higher education in the country. Amrita is ranked as one of the best research institutions in India.
Ayurveda Program at SCU announces NAMAC Candidacy Status
Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) has announced that its Ayurvedic Wellness Educator Certificate Program and Ayurvedic Practitioner Program at has been granted Candidacy for Accreditation status by the National Ayurvedic Medicine Accreditation Council (NAMAC). SCU is the first ayurvedic program in the U.S. to receive NAMAC’s Candidacy for Accreditation status. NAMAC is a programmatic accrediting agency for clinically focused Ayurvedic medical programs.
SCU Health announces half-off Ayurveda therapy services, Dec. 5-7, 2022
WHITTIER, CA. – (Nov. 30, 2022) — Southern Californians can receive free consultations and half-priced Ayurveda therapy services during an upcoming SCU Health promotional event from Monday, Dec. 5 – […]
SCU Announces the 2023 ASB Executive Board (E-board)
Elections were recently held for the 2023 SCU ASB Executive Board (E-board) annual student leadership positions, including President, Vice President, CCO Chair, Treasurer, Secretary, and Community Liaison.
Congratulations to the following elected student leaders for 2023 who will serve a one-year term beginning Jan. 2023, through Dec. 2023.
President: Joanna Quintana (top left)
Vice President: Tim Schrijver (top middle)
Secretary: Kristeen Shamas (top right)
Treasurer: Eira Perez (bottom left)
Community Liaison: Madison Park (bottom middle)
CCO Chair: John Krueger (bottom right)
SCU Health announces free Chiropractic Care Clinics, free Ayurveda Services and free Health Fairs
SCU Health announces free Chiropractic Care Clinics, Ayurveda Services, and Health Fairs WHITTIER, CA. – (Nov. 15, 2022) — Southern Californians can receive free chiropractic care at an upcoming SCU […]
SCU Health announces free chiropractic and ayurvedic healthcare clinics
SCU Health announces free Chiropractic Care Clinics and free Ayurveda Services WHITTIER, CA. – (Oct. 17, 2022) — Southern Californians can receive free chiropractic care at our upcoming SCU Health […]
SCU Health announces free chiropractic and ayurvedic healthcare clinics
SCU Health announces free Chiropractic Care Clinics and free Ayurveda Services WHITTIER, CA. – (Sept. 21, 2022) — Southern Californians can receive free chiropractic care at our upcoming SCU Health […]
Are ayurveda treatments and ayurvedic medicine effective? Ask the Professor, with SCU’s Dr. Anu
Are ayurveda treatments and ayurvedic medicine effective? Ask the Professor, with SCU’s Dr. AnuDr. Anu answers the following commonly asked questions about Ayurvedic medicine and its efficacy and educational opportunities […]
Ask the Professor: What is interprofessional education, and what is IPE and Collaborative Practice Week?
From left to right, Dr. Preetideep Singh, M.D., Associate Professor, Assistant Dean, IPE; Dr. TrungHung Tho Bui, DC, FHS Instructor; and Dr. Jonathan Carlos, M.D., FHS Associate Professor, collaborate on […]
SCU Ayurveda faculty and alumni to present at 2022 NAMA Conference
SCU Ayurveda faculty and alumni to present at 2022 National Ayurvedic Medical Association (NAMA) Conference – Ayurveda for Family HealthWHITTIER, CA. – (April 19, 2022) — Five Southern California University […]
SCU celebrates 100% NAMACB examination passing rate
WHITTIER, CA – (Feb. 9, 2022) — Ten SCU Ayurvedic Practitioner Certificate Class of 2021 graduates recently completed the National Ayurvedic Medical Association Certification Board (NAMACB) examination in 2021, resulting […]
Southern California University of Health Sciences graduates 456 new healthcare professionals
Southern California University of Health Sciences graduates 456 new healthcare professionals LOS ANGELES, CA – (Dec. 17, 2021) Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) hosted its annual commencement ceremony today, […]
The SCU Model of Interprofessional Education
Our approach to Interprofessional Education is unique. In California and across the country. Here modern medicine unites with ancient and traditional healing arts to create an environment of engagement. SCU’s groundbreaking IPE model combines curriculum, clinic, community, and clubs to help you develop a broader base of knowledge and gain a deeper appreciation for different perspectives on care. Which leads to a seamless transition from student to practitioner.
We bring together aspiring students from different disciplines so you can learn and excel side-by-side. The depth and breadth of this dynamic experience will prepare you to one day take the lead in a collaborative, interprofessional practice.
Request Information
By submitting this form, I authorize and agree that a representative of Southern California University of Health Sciences can contact me about educational services and future offers by email, phone and/or text messaging at the email and telephone number provided above using automated technology for calls or text messages. Message and data rates may apply. I understand that consent is not required to purchase any goods or services from this school and that my consent can be revoked at any time by emailing info@scuhs.edu. All information provided shall be subject to our privacy policy.
Financing Your Dreams
We are proud to offer a fixed tuition guarantee, federal financial aid for those who qualify, and a range of institutional and program-specific scholarship opportunities.