Ayurvedic Wellness Educator Certificate
Ayurvedic Wellness Educator Certificate (Level I)
- Overview
- Program of Study
- Message from the Program Director
- Faculty & Advisory Board
- Accreditation, Exams, and Licensure
- Student Perspectives
- Admissions Requirements
- Tuition & Scholarships
- Program News
- Career Information
- Study Abroad
- Ayurveda Life
Overview
Overview
Originating in India thousands of years ago, Ayurvedic Medicine (or Ayurveda) has garnered increased attention and popularity in Western countries as patients and healthcare providers embrace more holistic and integrative approaches to health and wellness. This ancient healing system is based on the principle that three fundamental energies (known as doshas) govern all biological and psychological functions in the human body and mind. Ayurvedic Wellness Educators are trained to identify imbalances in the doshas and to empower people to lead healthier, happier lives through diet, lifestyle, basic rejuvenating herbs and spices, body work therapies, basic yoga, and meditation practices.
SCU’s entry-level Ayurvedic Wellness Educator Certificate program is both an educational journey and a personally transformative experience, designed for those who would like to learn how to apply Ayurveda in their own lives, and with their families, communities, and clients.
Program at a Glance
- Entry-level program for those who are new to Ayurveda
- 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time
- A combination of live online coursework, recorded lectures, and in-person classes
- Introductory clinical experience through supervised clinical rotations at SCU Health Clinics
- Curriculum that not only provides foundational knowledge of Ayurvedic approaches for health promotion and wellness but also of Western anatomy and physiology
- Program recognized by the Ayurvedic Accreditation Commission (AAC)
- Prepares graduates to sit for the National Ayurvedic Medical Association Certification Board’s Ayurveda Health Counselor Certification Exam
- 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
- Fall: September 2nd, 2025
- Spring: January 5th, 2026
What Sets Our Program Apart?
CURRICULUM THAT HONORS THE TRADITIONAL WHILE EMBRACING THE MODERN
At SCU, in addition to developing an understanding of wide-ranging Ayurvedic principles and practices, you’ll learn Western medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and more—equipping you with more tools to improve patient care and confidently navigate conventional healthcare environments.
FLEXIBLE FORMATS TO SUPPORT LIFE BALANCE
Ayurveda is all about balance—and we want that for our students. We have intentionally designed our program with both full-time and part-time options, online coursework, and in-person classes that take place on weekday evenings and weekends—to help you pursue your dream of becoming an Ayurvedic healer without sacrificing your other passions and commitments.
A CURRICULUM BASED ON RESPECTED AYURVEDIC ACCREDITATION STANDARDS
Our Ayurvedic Wellness Educator program is based on the guidelines of the Ayurvedic Accreditation Commission—ensuring you gain the broad foundational knowledge you need to help people lead healthier, happier, more satisfying lives. Our well-rounded curriculum will teach you basic principles of Ayurveda, Sanskrit, Ayurvedic history, Western anatomy, Western physiology, Ayurvedic preventive science, yoga, Ayurvedic nutrition, Ayurvedic pathology, Ayurvedic herbology and pharmaceutics/home remedies, Ayurvedic detoxification methods and bodywork, Ayurvedic rejuvenation, Practice Management and the basics of Ayurvedic healing.
HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE & TRAINING
As an SCU Ayurvedic Wellness Educator student, you will have the opportunity to practice what you’re learning during clinical rotations at our own SCU Health Clinics that serve 40,000+ patients per year and are equipped with expansive herbal pharmacies and advanced diagnostic imaging technology. Working under the supervision of an experienced Ayurvedic Practitioner, you’ll treat patients in an integrative, whole health setting. Learn more on our Clinical Training page.
INTERNATIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
We are proud to offer our Ayurvedic students life-changing opportunities to participate in (optional) trips to India to see and experience traditional healing practices firsthand, thanks to our affiliations with esteemed Indian organizations such as Amrita Center for Advanced Research in Ayurveda, Institute of Teaching in Ayurveda (ITRA), KLE Ayurveda, and AVP Research Foundation. Learn more about these impactful study abroad opportunities for Ayurveda students.
BROADER INTERPROFESSIONAL EDUCATION
Most of today’s healthcare colleges offer an “interprofessional education” through which students learn with, from, and about other disciplines. But at SCU, our Interprofessional Education is broader and, frankly, we think that makes it better. Unlike other colleges, we teach you about both conventional and complementary disciplines—not just one or the other—because we believe in both and we teach both, all under one roof.
AN 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 Wellness Educator program, you may work in a wide range of settings and capacities, as an independent contractor or part of a larger integrative healthcare organization. You’ll be prepared to:
- Guide patients, family, friends, and others on daily and seasonal routines, diet, lifestyle, home remedies, yoga, and meditation for wellness care and health promotion
- Perform Ayurveda wellness education sessions or one-on-on lifestyle consultations in integrative clinics, wellness centers, or private practice
- Teach courses or host seminars on health promotion and wellness care
- Leverage Ayurvedic education in your current profession as a licensed healthcare professional, alternative healer, yoga instructor, massage therapist, bodyworker, esthetician, etc.
- And more
SCU Ayurveda Program Mission and Values
The Ayurveda Program at Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCUHS) 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
Our understanding and respect for Ayurvedic medicine’s cultural and philosophical roots form the foundation of our program. As the only program in the West affiliated with a university, SCU students enjoy the advantages of highly degreed and experienced faculty combined with the latest classroom, online learning, and lab technologies. SCU’s Ayurveda program is based on the guidelines of the World Health Organization Benchmarks for training in traditional/complementary and alternative medicine: benchmarks for training in Ayurveda. During this one-year program, students will learn basic principles of Ayurveda, Sanskrit, Ayurvedic history, Anatomy, Physiology, Ayurvedic preventive science, yoga, Ayurvedic nutrition, Ayurvedic pathology, Ayurvedic herbology and pharmaceutics/home remedies, Ayurvedic detoxification methods and bodywork, Ayurvedic rejuvenation, and an introduction to Ayurvedic healing. Students also will receive a supervised clerkship at the SCU University Health Center.
During the Ayurveda Wellness Educator program, students will learn about how to structure the diet based on Ayurveda principles, qualities, and actions of various grains, legumes, spices, vegetables, and greens and also will learn various meal preparations for health promotion and wellness care. Students also will get a deeper understanding of the Ayurveda preventive medicine and lifestyle practices such as daily routine, and a seasonal routine that emphasizes health promotion.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Foundational knowledge: The graduate will understand and develop the foundational principles of Ayurvedic medicine and biological science.
- Assessment of doshas, dhatus, malas, and agni: The graduate will determine body and mind constitution and assess the imbalances in doshas, dhatus, malas, and agni based on Ayurvedic principles.
- Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: The graduate will apply Ayurvedic principles to recommend the Ayurvedic lifestyle, herbs, nutrition, therapies, and yoga required to promote health and prevent disease.
- Professionalism and Communication: The graduate will exhibit professionalism and communicate with an awareness of ethical practice.
For full program information, view the catalog.
Program At-A-Glance
Students Choose One of Two Program Schedules
Full-time schedule (3 Terms | 12 months): Students in the full-time program are expected to enroll full-time for three consecutive terms including the summer. Courses are offered on-ground, blended, and in an online format.
Part-time schedule (6 Terms | 24 months): Students in the part-time program are expected to enroll part-time for six consecutive terms including the summer. Courses are offered on-ground, blended, and in an online format.
Ayurvedic Therapies
SCU’s Ayurveda Certificate Programs include coursework in many Ayurvedic therapies. Each therapy has unique benefits that will restore balance to the body and mind in future patients. Therapies include Abhyanga, Shirodhara, Shiroabhyanga, Greeva Basti, Kati Basti, and Janu Basti.
Yoga and Meditation
During the first year of education, students will have an understanding of yoga philosophies that influence Ayurveda in health promotion. Students will also learn various yoga practices such as Asanas, meditation, and various breathing techniques.
Ayurveda Rejuvenation
This program educates students about the unique health promotion and rejuvenation concepts of Ayurveda. Students will gain knowledge about the methods that support healthy aging and staying fit at any age, as well as methods described for enhancing the body’s resistance to disease-causing factors and preventing the advancement of chronic diseases. Herbs and dietetic substances that enhance memory, eyesight, energy, and complexion will be highlighted.
Introduction to Ayurvedic Healing
This program introduces the student to the concepts and principles of Ayurvedic Herbology and pharmacology. The course will impart knowledge about how to prepare, and use common Ayurvedic herbs along with basic pharmaceuticals for health promotion and wellness care and will also provide instruction on diet, yoga, lifestyle recommendation, therapies, herbs, and spices for health promotion and wellness care.
Anatomy and Physiology
This program also includes 120 hrs of Western Anatomy and Physiology courses where students will understand and develop the foundational principles of biological science.
Class Schedule (Full-Time)
- On-ground session Saturday and Sunday, twice per term from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm in all three terms.
- Online synchronous lectures once a week from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm in all three terms.
- Online synchronous lectures every Friday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm (Term 1 and Term 2 only).
- Online synchronous lecture one weekend of the second and third month of each term.
- Weekly, on-ground, 4-hour rotations at the University Health Center, the University’s owned and operated clinic on campus, or other approved clinical sites during AYWC52: Ayurvedic Wellness Clerkship II (Term 3).
Note: times are Pacific Time (PT), a “term” is 15 weeks, and the schedule is subject to change.
Class Schedule (Part-Time)
Courses are typically held on the following days, for students in the 6-term schedule. Evening classes usually start at 5:30 pm except for Friday which starts at 5:00 pm. Weekend classes start at 8:00 am.
- On-ground session Saturday and/or Sunday, twice per term.
- Online synchronous lectures on weekday evenings.
- Online synchronous lecture Saturday and/or Sunday of the second and third month of the term.
- Weekly, on-ground, 4-hour rotations at the University Health Center, the University’s owned and operated clinic on campus, or other approved clinical sites during AYWC52: Ayurvedic Wellness Clerkship II.
Courses Covered in Ayurvedic Wellness Educator Program
| Course Name | Hours | Credits |
| Anatomy & Physiology I | 60 | 4 |
| Anatomy & Physiology II | 60 | 4 |
| Ayurvedic Basic Principles I | 45 | 3 |
| Sanskrit | 30 | 2 |
| Ayurveda History | 30 | 2 |
| Ayurvedic Preventative Science | 45 | 3 |
| Ayurvedic Nutrition | 60 | 4 |
| Ayurvedic Pathology | 45 | 3 |
| Ayurvedic Herbology & Pharmaceutics I | 45 | 3 |
| Ayurvedic Rejuvenation I | 30 | 2 |
| Ayurvedic Detoxification Methods/Body Work I (includes lab) | 60 | 3 |
| Yoga I (includes lab) | 45 | 2 |
| Practice Management | 30 | 2 |
| Introduction to Ayurvedic Healing | 45 | 3 |
| Ayurvedic Wellness Clerkship I | 30 | 2 |
| Ayurvedic Wellness Clerkship II | 60 | 2 |
| Total | 720 | 44 |
Ayurveda Program Mission
Our mission is to provide students with the best quality of education in Ayurvedic Medicine, emphasizing preventative and integrative health care.
Our departmental mission aligns with the SCU 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.
Ayurveda Program Values
- Patient-centered care
- Individualized care
- Evidence-based teaching
- Clinical learning framework
- Diversity, equity and inclusion
- Healthy lifestyle
- Holistic approach
- Health promotion & wellness care
Message from the Program Director
Message from the Program Director
Namaste,
Welcome to the Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) Ayurveda Medicine Department. The Ayurveda Medicine Department offers outstanding Ayurvedic education programs designed to meet diverse student populations.
The Ayurveda Wellness Educator and Ayurveda Practitioner certificate programs are among the most academically rigorous Ayurveda programs and have a reputation for preparing competent graduates. Students participate in hands-on learning through clinical experiences in the SCU Health system. Excellent and expert faculty, availability of tutoring and mentoring sessions, commitment to high-quality classroom education, integrated clinical education, and a priority on the educational experience have contributed to the distinguished reputation of Ayurveda programs within the SCU.
Opportunities provided for Ayurveda students in the classroom and clinic enable students to develop intellectually and socially to become the next generation of healers in our community. Our renowned Ayurveda curricular programming has enriched the experiences of Ayurveda students as they seek to achieve cultural and intellectual fulfillment in our university setting. Please take time to look through our website to learn more about the various Ayurveda certificate programs offered through the Ayurveda Medicine Department.
We are extremely proud to make a difference in the world by preparing students as compassionate and skilled Ayurvedic practitioners who are also sensitive to current healthcare needs. We are passionate about bringing the Ayurveda community together and educating students about the value of personalized, community-based healthcare. Ayurveda is one of the world’s oldest medical systems delivering personalized healthcare. Ayurveda strongly advocates the pursuit of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being through self-discipline, good conduct, proper diet, exercise, and daily living routines. We are committed to providing a strong academic curriculum and clinical experience to develop highly skilled graduates.
We look forward to welcoming you to SCU!
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.
Accreditation, Exams, and Licensure
Program Accreditation
SCU’s Auyervedic Wellness Educator program is the first Ayurvedic program in the U.S. to receive AAC accreditation. The AAC is a recognized accrediting agency for clinically focused Ayurvedic medical programs. AAC accreditation signifies that the program meets rigorous standards and provides a comprehensive course of study, ensuring that graduates are highly trained professionals. Graduates of this program are eligible to sit for the NAMACB Certification Exams.
The Ayurvedic Wellness Educator program is accredited by the Ayurvedic Accreditation Commission (AAC), a programmatic accrediting agency for program in Ayurvedic Medicine. For information, contact: AAC, 351 Pleasant Street, #450, Northampton, MA 01060, info@ayurvedicaccreditation.org. For more information on AAC program recognition, please visit AAC Recognized Programs.
The California Association of Ayurvedic Medicine (CAAM)
The SCU Ayurvedic program is recognized by the California Association of Ayurvedic Medicine (CAAM). The CAAM is dedicated to promoting the integration and advancement of Ayurvedic medicine in California. SCU’s faculty leadership are actively working with CAAM to create a standard of practice and education, ethical values to safeguard the community at large and lend credibility to the viability and growth of the Ayurvedic Profession in California.
Professional Certification
Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Ayurvedic Medical Association Certification Board’s (NAMACB ) Ayurvedic Health Counselor Certification Exam and are eligible to continue their education in the Ayurvedic Practitioner Certificate (Level II) program. Upon completion of the Ayurveda Wellness Educator and Practitioner programs, SCU students qualify for NAMACB3 certification meaning the candidate has demonstrated the entry-level competencies for his/her category of practice by completing a NAMA-approved course of study and passing a rigorous certification exam and is engaged in ongoing training as a professional through continuing education and other activities.
Student Perspectives
Student Perspectives
I chose SCU because I met Dr. Anu and saw her give her beautiful speech about the Ayurveda program, and she led us all through yoga. I knew from that day that SCU was for me. The clinic was the best part of the program because you get to see everything we're learning inside the classroom, all the theories and the principles applied in real life. You get to see the patients' lives turn around, their body pain goes away with the body treatments and the herbs, and you get to see them making these dietary changes and lifestyle changes. The other aspect of the Ayurveda program at SCU that I enjoyed was the hands-on approach, and that's not only in the clinic where we get to work with patients hands-on but also in the classroom setting.
Naomi Uchida – Boas
Ayurveda Wellness and Practitioner Alum
Our Value: Evidence-based Practice, Integrative Health
I chose SCU because it focuses on integrative health, which is important to me. I wanted to be part of a program that focuses on looking at these traditional forms of medicine, bringing them forward into the modern present-day, and finding ways to utilize them with other practitioners. So, I think one of the most incredible things here at SCU is the teachers' focus on the tradition of Ayurveda but also on how to bring it into the modern medical world.
Autumn Rae Sellmann
Student, Ayurveda Program
"There are a lot of things that I love about the program at SCU. The first one is that the faculty come from a long line of Ayurvedic knowledge deeply rooted in ancient classical text. They studied Ayurveda, but they also lived it. When you learn from people who embody this wisdom, it's much easier to grasp this knowledge. The second thing I love is the camaraderie within the cohort. The combination of the training, supportive faculty, and the support of my peers and classmates has given me the confidence I need to start my own practice."
Portia Harris
Student, Ayurveda Program
Admissions Requirements
Admissions Requirements
Prerequisite Entrance Requirements
- High school graduate or equivalent.
- 18 years of age prior to matriculation.
- Meet the Technical Standards (physical and technical requirements) to successfully complete the program, with or without reasonable accommodations.
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.
International Students
- SCU welcomes applications from qualified students from other countries. The general admission requirements are identical for all applicants, regardless of citizenship. However, immigration regulations, varying educational backgrounds, and financial considerations require additional procedures necessary for international students.
- 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 and Scholarships
$9,900 tuition to complete the program.*
SCU’s distinctive Fixed Rate Tuition Guarantee for the Ayurvedic Wellness Educator 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. Please contact us for the most updated information.
**Some limitations apply. View the Fixed Rate Tuition Guarantee page for more information.
Ayurvedic Wellness Educator Certificate – 3 Terms (Full-Time)
| Term | Tuition* | Program Fees** | EXXAT Fees | Petition to Graduate Fee |
Total Term Cost*** |
| 1 | $4,050 | $192 | $158 | – | $4,400 |
| 2 | $3,150 | $192 | – | – | $3,342 |
| 3 | $2,700 | $192 | – | $225 | $3,117 |
| Totals | $9,900 | $576 | $158 | $225 | $10,859 |
Ayurvedic Wellness Educator Certificate – 6 Terms (Part-Time)
| Term | Tuition* | Program Fees** | EXXAT Fees | Petition to Graduate Fee |
Total Term Cost*** |
| 1 | $1,575 | $192 | $158 | – | $1,925 |
| 2 | $1,800 | $192 | – | – | $1,992 |
| 3 | $1,575 | $192 | – | – | $1,767 |
| 4 | $1,800 | $192 | – | – | $1,992 |
| 5 | $1,575 | $192 | – | – | $1,767 |
| 6 | $1,575 | $192 | – | $225 | $1,992 |
| Totals | $9,900 | $1,152 | $158 | $225 | $11,435 |
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 hour. 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 charges for technology, student health, malpractice insurance and ASB 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 Wellness Educator Certificate (Level 1) 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
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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).
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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 […]
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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 […]
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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, […]
Career Information
Career Options
Ayurvedic medicine includes a wide and rewarding range of practice opportunities, such as preventive care, health promotion, and disease management across a variety of client and patient populations. Ayurveda graduates can serve the general population, from young children to the elderly, as well as specific populations, as Ayurveda provides whole-person health and wellness care.
As an Ayurvedic healthcare professional, you’ll have many career options available to you, including:
- Ayurvedic Health Counselor/Educator: Graduates will be able to offer lifestyle guidance and support individuals with health promotion and wellness care
- Massage therapists can provide Ayurvedic Massage Therapy along with diet and lifestyle guidelines for health promotions (graduates may not perform the bodywork therapies unless allowed in their scope of practice under other licensing)
- Estheticians in skin and beauty may enhance their treatments, services, and products with Ayurveda’s natural and personalized approach.
- Write and/or contribute to Ayurvedic and holistic publications and research studies.
- Wellness Center Owner/Operator, or work with other wellness professionals to start or join an integrative practice
Ayurveda Wellness Educators work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as, rehabilitation centers, home healthcare centers etc. They can also open a private practice in this field. The most common healthcare practitioners who include Ayurveda in their practices are holistic physicians, naturopaths, chiropractors, massage therapists, nutritionists, and acupuncturists.
Industry Resources and Career Opportunity Information
Salary Information
Earnings in the Ayurveda field vary widely depending on whether you’re a medical doctor with Ayurveda training or an independent practitioner with certificate training, and whether you work part time or full time. Salary data can be found at Salary.com.
Lifestyle
Ayurveda graduates are able to do work that is meaningful because Ayurveda is a whole-person health system that is patient-centered and improves the health and lives of their patients through diet, lifestyle, herbs, and body therapies. Many graduates open their own businesses so they can be their own boss, which allows them to do meaningful work while also having flexibility. Within the curriculum, students learn practice management and how to develop and manage a clinical practice business.
Study Abroad
Study Abroad
SCU is an advocate for merging experiences of Ayurveda learned in Western and Eastern cultures, with a commitment to enhancing student training through international learning experiences. Studying abroad provides students with a global perspective on how different health practices, health care platforms, and cultural influences on health and wellness influence the delivery of healthcare.
The Ayurveda Medicine Department study abroad experience provides students the opportunity to learn ancient techniques and theories, paired with modern scientific research from prestigious universities and hospitals located where Ayurvedic medicine originated. The Ayurveda Medicine Department currently affiliates with esteemed organizations in India, such as Amrita Center for Advanced Research in Ayurveda, Institute of Teaching in Ayurveda (ITRA), KLE Ayurveda, and AVP Research Foundation.
Ayurveda students typically study abroad during the two-week intersession between Spring and Summer terms. Due to accreditation limitations, study abroad cannot award hours or credits toward the student’s program curriculum, though it serves as an exceptional self-enrichment and learning experience.
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is a multi-campus, multi-disciplinary research academia that is accredited ‘A++’ by NAAC and is ranked as one of the best research institutions in India.
AVP Research Foundation (AVPRF) works to develop appropriate research methodologies that address the complexity of Ayurvedic treatments that seek to integrate the individual’s body, mind, and soul to promote healing.
Ayurveda Life
Ayurveda Life
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.
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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.