SCU’s Ayurvedic Medicine Program Makes History with National Accreditation

Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) has achieved an historic milestone. Its Ayurvedic Medicine Department, led by Dr. Anupama Kizhakkeveettil, has become the first program in the country to receive accreditation from the newly established Ayurvedic Accreditation Commission (AAC).

This is a big deal for SCU, its students, and the future of Ayurvedic medicine in the U.S., establishing SCU as a pioneer in Ayurvedic education and setting a gold standard for academic excellence and clinical training. As the AAC President said, “SCU has demonstrated not only a commitment to these standards but also a shared vision for advancing the field of Ayurveda in the United States.”

Here’s a glimpse at what makes our Ayurveda programs special:

• Honors the Traditional While Embracing the Modern—Our programs not only teach wide-ranging Ayurvedic principles and practices, but also Western medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and more—equipping students with more tools to improve patient care and confidently navigate conventional healthcare environments.
  
  
• Strong Clinical Training – Our students have the opportunity to practice what they’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 experienced Ayurvedic Practitioners they gain hands on experience treating patients in an integrative, whole health setting.
  
  
• International Learning Opportunities–We 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.
  
  
• Research-Based Education – SCU updates its courses regularly to include the latest evidence-based best practices.  We believe this not only equips students to achieve superior patient outcomes but also prepares them to communicate and collaborate more effectively with conventional healthcare professionals.

Now that SCU has received this top recognition, the university has big plans. In May 2025, it will launch a new Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach Certification Program that will not only equip students with an understanding of fundamental Ayurvedic principles but also motivational coaching skills to inspire behavioral change. SCU also plans to offer short courses for the public to learn about Ayurvedic nutrition, self-care, and wellness.

Dr. Anu sees a bright future for Ayurveda in the U.S., saying:

“With rising demand for personalized, natural, and preventive healthcare, Ayurveda has the potential to become a mainstream component of integrative medicine in hospitals, wellness centers, and academic institutions.”

For students already in the program, this accreditation confirms that they are receiving a top-tier education. For those considering enrolling, there has never been a better time to join.

“This is an exciting time to be part of SCU’s program,” said Dr. Anu. “You will gain hands-on experience, and the knowledge needed to make a meaningful impact on holistic healthcare.”

If you’re ready to start your journey in Ayurvedic Medicine, visit www.scuhs.edu to learn more about the program and how to apply.