REQUIREMENTS AND PREREQUISITES

Can I get any questions answered prior to application?
You can communicate freely to have any questions that are not answered on our website answered by email or phone by our Admissions Office; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , 604-777-9981.

Where can pre-requisites be fulfilled?
BINM does not offer academic preparatory courses. Pre-requisites may be fulfilled at a number of post-secondary institutions, either in class or online and it is up to you to explore which would be the best fit. The institution must be a recognized post-secondary institution or the equivalent for entry into the program. For credentials earned outside of the USA and Canada a "comprehensive evaluation" must be completed from  ICES or from WES and sent directly to the Admissions Office prior to the admissions deadline.

Many applicants who have completed undergraduate degrees opt to fulfill outstanding pre-requisites through self-paced, online studies. Some options which applicants commonly choose from are Athabasca University and Thompson Rivers University. These are self-paced online programs (which typically do not require three week labs but instead have a mail-in lab component to be completed at home). UCAL-Berkeley offers distance education for biochemistry in which there is no lab and the final exam can be proctored.

Please find some options to fulfill BINM requirements listed below (onsite and online options). Remember, the options are not limited to those listed.   Please contact the BINM Admissions Department for assistance: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Important: It is the student’s responsibility for ensuring the pre-requisite courses taken satisfy BINM requirements and to be advised that the below details were last updated in June 2010 and may have changed. It is therefore advisable to contact the institutions listed below.  If you would like additional assistance,  please contact the BINM Admissions Department for assistance: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

ATHABASCA UNIVERSITY: www.athabascau.ca (online courses available)
Courses offered at Athabasca which are acceptable (additional courses may be acceptable: check with BINM Admissions for details):

BIOL 204 and 205 – Principles of Biology I and II
CHEM 217 and 218 – Chemical Principles I and II
CHEM 350 – Organic Chemistry
CHEM 301 – Introduction to Biochemistry
PSYC 290 – General Psychology  (we recommend this course over those that follow, which are all also acceptable).
PSYC 323 –  Developmental Psychology
PSYC 355 –  Cognitive Psychology
PSYC 379 –  Social Psychology
PSYC 387 - Learning

SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY: www.sfu.ca
Courses offered at SFU which are acceptable (additional courses may be acceptable: check with BINM Admissions for details):

BISC 100 - Introduction to Biology
BISC 101 - General Biology I (strongly recommended to take BISC 101/102 to satisfy BINM requirement)
BiSC 102 - General Biology II
CHEM 110 - Introductory Chemistry I
CHEM 111 - Introductory Chemistry II
CHEM 121 - General Chemistry I
CHEM 126 - General Chemistry II
CHEM 281 - Organic Chemistry I
MBB 201-3 - Biochemistry of the Cell
PSYC 100 - Introduction to Psychology I
PSYC 102 - Introduction to Psychology II
PSYC 221 - Introduction to Cognitive Psychology


THOMPSON RIVERS UNIVERSITY: www.tru.ca (online courses available)
Courses offered at TRU which are acceptable are (additional courses may be acceptable: check with BINM Admissions for details):

CHEM 160 and CHEM 162 – Chemical Bonding and Organic Chemistry/Principles of Chemistry (formerly Chem 110 and Chem 111).
CHEM 240 – Organic Chemistry 1
BISC 120 and 121 – Principles of Biology and Exploring Biology
BISC 313 – Introduction to Biochemistry
PSYC 111 – Introduction to Psychology 1 (we recommend this course over those that follow, which are all also acceptable).
PSYC 121 –  Introduction to Psychology 2
PSYC 159 –  Developmental Psychology 1
PSYC 169 –  Developmental Psychology 2
PSYC 221 –  Introduction to Cognition
PSYC 222 –  Introduction to Social Psychology
PSYC 223 –  Introduction to Development Psychology

UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA: www.ubc.ca
Courses offered at UBC which are acceptable (additional courses may be acceptable: check with BINM Admissions for details):

BIO 112 - Unicellular Life
BIO 121 - Genetics, Evolution and Ecology
BIO 200 - Cell Biology I
BIO 201- Introduction to Biochemistry
CHEM 111 - Principles of Chemistry I
CHEM 112 - Principles of Chemistry II
CHEM 121 - Structural Chemistry
CHEM 123 - Physical and Organic Chemistry (may not be used to satisfy Organic Chemistry requirement)
CHEM 201 - Introduction to Physical Chemistry
CHEM 233 - Organic Chemistry Bio
PSYC 100 - Introductory Psychology

UNIVERSITY OF VICTORIA: www.uvic.ca
Courses offered at UVIC which are acceptable (additional courses may be acceptable: check with BINM Admissions for details):

BIOL 190A - General Biology I
BIOL 190B - General Biology II
CHEM 101- Fundamentals of Chemistry I
CHEM 102 - Fundamentals of Chemistry II
CHEM 231 - Introductory Organic Chemistry
BIOC 299 - Biochemistry for Non-Majors
BIOC 300A - General Biochemistry I
PSYC 100A - Introductory Pshcyology I
PSYC 100B - Introductory Psychology II

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-BERKELEY: http://extension.berkeley.edu/ (online courses available)

BIOC 351 - Introductory Biochemistry

What courses may satisfy the biology requirements?
BINM requires 6 credits of biology which may be fulfilled by either one year of general biology or by one semester of general biology plus one year of an appropriate biology such as botany, ecology, genetics, microbiology or zoology. However, anatomy and physiology are NOT accepted as biology pre-requisites.  We are looking for a broad understanding of biology.

What is the minimum number of pre-requisite courses I must have completed prior to applying to BINM?
A candidate may apply to BINM as long as they have either completed their undergraduate degree or are entering their final year of the degree. However, a candidate’s application will not be evaluated for an interview until official transcripts, showing a minimum of 60% or ‘C’, for at least 3.0 credits (half-year course) in one of the required chemistry courses and 3.0 credits (half-year course) in one of the required biology courses has be received by the Admissions Committee.

What constitutes a proof of enrolment?
A copy of receipt of payment is needed if you are registered for the course, but have yet to start. Additionally, we require that the start date and end dates as well as the course name and institution name be included. OR, an official transcript showing course name and that the course is in progress is needed. Important: All of the specified prerequisite courses must be successfully completed no later than one month prior to matriculation into the naturopathic program and the applicant must show proof this is possible at the time of application through his/her study plan. BINM must receive your official transcripts for all prerequisites and proof of degree completion in order to matriculate.

I feel like I am able to meet your pre-requisite requirements, but I have not taken any courses within the past 10 years. What are my options?
There are two options. First, if you have taken all of the pre-requisite courses in the past and have a BA, based on the discretion of the Admissions Committee you may be able to satisfy the requirements if you are teaching, working in a profession related to the sciences, a practicing nurse etc. Or, if you are able to find a recognized university which allows students to challenge exams and are able to pass the exam with a score above 60%, then your requirements may be satisfied.

Is it required that all applicants have a bachelor's degree? I am currently studying at a natural nutrition school and as of March 2010 will be designated as an R.H.N.. Does this education qualify for admission?
Yes a bachelor’ degree is one of the prerequisites for the ND program at BINM. Unfortunately, your school is not a "recognized post-secondary institution" (i.e. college or university) and therefore none of the courses taken there would apply toward any of your prerequisite courses. You will need to complete a bachelor’s degree and all the listed prerequisite courses in order to be eligible to apply. Your studies in nutrition will be wonderful as an addendum to your application, showing your commitment to natural healing methods and your dedication as a professional.

What courses would be considered to meet the psychology pre-requisite requirement?
We accept introductory and general psychology only to satisfy the 3.0 credit requirement.  We strongly recommend that applicants have 6.0 credits of psychology to enter BINM, with at least 3.0 credits in introductory or general psychology.  For admissions beyond 2011, 6.0 credits of psychology will be required for admission.

What English/Humanities courses are acceptable?
This requirement may be fulfilled by courses such as: academic writing, anthropology, history, literature, philosophy, sociology, women’s studies, written communication or similar courses. Coursework must include an essay-writing component. Applicants may be required to write a short essay at the time of interview. Please note: other courses may be accepted at the discretion of the Admissions Committee.  Second language courses (Spanish, French etc.) and courses taught in a language other than English may not be used to satisfy this requirement.

What is the average GPA of accepted students?
A cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a four point scale is recommended in order for an applicant to be competitive for the limited seats available. The GPA for accepted students for the fall 2009 intake was approximately a 3.3 overall and 3.1 for pre-requisites. The range was 2.4 to 4.1 overall and 2.6 to 4.0 for pre-requisites. In addition, the average GPA fluctuates year to year and obviously depends on the quality of the cohort. Remember, the minimum requirement for the required prerequisites is 60% or 'C' for each course. Also, admission is not based solely on GPA, as other criteria, such as the interview, are also used in the assessment.

Is greater weight given to the last 60 credits when calculating the GPA?
The GPA is calculated based on all of the undergraduate courses taken (including transfer credits), and no particular year of studies is given greater or lesser weight in the calculation.

May I apply to transfer credits from another CNME-approved school?
Yes, this is possible. For details, please see the section on Admission Criteria found under the ‘Future Students’ drop-down menu.

I have an honours degree in Genetics, would this allow any exemptions from your course?
Only courses at a graduate university level that show equivalent course content to our courses are eligible to be considered for prior credit recognition. No undergraduate courses can exempt a student from study.

APPLICATIONS

When is the application deadline?
Applications for the four-year, 2011 intake may be submitted starting August 9, 2010. The priority application deadline is November 30, 2010. BINM strongly encourages prospective students to submit applications during this period as there are limited seats available and applicants who apply early will have their applications reviewed early.  The application deadline for 2011 is April 1, 2011. BINM will accept late applications based on availability. Remember, there are only 36 seats available for each competition.

There is no set application deadline for the six-year program intake in January 2012. Please contact the Admissions Department for details. We are currently accepting applications for this competition.

Will you notify me that you have received my application?
When you see that your bank or credit card account shows that we have cashed your cheque or money order for the $150.00 application fee, you will know we have received your application.

Will I be notified if there is something missing from my application?
It is up to you to ensure that everything has been sent to us in a timely fashion. Anything missing could stall your application for the upcoming year.

What if I don't have all my pre-requisites completed by the application deadline and when may I apply?
You can submit your application when you are in the final year of your undergraduate studies or once your degree is complete. However, a candidate’s application will not be evaluated for an interview until official transcripts, showing a minimum of 60% or ‘C’, for at least 3.0 credits (half-year course) in one of the required chemistry courses and 3.0 credits (half-year course) in one of the required biology courses has be received by the Admissions Committee. Please note, you must provide proof of enrolment for all courses that are currently in progress (typically a receipt or a confirmation of registration notice/letter), or a study plan stating your plans to complete the prerequisite courses if not yet registered, at the time of application for admission.

Important: All of the specified prerequisite courses must be successfully completed no later one month prior to matriculation into the naturopathic program and the applicant must show proof this is possible at the time of application through his/her study plan. BINM must receive your official transcripts for all prerequisites and proof of degree completion in order to matriculate.

When is the application deadline for the part time, six-year program?
The Six Year ND Program is offered every three years with the next start date of January 2012. Acceptance into the part-time program will occur on a continuous basis until all the seats are full, and we are currently accepting applications. Please note that there is no opportunity to transfer between the full time and part time programs as the course schedules are fixed and not synchronized.

SELECTION AND INTERVIEWS

If I have sent in everything, will I be interviewed?
Not necessarily. An interview is not automatic. Not everyone who applies or meets our stated minimum requirements will be called for an interview. Interviews are scheduled at the recommendation of the Admissions Committee.

Are interviews conducted by phone or in-person?
It is BINM policy to conduct all personal interviews on-site and in person at BINM. However, some candidates may be given permission under special circumstances to have the interview conducted by phone. It is, however, in the applicant’s best interest to have the interview conducted in person, as the vast majority of applicants will interview in this manner.

When will interviews be scheduled?
For those candidates who have submitted an application prior to the application deadline, the Admissions Committee will review all applications and determine which are to be granted an interview, beginning in October.

How are successful candidates selected?
The Admissions Committee reviews each application in full detail. Admissions decisions for our 36 seats are based on a composite of information, including the interview, personal essay, letters of recommendation/referee forms, academic standing, educational preparation, and relevant professional and volunteer activities. Each application is considered in relation to other applications for the upcoming intake. The Committee's mandate is to create a balanced cohort for the first year class, with candidates from many disciplines and with many strengths to offer their classmates. Because of our limited class size, not every qualified candidate can be admitted.

If I am offered a seat, what happens next?
Applicants who are offered seats in the program will be notified by phone or email. An official acceptance letter will be sent by mail, together with two copies of the enrolment contract. Successful applicants must sign and return the BINM file copy of the contract, together with the registration fee and tuition deposit, within the allotted period, typically 48 hours of receiving it in order to reserve a seat in the program. The ten percent tuition deposit will be credited toward the total annual tuition. Details of the payment plan and refund policy can be found on the back of the contract.

WAITLIST AND NO OFFER

If I'm not offered a seat do I still have a chance?
You may reapply for future intakes if you are not offered a seat after your interview. Some candidates will receive an official letter indicating that they have been placed on the wait-list. Each year there are some accepted candidates who are unable to enroll in the program for various reasons. When that occurs a seat becomes available for a candidate on the waitlist.

If I'm on the waitlist, will I be told where I stand on the list?
You will be told only that you've been placed on the waitlist, but not where you stand or why you were placed there.

If I'm not accepted, will I be told what why I wasn't selected?
The Admissions Committee does not disclose any of the reasons for their decisions. Each application is reviewed in full detail, and selecting applicants for our limited number of seats is a complex process, based on a composite of information, including the personal essay, letters of recommendation, academic standing in the programs in which you have studied, educational preparation, relevant professional activities, scores and grades. Each application is considered in relation to other applications for the upcoming year. Not every candidate whose credentials meet our stated minimum standards can be admitted.

How can I get help to improve my application for the next year?
Each applicant is responsible for reviewing the criteria for admission on our website, especially the section on admissions criteria. Applicants are encouraged to reapply if they have made some efforts to enhance their application, either by experience or training. It is wise to check with the Admissions Office, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it in order to ensure that your proposed courses are relevant and acceptable.

If I reapply do I have to send in an entirely new application?
Yes, all applicants who did not meet the admissions requirements, were not offered a seat, offered a seat and declined, or offered a seat and cancelled, must submit an entirely new application with all of the necessary fees. It is also the applicant’s responsibility to check this website for any changes to the admissions process or requirements, as they may change each year.

MISCELLANEOUS

Does BINM offer student housing?
There is no student residence at BINM. The campus is located right at the Columbia Sky Train station and students live anywhere within easy access of the Sky Train (the public elevated transit system in the Lower Mainland). In the summer the Admissions Department sends out a New Student Guide of information to incoming students with a Housing Guide and details on transportation and information on various communities.

Where do I purchase textbooks?
The Boucher Students Association purchases all textbooks at a discounted rate. Books are available for purchase in the first week of school.

Does Boucher offer scholarships?
At present, BINM does not offer any internal scholarships or bursaries to applicants. However, we have some monies available in which students enrolled in the program after Year 1 may compete for.

What is the term schedule for the four year program?
Please refer to the drop down menu under ‘Prospective Students’ and see Curriculum and Academic Schedule for details.

What is the weekly schedule for the four-year program?
The schedule is Monday to Friday from 9am to noon and 1pm to 4pm for a total of 30 hours of class per week (plus 20+ hours of homework/week).

What is the weekly schedule for the six-year program and how does it differ from the full time program?
This is a reduced course load, roughly equal to a 2/3 full course load. It is approximately 20 hours per week and runs in the evenings and Saturdays. This program is geared towards students who wish to work a part-time job (it is not possible to work a full-time job and attend this program) or are parents.  This program has the same course content and equal admissions standards as the full time program.  The only difference between these programs is the schedule and duration.

Are there any other forms of student financial aid aside from loans?
Yes, CIBC extends to those students who qualify an Professional Edge Student Program which is the same line of credit extended to medical students, whereby students can apply for a line of credit for up to $150,000.
For details, please contact a branch of CIBC.

http://www.cibc.com/ca/loans/prof-edg-st-pers-ln-credit.html

Will the BINM diploma enable me to work in any jurisdiction?
The Boucher Institute makes no representation that any state or country outside of Canada will accept our diploma. Students are responsible for ensuring their own licensure through the jurisdiction in which they wish to ultimately practice naturopathic medicine.

Why and when must I submit a clear criminal records check?
According to the Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, all registered students in post secondary studies with a practicum component involving work with children and the successful completion of which is a requirement for registration as a member of a governing body must provide a criminal record check authorization to the Criminal Records Review program.  Students must submit the clear criminal records check  after registration in school and prior to matriculation into year 1 of studies.

What are some websites where I can learn more about naturopathic medicine, the licensing bodies, exams, study permits, medical coverage, financial aid etc?

The North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners. NABNE is responsible for the licensing examinations required before a graduate can take the state or provincial licensing exams.
The Council on Naturopathic Medical Education is the group that awards or denies accreditation to a naturopathic medical school. Once a school has candidacy status their students have all the same rights and privileges that an accredited school’s students have.
The British Columbia Naturopathic Association is the professional association for naturopathic physicians in BC. The BCNA acts on behalf of and for the profession to promote the services provided by and the integrity and honour of the naturopathic profession.
The Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges site will also list all the CNME-approved schools and has a lot more information as well about various ND programs.
The College of Naturopathic Physicians of BC is the organization that gives licenses to NDs.
Find out about eligibility requirements at the Medical Services Plan of Canada.
The Government of Canada website contains information about studying in Canada.
Student Aid BC provides student loans for residents of British Columbia.  For financial aid information in the province you reside, please Google search the province+student financial aid.