Clayton College of Natural Health

Distance learning is very popular nowadays and suits the lifestyle of many students. The Clayton College of Natural Health, based in Birmingham, Alabama offers graduation programs, master's levels and PhD programs in a wide range of courses. Alternative or complementary treatments are also popular, as people have become interested in seeking alternatives to conventional medicine.

The courses are valuable to anyone wishing to gain expertise in a specific subject for their own interest or to use in the pursuit of a career as a practitioner. Clayton College of Natural Health is well known with various alumni appearing in the media. Famous graduates include the TV personality and nutrition expert, Gillian McKeith and the author and naturopath, Hulda Regehr Clark.

A doctor of naturopathic medicine, Lloyd Clayton Jr., founded the college in 1980. Traditional Naturopathy is one of the curriculum choices available, along with Holistic Nutrition and Wellness and various natural health degree courses. Naturopathy is a broad subject, offering natural alternatives to invasive surgery and drugs. It includes such disciplines as herbalism, aromatherapy, acupuncture and hydrotherapy.

Nutritional studies introduce the student to the benefits of organic food and a diet, rich in fresh fruit and vegetables and organically raised meat. This reflects a general move away from processed foods and foods treated with chemicals and preservatives. Students learn about the value of foods such as garlic, olive oil, sea salt, nuts, brown rice and beans.

There are also many herbs to learn about, including horsetail, papaya, wild yam root and aloe vera. There are also Certificate Programs available in Iridology Studies, Herbal Studies and Healthcare Professional Studies. For those interested in nutrition for animals, there is the Companion Animal Studies program.

Students are taught both theory and practice in all the disciplines and can study at their own pace. There are e-learning programs but students without a computer can also be a student.

All the books and coursework is provided and faculty staff is available to answer any queries or to offer advice. Clayton College of Natural Health staff includes doctors of naturopathy, a chiropractor, counselors, a master herbalist and massage therapists.

Students are encouraged to feel part of a community at the Clayton college of Natural Health and a web site is designed so that they can communicate with one another. There are quizzes and recipes posted and a student's book club. The entry level to the college is a High School Diploma, G.E.D or equivalent.