Bastyr University

  • Founded: 1978
  • Address: 14500 Juanita Dr NE, Kenmore, WA - Washington, United States (Map)
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Since its inception in 1978, Bastyr University has been a pioneer in science-based natural medicine. Founders Les Griffith, ND; William A. Mitchell, Jr., ND; and Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., ND; along with Sheila Quinn, named the school after their beloved teacher and noted Seattle naturopathic physician Dr. John Bastyr. With just $200 in startup costs during their humble beginnings, the founders created a vision for an accredited natural health school that now is recognized as the leading health arts and sciences university in the world.

Founding President Emeritus Dr. Pizzorno saw the University through some significant growth during his 22 years of service, including the move to the current 51-acre campus in Kenmore, Washington, to accommodate the growing student body.Although the school started as a naturopathic medicine college, Bastyr University now offers more than 20 degree and certificate programs. Building on its science-based foundation, the University has been the recipient of a number of multimillion-dollar research grants from the National Institutes of Health.

In September 2012, the University expanded again, opening Bastyr University California in San Diego, welcoming more than 50 students to its inaugural Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine class. California’s first and only accredited school of naturopathic medicine also offers a Master of Science in Nutrition for Wellness. In 2018, the San Diego campus is adding several new programs to its academic offerings: the Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Culinary Arts, the Bachelor of Science in Integrated Human Biology, the Post-Baccalaureate in Naturopathic Medicine, and the Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology.

We invite to you explore Bastyr University's two beautiful campuses, rigorous science-based education and incomparable community. With programs in Acupuncture, Exercise Science, Herbal Sciences, Human Biology, Midwifery, Naturopathic Medicine, Nutrition, Psychology and Public Health, you can find where your vision combines with Bastyr's integrated approach to education, research and clinical service.

At the Kenmore and San Diego campuses, Bastyr University provides quality facilities and services for meetings, retreats, conferences, speaking engagements, and weddings. We offer meeting rooms, overnight guest rooms, audio/video service, catering, and ample free parking. Bastyr University can be the perfect place for a staff, faculty, board, council or even personal retreat. It's a comfortable, friendly place providing a quiet, reflective atmosphere for work, study and relaxation.

Bastyr University's academic and research programs have received international recognition for pioneering work in science-based natural medicine. We offer a learning environment that fosters serious inquiry, professional dedication and lifelong relationships. Your career begins here, where comprehensive training makes the difference.

Bastyr University is on the frontlines of integrative, complementary and alternative medicine research. Learn more about the research studies done at Bastyr, how to participate in a study, and the clinical and student research opportunities we offer through our research centers.

Bastyr University students come from many walks of life, from across the country, and around the globe. Many had careers before returning to school. Many discovered natural medicine through their own health journey or a loved one's. About 10 percent of Bastyr students are parents. Bastyr students are vegetarians, vegans, carnivores, omnivores … and people who just enjoy a meal with good company.

Student Council awards venture grants to send students on learning trips that promote personal and professional growth. Students design and propose a broad array of trips that fit the mission and philosophy of the University. Recently students have studied innovative senior kitchens on Vancouver Island, herbs along the Pacific Crest Trail, and health care systems in Ireland.

Student Council oversees a budget of more than $75,000 that funds student clubs, student research, venture grant travel, guest speakers, improvements around campus, and graduation parties. Want a say in where the money goes? Join Student Council's Finance Team.

Student Council ensures students have a voice among faculty and school leadership, working closely with the dean of students and communicating student interests throughout the University.

Bastyr University's comprehensive approach to Acupuncture medicine prepares students to work in collaboration with practitioners of conventional Western medicine. With courses taught by some of the premier Chinese medicine educators, the acupuncture and east Asian medicine programs at Bastyr are strongly inspired by the contemporary model of health care education and practice in China, which combines traditional Chinese medicine with modern Western medicine.As a student, you will be trained in co-management of patients with Western medicine providers. You will build the skills and confidence to practice and to inform both patients and other providers on the practice of traditional Chinese medicine.

In Bastyr University's bachelor completion programs in exercise science, you can explore how physical health connects to mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness. Through the study of human physiology, biomechanics, biochemistry, whole foods nutrition and health psychology, you can learn how to promote health at a broad variety of levels.This foundation prepares students for meaningful careers promoting wellness as skillful, versatile professionals.

We are more than an "herbal school," and this is more than an "herb program." The program equips students with both scientific knowledge and a multifaceted, personal understanding of plants, empowering them to bridge the gap between traditional herbalism and modern science.

Where they work

  • Bastyr University
  • Bastyr Center for Natural Health
  • Arivale
  • Swedish
  • Seattle Children's
  • Harborview Medical Center
  • Microsoft
  • DaVita Kidney Care
  • Fred Hutch
  • King County, WA

What they do

  • Healthcare Services
  • Business Development
  • Education
  • Community and Social Services
  • Operations
  • Media and Communication
  • Consulting
  • Research
  • Administrative
  • Human Resources

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Community Reviews (3)

The commitment of the faculty at this University is truly remarkable; their personalized guidance has transformed my child's learning journey into an exciting adventure filled with growth and achievement.
By H.N. (Feb, 2024) | Reply

This is a great school. It gets some bad looks occasionally because it does teach alternative medicine. The nutrition program was excellent. I was in the BSN/DPD program and I feel like I have what I need to be successful in the profession. The campus is beautiful and I love Seattle.. What else can you ask for?? There is always going to be something to complain about. The only thing I was disappointed about was the cafeteria food. I had heard so many good things about it but it really wasn't that terrific.
By Erica C. (Jul, 2011) | Reply

I've enjoyed Bastyr. It's a hard university because of the work load and the intensive science courses. Some of the professors are awful, usually they're the adjunct faculty. Other professors are wonderful. Teachers do not try to develop personal relationships, but if you seek help they are 90% of the time available to you. If you have a problem with the program, sometimes it's hard to know who to speak with. I've been passed around between faculty/staff and not gotten a straight answer regarding my problem. There's little sympathy or tolerance for the student if there is a teacher-student problem. This also depends on which program you're in as there is not much overlap between the programs. The electives are great. This is really where the school shines - when teachers teach classes about their passions. So, Bastyr has it's good and bad qualities. The school isn't the most efficient school or managed the best, but it's still growing and working on ways of bettering itself as an institution. Seattle is also awesome. Such a great food scene!
By Bruno A. (Jun, 2011) | Reply