Q: I am a mom, passionate about natural health. As my kids are growing up I am finally going back to considering getting a degree for myself and have been looking for schools online a lot. I am particularly looking at holistic nutrition and I seem to get lost in a sea of schools but it is very difficult to know which one is good. I would prefer an online degree at this point but I really don't know how reliable they are. Do you by chance have any suggestion at all?

A:  I wish I knew some great online schools. I would try calling Bastyr University or the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and seeing if they recommend any.

Do let them know I referred you as it may help you get more credible information.

I am a member of the AANP and a graduate of Bastyr.

There are many online programs that are horrific and some are likely good - but as you say - which ones?

Do let me know if those two recommendations to find a good school help. I'd really like to know which online courses are cr...

Dr. Ben,

I am interested in many aspects of holistic medicine, and would like to pursue a career in the field. I’m not sure how far I want to delve, but I would definitely like to begin somewhere specific and build from that point.

For instance, I want to become a master herbalist. In your naturopathic database blog, you state that the schools listed there are the only ones accredited. I think you mean accredited by a national certifying body. I suppose when you graduate from the school, your certification really is only the certificate they give you..there isn’t a higher level accrediting it. I find it so confusing. The only option I have is home-course study programs for the most part, because I do not live near any of the accredited schools (nor do many mention distance learning).

The people I have spoken to regarding their education (well-known and reputable holistic health practioners, that is) have sometimes received their education from schools like Clayton College. A...