Sonoran University of Health Sciences – Holistic Nursing Collaborative
While Sonoran University of Health Sciences (formerly Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine) does not offer a standalone nursing degree for RN licensure, it provides specialized integrative and holistic health training for licensed nurses through continuing education and academic partnerships.
About the Holistic Nursing Collaborative
Sonoran University supports registered nurses (RNs) who wish to expand their practice into integrative, functional, or whole-person care. These offerings are designed as complementary training, not as a path to initial nursing licensure.
- Location: Tempe, Arizona
- Mission: To advance evidence-informed holistic healthcare through interprofessional education and collaboration.
- Institutional Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Nursing Licensure Pathway: Not applicable. Students must already hold an RN license from an accredited program (e.g., via ASU, NAU, or community colleges).
- Website: www.sonoran.edu
Key Offerings for Licensed Nurses
1. Certificate in Integrative Health for RNs
A non-degree continuing education program for licensed nurses seeking to incorporate complementary therapies into their practice.
- Topics Covered: Nutritional medicine, botanical therapeutics, mind-body practices, and whole-person assessment.
- Format: Hybrid (online coursework + in-person intensives in Tempe)
- Eligibility: Current RN license in good standing
2. Collaborative Electives with Partner Universities
Sonoran University collaborates with Arizona’s accredited nursing schools (e.g., ASU, NAU) to allow MSN students to take select integrative health courses as approved electives.
- Credit Transfer: Requires prior approval from the student’s home nursing program
- Career Enhancement: Prepares nurses for roles in integrative clinics, wellness centers, functional medicine practices, and community health innovation
Sonoran University is a valuable resource for already-licensed Arizona nurses seeking to specialize in holistic and integrative care. It is not a substitute for accredited ADN/BSN/MSN programs that lead to RN licensure.