The Society of
Naturopathic and Naprapathic Doctors
The Society of Naturopathic and Naprapathic Doctors (SNND) is the UK's voluntary, premier professional association for Naturopathic and Naprapathic Doctors. Only professionals who are registered and licensed by them can use the professional titles, logos, honours, etc.
The general standard for registration and licensure for Naturopathic (ND) or Naprapathic Doctors (DN), is a minimum of 4 years of FTE training, which reaches a minimum of 5100 hours of study, of which at least 1500 - 2000 must be practical/clinical training through levels 4-8 RQF equivalent.
We accept applications for registration/membership and licensure from all professionals, as we have multiple registration entry levels. There is currently only one accredited college in the UK with direct entry to registration and licensure. Universal College of Health Sciences www.uchsc.co.uk
Registration & Licensure
There are 5 levels to our register. Each is equivalent to a year/level of training. This means that candidates can join the register, gain licensure and practice at that level, whilst developing and continuing training.
Level 1,2 & 3. Registration/Licensure = 1200 hours or 120 credits, of which at least 250 hours must be practical/clinical training at each level. A national exam (NATEx) must also be completed at each level 1, 2 & 3.
The national exams (NATEx) assess basic biomedical sciences, general health assessment and diagnostics.
At the end of level 3, most academic and clinical training has been undertaken, and the candidate enters level 4 of the regsiter provisionally.
During level 4, the candidate will enter full-time practice supervised by a mentor. They will complete a substantial research project for 500 hours, and a minimum clinical logbook of 1000 hours, across a full range of clinical skills. This is supervised and signed off by their mentor prior to full autonomous registration and licensure.
Leading the way in Governance
Naturopathy and Naprapathy are not currently regulated professions in the UK. While this presents certain challenges, such as the existence of unregulated training courses and inconsistent use of professional titles, it also provides a unique opportunity for growth.
It allows us, and our members, to actively shape and expand the profession, defining its scope of practice in a progressive and meaningful way.
That said, our standards for registration and licensure are non-negotiable. They exist to safeguard both our members and the public.
Where appropriate and beneficial, we have aligned our frameworks with nationally recognised standards adopted by established statutory bodies and professional organisations, ensuring credibility, consistency, and professional integrity.
Only registered and licensed members are permitted to use our honours, professional titles, and designated job titles. These designations are strictly protected by our Intellectual Property Rights to maintain the integrity of the profession.
For example, only individuals who have achieved Level 4 registration and licensure may use the title “Naturopathic Doctor” or “Naprapathic Doctor.”
Or to be more accurate, an SNND Registered and Licensed Naturopathic or Naprapathic Doctor. This also alerts others to the fact that the practitioner is trained to SNND standards.
Future Scope and Clinical Standards Policy
The Society of Naturopathic and Naprapathic Doctors (SNND) affirms that Naturopathic and Naprapathic Doctors are trained under the guidance of degree-level healthcare practitioners. This ensures alignment with established clinical standards and supports the safe transfer of knowledge, skills, and professional competencies.
As a profession operating within a non-statutory regulatory environment, SNND recognises both the flexibility and responsibility inherent in shaping its future direction. This position enables the development of an expanded scope of practice; however, such development must be undertaken with careful consideration, prioritising career sustainability, clinical competence, and, above all, public safety.
Accordingly, SNND sets clear expectations that all recognised training programmes incorporate both foundational and extended clinical competencies. This includes mandatory First Response in Emergency Care training at Levels 3 and 4, ensuring practitioners are equipped to respond appropriately in urgent and emergency situations.
In addition, programmes are expected, where appropriate, to include advanced clinical skills such as:
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Clinical diagnosis
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Ultrasonography
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Minor skin and soft tissue procedures
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Pharmacology
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Phlebotomy and blood testing
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Electrocardiography (ECG)
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Other relevant extended scope competencies
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These standards are designed to enhance practitioner capability, improve the early identification of serious conditions, and support timely and appropriate referral to regulated medical professionals where required.
Through this structured and progressive approach, SNND aims to strengthen professional credibility, ensure practitioner safety, and uphold the highest standards of patient care.
Contact us for more information, to apply for registration and licensure at E. snd_uk@hotmail.com