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Bastyr University Guide 2026: Courses, Campus Life & Tuition
Where holistic learning begins
Bastyr University operates as an independent institution and is focused on holistic healthcare disciplines located at its centers in Kenmore, Washington, and San Diego, California. Additionally, Bastyr University is renowned for its research-based curriculum and practical clinical training, where students have practical experience through teaching clinics and community health initiatives. The institution prepares graduates for employment in integrative medicine, nutrition, counseling, and holistic healthcare disciplines by fusing contemporary scientific research with traditional therapeutic methods.
About Bastyr University
Founded in 1978, this college was formerly called John Bastyr College of Naturopathic Medicine. Now it has various academic offerings, including bachelor’s degrees, master’s courses, specialized doctorates, training in areas such as natural healing methods, acupressure techniques, dietary sciences, botanical medicines, counseling services, and obstetrics. Its motto is “Vis medicatrix naturae”, which reads “Nature’s Healing Power.”
Bastyr University Key Highlights :
- Established: 1978
- Type: Private, nonprofit university
- Total Enrollment: ~734 students (Fall 2024)
- Undergraduate Students: ~39
- Graduate & Doctoral Students: ~695
- Campus Locations: Kenmore, Washington (main campus); San Diego, California
- Focus Areas: Naturopathic medicine, acupuncture & Oriental medicine, nutrition, herbal sciences, midwifery, health psychology
Bastyr University Rankings
Within the State of Washington, Bastyr is around #14 despite being focused on natural health and integrative medicine.
Bastyr University Accreditation
- Regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine program accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME)
- Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine programs are accredited by ACAHM
- Nutrition and Dietetics programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND)
- Midwifery programs approved by Washington State and accredited by the Midwifery Education Accreditation Council (MEAC)
- Member of the American Association of Naturopathic Medical Colleges and the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Bastyr University Admissions and Acceptance Rate
Bastyr University has a holistic, program-specific admissions process. Students can submit an online application via the Bastyr University portal. Transcripts and a personal statement are typically needed for the admission process, and some programs may require interviews or prerequisites. Bastyr University's acceptance rate is between 68%-75% overall, meaning moderate selectivity. Which is well-suited for its niche programs in naturopathic medicine, nutrition, holistic health, and acupuncture. also admission rates can vary depending on program type. Those with a limited spot, such as clinical or doctoral, tend to be more selective.
Admission requirements:
| Requirement | Typical Range / Details |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 68–75% |
| SAT Score | Not required |
| ACT Score | Not required |
| Application Method | Bastyr University Online Application Portal |
| Intake Seasons | Fall, Spring (varies by program) |
Bastyr University Campus Experience:
The Kenmore campus site is on 51 acres near Lake Washington, combining natural surroundings with academic facilities that support study, clinical training, and community engagement. Students often enjoy small class sizes, close interactions with faculty, and opportunities for hands-on practice within the university’s teaching clinics. There is a strong emphasis on whole-person wellness and integrative, immersive learning experiences, creating an environment tailored to students interested in holistic health professions.
Bastyr University’s campuses:
- Bastyr Kenmore Campus (Seattle Area): Bastyr’s main campus is located in Kenmore, Washington, on a scenic 51-acre site near Lake Washington and Saint Edward State Park with features like classrooms, labs, a student village, and medicinal plant gardens.
- Bastyr San Diego Campus: A second campus in San Diego, California, offers select graduate programs and includes teaching clinics, labs, classrooms, and study spaces just a few minutes from beaches and natural preserves.
- Bastyr Virtual & Online Options: Bastyr also supports 100% online degree programs for students who need flexible, remote learning
| Metric | Data |
|---|---|
| Student Population | 734 students |
| Acceptance Rate | 68–75% |
| Campus Type | Suburban (Kenmore, WA – main campus); Urban (San Diego, CA) |
| Campus Locations | Kenmore, Washington & San Diego, California |
| Primary Areas of Study | Naturopathic medicine, Acupuncture, Nutrition, Midwifery, Health Psychology |
Student Housing
Bastyr University’s students' village, Kenmore, is LEED- registered and sustainable, offering furnished single suites with shared kitchens, lounges, bike storage, laundry facilities, and WIFi. Residents share common study areas reflecting the university's wellness ethos. At the San Diego campus, Bastyr does not offer on-site housing, so students are responsible for arranging their own accommodations through off-campus options. For students comparing housing and lifestyle across US cities, this Washington DC city guide provides useful insights into neighborhoods, commuting, and student living tips.
Student housing near Bastyr University :
1. Theory U District, Seattle – Starting from USD 1,309 per month
2. Yugo Seattle Lothlorien, Seattle – Starting from USD 1,309 per month
3. Novo Apartments, Seattle – Starting from USD 1,100 per month
4. Jupiter Apartments, Seattle – Starting from USD 1,215 per month
5. Alta Studios, Seattle – Starting from USD 999 per month
Bastyr University Courses and Degrees
Bastyr University (BU) courses and degree programs blend holistic principles with core scientific education to prepare students for professional practice.
| Level | Key Courses & Degrees |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s | Health Psychology, Herbal Sciences, Nutrition & Culinary Arts |
| Master’s | Acupuncture, Nutrition, Midwifery, Public Health, Counseling Psychology |
| Doctoral | Naturopathic Medicine, Acupuncture |
| Certificates | Chinese Herbal Medicine, Holistic Studies |
Bastyr University Careers and Employability:
Bastyr offers services designed to help students and alumni with career development, including a career support system that connects individuals with employers, facilitates job searches, and helps develop professional skills relevant to holistic fields. Due to its specialized nature, many Bastyr Graduate students pursue careers in naturopathic or integrative healthcare practices, wellness counseling, clinical nutrition, or entrepreneurship in health-related sectors.
| Service | Availability |
|---|---|
| Career Counseling | Yes (program-specific guidance) |
| Internship / Clinical Support | Yes (integrated into many programs) |
| On-Campus Career Events | Yes (workshops, info sessions, networking) |
| Employer & Clinical Partnerships | Strong network of healthcare, wellness, and community partners |
Bastyr University Cost and Tuition
Undergraduate tuition and fees are around USD 32,289 per year, with Graduate tuition and fees around USD 37,951 per year.
| Category | Domestic (U.S.) Student | International Student |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | ~USD 32,289 | ~USD 31,858 – 43,915 |
| Room & Board / Living Expenses | ~USD 21,600 (estimated) | ~USD 21,600 |
| Books & Supplies | ~USD 900–1,100 | ~USD 950–3,800 (program dependent) |
| Health Insurance | ~$2,160 (typical for international) | ~$2,160 |
| Estimated Annual Cost (Total) | ~USD 55,000–60,000+ | ~USD 60,000–70,000+ |
Financial Aid & Support :
- Federal and state financial aid available (loans, grants, work-study)
- FAFSA is required for eligibility
- Scholarships offered for undergraduate and graduate students
- Program-specific and need-based awards available
- Dedicated financial aid advising for students
Notable Alumni
Andy Greenberg – Technology journalist and author noted for cybersecurity coverage, including the book Sandworm.
David Brady – Ayurvedic practitioner and co-founder of herbal product company Herbs
Dr. Mimi Guarneri – Prominent cardiologist and founder of the Academy of Integrative Health & Medicine, blending conventional and integrative approaches.
Peter J. D’Adamo – Member of Bastyr University’s first graduating naturopathic class and proponent of diet theories.
Britt Marie Hermes – 2011 graduate of the Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine program, later known for her public critique of homeopathy and aspects of naturopathic medicine.
Conclusion
A specialized university, Bastyr University, focuses on the arts and sciences of holistic health. It offers a variety of academic programs ranging from bachelor's degrees to doctorates, places a strong emphasis on integrative, scientifically informed natural health education, and supports its students via career services, professional development, and sustainable campus living. Bastyr has a reputable position in the field of naturopathic and wellness education, while not being well-regarded in international university systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bastyr University reputable?
Yes, it is reputable as it is accredited by the Northwest Commission On Colleges and Universities.
Is Bastyr University a medical school?
Yes, it is an accredited naturopathic medical school/program.
How hard is it to get into Bastyr?
Selectivity varies by program, with doctoral tracks being more competitive. Bastyr has an acceptance rate of 94. It is relatively accessible compared to highly competitive medical schools
What are Bastyr's admission requirements?
Admission requirements vary by program. Generally, for graduate programs, prerequisite science courses, transcripts, personal statements, and sometimes an interview.
Does Bastyr University have dorms?
Yes, Bastyr has on-campus housing at its Kenmore, Washington campus. The San Diego campus does not have dorms students need to live off campus.