The field of Ayurveda heavily relies on experienced Ayurvedic Practitioners to impart their skills, values, and clinical knowledge to the next generation of healthcare providers. Yoga Veda Institute acknowledges volunteer preceptors who guide distance education students in their clinical practice. This guidance encompasses various forms of instruction, including direct teaching, modeling, coaching, and facilitation.

Yoga Veda Institute (YVI) takes great pride in its role as a leading institution for Ayurvedic education. We offer exceptional certification programs that not only meet but surpass the requirements set by NAMAC (National Ayurvedic Medical Accreditatio Counsel). Our educational pathway aims to foster intellectual curiosity, ignite passion, and provide students with expanded professional opportunities as the Ayurvedic field continues to evolve. YVI is currently in the process of seeking accreditation from NAMAC.

Continuous communication between YVI preceptors and students is maintained throughout the entire clinical placement period. It is essential for students to receive timely feedback and obtain skills certification from their YVI preceptors. Ideally, students progress through clinical skills that align with their academic studies, enabling them to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical training.

The role of a preceptor is multifaceted, demanding a delicate balance between professional responsibilities, instructional duties, and interpersonal relationships.

While the fees for working with preceptors in the YVI Ayurvedic education program may vary, YVI provides multiple options for students to engage with preceptors, catering to different financial circumstances and preferences.

Preceptorships are valuable opportunities for students to gain practical experience and guidance in their chosen field. Contrary to some misconceptions, these programs are not typically an additional charge for students. In fact, participating in a preceptorship can often lead to initial employment opportunities and offer various options for students.

Firstly, preceptorships are usually part of formal education programs, such as  clinical rotations. These programs are designed to provide students with hands-on experience and mentorship from professionals in their field. In most cases, these experiences are integrated into the curriculum, and students are not required to pay extra fees for participating in them.

When it comes to gaining employment while working with a preceptor, several scenarios can be considered:

1. Paid positions within educational programs: Some preceptorship programs offer paid positions to students. These positions allow students to work with a preceptor while earning a salary or stipend. This can be particularly common in fields such as healthcare, where students may work alongside experienced professionals in hospitals or clinics.

2. Opportunities for part-time work: Depending on the structure of the preceptorship program, students may have the flexibility to work part-time while engaging in their practical learning experiences. This allows students to gain employment in other roles or industries while still benefiting from the guidance and mentorship of their preceptors during designated hours.

3. Networking and employment prospects: Mentorships and preceptorships often provide students with invaluable networking opportunities. Through these programs, students can establish relationships with professionals in their field, which can lead to future employment prospects. Preceptors may have connections within the industry or be in a position to recommend students for job openings, internships, or other relevant opportunities.

It is worth noting that the availability of employment options during a preceptorship can vary depending on the specific program. Students should consult with their academic advisors, career services, or program coordinators to explore the options available to them.

In summary, preceptorships are typically not an additional charge for students. Instead, they are integrated into educational programs, offering students the chance to gain practical experience and guidance. While participating in a preceptorship, students may have opportunities for paid positions, part-time work, and networking, which can lead to employment options and future career prospects.

For students who wish to minimize additional expenses, volunteering with a preceptor is a viable option. By offering their services as volunteers, students can eliminate the need for additional fees while still benefiting from the valuable mentorship and practical experience provided by the preceptor.

Alternatively, students can explore paid positions in local Ayurvedic clinics. These positions allow students to work under the guidance of a preceptor while receiving compensation for their services. This arrangement enables students to gain practical experience while also earning an income to support their education.

For those seeking a more intensive preceptor experience, YVI offers options that require payment. Students can choose to participate in intensive preceptor experiences, which provide an in-depth immersion into Ayurvedic practice under the guidance of experienced preceptors. These experiences often involve an extended period of focused study and practical training, enabling students to deepen their understanding and proficiency in Ayurveda.

The option of traveling to YVI’s partner facility in India for an immersive experience in a functional Ayurvedic hospital setting also incurs additional costs. This immersive program allows students to work closely with preceptors in a real-world Ayurvedic environment, further enhancing their knowledge and skills.

It is important to note that the preceptor portion of the program is not included in the base tuition. The fees associated with working with preceptors are separate and may vary depending on the chosen engagement option.

By offering a range of options, including volunteering, paid positions, intensive experiences, and the India immersion program, YVI aims to accommodate students with different financial situations and learning preferences. This approach ensures that students can select the method that aligns with their budget, goals, and desired level of immersion in Ayurvedic education.

A preceptor is an experienced professional who serves as a mentor, guide, and teacher to a less experienced individual, typically a student or novice in the Ayurvedic field.

Preceptors play a crucial role in providing practical training, supervision, and support to help individuals develop their skills, knowledge, and professional competencies. The value of working with a preceptor is immense and can be summarized in several key aspects:

Practical guidance and expertise:

Preceptors possess extensive experience and expertise in the field. They have firsthand knowledge of the industry, best practices, and real-world challenges. Working with an Ayurvedic preceptor allows students to learn directly from someone who has been through similar experiences, gaining valuable insights, advice, and practical guidance.

Skill development:

Preceptors provide a structured learning environment that fosters skill development. They offer opportunities for hands-on experience, allowing individuals to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings. Preceptors can identify areas for improvement, provide constructive feedback, and guide individuals in honing their skills and competencies.

Professional networking:

Preceptors often have established networks within the Ayurvedic industry. Working closely with a preceptor can provide students with access to these networks, opening doors to potential job opportunities, internships, and professional connections. The preceptor can serve as a valuable reference or recommend students for further career advancement.

Personalized learning and mentorship:

Preceptors provide individualized attention and mentorship to their mentees. They take the time to understand the mentee’s strengths, weaknesses, and learning style, tailoring their guidance accordingly. This personalized approach allows for focused development, addressing specific areas of growth and helping students reach their full potential.

Building confidence and professional identity:

Working closely with a preceptor helps individuals build confidence in their abilities and develop a strong professional identity. Preceptors can offer support, encouragement, and validation, helping mentees navigate challenges, overcome obstacles, and build resilience. They can also provide guidance on professional ethics, values, and behavior, shaping the mentee’s professional identity.

Transition to the workforce:

For students or individuals transitioning from academia to the professional world, a preceptor can offer valuable assistance. They can provide insights into workplace culture, expectations, and the practical aspects of the job. Preceptors can help individuals bridge the gap between theory and practice, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen field.

In summary, working with a preceptor in the field of Ayurveda brings immense value to students by providing practical guidance, expertise, skill development, networking opportunities, personalized mentorship, confidence building, and a smoother transition into the workforce. The preceptor’s experience and dedication contribute significantly to the professional growth and success of the mentee.

• Students should begin the process of identifying potential preceptor options prior to entering the YVI program. Involvement as a alternative medicine professional (practitioner, naturopath, herbalist, midwife, educator) and participation in local or state Ayurvedic associations, student, or natural medicine organizations are an excellent way to make these connections.
• The advantage of making connections with local practitioners early is that preceptors often know when current students will be finishing their clinicals, when the potential preceptor might have an opening for a new student, and equally important, the preceptor will have the opportunity to learn more about you and your future goals.
• YVI does not require or expect you to have a planned agreement with a preceptor before entering the program. (If you are already working with a preceptor, please see the next Q&A.)
• An alternative to locating a preceptor within a reasonable range is being willing to relocate (temporarily or permanently) in order to successfully complete the clinical portion of the program.
• AP’s or AD’s who are qualified to be preceptors can generally be located by conducting a Google search, connecting with other Ayurvedic professionals and students in the region, and locating NAMACB board certified practitioners through search sites designed for this purpose.
• YVI will assist with locating a preceptor; however, it is ultimately the student’s responsibility to find one.

• If your preceptor is already an approved YVI preceptor, then they are likely to continue to be qualified as an YVI preceptor.
• If your preceptor is not already an approved YVI preceptor, we welcome them to apply to become an YVI preceptor. Most NAMACB board certified practitioners qualified to be a preceptor with YVI will be approved.
• Observed clients completed before enrollment can be used to fulfill the requirements for observation clients in Phase 1. Students will be required to log and reflect on those experiences in their Phase 1 practicum class.
• Assistant or primary work (Phase 2 and 3) done before enrollment and during Phase 1 cannot be used to fulfill requirements for Phases 2 and 3.

• Clinical work proceeds in phases along with your academic classes. During Phase 1 (AHC level classes), you will complete your observation client experiences. After completing your Phase 1 Integrative Assessment, you will be ready to start Phase 2 assist experiences with a preceptor.
• It is common for students to focus primarily on their didactic work for the first 2-4 trimesters in the program.

Yes. We do accept international students on a case-by-case basis, but it’s important for you to know that: 1) it may be difficult or even impossible to find a placement where you live for clinical work, and 2) in order to get your NAMA credential, you will have to complete your clinical work at our facility in Florida, USA OR with a preceptor in your region OR at as a transfer student .  If you choose NOT to get your NAMA credential, but simply graduate with a diploma in Ayurvedic Medicine, you will not be required to clinical work or in person study but there will still be additional requirements to help you bridge from a North American Ayurvedic program to the way Ayurveda is practiced in the country you live in. We encourage all prospective international Ayurvedic students to search out local options first–distance education may seem like a convenient option, but it’s critical that practitioners be prepared to work within the system where they reside.

It may be possible, you will need to complete the International Clinical Placement Process, which includes a written project proposal, significant preparation before leaving and periodic reports during and after the placement to be considered for international clinical placement. Some, but not all, of a student’s clinical work can be done out of the country, and there are limited clinical sites approved for visiting students.

International work is definitely not a “quick fix” for students who have limited clinical opportunities where they are. For these students, we recommend relocating temporarily near a preceptor or completing short term placements at approved Ayurvedic centers in the US. Also, keep in mind that we approve new preceptors every month and there may be opportunities near you that you aren’t aware of yet.