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Founded by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi

A non-profit university with on-campus and online degree programs

Home of Consciousness-Based Education®

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

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Founded by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi

A non-profit university with on-campus and online degree programs

Home of Consciousness-Based Education®

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Request Info > Apply > Visit Us >
Request Info > Apply > Visit Us >

MS in Ayurveda & Integrative Medicineonline

Recognized by:


An ancient system, reevaluated

You’ll study the Maharishi AyurVedaSM health system, which addresses the body, mind, and environment of an individual to help them become holistically healthy.

Mind-body elements Vata, Pitta, and Kapha influence everything from your body type to your digestion, disposition, sleep, and more.

Our programs integrate natural techniques with modern medicine to take an integrated and balanced approach to wellness. You’ll study a variety of modalities, including:

  • Herbal supplementation
  • Ayurvedic pulse diagnosis
  • Individualized dietary recommendations
  • Individualized lifestyle modifications and more
Watch the video: Introducing the MS in Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine, 5 minutes

Learn from home

student studying from homeOur three-year, part-time online MS has a flexible schedule and can be completed with about 8 to 9 hours of work per week. Some students may spend more time on the program, depending on their personal learning styles. You’ll learn without the strain typical of graduate degree programs.

Even though you’ll be studying online, you’ll enjoy connecting with a supportive community of students who share your passion for natural healthcare, as well as professors who are experts in the field.

  • 6 weeks of live clinicals over 3 years
    • Online or at the MIU campus in Fairfield, IA
  • Two 90-minute live webinars per week
  • 5-6* hours per week of asynchronous learning (on your own time)
    • includes videos, knowledge checks, quizzes, and writing assignments

*some students choose to do more

TM – the technique for inner peace & wellness

As a student at MIU, you’ll learn the Transcendental Meditation technique, an evidence-based technique that promotes inner peace and wellness, enhances clear thinking, improves learning ability, and boosts creativity.

Learn more about Consciousness-Based Education >

What is Ayurveda?

logo “Ayurvedic medicine (also called Ayurveda) is one of the world’s oldest medical systems. It originated in India and has evolved there over thousands of years. In the United States, Ayurvedic medicine is considered a complementary health approach.”

Is Ayurveda effective?

logo“Ayurveda can have positive effects when used as a complementary therapy in combination with standard, conventional medical care.”

Program structure

Throughout the program, students are requested to take their own pulse several times per day. This is one of the best ways to learn pulse diagnosis since taking the pulse frequently gives differing experiences of pulse that correspond to different activities, such as after meals, after exercise, and after sleep.

Case evaluation & patient diagnosis evaluation forms

At the end of the two courses introducing the principles of Maharishi AyurVeda (PH 500 and PH 501), students will be given three virtual cases. Students will evaluate the virtual patient using a standard case evaluation form. The evaluation will include pulse diagnosis, patient history, and other appropriate means of modern or natural diagnosis. Students will then give their recommendations for the treatment program, which will be evaluated by the faculty.

End of course examinations

At the end of each course, there will be an exam to determine understanding of the concepts and familiarity with the preventive approaches and application of the protocols for disorders of that organ system. There will be a variety of written, multiple choice, and other exam questions.

Final examination

During the final course, course participants will have an opportunity to demonstrate mastery of their knowledge with a final written examination of the principles, diagnostic skills, and therapeutic skills, including sample clinical cases they must solve to the satisfaction of the faculty.

Course format

  • Most courses are 3 months
  • View course lectures (approximately 2 hours per week)
  • Complete online learning activities and exams (approximately 4 hours per week)
  • Two weekly, 90-minute live webinars (3 hours)
  • Multiple case studies for each course will be evaluated with a standard rubric

Students should expect to spend 8-9 hours per week dedicated to the program. Some students may spend more time on the program, depending on their personal learning style.

The program will apply the principles of Consciousness-Based Education, including the enlivenment of the inner intelligence of the body, through the daily practice of Transcendental Meditation. This is the fundamental approach of Maharishi AyurVeda and a central feature of our programs.

Integrative Wellness Center at MIU

On-campus and online clinical training options are available

Optional: Study in India for two weeks

Watch the video: Study in India, 27 secondsEach year students will be offered the opportunity to visit Sreedhareeyam Hospital in Kerala, India, where they will engage in a comprehensive learning experience focused on Ayurvedic medicine.

This two-week clinical program includes mastering diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, delving into traditional herbal preparations, and gaining hands-on experience with Panchakarma treatments.

Participants will also have the opportunity to learn about herbal identification, visit a factory where herbals are prepared, and learn pharmacy practices. The course offers practical training in clinical and pulse diagnosis, led by experienced practitioners like Vaidya Manohar Palakurthi. This program is designed to provide an immersive and in-depth understanding of Ayurvedic principles and practices.

Become a wellness professional

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As a Maharishi AyurVeda Professional, you will graduate with the practical knowledge and training required to offer wellness consultations and other services through a natural and scientific approach. Our program also offers business electives which are intended to provide real-world business strategies.

Your career opportunities

Watch the video: Ayurveda career opportunities, 5 minutes longWith an MS in Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine, you have a wide array of opportunities to work or set up a practice. Here are several paths you could consider:

  • Private Practice
    • You can establish your own private clinic offering consultations and treatments in Maharishi AyurVeda. This allows for a personalized approach to healthcare, focusing on individual treatment plans that encompass lifestyle, diet, herbal remedies, and other therapeutic practices.
  • Wellness Centers and Spas
    • Many wellness centers and spas seek professionals trained in Ayurveda to offer services such as Ayurvedic consultations, Panchakarma therapies, and lifestyle guidance. Working in such environments can also provide opportunities for collaboration with professionals from other holistic health disciplines.
  • Integrative Health Clinics
    • These clinics combine conventional Western medicine with alternative and complementary therapies. With an MS in Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine, you would be well-positioned to contribute your expertise in Ayurveda to a team of healthcare providers.
  • Educational Institutions
    • There’s a growing interest in Ayurveda and integrative medicine worldwide. You could find opportunities teaching these subjects at colleges, universities, or specialized institutes offering programs in holistic health and wellness.
  • Corporate Wellness Programs
    • Companies increasingly recognize the importance of employee wellness for productivity and morale. You could work as part of or consult for corporate wellness programs, designing and implementing strategies that include Ayurvedic principles to promote health and wellbeing among employees.
  • Research and Development
    • If you have an interest in research, there are opportunities to contribute to the scientific study of Ayurvedic practices and products. This can include working with herbal supplements companies, academic research teams, or governmental health organizations.
  • Online Health Coaching and Consulting
    • The digital age has opened new avenues for health professionals to reach a wider audience. You can set up an online consulting business, offering personalized Ayurvedic lifestyle and dietary advice, virtual workshops, and courses.
  • Health and Wellness Writing and Blogging
    • With your specialized knowledge, you can write articles, blogs, or even books on vMaharishi AyurVeda and integrative medicine. This can also include creating content for health and wellness websites, magazines, and online platforms.
  • Collaboration with Retreats
    • Ayurvedic retreats and workshops are popular for people looking to immerse themselves in intensive health programs. Your expertise could be valuable in designing and leading such retreats, which often combine Ayurvedic treatments, yoga, meditation, and nutrition.
  • Community Health Programs
    • Non-profit organizations and community health initiatives may benefit from your expertise in Maharishi AyurVeda to address specific health challenges within communities, offering an alternative and holistic approach to healthcare.

Learning community committed to inner growth

STC students

During your studies, you’ll meet an online community of students from around the world who are deeply committed to wellness, positive values, and personal inner growth. You’ll participate in online discussions, exchanging experiences and points of view while developing new friendships.

In addition, our hands-on faculty will provide you with the one-on-one attention you need to absorb deep concepts and succeed in your studies.

Get started by contacting Noreen

Noreen Dillman, admissions counselorNoreen Dillman is this program’s admissions counselor for US students. Noreen will provide you with all the details of becoming a student, including connecting you with the program director or faculty.

Contact Noreen >

International applicants may connect with us through our international inquiry form.

Next entry: Aug 2025Apply to MIU >Next entry: Aug 2025Apply to MIU >

Featured faculty

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Manohar Palakurthi, BAMS, PhD, is an Ayurvedic physician and currently serves as Clinical Professor of Physiology & Health at MIU. He graduated from India’s Nagarjuna University, has been trained by three of the world’s top experts in Maharishi AyurVeda, and holds 30 years of expertise in the field. He has also received the Dhanavantari award from the Association of Ayurvedic Professionals of North America.

Dr. Manohar practices as an Ayurveda clinical consultant, teacher, and course developer for health professionals and modern physicians, is a teacher and expert clinician in Ayurvedic pulse diagnosis, has training in aromatherapy and Ayurveda Ophthalmology and has presented seminars on Maharishi AyurVeda all over the world.

All Department Faculty

Featured courses

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Principles of Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment in Maharishi AyurVeda

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You’ll study the foundations of natural, prevention-oriented health care, including Ayurvedic anatomy, physiology, digestion and metabolism, Ayurvedic herbology, Ayurvedic pulse diagnosis, mental health, and clinical approaches to basic common disorders.

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Musculoskeletal System

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This class kicks off your in-depth study of the Ayurvedic approach to the eight organ systems with a focus on the musculoskeletal system. You’ll also learn the basics of other systems of natural medicine, including osteopathy and chiropractic medicine.

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Hematologic/Immunologic System

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This course presents the common disorders of the cellular components of the blood and immune system, and their causes, diagnosis, and treatment from the perspective of Maharishi AyurVeda and other systems of natural health care.

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Review, Clinical Cases and Examinations

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This five-day, in-residence intensive will allow you to review and practice all the knowledge gained during your studies by providing wellness consultations to clients under the supervision of experienced clinical faculty. Students’ clinical competence will be evaluated.

All courses may include

  • PH 500 Basic Principles of Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment in Maharishi AyurVeda I
    • This course presents the foundations of natural, prevention-oriented health care, including AyurVedic Anatomy, Physiology, Digestion and Metabolism, AyurVedic herbology, pulse diagnosis, and clinical approach to basic common disorders.
  • PH 501 Basic Principles of Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment in Maharishi AyurVeda II
    • This course further develops the understanding of this consciousness-based approach to health care, including research on Transcendental Meditation, the Srota systems (channels) of AyurVeda, herbology, Yoga Asanas; clinical workshops on digestive disorders, musculoskeletal disorders, respiratory disorders, women’s health, and heart health. The course also gives an introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine and Homeopathy.
  • PH 502 Musculoskeletal System

    • This course begins the in-depth study of the AyurVedic approach to the eight organ systems. The focus is on the main disorders of the musculoskeletal system, including various muscular pain and myopathies, which are among the most common complaints in modern society. This course also presents an introduction to Other Systems of Natural Medicine: Principles of Osteopathy and Chiropractic Medicine.

  • PH 503 Cardiovascular/ Renal System
    • This course goes deep into the Total Heart Health program, a comprehensive program to treat and prevent heart disease and its risk factors, including, hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and stress. It also covers the main renal disorders, including renal failure, cystitis, kidney stones and urinary tract infections.
  • PH 504 Digestive System and Metabolism
    • The health of the digestive system is critical for immunity, strength and healthy tissues. This course goes deeply into the principle disorders of the digestive system, including indigestion, hyperacidity, GERD, irritable bowel, constipation and others.
  • PH 505 Pulmonary System and ENT
    • The course on the pulmonary system investigates the main disorders of the respiratory system including, common cold, influenza, asthma, COPD and others. The course describes the causative factors, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment from Maharishi AyurVeda as well as an introduction to other systems and approaches to respiratory imbalances. This course also introduces imbalances in ears, nose and throat.
  • PH 506 Articular System
    • Joint disorders are very common, often debilitating disorders in modern society. This course addresses the different types of arthritis and joint disorders, investigates their causes, symptoms and means of alleviation from Maharishi AyurVeda and other natural systems.
  • PH 507 Endocrine/Reproductive System
    • Including: Ob/Gyn, Men’s Health, and Pediatrics. The endocrine system, along with the nervous system, is the master controller of all physiological functions. This course presents the various hormonal and reproductive disorders, including thyroid, adrenal and reproductive problems.
  • PH 508 Hematologic/Immunologic System
    • In Maharishi AyurVeda, the health of the blood and plasma is the basis for the nourishment and health of all the other systems. This course presents the common disorders of the cellular components of the blood and immune system; their causes, diagnosis, and treatment.
  • PH 509 Nervous System and Skin
    • The nervous system, along with the endocrine system is responsible for controlling every physiological function, as well as our experience in consciousness. The disorders of this critical system are investigated and their treatments presented, along with case studies.
  • MVS 544A Maharishi Vedic Science for Maharishi AyurVeda and Integrative Medicine Students Part I
    • This 4-week course will explore the foundations of Maharishi’s Vedic Science with talks by Maharishi. These talks give a strong foundation in Maharishi’s Science and Technology of Consciousness, the bases of Maharishi AyurVeda.  The first half of the course describe Veda as the vibrations of natural law, structured in the Unified Field of all the laws of nature, and how they are cognized by the Vedic Rishis, in their own unbounded self-referral consciousness. The last half present key talks by Maharishi about his Maharishi AyurVeda, and how it is rooted in Veda. Without consciousness, there is no Veda in Ayurveda.
  • MVS 544B Maharishi Vedic Science for Maharishi AyurVeda and Integrative Medicine Students Part II
    • This 4-week course will go deeper into the structure of the 40 aspects of Veda and Vedic Literature and their correlation to human physiology.  This is the foundation of Maharishi Sound Therapy and present the profound integration between modern science and ancient Vedic Science.
  • BIO 269 Human Anatomy and Physiology
    • This course provides the basic knowledge of anatomy and physiology as needed by students in the MS program in Maharishi AyurVeda and Integrative Medicine. It explores the terminology, structure, function, and interdependence of the human body systems and introduces relevant medical terminology. This course provides an understanding of how the body’s structure and function maintain balance and a healthy state. Topics include homeostasis, feedback control, skeletal-muscular system, blood, cardiovascular system, immune system, and digestive system, including gut health. Additional topics include divisions of the nervous system and how they control other organ systems of the body and maintain homeostasis as well as the respiratory system, endocrine system, reproductive system, nervous system, and excretory system. Relevant current scientific research results are discussed as appropriate. Students get an opportunity to explore how human physiology is a replica of natural law as expressed in ancient Vedic Literature discovered by Tony Nader, MD, PhD. Prerequisite: graduate standing

To graduate, students must also satisfy the general requirements for a master’s degree

Cost & Aid, 2025-26

  • US Online Students

    • US MS in Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine

    This low-residency online program is generally three years in length and features two five-day residencies each year at our Fairfield, Iowa, campus. The cost of housing and meals for the residency is included in the tuition. The tuition listed here is for one year (two semesters).

    One Academic Year Tuition and Fees
    Tuition and fees$9,790
    Low interest federal loans -$9,790
    Your payment $0
    Optional: additional low-interest federal loans?-$17,000

    Additional Financial Aid Information

    • Required Residencies
      • The cost of housing and meals for residencies is included in the tuition. Students are responsible for travel costs.
    • Federal Student Loans
      • Your FAFSA automatically qualifies you for the majority of federal student loans for this program. The remaining portion is composed of Federal Graduate PLUS loans which require “no adverse credit” or an endorser. Repayment begins after your enrollment ends.

    • Education Tax Incentives
      • There are a variety of money-saving tax benefits to assist in reducing the cost of education expenses. More about education tax benefits.
    • Veterans
      • For questions regarding Veterans Benefits, please contact Tal Ron, our Veterans Certifying Official and Director of Financial Aid, at tron@miu.edu or 641-472-1156.

    Loan Repayment Options

    • Standard
      • Payments are a fixed amount that ensures your loans are paid off within 10 years (within 10 to 30 years for Consolidation Loans).
    • Extended
      • Payments may be fixed or graduated and will ensure that your loans are paid off within 25 years.
    • Graduated
      • Payments are lower at first and then increase, usually every two years, and are for an amount that will ensure your loans are paid off within 10 years (within 10 to 30 years for Consolidation Loans).
    • Income-Based
      • Your monthly payments will be either 10 or 15 percent of discretionary income (depending on when you received your first loans), but never more than you would have paid under the 10-year Standard Repayment Plan.
    • Income Contingent
      • Payments are recalculated each year and are based on your updated income, family size, and the total amount of your Direct Loans. Any outstanding balance will be forgiven if you haven’t repaid your loan in full after 25 years.
    • Income Sensitive
      • Your monthly payment is based on annual income, but your loan will be paid in full within 15 years.
    Tuition, other fees, scholarships, and financial policies are subject to change prior to the entry date. For more information, contact us at awardofficer@miu.edu for a quick reply — normally one business day — or see more about financial aid.

  • International Online Students

    • International MS in Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine

    The program duration is three years. There are two semesters per year. The tuition listed here is for one semester at the current year rate, subject to change in future years.

    Semester Cost
    Tuition and fees per semester$4,895
    Your payment$4,895

    Tuition, other fees, scholarships, and financial policies are subject to change prior to the entry date.

Entrance requirements

  • Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any field with a 3.0 GPA or higher.
  • Apply for admission.
  • Completion of the MIU admissions process, including the submission of official transcripts, a recommendation, and an admissions interview.

Additional requirements

International applicants must submit official English proficiency test scores within the past 2 years of at least 110 on Duolingo, 6.5 on IELTS Academic, 90 on TOEFL iBT or 58 on PTE.

Before your first class

All MIU students practice the Transcendental Meditation® technique. If you have not learned it yet:

  • Once accepted as a US student, the cost of TM instruction is covered through a grant offered by MIU
  • Students are required to learn the TM technique before starting the first class
  • Contact your admissions counselor for details
  • Find information on the TM technique or search for a TM teacher at TM.org

What our graduates say

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Sultan Salah

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“Learning about Ayurveda can change your life in so many ways, as it did mine. The sense of empowerment it gives you to be able to take your health into your own hands alone makes studying Ayurveda worthwhile – but being equipped with the tools and certification that these programs offer you opens up great possibilities to help others as well. Good luck to everyone!”

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Rick Dunstan

Rick-web

“My three-year journey through the MS in Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine put me on the path of comprehensive health and has made me purely optimistic about helping others and myself to naturally grow in the enjoyment of the highest levels of integrative health.”

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Shellie Lackman

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“It is a very deeply involved program. We worked with both Vaidyas (Ayurvedic physicians) and doctors. This course went far more deeply into not only maintaining good health and what a good daily routine is but it also went into different areas of physiology and all the possible diseases that could come up and how to treat them.”

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Jean Irwin

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“It is truly a joy to help people help themselves by applying these very practical and profound points of knowledge and technologies. I would like to thank all my colleagues who joined me from every corner of the globe – I gained so much working together side by side, pulse by pulse, and I hope we can continue to stay connected and support each other. And finally, I am most grateful to the enlightened MIU faculty, doctors and vaidyas who skillfully guided and encouraged us at every step of our journey.”

Meredith

Meredith A. Hart

Meredith

Meredith wholeheartedly believes that the knowledge and skills learned in the program provided deep and considerable support, lending her more confidence in her personal and professional practice. While in school, Meredith successfully and easily launched her full-time private practice in Yoga Therapy and Ayurveda in the Bay Area of California along with several teaching gigs.

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Simon Rodriguez

Simon-web

“If you are interested in a more natural and holistic approach to health, AyurVeda is the most comprehensive and practical alternative. The online platform is intuitive, easy to use, and rich in content. You will be learning to approach disease in a way that goes to the root of the problem, rather than just treating symptoms. And in the process, you will learn a framework to improve your own health as well.”

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Vincent J. Glasser

Vincent-web

“Anyone considering a new career in true health care that helps people in a totally holistic way that comfortably integrates with modern medicine should consider the MS in Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine. Fortunately, the ancient wisdom of AyurVeda has been restored by a rare and modern sage, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, to its full glory and is now at the cutting edge of a pioneering paradigm shift in health care. Be a part of the change and enjoy a fulfilling career that can help you, your loved ones, and others in a profound way.”

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Geonah Lee

Geonah-web

“This online MS program deepened and widened my knowledge of Ayurveda, which is the most holistic and comprehensive health care system for perfect health and integrated life.”

FAQ

  • What is the difference between Ayurveda and Maharishi AyurVeda?
    • Ayurveda: The traditional system of medicine of India and the East. Based on diet, herbs, mind-body type, and purification therapies.

    Maharishi AyurVeda: The modern, scientific revival of complete Ayurveda, including balancing the deepest value of mind – consciousness, which is the basis of balancing the body. This revival by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi incorporates all aspects of mind, body, behavior, and environment in a scientific framework. It also includes a unique system of pulse diagnosis and a host of unique mind/body/environmental therapies.

  • I already have a license in some form of healthcare — what will this program do for me?
    • Our students include doctors, chiropractors, yoga therapists, massage therapists, osteopathic doctors and others in the health care professions. If you already have a license, you will be able to integrate what you learn from this course into your practice.
  • Do I need preparatory courses for entering this program?
    • Students should have basic knowledge of human anatomy—ideally from a university-level Anatomy & Physiology (A&P) course, however no specific courses are required.
  • Will I need to come to the MIU campus?
    • As part of this program, US students are required to complete 2 weeks of clinical training per year, for a total of 6 weeks. This clinical training can be completed on-campus or online.  International students can complete this requirement by giving consultations under the supervision of a Maharishi AyurVeda trained staff member, where 10 consultations are equivalent to one-week clinical training.
  • How long does it take to complete the MS in Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine?
    • This is a three-year, online program. Courses are taught at about one-third the pace of a full-time program so that students can continue their careers while learning.
  • What kind of content delivery system will be used?
    • Courses are a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning. Students will attend two live webinars each week using Zoom and will access recorded lessons and assignments using the Canvas student online learning platform. Each course includes two weekly live webinars, videotaped lectures, assignments, quizzes, discussion forums, other online activities, and learning tools. Assignments are submitted, and feedback is provided by the instructors through Canvas.
  • How do you make the online learning experience effective and fulfilling?
    • In addition to our engaging online learning platform, this program features extensive collaboration between students and one-on-one interaction between our faculty and each student. The clinical intensive training courses also give students the opportunity to practice conducting consultations under the guidance of faculty and meet their fellow students in person.

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