If you ask a naturpath that graduated from Bastyr, Southwest, or National about those schools they are likely to make a face, spit, or go into a tiraid filled with obcenities. If you are just looking to learn some interesting things about herbs and such for your own use those schools will do. But lets face it, they can not teach you to become a practitioner. The 4 year schools are hard, expensive, and require alot of sacrifice. There is no "easy" way to become a naturopath. Personally I wouldn't want to be treated or given advice from someone who hasn't recieved a long and supervised education. If you are truely interested in medicine perhaps consider taking a course in Anatomy and Physiology at your local community college. I did last year and am still amazed at the things I learned. I am also now scared of the things some herbalists and coorespondence school ND's don't know. Just my advice...I wish you luck.