The Swedish Institute, dedicated to a natural approach to health care since its inception in 1916, just celebrated its 90th anniversary. Founded by Captain Theodore Melander, a native of Sweden, the school was initially called the Swedish Institute for Physiotherapy. It taught a system of massage therapy, exercise and external applications popular in Europe at the time. The Swedish Institute has maintained its focus on massage therapy through the years, and has the oldest Massage Therapy Program in the country. In 1996 the Swedish Institute broadened its commitment to natural health care education when it initiated a three-year Master's level Acupuncture Program.

In addition to its undergraduate and graduate programs, the Swedish Institute offers Professional Continuing Education courses that help graduates maintain and refine their skills. In 2004 it added a certificate program in Exercise Science/Personal Training as the latest component of the school's commitment to health education.