A doctor of chiropractic medicine (D.C.) is a specialist primarily concerned with the spine and how its interplay with the nervous system affects other body functions. He/she uses modern techniques to examine and diagnose conditions. Once a diagnosis is reached, the chiropractor can use any one of many techniques to treat the problem, including dietary guidance and manipulation of the spine and musculature.
Education
The educational requirements for chiropractors specify a minimum of two years of pre-chiropractic study and four years of chiropractic school, after which the Doctor of Chiropractic degree is awarded. However, the majority of successful applicants have completed three or four years of college work before entering chiropractic school.
Basic Requirements
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One year of English |
WRI 10 – College Reading and Composition and |
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One year of general chemistry w/lab |
CHEM 2 – General Chemistry I (includes lab) and |
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One year of organic chemistry |
CHEM 8/L – Principles of Organic Chemistry with lab and |
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One year of biology with lab |
Effective Fall 2023: Prior to Fall 2023: |
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One year of physics |
PHYS 8 - Introductory Physics I or |
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Courses in psychology |
PSY 1 – Introduction to Psychology (check with individual schools) |
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Courses in humanities and social sciences |
Check with individual schools for specifics |
Note: The requirements of each chiropractic school may differ; check individual school catalogs/websites for specific course requirements.
GPA Calculator
Professional and graduate schools, and the application services they use, expect you to report all attempted classes as part of your overall GPA calculation. Please refer to the "course work" sections of the instruction manuals -- available below -- for how to accurately compute your Math-Science or Science GPA and overall GPA based on your professional goals.
Please refer to the GPA calculation guidelines through their respective application services.
Applications
Check individual schools for application processes and deadline information.
Entrance Exam
There is no entrance exam required for admission to chiropractic school.
Letters of Recommendation
Two or three letters of recommendation are usually required. They should be from faculty members (at least one science professor) and also from a health science professional, preferably a chiropractor who can evaluate your potential in the field.
Work Experience
All chiropractic schools advise that you obtain practical experience with a health professional, preferably a chiropractor. This experience provides you with a better understanding of chiropractic medicine and helps you understand why you want to be a chiropractor. The Center for Career & Professional Advancement can be helpful in arranging volunteer experience.
