What do chiropractors do?

Chiropractors use manual therapy techniques to treat problems stemming from or involving the neuromuscular system (bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments). They are becoming a more widely recognized and valued member of the health care team in providing holistic care. They assess and treat the structural and functional health of the body without drugs or surgery.

How do you become a chiropractor?

A post-graduate Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) is required to practice, which usually takes four years to complete. Programs will include courses in advance anatomy/physiology, biology and other sciences, as well as supervised clinical experiences involving spinal assessment, diagnosis and adjustment techniques. A national board exam is required, and some states may have additional exams or requirements to be met.

What are the pre-requisite courses for entering a D.C. program?

The majority of students entering chiropractic programs have completed undergraduate degrees, but many programs do not require one. Course requirements for entry to a D.C. program include anatomy/physiology, physics, chemistry and biology, as well as some liberal arts courses.

Do you need any experience in the field?

It is imperative that for any professional field you want to enter, you understand the work and the day-to-day flow of the profession.

How competitive are D.C. programs to get into?

Minimum GPAs for application are typically listed as lower for Chiropractic Programs, between 3.0-3.25; however, competitive GPAs may be closer to 3.3. A number of chiropractic programs have rolling admissions throughout the year.

Do you need the GRE (Graduate Records Examination)?

Since many chiropractic schools do not require completion of a bachelor's degree, most do not have the GRE as an admissions requirement.

How much does it cost to attend a D.C. educational program?

The average length of most D.C. education programs is ~ 3 years. Estimate ~ $115,000 ($33,00 per year).

What is an average salary of a licensed D.C.?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates the median annual wage for chiropractors was $70,340 in May 2019.

What is the projected job outlook for D.C.s?

According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for chiropractors is projected to grow 7 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.

People across all age groups are increasingly becoming interested in integrative or complementary healthcare as a way to treat pain and improve overall wellness. Chiropractic care is appealing to patients because chiropractors use nonsurgical methods of treatment and do not prescribe drugs.

Where can you get more information?

• Discover Chiropractic
• American Chiropractic Association
• International Chiropractors Association
• Bureau of Labor Statistics