Chiropractic
The chiropractic profession is a growing field with increasing demand as the population is more aware of the importance of a non-invasive, non-medicated, holistic approach. According to the Association of Chiropractic Colleges, chiropractic care focuses on the relationship between the body's main structures – the skeleton, the muscles and the nerves – and the patient's health. Chiropractors believe that health can be improved and preserved by making adjustments to these structures. They do not prescribe drugs or perform surgical procedures.
NOTE: Pre-chiropractic is not a major or a program, and The University of Tampa does not have a chiropractic school. Pre-chiropractic is an interest or path students choose that advisors help guide on their journey towards applying to chiropractic school.
Preparing for Chiropractic School
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Chiropractic school is a graduate program; to become eligible to apply to chiropractic school students may need to earn a bachelor's degree and take specific pre-requisites (classes that chiropractic schools require). Most chiropractic programs require at least three years of college experience, and many schools require bachelor’s degrees. Please check with each chiropractic school to see if a bachelor’s degree is required. In addition, some states require bachelor’s degrees to obtain licensure. At UT, students can earn a bachelor's degree and take pre-requisite courses. They will need to choose a major, as pre-chiropractic is not a major or a program at UT.
Students who are interested in going to chiropractic school typically major in biology or allied health with a concentration in medical sciences. These majors include some of the required courses for entrance into chiropractic schools. However, other degrees can also prepare students for health professions; thus students are encouraged to major in the field where they excel and should consult the pre-health professions advisor about course work.
Basic pre-requisite* courses required for chiropractic school:
- Biology I(1) and II(2) with labs
- General Chemistry I(1) and II(2) with labs
- Organic Chemistry I(1) and II(2) with labs
- Physics I(1) and II(2) with labs
- Anatomy/biochemistry may be required depending on school
*Each chiropractic school has its own set of pre-requisites, and students need to research the admission requirements of each school to which they are intending to apply. Search the pre-requisites for each chiropractic school.
Standardized tests
- There is no standardized test required for chiropractic school.
Build an extensive record of relevant experiences
Shadow a chiropractor – gain knowledge of the chiropractic field and confirm if this is your passion Volunteer/community service/work – in healthcare settings
Chiropractic school applications
- Students apply to chiropractic school a full year before they intend to start (summer of junior year through fall of senior year).
- Applications open every summer and each school has its own deadline.
Chiropractic school information and beyond
- A traditional chiropractic program is about four years long and includes classroom instruction and clinical training.
- There are two accredited chiropractic schools in Florida:
- After completion, the student earns a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree.
Contact
Pre-professional advising has a dedicated program specialist to help students prepare for professional school in the health sciences. The advisor would like to see all pre-health students early on to ensure they are on the path to success. Please email Jackie Mikulski to inquire about the next steps in the pre-health advising program.
Additional Resources
Explore Health Careers – Chiropractor
Association of Chiropractic Colleges
