Chiropractic School Requirements
Chiropractors diagnose and treat misalignments in the spinal joints that have an adverse effect on health. Without medicine or surgery, chiropractors treat back problems, headaches and generalized pain. They are employed in chiropractic clinics or have their own practices. Chiropractors complete an intense, four-year program at an accredited chiropractic school that emphasizes science-related coursework and clinical experiences.
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Identification
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There are 18 chiropractic programs that are accredited by the American Chiropractic Association, as of 2009. In order to gain admission to a chiropractic school, applicants must complete a bachelor's degree or at least 90 credits of college coursework. While each chiropractic school has requirements for admissions, individuals planning on applying to chiropractic schools should plan to take undergraduate coursework in biology, inorganic and organic chemistry, and physics.
Features
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Chiropractic programs take four years to complete. According to the American Chiropractic Association, the curriculum includes more than 4,000 hours of classroom, clinical and laboratory experiences. During the first two years, students do laboratory work and take courses in subjects such as anatomy, microbiology, biochemistry, public health, and pathology.
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Effects
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In the third and fourth years of chiropractic schools, students receive practical, hands-on instruction in the adjustment and manipulation of the spine. They also gain clinical experience in orthopedics, diagnosis and nutrition.
Considerations
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In order to treat patients, graduates of chiropractic schools must obtain a license in the state in which they intend to practice. Most states require chiropractors to take the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners exam. Once the state license is granted, chiropractors can practice in the state in which they are licensed.
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To maintain their license to practice, most chiropractors are required to take continuing education classes. Each state has its own requirements regarding continuing education classes.
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