What Are the Prerequisites for Chiropractic School?

The chiropractic industry, like all other medical industries, is a hot field that many perspective students are seeking to enter. Requirements vary from institution to institution but are fairly standard throughout the country.

Chiropractic

According to the American Chiropractic Association, chiropractic is a health care profession that focuses on disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system, and the effects of these disorders on general health. Chiropractic care is used most often to treat back pain, neck pain, pain in the joints of the arms or legs, and headaches.

Biology

Every chiropractic school requires a student to have at least six credits in biology and a lab.

Chemistry

High grades in chemistry are one of the most important requirements for entry into a chiropractic program. A student should have at least 12 credits in chemistry. General, inorganic, organic and/or biochemistry, along with their pertinent labs, are required. Most inorganic and organic chemistry courses with labs are five credits.

Physics

Six credits' worth is the minimum amount of physics needed to enter a doctorate of chiropractic medicine program.

Social Sciences, Communications and Math

A minimum of 21 to 30 credits are needed in courses such as psychology, communications, math and humanities, depending on the school you are applying to.

GPA

The acceptable overall grade point average (GPA) required for entrance to most chiropractic schools is between 2.5 and 3.2.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics
• The American Chiropractic Association