Education · 1 of 5
The path
Undergraduate science first, then a four-year doctorate, then licensing exams.
- 1
High school diploma
Grade 12
Biology, chemistry, physics and anatomy if your school offers it.
- 2
Undergraduate science credits
3 to 4 years
Chiropractic colleges require a minimum block of college credit heavy in biology, chemistry and physics. Most applicants now arrive with a full bachelor's degree.
- 3
Doctor of Chiropractic program
About 4 years
About four years, usually run in trimesters so there is no long summer off. Anatomy, diagnosis, imaging, then a year in the teaching clinic on real patients.
- 4
National board exams
Spread over the degree
The National Board of Chiropractic Examiners runs Parts 1, 2, 3 and 4 plus a physiotherapy exam. You take them at set points during and after the doctorate.
- 5
State license
A few months
Apply to the board in the state you want to practice in. Some states add a law exam of their own.