There are a lot of old wives’ tales that suggest a chiropractor is someone who doesn’t have a degree to practice medicine. This story could not be more false! Today, becoming a chiropractor requires a rigorous study period and experience in the field before being allowed to practice at a chiropractic clinic. Here is a basic outline for the things someone must do in order to earn their licence to practice as a chiropractor:
- In order to be eligible for chiropractic school, an undergraduate student must have a GPA of 2.50 or higher for their last three years of schooling.
- Students must then forward their transcripts and begin taking prerequisite courses in social subjects and the sciences.
- Following three years of undergraduate courses, students will then complete four to five years studying chiropractic medicine. This is divided into pre-clinic and clinic courses.
- Once a student has reached the clinical portion of their education, they will spend three trimesters in chiropractic performance-based courses.
- The final stage is to apply their classroom knowledge in a 12-month internship setting where they receive practical experience in the field.
- Only once all these steps have been completed can a student apply for their licence to practice as a chiropractor.
- Additionally, chiropractors must maintain their licensure by taking continuing education courses.
Chiropractors help people who have chronic pain, balance issues, and more. By applying adjustments on the spine, a chiropractor can improve overall health and well-being in a natural way. If you are experiencing chronic pain and other issues, visit your local chiropractor for a consultation.
