Chiropractors are healthcare professionals specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of neuromusculoskeletal disorders, focusing on the body’s ability to heal itself. They play a role in modern healthcare by offering non-invasive and drug-free solutions to patients dealing with pain and wellness issues.
Complete the Educational Requirements
The journey to becoming a chiropractor begins with undergraduate education. Aspiring chiropractors are required to complete a bachelor’s degree, or at least 90 semester hours of coursework, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Coursework in the life and physical sciences is fundamental, including biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology, many with corresponding lab work.
Following undergraduate studies, students earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree from an accredited program. D.C. programs take three to four years and involve a minimum of 4,200 instructional hours. The curriculum starts with basic sciences before shifting to clinical sciences, diagnosis, and treatment protocols. The final phase is dedicated to hands-on clinical internships where students work with patients under supervision.
Pass National and State Licensing Exams
After completing their education, graduates must pass licensing exams to legally practice. The National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) and individual state licensing boards govern this process. Passing the NBCE exams is a requirement for licensure in all U.S. states.
The NBCE examination has four parts taken during the D.C. program:
- Part I covers basic sciences such as general and spinal anatomy, physiology, chemistry, pathology, and microbiology.
- Part II assesses knowledge in clinical sciences, including general diagnosis, neuromusculoskeletal diagnosis, and diagnostic imaging.
- Part III is a written clinical competency exam that evaluates skills in case management.
- Part IV is a practical skills examination testing diagnostic imaging interpretation, physical examination skills, and adjusting techniques.
Beyond the NBCE exams, each state has its own licensing board with specific requirements. This often includes passing a jurisprudence exam on that state’s laws and regulations.
Develop Essential Chiropractor Skills
A successful chiropractic career is built on specific skills. On the technical side, diagnostic skills are needed to perform physical examinations, analyze a patient’s posture, and interpret diagnostic imaging. Manual dexterity is another core competency, as practitioners use their hands to perform precise spinal adjustments and manipulate other joints. A functional knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics underpins these hands-on techniques.
Soft skills facilitate positive patient relationships. Interpersonal communication allows chiropractors to clearly explain health issues and treatment plans. Empathy and active listening are necessary for understanding a patient’s pain and concerns, which helps in building trust. Since many chiropractors are self-employed, business management skills are also beneficial.
Understand the Time and Financial Commitment
Embarking on a career as a chiropractor requires a significant investment of both time and financial resources. The educational path demands around eight years of post-secondary education, combining a bachelor’s degree with a four-year Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) program. This graduate-level education is intensive, combining classroom instruction with extensive laboratory work and clinical training.
The financial commitment is also considerable. The cost of a D.C. program can be substantial, with tuition and fees that can approach $200,000. This figure does not include the cost of undergraduate education or living expenses, so careful financial planning is necessary.
Explore the Career Outlook
The career outlook for chiropractors appears positive, with projected growth and stable demand for their services. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in this field is expected to grow by 10 percent between 2023 and 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population and an increasing public interest in non-invasive, alternative healthcare options.
The BLS also reports that the median annual wage for chiropractors was $79,000 in May 2024. Earnings can vary based on factors like geographic location, years of experience, and practice setting. Many chiropractors work in solo or group private practices, while others are employed in integrated healthcare clinics alongside other medical professionals.