Qualifications of Chiropractors
Educational requirements for doctors of chiropractic are among the most stringent of any of the health care professions. Chiropractic colleges seek students with four years of pre-medical undergraduate college education, including courses in biology, inorganic and organic chemistry, physics, psychology and related lab work. Once accepted into an accredited chiropractic college, the requirements become even more demanding — four to five academic years of professional study are the standard.
Because of the hands-on nature of chiropractic, and the intricate adjusting techniques, a significant portion of time is spent in clinical training. In some areas, such as anatomy, physiology, and rehabilitation, chiropractors receive more intensive education than most medical doctors or physical therapists. Before they are allowed to practice, doctors of chiropractic must pass national board examinations and become state-licensed.
