Deciding to pursue a career as a chiropractic physician is a big decision — choosing where to earn your degree can be an even bigger decision when you consider the important questions listed below.

Many people are unaware that there are distinct differences in philosophy among chiropractic schools. Some schools focus exclusively on adjusting as the primary treatment for all patient conditions, adhering to a more traditional “chiropractic philosophy.” While others teach students to use modern medical science, evidence-based treatments, medical diagnostics and laboratory tests, and never hesitate to refer or co-manage a case with an MD or other health care practitioners, when required.Before choosing the school that is best for you, you should consider these important questions:

1. Which school will best prepare you for the future of health care?

With a growing trend toward multidisciplinary and integrated practice settings, it is important to look for a school that prepares you for that future. This means a program where DCs train to work in cooperation with other health professionals, such as MDs, DOs, NDs, etc.

It is also important to look for a school that prepares you as a primary care physician who can be a first point of contact for your patients and can diagnose and manage a full range of patient conditions. 

2. Which school offers the most beneficial opportunities for clinical training?

Clinical training is one of the most important pieces of your schooling. Considering the clinical phase of a school’s program is crucial. You should spend a full year treating actual patients under the supervision of clinical faculty, learning how to keep and read medical records, and gaining the confidence and skills to succeed when you start your own practice.

You should also consider a school located in a thriving health care job market, which results in greater employment opportunities after graduation.

3. Which school provides the most comprehensive medical school education?

A good medical education program should include a strong emphasis in basic sciences, with rigorous coursework in anatomy, biochemistry, pathology, and more. Therefore, reviewing the basic sciences curriculum should be a top priority.

You should also review the clinical science coursework and practical training of the program. This teaches students important skills in diagnosing patient conditions, performing physical exams, and utilizing chiropractic techniques, physical rehabilitation, and diagnostic imaging.

4. Which school delivers the most in-depth chiropractic adjustment/technique instruction?

Look for a school that offers evidence-based instruction and technique. You need to understand how chiropractic techniques are taught. Some chiropractic schools have you simply watch an instructor adjust for a long period of time, teaching you only how to “set-up” using proper body alignment for the technique. You should look for a school that takes you beyond set-up to complete hands-on adjustments in class, under supervision, in your first year of school.

5. Which school supports your success?

The school you choose should support your future career by providing tutoring and academic support, business classes, additional education opportunities, and a strong alumni network. These are vital pieces that make up a well-rounded medical school education. A school that provides you with these resources will better prepare you for success in the industry after graduation.

Learn first-hand why this student chose to study chiropractic medicine at National University of Health Sciences.

We hope this post was helpful as you consider pursuing a career as a chiropractic physician. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions about our programs or the NUHS student experience. Call our Office of Admissions at 1-800- 826-6285 or email us at [email protected]. 

For more information about the chiropractic industry, navigating the admissions process, and preparing yourself for a future in chiropractic medicine download our free resource – A Career Guide to Becoming a Doctor of Chiropractic!

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