Chiropractic education trains future Doctors of Chiropractic (DC), also referred to as "Chiropractors". Chiropractic is a form of alternative medicine, based on the notion that various health problems can be treated by a chiropractor manipulating the spine. In the USA, the typical criteria to enter a Doctorate program in Chiropractic is to hold a Bachelor's Degree focussing on Biology or Science. The entry criteria, structure, teaching methodology and nature of Chiropractic programs offered at Chiropractic schools vary considerably around the world. To help standardize and ensure quality of Chiropractic education, in 2005 the World Health Organization published guidelines for basic training in Chiropractic. In general, the World Health Organization lists three potential educational paths involving full‐time chiropractic education across the globe. This includes: 1 – 4 years of pre-requisite training in basic sciences at university level followed by a 4 year full‐time Doctorate program; DC. A 5 year integrated bachelor degree; BSc (Chiro). A 2 - 3 year Masters program following the completion of a bachelor degree; MSc (Chiro). These are considered "basic guidelines", however, and in countries where the practice of chiropractic is well established, the standards are frequently much higher.
Regardless of the model of education utilized, prospective chiropractors without relevant prior health care education or experience, must spend no less than 4200 student/teacher contact hours (or the equivalent) in four years of full‐time education. This includes a minimum of 1000 hours of supervised clinical training. Health professionals with advanced clinical degrees, such as medical doctors, can meet the educational and clinical requirements to practice as a chiropractor in 2200 hours, which is most commonly done in countries where the profession is in its infancy. Upon meeting all clinical and didactic requirements of chiropractic school, a degree in chiropractic medicine is granted. However, in order to legally practice, chiropractors, like all self regulated health care professionals, must be licensed.
All Chiropractic Examining Boards require candidates to complete a 12 month clinical internship to obtain licensure. Licensure is granted following successful completion of all state/provincial and national board exams so long as the chiropractor maintains malpractice insurance. Nonetheless, there still some variations in educational standards internationally depending on admission and graduation requirements. chiropractic medicine is regulated in North America by state/provincial statute. The regulatory boards are responsible for protecting the public, standards of practice, disciplinary issues, quality assurance and maintenance of competency.
Read more about Chiropractic Education: Chiropractic Degree, Chiropractic Education, Licensure, and Regulation
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