Wichita State University
Chiropractic
Preparation for a Profession as a Chiropractor
A bachelor’s degree is required for admissions into most chiropractic schools. Many states, including Kansas, require a bachelor’s degree along with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree to obtain a license to practice. Any academic major is acceptable, as long as the degree includes the prerequisite core courses in math and sciences. Chiropractic schools expect candidates to demonstrate the intellectual, analytical, and problem-solving skills necessary to succeed in chiropractic school. Students are strongly advised to balance coursework in the natural sciences with coursework in humanities and social sciences. The General Education component of a Liberal Arts degree provides a sound foundation for demonstrating an interest in and knowledge of a diverse and global society. Candidates should also consider coursework in areas such as anthropology, communication, economics, ethics, logic, psychology, sociology, and statistics.
Most schools base admissions decisions on a balanced combination of the following:
- Grade point average: This varies by school but is usually above a 3.0 minimum.
- Personal statement from the candidate
- Professional experience (employment, volunteer work, shadowing, etc.)
- Interview
- Letters of recommendation
Core Courses for Chiropractic Programs (Minimum Requirements)
- English 101 College English I (3) and English 102 College English II (3)
- Communication 111 Public Speaking (3)
- Math 111 College Algebra (3) or Math 123 College Trigonometry (3) or Math 112 Pre-Calculus (5)
- Psychology 111 General Psychology (3)
- 24 hours of life and physical sciences to include:
- biology
- anatomy and physiology
- 8 hours of general and organic chemistry is strongly recommended
Admission Test: A specific admissions test is not required for entry to Doctor of Chiropractic programs.
Application: Application for admission should begin early in the fall semester prior to the fall one wishes to begin the professional program. Students apply directly to the schools they wish to attend.