If helping others heal from pain is something you’d like to devote your career to, then becoming a chiropractor could be right up your alley. 
The great news is that in recent years, the medical landscape has evolved, with a huge shift towards people seeking natural treatments for their ailments.
This sets up a plethora of opportunity for practicing chiropractors and those looking to break into this field of medicine.Â
A Basic Breakdown on Becoming a Chiropractor 
A career as a chiropractor can be incredibly rewarding. So much so that it’s often ranked as one of the top healthcare jobs today. 
With enough time devoted to studies, you can walk away with an advanced degree. With this, you can choose to go into private practice, partner with other medical professionals, or even pursue academia. 
First thing’s first, you’ll need to hit the books …
How Long Do You Need to Study? 
While not all chiropractic schools list this as a requirement, it’s best to have some sort of pre-med background before committing to chiropractic school. A great place to start is usually with a bachelor’s degree in science. 
In order to qualify as a chiropractor, you need to graduate with a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree. This is a post-graduate degree that takes three to four years to complete. 
The first years of study are based in the classroom and lab where you’ll gain in-depth knowledge on the workings of the human anatomy. Your final years are spent in clinics. 
Chiropractic Studies 
Now, contrary to what many people may think, chiropractic studies go far beyond learning how to adjust someone’s back! During your studies, you’ll learn every minute detail about how the body works. 
This includes subjects such as physiology, chemistry, biology, and organic science. 
Clinical Training 
The final years of your chiropractic studies are extremely thorough. During this time, you’ll spend time in a clinic learning how to put your classroom knowledge to use. This means you’ll gain real-world, hands-on experience with patients from all walks of life. 
Chiropractic Licensing and Registration 
Before you open up your own private practice or go into partnership with another, you have to gain a chiropractor’s license to practice in your state. 
Specific requirements vary from state-to-state. However, all require the completion of an accredited DC program. You’ll need to pass all four parts of the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exam. 
But don’t worry, the first two parts of the NBCE exam are completed in your second and third year at chiropractic school. Parts three and four are completed after your graduation. 
In terms of obtaining a chiropractic license, your state board offers information on those exact requirements. 
Once you have passed all NBCE exams and gained your license, you’ll need to maintain your practice license with continual education classes. 
Important Qualities of a Chiropractor 
Apart from having a sincere interest in human anatomy and the sciences, here a few important personality traits of a successful chiropractor:
- Decisiveness
- Attention to detail 
- Dexterity i.e. good coordination 
- Empathy 
- Good interpersonal skills 
- Good organizational skills 
Of course, these are just generalized qualities. But if you consider yourself to carry these traits, it could help you in your chiropractic career.
Kick-Off Your Career With Parker University
Your journey into a successful career in chiropractic practice begins with the right school.
If you’re thinking about becoming a chiropractor, learn more about Parker University and how we can set you on the right track!
