Chiropractic schools typically require applicants to have completed a bachelor’s degree. A degree in the sciences can prepare students for the rigors of chiropractic education, particularly in areas like anatomy and biology. 

But don’t worry—if your background is in the arts or humanities, you can still thrive in chiropractic school by taking specific science courses before applying.

Let’s dive into the key undergraduate majors that align with chiropractic, how to pick the right school, the admission requirements you’ll need to meet, and what sets chiropractic care apart in the U.S. healthcare system.

Best Fit Undergraduate Majors for Future Chiropractors

With so many college majors, some provide a stronger foundation for chiropractic than others. Pre-med is a natural fit, as are fields like chemistry and physiology. But the key is to choose a major that sparks your passion and keeps you motivated.

Here are several undergraduate majors that, in my experience, provide an excellent foundation for students pursuing chiropractic careers:

• Biology: Studies cells and body systems at every level.
• Exercise Science: Looks at how exercise impacts the body and how it adapts over time.
• Health Sciences: Broadly covers topics from human anatomy to the healthcare system.
• Kinesiology: Centers on body movement, including sports psychology and motor skills.
• Psychology: Explores how mental health and behavior affect the body’s physical condition.

Projected Job Growth for Chiropractors 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, chiropractic jobs are expected to grow by 10% through 2033, a rate ‘much faster than average’ compared to overall job growth across all occupations of just 4%.

In an era where jobs in certain sectors are hard to come by, chiropractic stands out as a profession with strong growth potential—giving you confidence that you’re entering a stable career choice.

A Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree usually takes around four years, though students attending summer sessions can finish in three and a half. Once in the field, DCs earn an average of $76,530 annually.

To find the best chiropractic school, students should:

• Do your research. Look up college websites to assess campus life, academics, and the school culture.
• Make contact with people. Interview alumni and current students to discover what they enjoyed, what obstacles they faced, and the unique opportunities each school offers.
• Schedule visits. Tour your top three choices to see which campus feels like the best fit.

Each chiropractic school has its own philosophy and teaching methods. You’ll need to find one that fits both your academic needs and personal preferences. You’ll be there for four years, often in high-pressure environments, so choose a school where you feel comfortable and supported.

Along with researching schools, students should spend time shadowing a chiropractor to get a complete picture of clinic operations. Scheduling their own chiropractic exam provides a dual perspective, helping them see the process through the eyes of both the doctor and the patient.

How Chiropractic Stands Apart in U.S. Healthcare

Whole-being care is the foundation of chiropractic treatment, which focuses on preventing and treating physical problems while optimizing body strength and function naturally, without drugs or surgery.

Chiropractic focuses on identifying and treating the root causes of health issues. By correcting these problems, DCs aim to achieve long-term wellness and prevent recurring symptoms.

While many healthcare fields focus on wellness, chiropractic is unique in its use of joint adjustments to improve neuromusculoskeletal function. These adjustments, particularly to the spine, help correct misalignments and prevent future health problems.

Where to Go From Here

Choosing the right major sets you up for success in chiropractic school and gives you the tools to grow in your career. As the field evolves, your solid foundation will help you stay ahead and continue learning throughout what I’ve found to be a rewarding career journey.

Learn more about my personal path to becoming a chiropractor, the most (literally) impactful journey I ever made.