Chiropractic school typically takes about 3 to 4 years to complete after fulfilling undergraduate prerequisites. Here is a detailed breakdown:
- Undergraduate Studies: Aspiring chiropractors usually need to complete at least 3 to 4 years of undergraduate education, often earning a bachelor's degree or completing around 90 credit hours in relevant science courses such as biology or health sciences
- Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) Degree: The chiropractic program itself generally spans 3 to 4 years, with some variation depending on the school and schedule. Programs require a minimum of about 4,200 to 4,300 instructional hours, including both coursework and hands-on clinical training
- Program Length Examples:
- Some schools offer accelerated programs that can be completed in about 3.5 years with year-round classes
* Other programs may take up to 5 years, especially if following a more traditional academic calendar or including specializations
- Total Time: Combining undergraduate studies and chiropractic school, the total time to become a licensed chiropractor is typically around 6 to 8 years
- Additional Requirements: After graduation, candidates must pass national board exams and obtain state licensure to practice
In summary, chiropractic school itself is about 3 to 4 years long, but including undergraduate prerequisites, the full educational path usually spans 6 to 8 years.
