Doctor of Chiropractic (DC)
The Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) is a doctoral level degree in the US preparing students to become licensed chiropractors focused on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders.
Careers open to chiropractic graduates
Institutions awarding this level in chiropractic (17)
Source: IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education). IPEDS records the field and level of each award, not its exact title.
- Palmer College of Chiropractic · Davenport
- Life University · Marietta
- Parker University · Dallas
- Logan University · Chesterfield
- Life Chiropractic College West · Hayward
- University of Western States · Portland
- Southern California University of Health Sciences · Whittier
- Northwestern Health Sciences University · Bloomington
- Cleveland University · Overland Park
- New York Chiropractic College · Seneca Falls
- Sherman College of Chiropractic · Spartanburg
- Texas Chiropractic College · Pasadena
- National University of Health Sciences · Lombard
- University of Bridgeport · Bridgeport
- D'Youville College · Buffalo
- Universidad Central Del Caribe · Bayamon
- Campbellsville University · Campbellsville
About
The Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) is a doctoral level degree, representing the highest level of education in chiropractic care within the US educational system. This degree is awarded by accredited chiropractic colleges and is designed for students who wish to become licensed chiropractors. It combines advanced study in anatomy, physiology, and chiropractic techniques, preparing graduates to assess and treat patients with musculoskeletal issues. The DC degree is recognized by regional accreditation bodies and specialized chiropractic accreditors, ensuring its quality and acceptance. It is aimed at individuals committed to a health care career focused on non-invasive, manual therapies.
- Doctoral level degree, highest in chiropractic education
- Offered by accredited chiropractic colleges
- Focus on musculoskeletal diagnosis and treatment
- Combines scientific and practical training
- Prepares for state licensure exams
- Recognized by regional and programmatic accreditors
How to get in
Admission to a DC program typically requires completion of undergraduate coursework, often including biology, chemistry, and physics, with a competitive GPA. Prospective students usually apply through the chiropractic college's own application process rather than a centralized system like the Common App. Some programs may require the Chiropractic College Admission Test (CCAT) or similar assessments. Selection is competitive, focusing on academic readiness, motivation for healthcare, and sometimes interviews or letters of recommendation. International students must meet additional requirements, including English proficiency and credential evaluation.
- Undergraduate coursework required
- Competitive GPA important
- Chiropractic-specific admission tests possible
- Application via individual colleges
- Interviews and recommendations common
- English proficiency for internationals
Format and schedule
The DC degree generally requires four years of full-time study beyond undergraduate education. The curriculum includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and extensive clinical training. Students engage in hands-on patient care through supervised internships and clinical rotations. The program is structured to progressively build knowledge and practical skills, with evaluations through exams, practical assessments, and clinical performance reviews. Attendance is typically on-campus, with limited online components due to the hands-on nature of training.
- Four years of full-time study
- Combination of lectures and labs
- Extensive clinical internships required
- Evaluations via exams and practicals
- On-campus attendance predominant
- Progressive skill development
What next?
Graduates with a DC degree are eligible to sit for state licensure exams, which are required to practice as chiropractors in the US. Once licensed, they can work in private practice, healthcare clinics, or multidisciplinary settings. The degree also allows for specialization through postgraduate certifications. Some graduates pursue further education in related health fields or research. Transfer or articulation agreements are uncommon due to the specialized nature of the program. The DC degree is well recognized within the chiropractic profession but does not confer eligibility for medical licensure.
- Eligibility for state licensure exams
- Career in chiropractic practice
- Postgraduate specialization options
- Opportunities in healthcare teams
- Limited transfer agreements
- Not a medical doctor degree
Frequently asked questions
What prior education is needed for a DC program?
Applicants generally need undergraduate coursework in sciences such as biology and chemistry. A competitive GPA and completion of prerequisite classes are important for admission.
How long does it take to complete the Doctor of Chiropractic degree?
The DC degree usually requires four years of full-time study after completing undergraduate prerequisites.
Is the DC degree recognized nationwide in the US?
Yes, the degree is recognized by regional and chiropractic-specific accreditors, allowing graduates to pursue licensure in most states.
Can I practice as a medical doctor after earning a DC?
No, the DC is a chiropractic degree and does not qualify graduates to practice medicine or prescribe medications.
Are there clinical training requirements in a DC program?
Yes, students complete extensive supervised clinical internships to develop hands-on skills in patient care.
How selective are DC programs?
Admission is competitive, based on academic performance, prerequisite completion, and sometimes tests or interviews.
Can international students apply to DC programs?
Yes, but they must meet English proficiency standards and have their prior credentials evaluated.
What career options are available after earning a DC?
Graduates can work as licensed chiropractors in private practice, clinics, or pursue further specialization within chiropractic care.