Chiropractic students undergo a rigorous course of study as well as similar entrance requirements to that of other health care professionals. Students are required to complete a minimum of three years of university before they are eligible for admission to chiropractic college. The vast majority of students entering chiropractic college have completed a bachelor’s or graduate degree. Chiropractic college requires four academic years of full-time study, including a 12-month internship.

In addition to the academic program, chiropractic education requires hands-on clinical experience under the supervision of highly qualified faculty. This experience includes clinical assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and referral protocols.

The academic curriculum includes:

• Anatomy (both gross, and functional)

• Physiology

• Pathology

• Microbiology

• Biochemistry

• Nutrition

• Diagnosis of conditions related to the spine and upper/lower extremities

• Rehabilitation

• Soft tissue therapy

• Physical therapies

• Adjustment/mobilizations

To be licensed in Ontario chiropractors must successfully graduate from an accredited chiropractic college, complete the national board examinations (written and practical) and the Ontario legislation and ethics examination.