Although Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.)
programs are not available in an online format, there are preparatory
joint or transfer programs that allow students to complete some
Web-based associate degree coursework in preparation for chiropractic
study. Students may find cost-savings in pursuing part of their
education online while they work toward a Doctor of Chiropractic degree.
Joint Doctor of Chiropractic Overview
A Doctor of Chiropractic degree program is not offered entirely
online due to the high level of hands-on learning required. A small
number of schools offer transfer or joint admissions programs online to
be taken in preparation for or in conjunction with a Doctor of
Chiropractic program. Students can earn an Associate of Arts (AA) degree
online or take pre-chiropractic courses toward a bachelor's degree
online, but must complete their doctoral chiropractic training through
on-campus instruction.
The online portions of the transfer or joint admissions programs are
usually accessed through an online course delivery system such as
Blackboard. Courses are typically delivered in an asynchronous fashion
that means lectures and assignments can be downloaded and worked on at
any time as long as certain deadlines are met. Coursework taken as part
of a bachelor's degree in an area such as general science or biology
typically fulfills the prerequisites for entrance into a Doctor of
Chiropractic program. Some schools allow students to pursue their
bachelor's degree while simultaneously working towards their doctorate.
By itself, the D.C. program generally lasts 13-14 quarters. Students
attend on-campus classes and learn how to perform cervical, pelvic and
thoracolumbar techniques. Coursework also generally includes clinical
practice where students take patient histories and perform adjustments
under supervision.
The Doctor of Chiropractic program consists of classes in areas such
as anatomy, pathology, rehabilitation and chiropractic business. The
clinical and technical nature of many of the courses is a major reason
for this program's inability to utilize online elements.
Spinal Anatomy Course
Students study the terminology, structures and functions of the bones
in the vertebral column and thoracic cage in depth, as well as the
connections between the skeletal, muscular and neural systems. The
spinal joints are also examined.
Chiropractic Philosophy Course
The political, ethical and legal elements of the chiropractic field
are discussed. Special attention is given to the major hypotheses of the
subluxation complex, including causes and prevention. Students use the
philosophical principles learned in this class to develop as a
chiropractor.
Radiology Course
Students learn techniques for imaging the skeletal system. Radiologic
technology and equipment is examined in depth. Certain skeletal
disorders and traumas are evaluated through the use of procedures such
as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
A license is required to be employed as a chiropractor. After
completing a Doctor of Chiropractic program, one must pass state and
national examinations to become licensed. The U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics (BLS) reported that in May of 2009 there were 26,310 people
employed as chiropractors with an average yearly salary of $80,390 (
www.bls.gov). The BLS also predicted an occupational growth of 20% between the years 2008-2018, much higher than most occupations.
Continuing Education
Every state requires that chiropractors enroll in a certain number of
continuing education hours per year ranging from 12-50 depending on the
state. Some continuing education in the chiropractic field is available
in an online format. Chiropractors can further their understanding of
the occupation through courses in areas such as electrodiagnostics and
chiropractic forensics.
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