Chiropractic Coursework and Career Opportunities

Chiropractic care is complicated and requires future practitioners to hold a degree in this exciting field. Students interested in entering a career in the chiropractic care industry are able to study through a number of educational programs. Accredited schools and colleges offer undergraduate preparation that leads to a graduate degree, which is required to enter a career as a chiropractor.

Undergraduate training is required to be eligible for the doctor of chiropractic degree program, which is required for students to become practitioners. Many schools provide bachelors degree programs that give students the needed foundational knowledge in organic chemistry, biology, psychology, sociology, English, and more. Most students that work towards the 90-credit undergraduate degree requirement go on to fulfill the needs of a bachelor's degree program. Some possible coursework that students can complete includes:

• Chiropractic Care

In a course like this student's study the entire field of chiropractic care. Students work through several subjects that pertain to the history, philosophy, and practice of the industry. The principles of spinal care are examined in regards to different functions such as primary, rehabilitative, and acute care. Communication and ethics are other common topics discussed in a beginner's course.

• Spinal Function

Education will break down the entire function of spine into parts that include the occipital and thoracic areas of the spine. This allows students to fully understand what takes place inside the body so they understand how healing occurs. The function of muscles, bones, nerves, and tissues are all explored to establish a base for further learning. Students that complete this course at a traditional college will also perform a cadaver dissection.

The field of chiropractic care has two main career possibilities. Students can complete education to become chiropractic assistants or chiropractors. To become a chiropractic assistant students are required to complete an associate's degree program. Schooling in this area may allow students to work through a mixed training program. This type of program allows students to complete introductory courses like medical ethics and office skills online. Hands-on courses like x-ray procedures and radiology are taken at a traditional college campus. This career opportunity develops the skills needed to assist a chiropractor such as conducting x-ray exams and screening practices.

Students that continue education and enter a doctor of chiropractic degree program will learn how to adjust the spine and rehabilitate patients. Chiropractors diagnose and treat patients that have misaligned spines. Education at this level requires a minimum of 4,200 hours of coursework, lab, and clinical practice to be eligible for graduation. Due to the extensive hands-on approach of learning students will have to attend a traditional college to receive education. Some courses may be studied to allow students to learn natural healing, public health, and physiology.

Students are able to receive an accredited education in all areas of chiropractic care. The Council on Chiropractic Education ( http://www.cce-usa.org/ ) approves schools and colleges that offer the quality training necessary for success. Students should research accredited chiropractic schools that have coursework available to prepare for a fulfilling career inside the professional workplace.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERIC OUTLINE and may or may not depict precise methods, courses and/or focuses related to ANY ONE specific school(s) that may or may not be advertised on HolisticJunction.com.
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