If you’re drawn to a career that treats the whole person—not just the symptoms—chiropractic medicine puts you at the intersection of structure, movement and patient care. Ripon’s pre-chiropractic preparation builds the science foundation and mentorship you need to stand out, with a direct path to your doctorate through our partnership with Northwestern Health Sciences University.
A doctor of chiropractic is a primary health care provider trained in physical examination, orthopedic and neurological assessment, radiographic interpretation, and joint manipulation. Admissions committees want to see readiness for that work.
Here’s what they’re evaluating:
Specific admission requirements vary from school to school, so it’s worth confirming details directly with any program you plan to apply to.
There’s no single required major for chiropractic school, but there is a roadmap—and your advisor will help you follow it from day one.
Your core science requirements:
Some schools also require or recommend:
Other suggested coursework:
Accredited programs typically require at least 24 semester credits in the life and physical sciences, with at least half including a lab component.
*Specific admission requirements vary from school to school, and students should plan carefully to ensure their coursework and experience enhance their chances for admission. See the Health Professions section of the Ripon College Course Catalog for more information.
Imagine knowing you’re headed to chiropractic school before you’ve even finished your bachelor’s degree. That’s the power of Ripon’s 3+3 agreement with Northwestern Health Sciences University (NWHSU) in Bloomington, Minnesota, for their Doctor of Chiropractic Program.
What it takes to qualify:
Complete your first year at NWHSU successfully, and up to 30 credit hours may transfer back to Ripon to complete your Bachelor of Arts.
Not ready for the 3+3 track? Ripon also holds a preferred admissions agreement with NWHSU that comes with a $2,000 tuition stipend for every Ripon graduate who enrolls.
What it takes to qualify:
Conditional acceptance is offered once you’ve completed at least 60 credits and half of your prerequisite coursework; full acceptance follows once all entrance requirements are met.
Ask your HPAC advisor how to make the most of either path.
