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Intrigued by the complexity of the human body? Dream of a career where your hands become the instruments to facilitate healing and enhance well-being?
Your journey could begin with a course in Chiropractic.
Chiropractic is a health profession that specialises in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. It is underpinned by the understanding that such disorders can affect general health through the nervous system. In the UK, chiropractic is recognised by law as a complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).
For those considering pursuing this profession, there are several reputable universities in the UK that offer recognised degrees in chiropractic. Most programmes lead to a Master’s degree (MChiro or MSc), which is considered an “undergraduate master’s degree” in UK academic terms. Typically, it takes 4-5 years of full-time study to complete, although there are part-time options available.
Studying chiropractic involves a mix of theoretical learning, practical skills training, and clinical practice. You will delve into subjects like anatomy, physiology, neurology, biomechanics, and pathology. Over time, you’ll cultivate your practical skills and learn to perform spinal adjustments, offer advice on diet, exercise, and lifestyle, and provide supportive care for people recovering from surgery.
Once graduated, you’ll need to register with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) before you can practice in the UK. Some graduates also choose to become members of professional associations, like the British Chiropractic Association, for added credibility and professional development opportunities.
Careers in chiropractic are varied and rewarding. Many graduates go on to work as self-employed chiropractors, either setting up their own practice or joining an existing one. Others find employment in multi-disciplinary clinics, sports centres, or NHS practices.
In addition to clinical practice, there are opportunities in research, teaching, and consultancy. It’s a profession that requires strong interpersonal skills, manual dexterity, and a genuine interest in promoting health and wellbeing.
👍 When writing a personal statement: Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.
Career Opportunities
A person with a degree in chiropractic can pursue a variety of different careers and professions.
1. Chiropractor: A chiropractor specialises in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders, with an emphasis on manual adjustment and manipulation of the spine. Chiropractors may work in private practice, group practices, or in hospitals, or other healthcare settings.
2. Acupuncturist: Acupuncturists use needles to stimulate specific points on the body to relieve pain, treat medical conditions, and promote overall health and well-being. They may work in private practice, hospitals, or other healthcare settings.
3. Massage Therapist: Massage therapists use various massage techniques to treat soft tissue pain and injuries, as well as to promote relaxation and well-being. They may work in private practice, spas, or other healthcare settings.
4. Physical Therapist: Physical therapists use a variety of treatments, exercises, and modalities to help patients recover from injury or illness, improve mobility, and manage pain. They may work in private practice, hospitals, or other healthcare settings.
5. Nutritionist: Nutritionists help people make healthy dietary choices and develop healthy eating habits. They may work in private practice, hospitals, or other healthcare settings.
6. Health Educator: Health educators provide information and resources to help people make healthy lifestyle choices. They may work in schools, community organisations, health care facilities, or public health departments, designing and implementing health education programs, facilitating workshops, developing educational materials, and advocating for health policies.
UK Admission Requirements
In order to be accepted into a chiropractic course at a UK university, applicants will need to have achieved a minimum of a 2:1 in a relevant degree, such as a BSc in Human Anatomy or Physiology, or a BSc in Sports Science. Applicants will also need to have successfully completed the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT).
The entry requirements for chiropractic courses are slightly higher than for other healthcare courses, such as medicine and nursing, as the course is more specialised and requires a higher level of knowledge and understanding.
As such, applicants will need to demonstrate a strong academic background and a good understanding of the subject. Additionally, applicants will need to demonstrate that they have the necessary skills and qualities to become a successful chiropractor, such as good communication skills, empathy, and the ability to work well with others.
UK Earnings Potential for Chiropractors
The average earnings for someone with a degree in chiropractic vary depending on the country and region. In the UK, the average salary for a chiropractor is £41,000 per year. This is slightly higher than the average salary for other healthcare professionals, such as nurses, who earn an average of £34,000 per year.
The job market for chiropractors has seen steady growth in recent years. This is due to an increased demand for chiropractic services as people become more aware of the benefits of alternative medicine. Additionally, the UK government has increased funding for chiropractic services, which has helped to create more job opportunities.
Overall, the job market for chiropractors is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, and salaries are likely to remain competitive.
Similar Courses in UK
Other university courses related to chiropractic include osteopathy, physiotherapy, and sports therapy.
Osteopathy focuses on the manipulation of the musculoskeletal system to treat a variety of conditions, while physiotherapy and sports therapy focus on the rehabilitation and prevention of injuries.
All three courses involve the use of manual therapy, however, chiropractic is the only one that focuses on the manipulation of the spine and joints to treat conditions.
It is also the only one that is based on the belief that the body can heal itself through the manipulation of the spine and joints.
Additionally, chiropractic is the only one that uses the principles of subluxation, which is the belief that misalignments of the spine can cause health problems.
UK Curriculum
Chiropractic courses in the UK typically cover a range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, clinical examination, diagnosis and differential diagnosis, spinal manipulation, soft tissue techniques, physical rehabilitation, nutrition and lifestyle advice, and professional practice.
Hands-on experience and practical work are an integral part of chiropractic courses. Students will typically have the opportunity to practice and refine their skills in a clinical setting, learning how to assess and treat patients. This may involve working with real patients in a supervised environment, or using simulated patients.
Other practical elements of chiropractic courses may include laboratory work, such as learning how to use diagnostic imaging equipment, and practice sessions in which students can demonstrate their skills to their peers.
In addition to the practical elements of the course, students will also be required to complete coursework and assessments, such as written examinations, case studies, and research projects.
Alumni Network
Notable alumni from the chiropractic course include Dr. John F. Grostic, who is a renowned chiropractor and educator. He is the founder of the Grostic Technique, a system of chiropractic analysis and adjustment that is widely used by chiropractors around the world.
He has also authored several books on chiropractic care and has served as a consultant and lecturer for numerous chiropractic organizations. He is currently the President of the International Chiropractors Association.
Alumni events and networking opportunities are available through the International Chiropractors Association, which holds an annual conference and provides a platform for alumni to connect with one another.
Additionally, the American Chiropractic Association offers a variety of networking events and conferences for alumni to attend. These events are designed to help alumni stay informed about the latest developments in the chiropractic field and to foster professional relationships with other alumni.