Train to become a chiropractor

Train to become a chiropractor at one of five UK universities. Join the 3,000+ practising chiropractors and enjoy a rewarding career packed with variety, in a growing healthcare profession.

Your pathway to becoming a chiropractor

Education

All chiropractors are educated to Masters’ Degree level. The number of universities offering chiropractic degrees is growing and, currently, five universities in the UK offer courses.

Master of Chiropractic degree MChiro (Hons) courses are four to five years, full-time. Entry to the four-year course requires A-Level grades of ABB and for the five-year BCC.

Courses reflect the evidence-based approach of BCA chiropractors and cover anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, biomechanics, pathology, as well as clinical sciences including orthopaedics, neurology, radiology and diagnosis. Training includes essential practical examination skills, with final-year students treating patients under supervision.
 

Where to study

Health Sciences University

 

Bournemouth Campus: Parkwood Road, Bournemouth BH5 2DF; London Campus: 275 Borough High Street, London SE1 1JE
Bournemouth Campus: +44 (0) 1202 436200; London Campus: +44 (0)20 7407 0222

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Welsh Institute of Chiropractic

 

The University of South Wales, Pontypridd, CF37 1GY

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London South Bank University

 

103 Borough Road, London, SE1 0AA

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McTimoney College of Chiropractic

 

1 Kimber Road, Abingdon, OX14 1BX

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Teeside University

 

Middlesborough, Tees Valley, TS1 3BX

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Accreditation

All five universities in the UK providing chiropractic education have been approved by the General Chiropractic Council (GCC), the UK’s Chiropractic Regulator. 

Career Options


A unique career opportunity, chiropractic is one of very few healthcare professions that offers flexibility, progression and the opportunity to work with a variety of patients with differing needs. Those working within clinical practice experience diversity in specialisms, from rehabilitation and chronic pain, to pregnancy and sports, treating patients of all ages and all backgrounds.

For some chiropractic professionals, a career in research in academia awaits; teaching chiropractic students, opportunities to travel, lecture and involvement in the latest clinical research. For the entrepreneurial-minded students, chiropractic creates an opportunity to build a business and employ others.

For more information and common FAQs about becoming a chiropractor, read our downloadable leaflet here.

FAQs

  • What do I need to do to start practising as a chiropractor?

    All chiropractors must be educated to Masters’ Degree level. The number of universities offering chiropractic degrees is growing and, currently, five universities in the UK offer courses.

    To become a practising chiropractor you need to be registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) and to have an indemnity insurance cover.

  • Are chiropractors trusted members of the healthcare community in the UK?

    Chiropractic is a strongly regulated and rigorous profession; regulation helps provide consistency, such as the standard of education and training required. Chiropractors provide credible, evidence-based advice and treatment.  

    Chiropractors are regulated by law and required to adhere to strict Codes of Practice, in the same way as dentists and doctors. All BCA members are registered healthcare professionals, regulated by the GCC. 
     

  • Where can I practise chiropractic?

    Most chiropractors work in small private practices in a wide variety of settings. High street or other town centre locations are popular but you can also rent rooms in a GP surgery or other clinic premises.

    You can even practise from home if you have space. Chiropractors either work alone with a receptionist or often with other chiropractors. Some work in larger multi-disciplinary practices with physiotherapists, massage therapists, acupuncturists or other health practitioners.

  • What can I expect to earn as a chiropractor?

    The salary of a new graduate is 50% higher than the average. Starting salaries are about £30,000 although this can vary. After a few years’ experience this will rise as you get busier. A business minded chiropractor with a large practice employing others can expect to earn up to £80–100,000 after several years.