What does a chiropractor do?
Chiropractors manipulate joints, soft tissue and bones to improve the general health and comfort of their clients. You may be working with clients to:
- improve posture
- relieve back, neck and shoulder pain
- rehabilitate after a sports injury
- relieve symptoms of sciatica or joint pain
You’ll be working with a variety of clients so good communication skills are essential.
To do a degree, you will usually need five GCSEs (A-C) including maths, English and science, plus three A levels or an equivalent level 3 qualification. Check with universities for exact entry requirements – vocational courses are acceptable for some degree courses but not all.
Three A levels, including two sciences such as biology, human biology, physics or chemistry are required.
Alternatively, a level 3 vocational course (e.g. BTEC National Diploma) in a relevant discipline may be accepted. Check with universities before starting the course.
What do I need to do to become a chiropractor?
You need to be registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) before you can work as a chiropractor. To join the GCC, you will need to have completed a GCC accredited degree.
Academic route
- A levels including two sciences, e.g. biology, human biology, physics, chemistry
Vocational route
- Level 3 vocational course in relevant discipline, e.g. BTEC National Diploma
Essential qualifications
- GCC accredited degree
- Membership of the GCC
Where to find out more
Where could I be working?
You may be working at a clinic or you could be self-employed.