What courses are covered in the Doctor Chiropractic program?

University of Bridgeport’s DC program blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills — preparing you for success in the field. As a UB Chiropractic student, you’ll delve into foundational sciences like anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry — gaining a deep understanding of the human body.

What are the admission requirements for the Chiropractor program?

The include relevant academic qualifications, prerequisite coursework, a personal statement, and a reference letter from a healthcare practitioner. Meeting these requirements demonstrates candidates’ academic preparedness and suitability for the rigorous curriculum and clinical training offered by UB’s DC program.

What if I don’t meet the chiropractic school requirements?

If you don’t meet the admissions requirements for University of Bridgeport’s chiropractic school, there are several steps you can take to improve your eligibility. Firstly, consider strengthening your academic background by pursuing any prerequisite coursework you might be missing (such as biology, chemistry, physics, and anatomy).

School of Chiropractic Graduate

Doctor of Chiropractic

DC Doctor of Chiropractic

University of Bridgeport’s School of Chiropractic (UBSC) was the first university-based Doctor of Chiropractic program in the United States.

Apply now Request information

Information Sheet (PDF)

CCECouncil on Chiropractic Education, since 1994

Accreditation

90Or a completed bachelor degree

Credits to enter

ClinicalOn-campus health sciences clinic

Patient care

Jan and AugTwo admissions a year

Intakes

Start here

Doctor of Chiropractic program prerequisites

With only 90 credits required to begin earning your DC, you will be placed on the fast-track to a fulfilling career providing patient-centered care.

Bachelor’s degree or 90 credits

Bachelor’s degree earned or a minimum of 90 credits completed

Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher within the best 90 credits

Science coursework

Minimum of 24 credits in the physical/ life sciences, with a C or better (half of which must contain labs)

Recommended coursework in the following areas: Biology/Anatomy and Physiology / General Chemistry / Organic Chemistry / Physics

Personal statement

In 250-500 words, detail why you are seeking this degree, how you expect to apply your degree to your professional career after graduation and why you seek to pursue your degree through University of Bridgeport

UBSC admits students twice per year, in January and August.

Facilities

A senior year spent caring for patients

In your senior year in the School of Chiropractic, you’ll provide direct care to patients at UB’s Chiropractic Clinic — completing on-site, real-world training in our state-of-the-art clinic. At the UB Clinic, you will gain supervised experience assessing and treating patients from our local community.

Chiropractic Clinic

Regional VA hospitals

Lab

Human Performance and Biomechanics

Visit the School of Chiropractic

Clinical training

Three clinical settings

The unmatched clinical training opportunities available to UB Chiropractic students will set you up for career success.

CLINIC

UB Chiropractic Clinic

UB’s Chiropractic Clinic offers a conservative, drugless, non-surgical approach to healthcare. Chiropractic care includes spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, physiotherapeutic modalities, exercise, rehabilitation, nutrition, and lifestyle counseling. Students have the opportunity to work in an integrated health care setting alongside UB’s Acupuncture, Dental Hygiene, and Naturopathic Medicine students.

Veterans Administration hospitals

Each semester, select UBSC students participate in rotations and externships at two regional Veterans Administration (VA) Hospitals. If selected, you’ll assist in providing chiropractic care to veterans. Students also have the opportunity to assist UB clinical chiropractic faculty with the treatment of patients at six community health centers across Connecticut.

HPBL

Human Performance and Biomechanics Lab

UBSC students also have access to our state-of-the-art Human Performance and Biomechanics Lab, where you can work directly with athletes from UB’s NCAA Division II sports teams.

Observational only rotations

Interns have the opportunity to participate in short term (2 days per week for 2 weeks) to longer term (2 days per week for 6 weeks) observational only rotations. Interns can observe how physicians specialized in orthopedics, radiology, neurology, and may include both MD and DC providers working in a clinical setting. These observational rotations include:

Orthopedic practices – Interns work with two of the largest multidisciplinary orthopedic groups in the State of Connecticut: the Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Center (OSG) and the Orthopaedic Specialty Group (OSM). Interns have the opportunity to observe how this type of integrated care is provided by working directly with a DC who is employed in these group orthopedic medical practices. Interns are exposed to a variety of clinical conditions that they may not typically see in a traditional chiropractic clinic.

MRI Clinical Radiology training – Interns participate in a 6‑week MRI neuroradiology rotation at Stony Brook Medical School and Hospital. Interns observe advanced MRI neuroradiology readings from specialized medical radiologists. Interns participate in this rotation with medical students, medical interns, and fellows specializing in advanced neuroradiology imaging. This rotation provides interns with training and discussion of a variety of complex patient health conditions in a major university teaching hospital.

Externships – Upon completion of all quantitative clinical requirements, an intern is eligible for an off campus observational rotation. This is done at the office/clinic of a private practitioner. The experience is strictly observational and the intern cannot participate in any type of patient care. The experience allows an intern to see how a practice operates on a day-to-day basis, from front desk procedures, scheduling, insurance, and patient care. The externship is 3‑4 days per week and can be as long as 6 weeks or less. During this experience an intern is required to return to the campus clinic for at least one day per week. During this time they have the opportunity to continue to see patients and continue to be assessed and evaluated in their clinical competency.

Admission requirements

Admission requirements and deadlines

Eligible applicants may be awarded tuition scholarships up to $25,000 per year.

What you need

A bachelor’s degree earned, or a minimum of 90 credits completed
A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher within your best 90 credits
A minimum of 24 credits in the physical and life sciences at C or better, half of which must include laboratory work
The online application
Official transcripts from all schools attended
In 250-500 words, detail why you are seeking this degree, how you expect to apply your degree to your professional career after graduation and why you seek to pursue your degree through University of Bridgeport
A resumé
Recommended coursework in the following areas: Biology/Anatomy and Physiology / General Chemistry / Organic Chemistry / Physics
International applicants: Please consult our international admission requirements, or for specific queries, contact your admissions counselor.

International admissions

Deadlines and intakes

Jul 15

Fall semester entry

Dec 1

Spring semester entry

Start your application

Program structure

From basic science to caring for your own patients

The 18-week semester-based program offers you flexibility and works with your busy schedule.

Stage 01

Basic sciences

As a UB Chiropractic student, you’ll delve into foundational sciences like anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry — gaining a deep understanding of the human body.

Stage 02

Chiropractic sciences

Your coursework will also explore chiropractic principles and philosophy, strengthening your knowledge of the history and core concepts informing chiropractic care.

Stage 03

Clinical sciences and diagnosis

Courses focused on diagnostic imaging, chiropractic techniques, and clinical assessment will further enrich your clinical competence — honing your practical skills while developing expertise in patient evaluation and treatment.

Stage 04

Clinical internship

Senior year in the UB Chiropractic Clinic, with selected students also rotating through two regional Veterans Administration hospitals.

Normal length of program: 8 semesters

Course catalog

Accreditation

The Council on Chiropractic Education

The Doctor of Chiropractic degree program at University of Bridgeport is awarded programmatic accreditation by The Council on Chiropractic Education, 9393 N 90th St., Suite 102-660, Scottsdale, AZ, 85258-5073, 480-443-8877, www.cce-usa.org. The School of Chiropractic (UBSC) received initial accreditation from The Council on Chiropractic Education in 1994 and is accredited through 2026. UBSC is also a member of the Association of Chiropractic Colleges.

1994

Initially accredited

CCE

Programmatic accreditor

Licensure

Chiropractor licensure

UBSC graduates are eligible for licensure in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, the Canadian Provinces and other foreign countries as regulated by local laws and regulations without restrictions. U.S. licensure requires students to pass the national boards, which includes Parts I, II, III, IV, and Physiotherapy examinations as offered by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE). Students should contact the NBCE or the Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards (FCLB) for additional information pertaining to licensure or the state(s) where they wish to practice.

Student achievement

UBSC NBCE completion data

The overall weighted average of the four (4) most recent years’ licensing exam success or licensure rates must not be less than 80%. This is in accordance with UBSC’s accrediting body the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE).

Licensing Exam Success Rates. * NBCE Parts I, II, III, and IV or CCEB Components (Written and Clinical; A, B, and C)
Calendar year (Last 4 years)	Number of graduates	Number of graduates passing all parts of licensing exams* or are licensed to practice chiropractic within six (6) months post-graduation	Percentage of graduates passing all parts of licensing exams* or are licensed to practice chiropractic within six (6) months post-graduation
2022 graduates	35	32	91%
2023 graduates	30	26	87%
2024 graduates	48	41	85%
2025 graduates	37	32	86%
Totals	150	131	87% Weighted average

UBSC DCP graduation completion rates

Completion of the D.C. degree program: The two year average completion rate, calculated at 150% of the time normally designated for completion of the DC degree, must be at least 70%. This is in accordance with UBSC’s accrediting body the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE).

University of Bridgeport School of Chiropractic (UBSC). Normal length of program: 8 semesters
Column A: Entrance term	Column B: # of students matriculated in entrance term	Column C: Term 12 semesters after entrance term	Column D: # Students in column a that graduated by term in column C	Column E: Completion rate at the 150th percentile
Spring 2019	7	Fall 2024	6	85.7%
Fall 2019	29	Spring 2025	25	86.2%
Spring 2020	10	Fall 2025	9	90%
Fall 2020	38	Spring 2026	35	92.1%
2-YR TOTAL	84		75	89.3%

Program outcomes

UBSC programmatic outcomes

Upon successful completion of the UBSC Doctor of Chiropractic program the graduate will have the ability to:

Outcome 01

Apply basic science information to the clinical sciences, with focus on the role of the neuro-musculoskeletal system, normal and abnormal human structure, function, and homeostasis with the overarching goal of assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of patient health conditions.

Outcome 02

Obtain and document an accurate, detailed, case-appropriate history from a diverse patient population in a non-judgmental and empathetic manner.

Outcome 03

Select, perform, document and evaluate case-appropriate examination procedures and diagnostic tests, based on patient history and presentation, with sensitivity to disability, race/ethnicity, culture, belief systems and gender identity.

Outcome 04

Develop a list of differential diagnoses, determine working diagnoses and prognoses, and communicate these to patients in an accurate and concise informed consent.

Outcome 05

Develop, document, and monitor appropriate, evidence-informed management plans for acute, sub-acute, and chronic levels of pain and dysfunction that address biopsychosocial factors, goals, obstacles, risks, benefits and alternatives to care while incorporating patient values and expectations.

Outcome 06

Identify and apply appropriate use of chiropractic techniques, therapeutics, and other conservative care methods including recommendations for the modification of lifestyle behavior, activities of daily living and/or dietary and nutritional habits.

Outcome 07

Identify and document the need for appropriate referral of patients to other health care professionals or agencies for emergency, follow-up, or collaborative care.

Outcome 08

Demonstrate effective, respectful, honest, and compassionate communication with patients, their families, the community, and other stakeholders while employing sensitivity to disability, race/ethnicity, culture, belief systems, gender identity, and socioeconomic status.

Outcome 09

Demonstrate the ability to utilize health care informatics and scientific literature databases to locate and critically appraise research to facilitate evidence-informed practice.

Outcome 10

Identify the roles and responsibilities of all members of an inter-professional healthcare team and work collaboratively to deliver the highest level of safe, effective and equitable patient-centered care.

Graduates of the Doctor of Chiropractic program earn the ability to

Practice direct contact health care as a portal-of-entry provider for all patients.

Assess a patient’s general health status and determine a diagnosis.

Develop a goal-oriented case management plan.

Assume appropriate doctor/patient relationships with continuity in the chiropractic management of health problems, and coordination of care with other health care providers.

Promote wellness by assessing health risk and providing problem-related information and counseling.

Gain eligibility to sit for NBCE licensure.

Careers

Career opportunities

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the field of chiropractic is expected to grow much faster than average over the next decade. UBSC graduates are fully prepared to become licensed and pursue numerous career opportunities such as:

Solo or group practitioner

Educator

Sports team chiropractor

Chiropractic practitioner at an integrated medical group, wellness center, or hospital

Healthcare administrator

Researcher

Practices seeking UBSC graduates

Employers seeking chiropractic practitioners know that UBSC graduates will deliver a high-level of care. Here are just a few of the practices and institutions seeking UBSC grads:

MMA Chiropractors
Airrosti Rehab Centers
Centro Chiropractico Schade, Peru
New Rochelle Chiropractic, NY
Optimum Wellness Centres, Calgary
Inglis Chiropractic Center, CT
New Life Chiropractic, MA

Student voices

Dr. Adebola Paul

At UB, I have developed and matured in many areas, not only as a student and man, but also as a practitioner. I am grateful for all the memories and experiences I have gathered over the years and I look forward to applying everything I have learned in my career.

Dr. Christopher Czernicki

UB helped me immensely to prepare me for practicing medicine in my community. I felt very prepared despite Covid, and the small class setting helped me connect more with not only my peers but the staff as well!

Dr. Bradford Whiteley

I’m forever grateful to UB not only for the great education I received there but also the bonds I was able to have with my classmates and professors that will last a lifetime.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

University of Bridgeport stands out as an excellent choice for Chiropractic studies due to our accreditation, experienced faculty, and emphasis on clinical experience. Accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education, UBSC ensures a high standard of education.

Course catalog

Every course, in full

View all courses offered and read full course descriptions in our online course catalog system.

Year one

Semester 1 – 22.5 credits

9 courses

Course Code	Course Title
AN 511	Cell and Tissue Microscopic Anatomy & Physiology
AN 512	Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics I
AN 513	Gen Anatomy I: Viscera
AN 514	Clinical Embryology
PP 511	Principles and Practice I; History and Philosophy
PP 512	Principles and Practice II; Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice
TE 511	Chiropractic Examination Skills I; Palpation and Biomechanics of the Spine and Pelvis
TE 511L	Biomechanics of the Spine and Pelvis – Laboratory
BC 511	Biochemistry Metabolism & Nutrition

Semester 2 – 24.5 credits

9 courses

Course Code	Course Title
DI 521	Diagnostic Imaging I; Normal Anatomy
PH 521	Organ System Microscopic Anatomy and Physiology I
NS 521	Neuroscience I
PP 523	Principles and Practice III; Contemporary Chiropractic Studies
TE 522	Chiropractic Examination Skills II; Palpation and Biomechanics of the Extremities
TE 522L	Chiropractic Examination Skills II; Palpation and Biomechanics of the Extremities Laboratory
AN 525	General Anatomy II: Head Neck
AN 526	Functional Anatomy Biomechanics II: Extremities
MB 521	Clinical Microbiology Introduction Infectious Diseases

Year two

Semester 3 – 26.5 credits

12 courses

Course Code	Course Title
NS 612	Neuroscience II
PA 611	Fundamentals of Pathology
PH 612	Organ System Microscopic Anatomy and Physiology II
MB 612	Infectious Diseases II
TE 613	Technique Procedures I; Introduction to Full Spine Technique Lecture
TE 613L	Technique Procedures I; Introduction to Full Spine Technique Laboratory
DX 612	Diagnostic Skills II; Orthopedics and Neurology
DX 612L	Diagnostic Skills II; Orthopedics and Neurology Laboratory
DX 611	Diagnostic Skills I; Physical Examination
DX 611L	Diagnostic Skills I; Physical Examination; Laboratory
DI 612	Diagnostic Imaging II; Normal Anatomy
BC 612	Biochemistry, Metabolism & Nutrition: II

Semester 4 – 26.5 credits

12 courses

Course Code	Course Title
PA 622	Systems of Pathology
TE 624	Technique Procedures II; Intermediate Full Spine and Upper Extremity Adjusting
TE 624L	Technique Procedures II; Intermediate full Spine and Upper Extremity Adjusting Laboratory
DI 623	Diagnostic Imaging III; Bone Pathology
DX 624	Laboratory Diagnosis
MB 623	Public Health I: Introduction Public Health
DX 623	Diagnostic Skills III; Orthopedic and Neurology
DX 623L	Diagnostic Skills III; Orthopedic and Neurology Laboratory
TE 625	Technique Procedures III; Soft Tissue
TE 625L	Technique Procedures III; Soft Tissue Laboratory
CN 621	Clinical Nutrition I; Pathology and Assessment
PP 624	Principles and Practice IV; Evidence-Based Practice

Year three

Semester 5

14 courses 26 credits

Course Code	Course Title
TE 716	Technique Procedures IV; Intermediate Full Spine and Lower Extremity Technique
TE 716L	Technique Procedures IV; Intermediate Full Spine and Lower Extremity Technique Laboratory
DI 714	Diagnostic Imaging IV; Arthritis and Trauma
PT 711	Physiological Therapeutics I; Modalities
PT 711L	Physiological Therapeutics I; Modalities Laboratory
DD 711	Differential Diagnosis I; Internal Disorders
DD 711L	Differential Diagnosis I; Internal Disorders Laboratory
CN 712	Clinical Nutrition II; Treatment and Management
PH 713	Toxicology and Pharmacology
TE 717L	Technique Procedures V; Soft Tissue II
ER 711	Emergency Procedures
RS 711	Evidence Based Practice I
PS 711	Clinical Psychology
PP 715	Principles and Practice V; Ethics

Semester 6

13 courses 28 credits

Course Code	Course Title
DI 725	Diagnostic Imaging V; Chest and Abdomen
TE 728	Technique Procedures VI; Advanced Chiropractic Technique I
TE 728L	Technique Procedures VI; Advanced Chiropractic Technique I Laboratory
DI 726	Diagnostic Imaging VI; Positioning and Physics
DD 722	Differential Diagnosis II; Neuromusculoskeletal
PT 722	Physiological Therapeutics II; Rehabilitation
PT 722L	Physiological Therapeutics II; Rehabilitation Laboratory
DX 725	Special Populations
CS 721	Clinical Services I
MB 724	Public Health II: Community Health Wellness
BP 721	Documentation and Insurance Protocols (Billing and Coding)
BP 722	Business Procedures and Marketing
RS 722	Evidence Based Practice II

Year four

Semester 7 – 19.5 credits

5 courses

Course Code	Course Title
CS 812	Clinical Services II
DI 827	Diagnostic Imaging VII; X-Ray Review
TE 819	Technique Procedures VII; Advanced Chiropractic Technique II
BP 813	Starting a Chiropractic Practice and Office Management
RS 813	Evidence Based Practice III