Have you heard the news? With Parker University’s Accelerated Bachelors to Chiropractic (ABC) Program, students can earn a bachelor’s, master’s, and Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree … for less than the cost of completing each program on its own!

When choosing where you want to earn your education, every detail matters! From campus culture and student organizations to technology and innovation, picking what degree you will pursue is the most crucial decision of all.

Once you define your passion and choose which degree path to follow, the program’s cost often becomes the next hurdle to face. Parker University has you covered! Now, Parker University students can earn three degrees in just over five years – that’s nearly half of the time and half the cost of traditional academic routes.

Parker University’s ABC Program is an accelerated, cost-effective path to earning your Bachelor’s, Master’s, and DC degree in just over five years. This integrated program provides driven students with a more innovative way to enter the healthcare field more quickly.

Parker University’s ABC Program: How It Works

Years 1-2: Enroll in the bachelor’s degree program in anatomy and earn prerequisites for the DC program. Students begin this journey by completing foundational coursework in anatomy, then selecting one of four high-impact minors, including:

Year 3: Start the Parker University DC program. Students can start the DC program as early as their third year. Some chiropractic coursework will be applied toward completing your bachelor’s degree.

Year 4: Begin a master’s degree with 100% scholarship for your tuition! During a student’s final four trimesters of the DC program, they can start working on the master’s degree of their choice at no additional tuition cost (if the degree is completed within two years of DC graduation).

In total, earning your three degrees can take just over five years. Your total estimated cost? Less than half of the cost and time of completing this as a traditional route!

Why Choose Parker University’s ABC Program?

Accelerated Timeline – Finish all three degrees in just over five years
Lower Cost – Pay nearly half of what traditional students spend
Master’s Degree Included – 100% tuition scholarship with eligible academic standing
Integrated Curriculum – DC coursework counts toward your bachelor’s degree
Innovative, Hands-On Experience – Train in labs, clinics, and immersive tech environments

Deepen Your Expertise and Expand Your Practice

What truly sets Parker University’s ABC Program apart is how it broadens your skill set as a chiropractor. The minors and master’s degrees offered throughout this pathway give you interdisciplinary tools to enhance your clinical practice. Imagine graduating as a DC with a strong foundation in sports psychology, nutrition, or human performance. Whether you’re supporting athletes, guiding patients through lifestyle changes, or offering integrative care, this advanced knowledge enables you to provide holistic, evidence-informed services that address the comprehensive well-being of your patients. The result? You don’t just become a chiropractor—you become a comprehensive healthcare provider equipped for modern, patient-centered care.

Parker University Doctorate Programs

Parker University’s DC program aims to educate individuals as patient-centered chiropractic physicians and members of a collaborative interdisciplinary healthcare team while embracing education, research, and service. Our two DC degree programs (traditional or hybrid track, each 10-trimesters) have rigorous, comprehensive curricula. Integrated clinical experience and emphasis on research provides a competitive education, transforming Parker University students into leaders in the chiropractic industry.

Parker University Graduate Programs – Wellness Innovated

Parker University offers the following graduate programs:

Parker University Undergraduate Programs – Forward Together!

Parker University offers the following undergraduate programs:

Three Degrees. One Powerful Path. Half the Time. Half the Cost.

That’s the purpose of Parker University’s ABC Program! With so many program offerings, whether you are working for a bachelor’s, master’s, DC degree, or all three, nothing can hold you back! Are you ready to put your educational plan into action on a fast track?

Click here to see how Parker University’s one-of-a-kind ABC Program can change your future career trajectory!

File your FAFSA and explore funding at studentaid.gov (school code: 016293).

 

Financial Aid Disclaimer: Parker University strives to provide accurate, current information regarding financial aid opportunities. However, all financial aid—whether federal, state, institutional, or private—is subject to eligibility requirements, availability of funds, and the laws and regulations in effect at the time of disbursement. Please be advised: Financial aid programs are subject to change without prior notice due to updates in federal, state, or institutional policies. This may include changes to the types of available aid, award amounts, eligibility criteria, and application procedures. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with Parker One Stop to obtain the most current and personalized financial aid information. Final eligibility for all aid is determined by the applicable regulations in place at the time of disbursement and may be affected by legislative or administrative changes.

Imagine being in the final mile of your invigorating evening jog when pain begins to radiate throughout your back and legs. Have you pushed yourself too hard the past few days? Do you need more sleep and rest? Did you stretch well enough? Or maybe the pain is coming from a deeper issue, hidden inside your body, in need of attention for recovery.

Athletic injuries are often caused by pushing your body beyond its limits. Many athletes rely heavily on chiropractors to enhance their performance, aid in faster recovery after injury, and to help prevent injuries from ever occurring. Chiropractic care helps optimize musculoskeletal function, improves an athlete’s range of motion, reduces pain in critical areas of the body, and so much more.

Whether you are a talented, rising professional athlete or the unofficial star MVP of the local high school football team, chiropractic care provides drug-free solutions to help athletes perform at their absolute best. Unlike taking pain medication, through chiropractic care, the risk of drug addiction or chemical damage to the body is eliminated. Chiropractic adjustments enable damaged muscles to relax, thereby helping the pain from an injury to fade. Chiropractic care even provides athletes with a natural remedy for a variety of symptoms like headaches, muscle spasms, insomnia, aches and pains, stiff muscles, injuries, and more.

A Chiropractor for Every Level of Athlete

Whether you are a former athlete, wannabe athlete, passionate amateur, or dedicated weekend warrior, having a chiropractor who is committed to your health and success can help take your game to the next level.

Did you know that experts estimate that 90 percent of professional and Olympic-level athletes utilize chiropractic care to enhance their performance outlook – from reducing injury risk to improving sleep patterns? Chiropractic care is considered essential for many athletes and teams. So much so that every National Football League (NFL) team, many Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) golfers, Major League Baseball (MLB), and National Hockey League (NHL) teams have chiropractors on their staff not only to keep athletes performing at their best, but also to help prevent injuries outside of games – during practices, workouts, etc.

Common sports injuries seen by chiropractors include Achilles tendon issues, calf and hamstring pulls, golfer’s elbow, groin strain, back, neck, and shoulder pain, thigh injuries, and more. Even Olympic athletes employ personal chiropractors who oversee conditioning before competitions. Some of the most famous professional athletes in sports rely on chiropractic care to maintain their bodies in optimal shape, ensuring quick and comprehensive recovery. Well-known athletes from a wide range of sports, including Michael Jordan, Tom Brady, and Venus Williams, among others, rely on chiropractic care to help them perform at an unparalleled level.

Chiropractic for Athlete Injury Prevention

Chiropractors are undeniably valuable to all athletes when it comes to preventing injuries. Biohacking, or personal improvement to modify aspects of biology to improve health, performance, and well-being, becomes valuable in addressing issues with the body that may predispose an athlete to an avoidable injury. We all want faster, more natural resources to feel our best. Because of this, biohacking has become a hot topic for athletes looking to incorporate or further utilize chiropractic care into their routine.

Biohacking is the art and science of modifying your internal processes to take personal control of your biology. This proactive health approach focuses on performance, longevity, and resilience. Biohacking looks at areas of your day-to-day such as sleep optimization, nutrition and fasting, neurofeedback, various light, sound, and frequency therapies, exercise, body movement and recovery technology, supplements, and nervous system regulation. Biohacking uses cutting-edge science and long-proven knowledge to optimize your body and brain. What is something critical to an athlete that can often be overlooked? The importance of the nervous system! This is where chiropractic care comes into play.

Chiropractic enhances an athlete’s biohacking strategy through nervous system optimization, improved brain-body connection, enhanced mobility and recovery, increased energy, and mental clarity.

Growth Opportunities for Chiropractic Care in the Sports Industry

The sports industry’s thorough integration of chiropractic care demonstrates its real value and importance to athletes. Chiropractic care within the sports industry further enhances international events and investments, increasing the economic opportunities and growth of the industry.

From the beginning, chiropractic’s fundamental principles and techniques have focused on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of neuromusculoskeletal disorders. Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) can treat athletes suffering from concussion-like symptoms, including neck discomfort, headaches, and dizziness. The preventive nature of chiropractic interventions helps decrease injury rates and improve the long-term health of athletes seeking career longevity and a greater quality of life upon retirement.

Financially, chiropractic care within the sports medicine sector can help attract international attention. By demonstrating how chiropractic care can exponentially enhance athletic performance and injury management, teams can prove their dedication to sports excellence and innovation. Care for professional athletes attracts major sporting events, resulting in increased economic opportunities, job creation, and the overall expansion of the sports industry. Incorporating chiropractic care into sports medicine benefits individual athletes and contributes to the overall growth and success of the sports industry.

Enhanced Performance with Chiropractic Care

Range of motion, flexibility, and movement can be easily improved by a chiropractor, helping athletes of any sport achieve their full performance potential. Through chiropractic care, athletes often notice increased flexibility and reduced muscle stiffness. When an athlete’s body isn’t sore, they can stretch essential muscle groups more easily, helping them tremendously when it comes time to shoot some hoops, score the winning goal, or cross the finish line first.

Minimizing Recovery Time

Sprains, strains, and stress injuries can often be reversed by chiropractors who help reduce an athlete’s risk level. After an injury sidelines an athlete, the healing process can be accelerated with chiropractic adjustments and techniques. These solutions help reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and aid in the body’s necessary internal repairs. Athletes who love their chosen sport can get back in the game quicker and minimize their downtime. Returning to a beloved sport too quickly or without an exam from a chiropractor can be dangerous and result in additional or more serious injuries.

Chiropractic adjustments help the body recover, in addition to treatments such as cold laser therapy, heat therapy, ice packs, massage, spinal decompression, and more. These types of treatments can reduce swelling and inflammation in the body, allowing it to heal quickly and completely.

Managing Pain as an Athlete

Chiropractors are trained to discover pain problem areas and to help athletes recover drug-free.

Many athletes (especially parents of young athletes) are uncomfortable administering prescription pain medication. Chiropractic care can manage pain by locating and addressing the direct cause of pain or injury without the use of potentially addictive medications. Chiropractic’s ability to improve nerve communication, reaction time, coordination, and more helps to optimize an athlete’s performance.

Instead of waiting until an injury occurs, athletes are more regularly seeking chiropractic treatments long before pain strikes. This can help prevent injuries in the first place!

If an athlete’s spine is misaligned without their knowledge, symptoms can impact their performance. These symptoms often include ailments such as dizziness, balance problems, limited range of motion throughout the body, tingling in the extremities, nausea, and more.

Enhancing an Athlete’s Sleep Health

Did you know that sports chiropractic can even help regulate essential sleep patterns, which in turn affect an athlete’s performance? Regularly seeking chiropractic care promotes natural, healthy sleep and can even help alleviate poor sleep patterns caused by pain or injury. Rest is crucial for an athlete’s performance. Fatigue is a common symptom that drives patients to seek care, and fixing your sleep issues can help provide increased energy during games.

Parker University is Your Partner in Sports Chiropractic

Whether you consider yourself an athlete or not, your health and fitness goals can be met with tailored chiropractic treatments. Your health is ever-evolving, and chiropractors are empathetic about that. Too many athletes suffer needlessly and end up taking carelessly prescribed medications that will never address or solve the root of the problem. Sports chiropractic resets the body, works out those annoying kinks in your spine, and helps eliminate the underlying causes of painful conditions.

Athletes work hard every day to improve and grow stronger, so you deserve to live a healthy, happy, productive life pursuing your passion for your sport of choice. Is it time to give your chiropractor a call? Game on! You can score big when you incorporate chiropractic as a part of your training!

Parker University DC Hybrid Program

If sports (or any type of) chiropractic interests you, Parker University is the place for ambitious learners to put their future careers in motion. With the unique opportunity to help shape the future of chiropractic care, Parker University students graduate as skilled practitioners who are prepared to make a meaningful difference in healthcare. A successful career in chiropractic requires passion. At Parker University, students graduate ready to start their DC careers with the unparalleled confidence and hands-on, real-world experiences necessary to make an immediate impact in the chiropractic industry.

Are you interested in completing as much online coursework as possible? Great news! Parker University offers a DC hybrid program for students to complete their first four trimesters through an online platform. The Parker University DC hybrid track allows students to begin their personalized educational journey online and complete non-adjustment courses, such as physiology and biochemistry, virtually. Once students progress to trimester five, they will transition to the Dallas, Texas, campus for courses in hands-on adjustment and clinical training.

What’s even better news? Parker University DC students can concurrently earn a master’s degree upon graduation at no additional cost. Parker University DC students, as early as the sixth trimester, can apply to one of Parker University’s online master’s programs to take alongside their DC coursework, with a 100 percent tuition scholarship!

Take the future into your own hands and get ready to “adjust!” For more detailed information about Parker University’s prestigious DC program, go to parker.edu.

At Parker University, we proudly celebrate the fearless women who are transforming the chiropractic profession. As healthcare continues to evolve, so does the face of chiropractic, and women are at the forefront of this change. Whether they’re running successful practices, contributing to clinical research, or mentoring the next generation of doctors, female chiropractors are redefining what it means to heal naturally.

The Rise of Female Chiropractors

Search “female chiropractors near me,” and you’ll likely find a growing number of highly qualified women offering expert care. In what was once a male-dominated profession, women are now visible leaders in chiropractic care. They are expanding access, improving patient outcomes, and creating more inclusive, patient-centered practices that better reflect the diverse populations they serve.

This increase in representation is not only welcome but necessary. Studies show that diverse healthcare teams lead to better patient trust and improved outcomes. With their unique perspectives and personal experiences, particularly in areas such as prenatal and women’s health, female chiropractors offer compassionate, specialized care that resonates deeply with patients.

A Woman’s Perspective in Practice

Female chiropractors bring critical insights to patient care that stem from shared experiences and an intuitive understanding of their patients’ needs. Whether it’s prenatal, pediatric, or postpartum care, many women turn to chiropractic during life transitions when support, empathy, and holistic expertise are most needed. These chiropractors are bridging the gap between technical care and compassionate connection, and patients are taking notice.

From fertility support and sports rehabilitation to menopause management and overall wellness, female chiropractors are well-equipped to meet patients where they are and guide them toward lasting health.

Pioneering Women Who Shaped Chiropractic

The legacy of women in chiropractic is rich with trailblazers:

Women Leading Today and Tomorrow

Today, female chiropractors are not just contributing to the field—they’re shaping its future. Through organizations like the World Congress of Women Chiropractors (WCWC), the League of Chiropractic Women, and the ACA Council on Women’s Health, women are building strong communities, advocating for gender equity, and mentoring future leaders.

These professional networks empower women to collaborate, innovate, and drive progress in the profession, ensuring that chiropractic remains patient-centered and forward-thinking.

Empowering the Next Generation

At Parker University, we are committed to supporting the next generation of women chiropractors through academic excellence, leadership opportunities, and inclusive learning environments. If you’re considering a career in chiropractic, now is the perfect time to step forward and be part of a movement that’s changing lives.

Learn more about our Doctor of Chiropractic program and how you can join the growing community of female leaders in holistic healthcare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there female chiropractors near me?

Yes! The number of licensed female chiropractors continues to grow. You can use tools like Google or professional organizations, such as the American Chiropractic Association, to find providers in your area.

What makes female chiropractors different?

All chiropractors are highly trained to provide expert care, but many female chiropractors offer specialized experience in prenatal, pediatric, and women’s health, along with unique strengths in communication and empathy.

What are some common misconceptions about female chiropractors?

There are many! It is a misconception that chiropractic is a physically demanding profession for men only. Females are strong! Effective chiropractic adjustments rely on technique and skill, not only physical strength. Also, female chiropractors are not limited by any one type of treatment. Female chiropractors undergo specialized educational training in a Doctor of Chiropractic program once they have completed their undergraduate program. All chiropractors are required to stay current with continuing education credits to ensure the use of the latest techniques and advancements for their patients.

You’ve heard the myths. Maybe even believed a few.

 “Chiropractors just crack backs.”

 “It’s not real healthcare.”

“It’s a trendy career—all vibes and no substance.”

But the truth is, modern chiropractic is less about cracking backs and more about cracking into a smarter, more holistic model of care. And at Parker University, we’re leading the charge.

Forget the myths. This is where healthcare is headed.

Parker University’s Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) program blends sharp science, bold innovation, and a deep commitment to patient-first care. We prepare students to become confident, evidence-based clinicians who lead in the clinic and in the future of integrative, preventative healthcare. With immersive training and real-world experience, Parker University is setting a new standard for what modern chiropractic can do for patients and the profession.

Wellness isn’t a trend. It’s a movement.

Whole-body wellness is what patients are actually looking for. People today want more than a quick fix or a prescription refill. They want someone who sees the whole picture and knows how to help them feel better, move better, and live better. Preventative care is quickly becoming the new standard, and chiropractic is stepping up in a big way. Which means the demand for skilled, whole-person care professionals isn’t just growing, it’s soaring.

What if healthcare looked at the whole person, not just the symptoms?

Let’s talk numbers. Chiropractic is projected to grow by 12% through 2026, adding nearly 6,000 new jobs. With potential earnings reaching $147,000 annually, the opportunity is very real. But this kind of growth demands more than interest. It calls for professionals trained in biomechanics, nutrition, and performance science who truly understand how to unlock the body’s potential. And that’s where Parker University comes in.

What sets Parker University apart!

Built to lead, not just treat. Being a chiropractor today takes more than clinical skills. It takes insight, curiosity, and a well-rounded approach to human performance and healing. That’s why Parker University students study far beyond the basics. From kinesiology and soft tissue therapy to therapeutic techniques and holistic care, they learn how to treat the whole person—physical, emotional, and beyond. But great healthcare isn’t just about better treatment, it’s about moving the profession forward. As healthcare shifts toward more proactive, whole-person care, Parker University graduates are equipped to lead the way.

Students don’t just learn it. They live it. The DC curriculum goes beyond mastering technique. It builds leadership through evidence-based decision-making, entrepreneurial thinking, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.  Here, “human optimization” isn’t just something we talk about; it’s something we train for. With hands-on experience and a mindset rooted in innovation, students leave Parker University ready to thrive in private practices, sports medicine, wellness centers, and beyond. Parker University students are ambitious, compassionate, and energized. They graduate with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead and the real-world experience to back it up.

Built for real life. Whether you’re entering the healthcare field for the first time or leveling up your career, Parker University’s DC program adapts to your goals. With stackable degree paths, you can personalize your journey and move at your own pace. Parker University’s exclusive hybrid DC track is ideal for students who thrive in a virtual learning environment. Complete your science courses online in the first four trimesters, then transition seamlessly to hands-on clinical training at Parker University’s Dallas campus. You’ll stay on track to graduate in just 10 trimesters and be ready for your first board examinations when you arrive. Tuition includes the technology and tools to set you up for success from day one. Bonus: You’ll also get entrepreneurial training to build, manage, and grow your future practice on your own terms!

Raising the bar for safer practice. At Parker University, safety isn’t an afterthought. It’s built into everything we do from day one. Students build clinical excellence through supervised training, community-based internships, and a curriculum shaped by the latest research and standards. We’re not just keeping up with best practices, we’re helping define them.

The Parker Research Center is leading a first-of-its-kind global study on patient safety in chiropractic care, funded by the RAND REACH Center and the NCMIC Foundation. This collaborative project brings together chiropractic leaders from around the world to explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to raise the bar across clinical practice, education, and policy. The result? A smarter, safer future for chiropractic and for students trained to lead it. From the classroom to the clinic, safety, clarity, and clinical confidence are essential parts of the Parker University approach.

Technology that trains. Ever practiced anatomy in the metaverse? Parker University students do. We’re redefining how healthcare is taught through immersive, hands-on technology. As the first chiropractic school to partner with SimX, Parker University offers custom-built VR clinical simulations where students sharpen their communication, empathy, and diagnostic skills in realistic, multiplayer clinical scenarios. Anatomy comes to life through Oculus-powered virtual dissection labs built in partnership with Toltech, giving students an unmatched view of the body in motion.

And through Parker University’s Metaversity, a fully immersive digital twin of our Dallas campus, students can attend virtual classes, collaborate in 3D environments, and interact with instructors through Meta Quest headsets or desktops. This is more than just cool tech; it’s a proven way to boost engagement, retention, and clinical readiness, and it’s central to how we prepare students to lead. This commitment to innovation isn’t new. It’s baked into Parker University’s legacy. As a pioneer in chiropractic education and a champion for what’s next in healthcare, Parker University empowers every student to learn it, live it, and carry it forward.

From clinics to court sides, your career is wide open!

Imagine working with professional athletes, guiding a wellness program, or helping patients recover in a rehab clinic. Parker University grads find their place, and make an impact, in all kinds of settings:

Thanks to Parker University’s broad, hands-on training and whole person approach, DC graduates walk into these roles with the skills and the mindset to thrive. They bring a well-rounded, patient-first philosophy to every setting and they’re highly sought after because of it.

Forget the myths. Be part of the movement.

At Parker University, we see chiropractic for what it really is: the future of healthcare. And that future needs smart, driven, curious people who want to lead with purpose and make a real impact. Parker University’s DC degree gives you the tools to do exactly that.

You’ll graduate with knowledge, hands-on experience, and a patient-first mindset that sets you apart. Whether you’re raising care standards, contributing to research, or helping your community live better, you’ll be ready.

This is where healthcare is headed and where you can help shape a healthier future.

Join the movement in pursuit of higher health. For more information, explore Parker University’s Doctor of Chiropractic program here. To request additional information, click here!

We are so excited you stopped here during your search for a top chiropractic school!

Why Should I Choose Parker University?

The mission of Parker University’s Doctor of Chiropractic Program is to educate individuals as patient-centered chiropractic physicians and members of a collaborative interdisciplinary healthcare team while embracing education, research, and service.

Our regionally accredited private university offers certificate, undergraduate, and graduate degree programs in healthcare and business-related fields through multiple delivery formats and learning environments. The university espouses a culture of lifelong learning, research, and service. Parker University provides its diverse population with support services and learning opportunities to develop the necessary skills for successful employment and career advancement.

Why Would I Want to Become a Chiropractor? Why Do I Want My Degree to Be from Parker University?

Now is YOUR time to pursue a career in chiropractic!

As a DC, you will be trained to provide the absolute best and most innovative critical treatment, manage your patients’ care, and provide pain management. Also, did you know chiropractors are greatly needed in professional sports (athletes always need a chiropractor), rehabilitation, nutrition, and so much more? All 32 National Football League teams even have a chiropractor for players! There are unlimited options and opportunities when it comes to deciding what healthcare industry sector you want to devote your chiropractic career to!

Chiropractic Technology and Research

Parker University prides itself on a curriculum focused on research-based education. With top-tier technology, students learn the techniques needed to help move healthcare forward.

Money, Money, Money!

Also, let’s address the elephant in the room: your estimated salary! According to Forbes.com, DCs can earn up to $147,000 annually (based on your state of employment).

Be Your Own Boss!

And, finally, one of the best aspects of a career in chiropractic is that you get to be your own boss! Are you interested in opening your own chiropractic practice? Or maybe you want to work on a team of other professionals who provide chiropractic, physical therapy, fitness-based expertise, nutritionists, etc.?

Choose From Two of Parker University’s 10-trimester Programs

Parker University offers two different 10–trimester DC programs (traditional DC or Hybrid DC tracks) with rigorous, comprehensive curriculums. Students gain firsthand clinical experience, and the educational emphasis on research provides you with a competitive education, putting graduates at the forefront of this innovative industry. Parker University’s Doctor of Chiropractic program even offers a new degree track designed for students who perform well in a virtual environment and want to complete their DC science courses online for the first four trimesters.

Business Minded Teaching at Parker University

Parker University’s well-rounded chiropractic education does not forget about important business training. Students learn to set up a successful practice, manage their finances, analyze critical performance statistics, and develop exclusive patient plans. Marketing seminars, chiropractic partnerships, and a business planning curriculum provide a realistic experience that gives Parker University graduates a distinct advantage.

Parker University’s Research-Based Education

Parker University is dedicated to learning through evidence-based practice. To support the expansion of chiropractic, Parker University promotes international research, funding of profession-wide collaborative efforts, and sharing across the industry.

Offering Experience Beyond the Classroom

Parker University proudly serves the healthcare community through integrated internships and clinical curriculum. Students can work with the Veterans Affairs Hospital or one of 35 private practice partnerships. We pride ourselves on getting involved and giving back where possible.

CCE Accreditation

The Doctor of Chiropractic degree program at Parker University is awarded programmatic accreditation by The Council on Chiropractic Education, 10105 E. Via Linda, Suite 103 – 3642, Scottsdale, AZ, 85258-4321, Phone: (480)443-8877, Website: cce-usa.org.

What Can I Do with My Parker University Chiropractic Degree to Make a Difference in People’s Lives?

Many Parker University students decide to become chiropractors to make a difference in the world and patients’ lives. You might be directly responsible for eliminating someone’s pain or enabling their body to function correctly! Are you aiming to create positive change? Maybe you desire to provide affordable care and find a way to help address dire health needs throughout your community? Then chiropractic is for you!

Need Some More Convincing? Looking for More Information?

Check out some of our previous blogs about chiropractic!

Next Steps

Applying for Parker University’s DC program comes next! All that’s left to do is decide to move forward with your career … and Parker University is here to help make that happen as seamlessly as possible. For more information, admission requirements, or to apply, click here!

February is recognized as Black History Month annually, and Parker University is excited to celebrate, honor, and identify the significant contributions from the black community, not just during this month but every day!

To recognize this important time, we’ve checked out and researched the importance and history of Black History Month and the chiropractic industry. Everyone, including clinics, chiropractic schools, and organizations, should find opportunities for the importance of this time to resonate.

Black History and Chiropractic

Chiropractic originated 125 years ago when Daniel David Palmer treated Harvey J. Lillard, a black man, for a hearing issue that resulted from a spine injury. This occurrence is known as the first chiropractic adjustment. Though the adjustment was to Mr. Lillard’s spine, it restored his hearing, and the art of chiropractic was born!

In 1913, Fred Rubel, DC, became the first known African American to graduate from the National School of Chiropractic. Later, in 1922, Dr. Rubel founded the Rubel College of Chiropractic in Chicago. Then, in March 1923, Central Chiropractic College became a segregated chiropractic school in Washington, D.C. In 1927, A.A. Cole and John User founded the Interstate Chiropractic Association, the first black chiropractic association. In 1947, Samantha P. Adams, DC, became the first African American woman chiropractor on the Ohio State Medical Board. For 33 years, Dr. Adams was the only African American chiropractor in Toledo, Ohio. In 1954, Walton Russ, DC, was the first African American to become a licensed chiropractor in Arkansas. Fast forward to when Jerry Hardee, DC, was the first African American president of any U.S. chiropractic college, serving as the third president of Sherman College of Chiropractic from July 2001 to July 2005. Years later, in January 2020, Rodney Williams, DC, became the first African American inducted as a Fellow of the International Council of Chiropractors during the American Chiropractic Association’s Engage 2020 Conference.

The American Black Chiropractic Association

Today, the American Black Chiropractic Association (ABCA) integrates and improves outcomes for persons of color entering the chiropractic profession.

While a chiropractor in St. Louis, Missouri, Dr. Bobby Westbrooks founded the ABCA in 1981. His vision? To help empower African American doctors and students in chiropractic. Dr. Westbrooks recognized that many African Americans were not familiar with chiropractic care and that many chiropractic college programs did not have many minority students. These factors caused a low number of African American graduates, and communities of color often did not receive the critical benefits of chiropractic services. So, Dr. Westbrooks acknowledged the absolute need for minority services in the chiropractic profession and founded the ABCA with other African American doctors.

The ABCA provides countless acts of education, inspiring current and future chiropractors to make a difference. Most chiropractic college campuses, just like Parker University, host student chapters of the ABCA. The Harvey Lillard Scholarship Program offers students valuable scholarships, and the ABCA also contributes to chiropractic career fairs to encourage African American students to become chiropractors.

Parker University is proud to recognize the black history that enabled the chiropractic industry to become what it is today. To get additional information or to learn more about the American Black Chiropractic Association, click here! Are you interested in Parker University’s Doctor of Chiropractic program? Go to parker.edu/academics/doctor-of-chiropractic-degree.

 

 

“Sit up straight!” “Stand tall!” “Put your shoulders back!” Do you recall hearing all these commands growing up? Or maybe you still need reminders like this when it comes to your posture as an adult? It turns out that standing up straight with your shoulders held back has a more significant impact than just looking put together, posed, and charming in the family Christmas card photo.

Did you know the month of May is recognized as National Posture Month? The benefits of publicly recognizing such an essential aspect of health that can greatly impact our bodies physically are vital. This annual program aims to help people realize how posture can actually impact their overall health, not just their appearance.

To improve posture, you must strengthen body balance and movement. Having good posture is not just about how you stand but how you align and balance your body when sitting.

Posture facts that just might get your attention …


What’s the big deal, doc?

Sedentary activities like sitting, reading, playing video games, using a computer, etc., often build lousy posture habits. And we are all guilty of this … especially after enduring extended time at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even physical activities like gardening, bending, or lifting objects are often performed with poor posture.

Back problems and pain are the most common problems people with poor posture face. What’s another issue? The side effects from medications or prescriptions that can control back pain can have a hugely negative impact on a person’s physical and mental well-being. Having to medicate for pain can often just trade one health problem for another. Slouching can cause severe jaw pain and headaches. Poor posture places excessive strain on the muscles, can lead to arthritis, affect your breathing, and impair the circulatory and digestive systems. Even technology-driven work habits cause neck, shoulder, and back pain. Research has proven that the physical restriction of lungs and abdominal organs caused by loss of height due to bad posture causes a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and respiratory mortality. In “short,” bad posture can shorten your life! I know I’m starting to sit up a bit straighter just reading this …

Improving posture to take on new heights!

Improving posture when standing is surprisingly easy. Focus on keeping your head held up, shoulders back, and stomach tucked in. When sitting, try to keep your legs bent 90 to 120 degrees perpendicular to the floor. Your weight should be evenly distributed over both hips, and your feet should be flat on the floor. Even posture when sleeping is critical! (Who knew, right?) Sleeping on your stomach can increase your back and neck strain.

Postures of Yoga and Pilates are excellent exercises to help balance the body’s muscles. This way, less energy is spent fighting gravity!

Advantages of good posture:

  • Extra height! Did you know that up to three inches of your natural body height can be lost with poor posture? By practicing good posture, you can potentially regain your full height.
  • Fatigue prevention. If your body uses muscles efficiently and correctly, less energy is spent keeping the body in position.
  • Prevention of strains, backaches, and muscular pains.
  • Prevention of joint wear and less strain on ligaments.
  • Prevention of arthritis and impairment of circulatory and digestive systems.
  • Improved appearance! If you feel good, you look good. A posture in balance helps you carry yourself better!


A chiropractor can adjust to help correct posture

A chiropractor can make adjustments to your shoulders to get you into the best position for your best posture. A chiropractor’s movements help increase movement throughout the joint, reduce muscle tension, and promote good posture without pain.

If your body has a posture imbalance, like one shoulder being higher than the other, it can negatively affect its nervous system and spine. A chiropractor helps correct poor posture, such as slouching, and can help realign your spine.

Chiropractic addresses issues like curvature of the neck, kyphosis (hunchback), pelvis/hip misalignment, head posture, scoliosis, and so much more.

Keep your body looking great and moving well with new-found confidence from your good posture! People with favorable posture can expect painless movements, balance and coordination, high energy levels, reduced stress/anxiety, good athletic performance, better breathing, and so much more. Don’t you want to feel this good?

During May (and every month), let’s focus on bettering ourselves, both inside and out, and prolonging the flexibility and positioning of our bodies. To learn more about Posture Month, check out posturemonth.org.

How Do I Become a Chiropractor?

Have you asked yourself ‘how do I become a chiropractor?’ Read this guide to learn the steps it takes to start your career as a chiropractor.

Changing workplaces and job roles mean people are looking for more fulfilling work. Switching to a job as a chiropractor is a great way to help people and know you’re making a difference. By 2030, 1 in every 5 Americans will be of retirement age. An aging population means more people with mobility or health problems. Those people will need the help of a chiropractor.

What Does It Take to Become a Chiropractor?

If you plan to start the educational process in 2026, you’ll need to be ready to dedicate yourself to chiropractic school for four years. Learning happens in the classroom and the lab for the first two years. The last two years move into clinics. But what skills will you need?

Personal Skills

A fascination in rooting out the causes of medical problems is essential. Chiropractic is about more than merely treating symptoms. You’ll also need to be physically fit yourself. Much of your work will keep you on your feet for large portions of your day. And you’ll need a strong stomach because you’ll do a lot of learning from cadavers.

Professional Skills

Chiropractors need to be comfortable dealing with people. They also need to be able to analyze data to recommend courses of treatment. And they need to be confident to change treatment if patients don’t respond.

Academic Skills

Chiropractic is about more than aligning spines. You’ll need to learn about the organic sciences to treat the body in a more holistic way.

How Do I Become a Chiropractor?

You won’t need a DO or MD degree, but you will need a DC degree – Doctor of Chiropractic.

Not all programs need a bachelor’s degree. Though holding one in science will definitely help. Chiropractic schools prefer students to have a background in pre-med. Check with schools for individual requirements they may have for admissions. You’ll also need to earn your license to be a chiropractor. Don’t worry about this part of the process. It starts when you’re still in school. The first two parts of the national exam happen during your second and third years at school. You’ll do parts three and four after you graduate. Beyond passing exams, your state board can tell you what you need to get your license.

Parker University Now Offers a Hybrid Online and In-Person Program

If you are looking for a career move that makes a seriously profound impact on your community and the lives of others, Parker University’s new hybrid online and in-person Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) program offers the perfect opportunity to make your dreams a reality.

The hybrid program strives to educate all students as patient-centered chiropractic physicians and members of a collaborative interdisciplinary healthcare team while embracing education, research, and service. Sound like a good fit? 

Parker University’s 10-trimester DC degree program features a rigorous, comprehensive curriculum. This integrated clinical experience and the emphasis on research provide a competitive education, positioning students to be leaders in the chiropractic industry.

This DC program now features a unique track for students who prefer learning through a virtual platform. Students can now concentrate on their critical DC science courses through online study for their first four trimesters! Hands-on courses at Parker University’s Dallas campus start at the end of the fourth trimester.

This educational track helps students learn essential skills, complete hands-on hours, and meet the requirements to graduate in 10 trimesters. This program is a great option for military students wanting to start their degree, and it even provides a great way for students to save money. Tuition and fees associated with this track provide the necessary technology for students to succeed in a distance-learning environment.

At Parker University, a well-rounded chiropractic education also emphasizes business training. Students learn how to operate their own successful practices, calculate finances, analyze performance statistics, and develop patient acquisition plans. Marketing seminars, chiropractic partnerships, and dedicated business planning curriculum provide realistic experiences, giving students an immediate advantage over their peers.

Parker University’s comprehensive classroom education is only further enhanced by extensive real-world, hands-on experience. Students work in private practices, health centers, Veterans Affairs hospitals, and even clinics abroad! This vast and unique level of exposure to a diverse healthcare industry prepares Parker University students for an impactful career doing something they love.

Running a Practice

The beauty of becoming a chiropractor means you get to work for yourself. Specialize in certain types of patients. Or offer particular treatments, like easing lower back pain. Not all school programs cover business management. So you might want to check out business programs too to help you run your practice. You’ll need to keep on top of changes in your industry to keep your license current. This continuing education helps make you a better chiropractor, too.

Start with the Right School

It all starts with the right school and program. In the right nurturing environment, you’ll learn all you need to succeed as a chiropractor.

Parker University is enrolling students now! If you want to learn more about this hybrid degree program opportunity or to apply for Parker University’s prestigious DC program, just click here!