Chances are you know that if you want to be a chiropractor, you’re going to need to get an education for chiropractors just as you would any profession. What you might not know is just how much training you might need, which is a lot.

Here’s what it takes to be a chiropractor.

Graduate Level: The programs at most chiropractic schools typically involve four years of training. Two years of these years are dedicated to studying the basic science of chiropractic medicine so that you can complete Part One of the National Boards. After that, the next two years are spent studying the clinical sciences so that you can pass Part Two of the National Boards. If you plan to use physiological therapeutics in practice, you’ll need to complete training to pass Part Three of the National Boards. Part Four of the National Boards tests three practical skill areas: case management, chiropractic technique, and diagnostic imaging.

Internships: You’ll also need to do a full year of interning at a college clinic in order to get your license. After you’ve taken your boards and interned, you’ll also be able to enroll in a preceptorship program, too, where you’ll learn many of the skills you’ll need to have to run a successful, private practice.

Post-Graduate: Though it varies from state to state, you’ll need to complete 40 hours of approved course work credits every two years. You can also do a residency program, which will allow you to work towards your goal of getting board certified. To get your chiropractic doctorship, you’ll need to do over 300 hours of coursework, complete a written exam, and an oral exam as well.

It takes a lot to be a chiropractor. Not only do you need to study chiropractic medicine, but also the logistics and chiropractic practice management skills it’ll take to be successful. Fortunately, there are chiropractic schools out there that can not only teach you what you need to know to practice, but help you get the experience you need to successfully run your own clinic.

If you have any questions about chiropractic schools, feel free to share in the comments.