Pre-Chiropractic Program

Start your journey to becoming a chiropractor with Wayne State College’s Pre-Chiropractic program. Apply now and start your career in chiropractic medicine.

Pre-chiropractic degree concept featuring a chiropractor adjusting a patient's back

Explore the Pre-Chiropractic program

Chiropractic is alternative medicine specializing in the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors help patients with back pain, neck pain, joint pain, and headaches. They practice hands-on, drug-free methods of treatment. Pre-Chiropractic students can major in a variety of programs, but a Life Sciences degree is the path for the 3+1 agreements with our partner chiropractic colleges.

Our 3+1 partnerships allow you to complete three years of required undergraduate studies at WSC, then complete your fourth year while enrolled in a Doctor of Chiropractic program. This allows you to earn your bachelor's degree in Life Sciences from Wayne State while also progressing toward your Doctor of Chiropractic degree. Upon successful completion of your first year toward your doctorate degree, you’ll be awarded a bachelor’s degree from WSC. Alternatively, students may enter chiropractic colleges with 90 credits (to include the college’s specific pre-requisites) from other areas of undergraduate study also suggested here.

WSC has 3+1 agreements with the following chiropractic colleges:

View program courses  Download program fact sheet (PDF)

Fast facts

Recommended majors:


Delivery format: On campus. You’ll spend the first three years at Wayne State and your fourth year at an affiliate chiropractic school.


School: Science, Health, and Criminal Justice


Departments: Life Sciences, Physical Sciences and Mathematics

Prepare for your future

Your undergraduate path to becoming a chiropractor

Honors Program

Honors students complete an independent research project, usually spanning their junior and senior years. Your research can take you just about anywhere - in the lab or library, in the community, or in the U.S. or abroad! Honors work can also be very practical. Prospective employers and graduate admissions committees often look carefully at an undergraduate record for evidence of extra initiative and genuine intellectual strength.

Learn more about the Honors Program

Pre-Chiropractic internships and job shadowing

Our outstanding Career Services Office is available to help you find internships and career opportunities.

Topics covered in the Pre-Chiropractic program

  • Analytical, organic, and inorganic chemistry
  • Biochemistry
  • Chemical processes and materials
  • Chemical experiment and design
  • Human anatomy and dissection
  • Molecular genetics
  • Probability and statistics
  • Advanced lab techniques and management
  • University physics and experimentation
  • Critical thinking and problem solving
  • Research, observation, and analysis of data

Career possibilities

  • Solo practitioner
  • Associate chiropractor
  • Sports team chiropractor
  • Chiropractic educator
  • Chiropractic researcher
  • Chiropractic equipment sales
Percent of WSC graduates  employed or in grad school within 6 months of graduation

job or grad school placement rate
within six months of graduation

Data based on most recent
employment outcomes survey


 

Recent grads are pursuing their D.C. degrees at the following chiropractic schools:

2024-25 Estimated Annual Cost of Attendance

$196

cost per credit hour

Tuition: $5,880

Fees: $2,290.50

Food plan: $4,690

Housing: $4,730

Total: $17,590.50
These figures do not include indirect cost estimates. To view a breakdown of estimated additional costs you may incur while attending WSC that are not billed to your student account, visit the Cost of Attendance page.
Cost of attendance

Most Affordable College in Nebraska

- College Affordability Guide, 2024

Wayne State is considered the most affordable four-year college or university in Nebraska. With same rates for in- and out-of-state students, our tuition guarantee, and our generous scholarship packages, it is clear to see how WSC earned the title. In fact, the average remaining annual cost of attendance for 2024-25 is $2,268 for undergraduate students after financial aid and scholarships.

Pre-Chiropractic Program of Study

The courses listed below cover the prerequisites for our 3+1 agreements for Palmer College of Chiropractic, Northwestern Health Sciences University, Cleveland University-College of Chiropractic, and Logan University.

Participation in the Pre-Chiropractic program at WSC does not guarantee acceptance to a chiropractic school. A minimum of 90 credit hours is required for the 3+1 agreements with our affiliate chiropractic schools, and 30 of those hours must be upper-level credit (15 hours must be in humanities/social sciences). A GPA of 3.0 (with no grade below a C) is also required for the pre-professional prerequisites. Students completing the required curriculum with a GPA of 3.0 can be admitted to Logan, Palmer, or Cleveland, while a 3.25 GPA is required for Northwestern. Northwestern does not accept CLEP examinations for required science courses. It is advisable that all required coursework be taken for a grade.

After being admitted to a Doctorate of Chiropractic (D.C.) program and successfully completing at least 30 credit hours there, you’ll receive your B.S. degree from Wayne State while also working toward your D.C. degree.

  • In addition to courses for the major, you will complete 30 credit hours of General Studies courses. General Studies courses are distributed over 10 Core Academic Tenets (CATs). Some CAT course options are required as prerequisites for the Pre-Chiropractic program. These are included in the list of courses below.

    • BIO 104 Environmental Concerns (4 credits) - Selected topics of Environmental Concerns to be presented by the laboratory-oriented approach, and in compliance with the requirements of General Studies. Does not apply to any major, minor, or endorsement in any science area (BIO, CHE, EAS, NAT) unless specified. 4 hours lecture-lab combined. This course is recommended for chiropractic school and fulfills the CAT 10 requirement.
       
    • BIO 110 Biology Concepts  (4 credits) - The first course for biology majors. A grade of C- or better in this course is a prerequisite for all biology courses in the biology concentration. A study of the microscope, basic cell structure and function, DNA replication, mitosis, meiosis, genetics, evolution, population biology, and diversity. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab. $30 class fee required. This course is required for chiropractic school and fulfills the CAT 7 requirement. Prerequisite: One year of high school biology or BIO 102 Biology for General Studies.
       
    • CNA 100 Principles of Human Communication (3 credits) - Students will acquire knowledge of the elements and models of communication in a variety of situations. In particular, students will learn about the nature of interpersonal, small group, public speaking, and organizational communication. Beyond this, the student will prepare and present speeches and public presentations in interpersonal, small group, organizational, and public speaking settings, and contexts. C or above required for educator preparation students. This course is required for chiropractic school and fulfills the CAT 2 requirement.
       
    • MAT 180 Applied Probability and Statistics (3 credits) - An introduction to the practice of statistics including sampling, experimental design, data displays, descriptive statistics, binomial and normal probability distributions, sampling distributions, one and two sample confidence intervals, hypothesis tests for means and proportions, and linear regression with analysis. Traditional and resampling/bootstrapping methods are employed. 4 hours of lecture-lab combined. This course is required for chiropractic school and fulfills the CAT 3 requirement. Prerequisite: Placement or C- or better in MAT 121 College Algebra, MAT 130 Precalculus, or MAT 140 Calculus I
       
    • PSY 101 General Psychology (3 credits) - An overview of human behavior from various psychological perspectives. Topics covered to include: learning, maturation, biological foundations, motivation, perception, personality development, personal awareness, abnormal behavior, and social behavior. This course is required for chiropractic school and fulfills the CAT 5 requirement.
    • BIO 200 Zoology (4 credits) - A study of the principles of biology as they apply to the uniformity, diversity, and organization of the animal kingdom. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab. Class fee of $30 required. Prerequisite: C- or better in BIO 110 Biology Concepts
       
    • BIO 220 Human Anatomy (4 credits) - Study of the anatomic structure of the human organism. The 11 organ systems of the human and representative quadrupeds will be examined in detail with lecture, dissection, and other laboratory exercises. Dissection is required of all students taking this course. An understanding of human anatomy is beneficial for students that will ultimately enroll in advanced courses of cell biology, histology, comparative vertebrate embryology and anatomy, and parasitology. Having training in human anatomy is also beneficial for students interested in health-related and biomedical careers. 3 hours lecture and one 3-hour lab. Class fee of $30 required. Prerequisite: BIO 110 Biology Concepts
       
    • BIO 340 Human Physiology (4 credits) - A study of the fundamental physiological processes of the human body. Functions of the 11 organ systems will be studied. 3 hours lecture and one 3-hour lab. Class fee of $30 required. Prerequisite: BIO 220 Human Anatomy and CHE 106 General Chemistry I
       
    • CHE 106 General Chemistry I (4 credits) - Emphasis on nomenclature, atomic structure, bonding, gaseous and liquid states, equilibrium, and stoichiometry. 3 hours of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory. Class fee of $20 required. Prerequisite: High school chemistry or CHE 102 Chemistry for General Studies
       
    • CHE 107 General Chemistry II (4 credits) - A continuation of CHE 106 General Chemistry I with emphasis on kinetics, redox reactions, molecular geometry, hydrolysis, electrochemistry, and solubility products. Qualitative analysis included. 3 hours of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory. Class fee of $20 required. Prerequisite: C- or better in CHE 106 General Chemistry I, or instructor permission
       
    • CHE 314 Organic Chemistry I (4 credits) - This course is designed to allow students to learn the fundamental aspects of organic chemistry. Among the topics covered will be structure determination, bonding, stereochemistry, and spectroscopy. Also included are the structure and reactivity of alkenes, alkynes, alkyl halides, and alcohols. The laboratory work will introduce the equipment and techniques of chemistry, which relate to the material discussed in the lecture. The experiments will develop organic laboratory techniques for product formation, isolation, purification, and identification. 3 hours of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory. Class fee of $20 required. Prerequisite: C- or better in CHE 107 General Chemistry II
       
    • CHE 315 Organic Chemistry II (4 credits) - This course is designed to allow students to learn the fundamental aspects of organic chemistry. Among the topics covered will be structure determination, bonding, stereochemistry, and spectroscopy. Also included are the structure and reactivity of alkenes, alkynes, alkyl halides, and alcohols. The laboratory work will introduce the equipment and techniques of chemistry, which relate to the material discussed in the lecture. The experiments will develop organic laboratory techniques for product formation, isolation, purification, and identification. 3 hours of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory. Class fee of $20 required. Prerequisite: C- or better in CHE 314 Organic Chemistry I
       
    • PHY 201 General Physics I (3 credits) - An algebra-based general physics course intended primarily for health professions, life science and education students. Topics include vectors, kinematics and dynamics, equilibrium, rotational motion, energy, momentum, oscillations, fluids, and thermodynamics. Prerequisite: 2 years of algebra
       
    • PHY 321 Physics Laboratory I (1 credit) - This laboratory is a required course for both PHY 201 General Physics I and PHY 301 University Physics I. Concurrent enrollment in PHY 201 General Physics I or PHY 301 University Physics I is recommended. Experiments, appropriate to the level of lecture, include topics in mechanics, momentum, work and energy, and fluids. 3 hours lab. Lab fee of $20 required.
       
    • PHY 202 General Physics II (3 credits) - A second semester algebra-based general physics course intended primarily for health professions, life science, and education students. Topics include electricity, magnetism, optics, and modern physics. Concurrent enrollment in PHY 322 Physics Laboratory II required. Prerequisite: PHY 201 General Physics I or PHY 301 University Physics I
       
    • PHY 322 Physics Laboratory II (1 credit) - This laboratory is a required course for PHY 202 General Physics II but may be taken in a subsequent semester. It is optional for PHY 302 University Physics II, depending on the student’s program. Experiments, appropriate to the level of the lecture, include topics in electricity, magnetism, and basic optics. 3 hours lab. Lab fee of $20 required.
       
    • HSC 345 CPR-Healthcare Provider (1 credit) - The American Heart Association’s Basic Life Support (BLS) course designed for health care providers, course modules one through four. Review of cardiovascular anatomy and function, causes of cardiovascular disease, and cardiac arrest. CPR for adults and pediatrics. Prerequisite or corequisite: BIO 220 Human Anatomy
       
    • HSC 498 Clinical Program (30 credits) - Academic credit completed at an affiliated chiropractic school. You will apply to the school during your junior year and complete HSC 498 during your senior year. Prerequisite: Minimum of 90 semester hours completed
  • These courses are suggested electives and will depend on your desired outcome. Consult with your advisor for more information.

    • BIO 320 Molecular Genetics (4 credits) - A study of the mechanisms of inheritance, the molecular basis of gene action and the use of molecular techniques and molecular technology in biomedical, agricultural, and industrial research. The lab component of this course focuses on hands-on use of molecular equipment and technologies used in graduate and industrial molecular based research. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab. Class fee of $20 required.
       
    • BIO 330 Histology (3 credits) - Study of the structure and function of cells and tissues of the human organism. Light microscopy and digital histology slides of human and other vertebrate organs and tissues will be studied. Tissue morphology and histopathology will be discussed along with relevant clinical considerations. An understanding of human anatomy would be beneficial to students taking this course. Histology is highly recommended for students interested in health-related, biomedical, and biological careers. 3 hours lecture-lab combined.
       
    • BIO 385 Microbiology (4 credits) - Topics of study detail the structure and physiology of microorganisms, including mechanisms of pathogenesis. Beneficial aspects of microorganisms are also discussed with regard to both the human body and the environment. Lab techniques include microbial identification, enumeration procedures and student designed research. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab. Class fee of $20 required.
       
    • BIO 434 Advanced Cell Biology (3 credits) - An advanced study of the structure and function of the eukaryotic cell. Topics will include the basics of modern cell biology including signal transduction, cell cycle regulation, and gene expression. 4 hours lecture-lab combined. Class fee of $20 required.
       
    • BUS 222 Business Law I (3 credits) - Introduction to the study of law, the law of contracts, agency and employment, negotiable instruments, personal property and bailments, and the laws governing the sale of goods.
       
    • ENG 206 Workplace Writing (3 credits) – This course focuses on writing genres commonly used in professional workplaces, including correspondence (letters, memos, and emails) as well as reports, proposals, and lab reports. Students will learn to write polished, professional communication, focusing content for specific audiences and contexts. The instruction emphasizes audience and situational analysis, clarity, professional tone and style, as well as elements of format and pattern, research, and revision techniques. Prerequisite: ENG 102 Composition Skills or an equivalent course.
       
    • CHE 326 Biochemistry I (4 credits) - Study of proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates with emphasis on their structure, function, and metabolism. 3 hours of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory. Class fee of $20 required.
       
    • PED 305 Exercise Physiology (3 credits) - A study of the major physiological systems and their response to exercise for Physical Education (K-12, K-6, and 7-12), students in wellness programs, and students in these areas also taking the Coaching minor or endorsement. This includes the application of physiological concepts to physical training.
       
    • PED 351 Biomechanics (3 credits) - A kinesiological approach to the anatomical and mechanical analysis of human movement. Movement terminology as well as muscular and neuromuscular function in sport will be studied. Special emphasis will be placed relating biomechanics to movement evaluation in K-12 health and physical education.
       
    • SPA 110 Elementary Spanish I (3 credits) - Basic grammar, reading, writing, and conversation, with attention to cultural differences and similarities between Hispanic and North American cultures. If students have completed more than 2 years of high school Spanish, they are advised to register in SPA 120 Elementary Spanish II, or to consult with a Spanish instructor before registering in SPA 110.

Suggested minors

Students in the Pre-Chiropractic program may add a minor to complement their program of study. Students who recently followed the Pre-Chiropractic track paired their major with one or more of the following minors:

View all majors and minors

Related programs

Students interested in the Pre-Chiropractic program may also be interested in:

Applied Human and Sport Physiology
Pre-Athletic Training
Pre-Osteopathic Medicine
Pre-Physical Therapy

Students in the WSC Student Center

Transfer to Wayne State

Our generous transfer credit policy will allow you to get credit for what you've already earned.

Transferring to Wayne State

Get in touch

Department of Life Sciences
Carhart Science Building, Room 106
Phone: 402-375-7329

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Student clubs for pre-professional health majors

Students gather at a table outside the library

Awards and Rankings

Recognized for excellence

Best Colleges for Health Sciences in Nebraska

CampusReel recognized Wayne State as one of the Best Colleges in Nebraska for Health Sciences based on alumni salaries after graduation, student loan debt, and other metrics.

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Best College for Health Sciences in Nebraska, 2024

A Best College of Distinction

Wayne State was recognized as a Best College of Distinction for our excellence in student engagement, teaching, community, and successful graduate outcomes.

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Best College of Distinction, 2024-25

A Top Public College in the Midwest

WSC was identified as one of the top public universities in the Midwest for 2025 by U.S. News & World’s Best Colleges ranking report.

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A 2025 Top Public College/University in the Midwes

Where you'll learnDepartment facilities

Carhart Science Building at WSC

Carhart Science Building

The Carhart Science building holds several state-of-the-art classrooms and labs for students in math, science, and pre-professional health programs.

WSC students in the human performance lab

Human Performance Lab

Our state-of-the-art human performance lab supports classroom lab activities, train students in the field, and conduct research.