How a Kinesiology Major Sets You Up for Chiropractic School

Wondering how a kinesiology degree will be applicable to a Chiropractic program? In this article we will explore what Kinesiology is, what a Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology entails, and hear from current students’ experiences on how their kinesiology degree prepared them for chiropractic school. 

What Do You Learn in a Kinesiology Program? Does it Relate to Chiropractic School?

Kinesiology is the scientific study of human movement, addressing the physiological, anatomical, biomechanical, pathological and neurophysiological principles and mechanisms. People who study kinesiology can go on to become chiropractors, and it can be a great choice to prepare you for success. 

Every kinesiology program may be a little different, but overall, you can assume that a kinesiology program will prepare you for chiropractic school. You’ll explore interactions between muscles, bones, joints, and the nervous system and how to apply concepts to improve human movement across various dimensions. Specifically, you’ll take core science classes such as anatomy, neuromotor control and development and physiology as well as electives related to sports, wellness, neuroscience and coaching. This prepares you well for the rigorous anatomy courses you’ll encounter in chiropractic school (check out this interview to learn more about how we teach anatomy and physiology at NWHSU).  

Many programs have directed study opportunities, field experiences and related student organizations, including pre-graduate level clubs. Overall, a kinesiology degree will give you a great foundation for chiropractic school: you’ll understand how the body works and moves, and can build on that going forward. 

A Student’s Experience 

It might be helpful to hear first hand how a kinesiology major sets you up for chiropractic school! 

Jackson Sadler, a T8 chiropractic student, received his kinesiology degree from the University of South Dakota.  We asked his opinion:  

“My kinesiology degree provided a solid academic foundation that directly translated to chiropractic school. The coursework in human anatomy, exercise physiology, and biomechanics made it easier to grasp complex chiropractic concepts early on,” he shared.

It also helped me build critical thinking skills related to functional movement and injury prevention, which I now apply when assessing and developing care plans for patients. Overall, it gave me a head start in understanding how structure and movement relate to overall health and performance.” 

Jackson also revealed why he chose kinesiology in the first place, influenced by his long-term goal of becoming a chiropractor. “I chose kinesiology because I’ve always had a strong interest in how the human body functions, particularly in the context of movement, performance, injury and recovery. Kinesiology offered a comprehensive look at biomechanics, anatomy, physiology, and rehabilitation, which aligned closely with my goal of becoming a chiropractor,” he explained.  “Ultimately, I want to help people live healthier, more functional lives.” 

Want another perspective? You can read about Dr. Codi Loran, who also studied kinesiology, in this story about moving from Canada to Minnesota for chiropractic school.

A Great Choice if You’re Interested in Sports Chiropractic

Anyone with a goal of going to chiropractic school would benefit from earning a kinesiology degree, but if you’re interested in working with athletes, it is an exceptionally good choice. NWHSU offers a Sports Emphasis that will also help you achieve your dream. With a foundation in sports and kinesiology, you can complete the sports emphasis and feel confident in your ability to incorporate rehabilitation into your treatments to support professional athletes, weekend warriors, and everyone in between.

A Head Start 

A kinesiology degree is relevant to many health related fields and graduate programs, including chiropractic school. It will give you the foundational knowledge and skills to excel post graduation, including in Northwestern Health Sciences University’s chiropractic program. 

Ready to pursue your goal of becoming a chiropractor? Contact our Office of Admissions to ask questions and learn about the application process.