How a Kinesiology Major Sets You Up for Chiropractic School
A degree in Kinesiology is a smart and practical choice for aspiring chiropractors. In this article we will explore what Kinesiology is, what a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology entails, and how it can help you meet chiropractic school prerequisites and admission requirements. You’ll also hear from current students’ experiences on how their kinesiology background prepared them for success in their training to become a Doctor of Chiropractic.
What You Learn in a Kinesiology Program Can Prepare You for 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.
While kinesiology programs vary, most prepare you well for chiropractic school thanks in large part to the degree’s focus on life and physical sciences. Many of which are required courses prior to admission to a chiropractic program. These courses allow you to 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 heavy science-based coursework 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
NWHSU chiropractic student with a degree in Kinesiology felt confident and prepared
Jackson Sadler, a T8 chiropractic student, received his kinesiology degree from the University of South Dakota.
“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.”
An International Perspective
Dr. Codi Loran, a College of Chiropractic alum from Canada attended NWHSU with a degree in kinesiology. Dr. Loran shares her story about moving from Canada to Minnesota for school as part of our Inside Chiro School series.
Read Dr. Loran’s Moving from Canada to Minnesota for Chiropractic School article.
A Kinsesiology Major is 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 its chiropractic students the option to pursue a sports emphasis to help you achieve your dream.
With a foundation in sports and kinesiology, you can seamlessly earn your Doctor of Chiropractic with a Sports and Rehabilitation Emphasis without prolonging your time at NWHSU. A sport emphasis will have you feeling confident in your ability to incorporate rehabilitation into your treatments to support professional athletes, weekend warriors, and everyone in between.
A Head Start in Foundational Coursework
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.