Barry PhilipsAre you looking for the top chiropractic schools in Texas and their admission requirements? Texas is home to a small number of institutions offering professional Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) education, making it important for prospective students to understand the available options before applying.
Chiropractic is a healthcare profession focused primarily on the diagnosis, management and prevention of conditions involving the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. Becoming a chiropractor requires specialized professional education, clinical training and, after graduation, meeting the licensing requirements of the state where you intend to practice.
Unlike states with several chiropractic colleges, Texas has two institutions that offer the Doctor of Chiropractic degree. However, numerous universities and colleges across the state offer undergraduate programs and pre-professional preparation that can help students meet chiropractic-school prerequisites.
This guide examines the chiropractic schools in Texas, their requirements, tuition considerations, programs, application process and alternative Texas universities where aspiring chiropractors can complete their undergraduate preparation.
Top Chiropractic Schools in Texas
1. Parker University
Parker University is a private university in Dallas, Texas, with a long-standing focus on chiropractic and health sciences education.
Its Doctor of Chiropractic program prepares students through classroom instruction, laboratory education and clinical training. The program covers areas including anatomy, physiology, pathology, diagnosis, chiropractic techniques and patient care.
Parker’s Doctor of Chiropractic curriculum is a professional program requiring extensive academic and clinical education.
Parker University Admission Requirements
Applicants can qualify through several admission pathways.
Depending on the pathway, applicants may need:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- At least 90 semester credit hours
- A qualifying cumulative GPA
- Appropriate coursework in life and physical sciences
- Official transcripts
- Application materials
- Additional documentation required by the university
One of Parker’s published pathways allows applicants with at least 90 semester credit hours and a 3.0 GPA or higher.
Another pathway allows applicants with at least 90 semester credit hours and a GPA of at least 2.75 when they have completed the required life and physical science coursework.
Because admission standards can change, prospective applicants should check Parker University’s current requirements before submitting an application.
What Can You Study at Parker University?
The Doctor of Chiropractic curriculum includes areas such as:
- Human anatomy
- Physiology
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
- Pathology
- Diagnosis
- Chiropractic techniques
- Clinical sciences
- Patient care
- Radiology
- Professional practice
Students also receive practical clinical experience as part of their professional training.
2. Texas Chiropractic College
Texas Chiropractic College, commonly known as TCC, is located in Pasadena, Texas, in the Houston metropolitan area.
TCC is one of the country’s established chiropractic colleges and offers a Doctor of Chiropractic degree.
The college combines classroom education, laboratory work and clinical experience to prepare students for chiropractic practice.
Texas Chiropractic College Admission Requirements
TCC provides several routes for admission into its Doctor of Chiropractic program.
Applicants may qualify through a bachelor’s degree or through a college-credit pathway.
Current requirements include pathways involving:
- A bachelor’s degree with a qualifying GPA
- At least 90 semester credit hours with a qualifying GPA
- A lower GPA pathway when specified science coursework has been completed
TCC’s published requirements identify a 3.0 GPA pathway and another pathway for applicants with a GPA between 2.75 and 2.99 who have completed at least 24 semester credit hours in life and physical sciences.
Recommended Prerequisite Courses
Students preparing for TCC should pay particular attention to science courses.
Relevant subjects include:
- Biology
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- General or inorganic chemistry
- Organic chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Physics
- Biomechanics
- Exercise physiology
Laboratory courses are also an important part of the recommended preparation.
Texas Universities for Pre-Chiropractic Preparation
While Texas has only two professional chiropractic colleges, aspiring chiropractors have numerous undergraduate options.
These universities do not award a Doctor of Chiropractic degree simply by completing their undergraduate programs. Instead, they can provide students with the academic foundation needed to apply to chiropractic college.
3. Texas State University
Texas State University offers a B.S. in Health Sciences with a Pre-Chiropractic concentration.
This is one of the clearest options for students who already know that chiropractic is their intended career.
The program can help students complete relevant science and health coursework while preparing for professional chiropractic education.
4. University of Texas at Tyler
The University of Texas at Tyler provides a dedicated Pre-Chiropractic Program through its pre-professional advising resources.
Students receive guidance on preparing for chiropractic school and completing appropriate prerequisite coursework.
This makes UT Tyler an option for students who want a structured undergraduate pathway before applying to a D.C. program.
5. Dallas Baptist University
Dallas Baptist University offers a Pre-Chiropractic Program.
Students can pursue undergraduate education while completing coursework relevant to chiropractic-school admission.
The university’s pre-professional resources can also help students understand the transition from undergraduate education to professional school.
6. West Texas A&M University
West Texas A&M University offers a Pre-Chiropractic Specialization.
The specialization helps students prepare for chiropractic education through courses in areas such as biology, chemistry and other relevant sciences.
Students interested in Parker University or another D.C. institution can use the specialization as part of their undergraduate preparation.
7. University of North Texas
The University of North Texas provides pre-chiropractic advising and preparation for students interested in the profession.
Possible undergraduate backgrounds include biology and kinesiology.
UNT also encourages students to gain exposure to chiropractic practice through activities such as observation or shadowing.
8. Texas Tech University
Texas Tech University provides pre-professional health-career advising, including resources for students interested in chiropractic careers.
Although Texas Tech does not award the Doctor of Chiropractic degree, its undergraduate programs can provide the science foundation students need before professional chiropractic education.
9. Sam Houston State University
Sam Houston State University provides pre-chiropractic preparation through its pre-health resources.
Students can use relevant science courses to prepare for professional programs.
Important areas include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Physics
Students should compare their proposed courses with the requirements of their intended chiropractic college.
10. University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin offers extensive undergraduate programs in biological sciences, chemistry and related disciplines.
Students can use these programs to complete prerequisite coursework before applying to a Doctor of Chiropractic program.
Because UT Austin does not operate a Doctor of Chiropractic school, students should plan their undergraduate courses around the requirements of Parker University, Texas Chiropractic College or another chiropractic college outside Texas.
11. Texas A&M University
Texas A&M University provides numerous undergraduate programs in biology, chemistry, biomedical sciences and other fields relevant to healthcare careers.
Aspiring chiropractors can select an appropriate major and complete prerequisite science courses before applying to a D.C. program.
12. University of Houston
The University of Houston offers undergraduate programs in science, health and related disciplines.
Students can complete relevant prerequisite coursework while receiving pre-professional academic guidance.
13. University of Texas at Arlington
The University of Texas at Arlington offers undergraduate programs including biology, kinesiology and health-related fields.
These programs can provide a foundation for students planning to pursue professional healthcare education.
14. University of Texas at San Antonio
UTSA offers undergraduate education in biology and other scientific disciplines.
Students interested in chiropractic careers can use their undergraduate education to complete the science courses required by their intended D.C. program.
15. Texas Woman’s University
Texas Woman’s University provides programs in health sciences, kinesiology, biology and related areas.
These disciplines can be useful for students preparing for chiropractic school.
16. Baylor University
Baylor University offers undergraduate programs in biology, biochemistry, health sciences and related disciplines.
Students can use an appropriate undergraduate program to build their academic foundation before applying to chiropractic college.
17. Texas Christian University
Texas Christian University offers programs in biology, chemistry, kinesiology and related fields.
Students interested in chiropractic medicine can work with pre-health advisers to develop an appropriate undergraduate course plan.
18. Rice University
Rice University provides undergraduate programs in biological sciences, chemistry and other scientific disciplines.
Students can use their coursework to satisfy applicable prerequisites, although they should verify course requirements with their intended chiropractic school.
19. University of Dallas
The University of Dallas offers undergraduate programs in biology, chemistry and related fields.
These programs can provide relevant preparation for students intending to continue into professional healthcare education.
20. Abilene Christian University
Abilene Christian University provides undergraduate programs in biological and health-related disciplines.
Students interested in chiropractic careers can select courses that align with the prerequisites of their target D.C. program.
21. University of St. Thomas – Houston
The University of St. Thomas in Houston offers undergraduate science programs that can be useful for students preparing for professional healthcare education.
Aspiring chiropractors should consult academic advisers to ensure that their course selection meets the prerequisites of their intended chiropractic college.
22. University of Texas Permian Basin
UT Permian Basin offers undergraduate education in biology and related scientific areas.
Students can use the program to build a foundation in subjects relevant to chiropractic education.
23. University of Houston-Clear Lake
University of Houston-Clear Lake offers undergraduate programs in science and health-related fields.
Students can complete relevant coursework before applying to chiropractic school.
24. University of North Texas Health Science Center Area
Students in the Fort Worth area can also explore health-science and biomedical educational opportunities associated with the University of North Texas system.
Although these programs do not replace a Doctor of Chiropractic degree, they can help students develop the academic foundation required for professional education.
Common Chiropractic School Requirements in Texas
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree can provide a straightforward route into chiropractic school, although it is not necessarily mandatory for every admission pathway.
Both Parker University and Texas Chiropractic College provide pathways involving approximately 90 semester credit hours.
90 College Credit Hours
Students may be eligible for admission through a college-credit pathway rather than completing a full bachelor’s degree.
However, GPA and science-course requirements must still be satisfied.
Minimum GPA
GPA requirements vary according to the admission pathway.
For example, Texas Chiropractic College publishes pathways involving a 3.0 GPA as well as a pathway for applicants with a GPA between 2.75 and 2.99 who meet additional science-course requirements.
Biology
Biology is a fundamental part of preparation for chiropractic education.
Students should expect to encounter extensive biological sciences during their professional education.
Anatomy and Physiology
Anatomy and physiology are particularly important because chiropractors work extensively with the human musculoskeletal and nervous systems.
Chemistry
General chemistry is an important prerequisite, while organic chemistry and biochemistry may also be required or recommended.
Physics
Physics is another important science subject for prospective chiropractic students.
Laboratory Courses
Students should pay attention to laboratory requirements when choosing prerequisite science courses.
A lecture course without its corresponding laboratory may not satisfy a particular prerequisite.
Official Transcripts
Applicants are generally required to submit official transcripts from colleges and universities previously attended.
Personal Essay
Some chiropractic schools require applicants to explain their motivation for pursuing chiropractic care.
For example, TCC requires a personal essay as part of its application.
Background Check
Applicants may also be required to complete a background check before admission or clinical participation.
Chiropractic Observation
Although requirements vary, observing a practicing chiropractor can help prospective students understand the profession and strengthen their professional-school preparation.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Chiropractor in Texas?
The total time depends on the student’s educational pathway.
A student who completes a bachelor’s degree first will generally spend approximately four years completing undergraduate education before entering a professional chiropractic program.
The Doctor of Chiropractic program itself involves several years of intensive academic and clinical education.
Students who qualify through an admission pathway involving approximately 90 undergraduate credit hours may be able to enter professional chiropractic education without first completing a traditional four-year bachelor’s degree.
After completing the D.C. program, graduates must satisfy the licensing requirements applicable to the state in which they intend to practice.
What Should You Study Before Chiropractic School?
There is no single undergraduate major that every future chiropractor must choose.
Common choices include:
- Biology
- Health Sciences
- Kinesiology
- Exercise Science
- Biochemistry
- Biomedical Sciences
- Chemistry
The most important consideration is whether your coursework provides the prerequisites required by your target chiropractic college.
For students who already know they want to become chiropractors, a dedicated pre-chiropractic program can make course planning easier.
Chiropractic Schools in Texas Comparison Table
| School | City | Type | Chiropractic Degree | Key Admission Pathway | Notable Preparation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parker University | Dallas | Professional university | Doctor of Chiropractic | Bachelor’s/college-credit pathways | Life & physical sciences |
| Texas Chiropractic College | Pasadena | Chiropractic college | Doctor of Chiropractic | Bachelor’s/90-credit pathways | Biology, chemistry, physics |
| Texas State University | San Marcos | Undergraduate | None | Pre-chiropractic preparation | Health Sciences |
| UT Tyler | Tyler | Undergraduate | None | Pre-chiropractic preparation | Pre-professional advising |
| Dallas Baptist University | Dallas | Undergraduate | None | Pre-chiropractic preparation | Health sciences |
| West Texas A&M | Canyon | Undergraduate | None | Pre-chiropractic specialization | Science preparation |
| University of North Texas | Denton | Undergraduate | None | Pre-chiropractic preparation | Biology/Kinesiology |
| Texas Tech University | Lubbock | Undergraduate | None | Pre-professional preparation | Health careers |
| Sam Houston State | Huntsville | Undergraduate | None | Pre-chiropractic preparation | Life sciences |
| UT Austin | Austin | Undergraduate | None | Science preparation | Biology/Chemistry |
| Texas A&M | College Station | Undergraduate | None | Science preparation | Biomedical sciences |
| University of Houston | Houston | Undergraduate | None | Health/science preparation | Science coursework |
| UT Arlington | Arlington | Undergraduate | None | Pre-health preparation | Biology/Kinesiology |
| UT San Antonio | San Antonio | Undergraduate | None | Science preparation | Biology |
| Texas Woman’s University | Denton | Undergraduate | None | Pre-health preparation | Health sciences |
| Baylor University | Waco | Undergraduate | None | Pre-health preparation | Biology/Biochemistry |
| TCU | Fort Worth | Undergraduate | None | Pre-health preparation | Biology/Chemistry |
| Rice University | Houston | Undergraduate | None | Science preparation | Biological sciences |
| University of Dallas | Irving | Undergraduate | None | Science preparation | Biology/Chemistry |
| Abilene Christian University | Abilene | Undergraduate | None | Pre-health preparation | Biological sciences |
| University of St. Thomas | Houston | Undergraduate | None | Science preparation | Biology/related sciences |
| UT Permian Basin | Odessa | Undergraduate | None | Science preparation | Biology |
| UH-Clear Lake | Houston | Undergraduate | None | Pre-health preparation | Science/health |
| UNT Health Science Center area | Fort Worth | Health-science environment | None | Pre-professional preparation | Biomedical/health sciences |
Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic Schools in Texas
How many chiropractic schools are in Texas?
Texas currently has two professional Doctor of Chiropractic institutions: Parker University and Texas Chiropractic College.
What is the best chiropractic school in Texas?
Rather than choosing a school solely by a general ranking, prospective students should compare factors such as accreditation, curriculum, clinical training, admission requirements, cost, location and licensing preparation.
Can I become a chiropractor without a bachelor’s degree?
Potentially, yes. Both major Texas chiropractic institutions have admission pathways involving approximately 90 semester credit hours, subject to specific academic and science requirements.
What GPA do I need for chiropractic school in Texas?
The minimum varies according to the institution and admission pathway. Parker University and Texas Chiropractic College publish pathways involving a 3.0 GPA, while qualifying lower-GPA pathways may also be available when additional science coursework requirements are met.
What subjects should I take before chiropractic school?
Important subjects include biology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry and physics. Specific requirements depend on the chiropractic college.
Is there a pre-chiropractic degree in Texas?
Yes. Texas State University, UT Tyler, Dallas Baptist University, West Texas A&M University and other institutions provide pre-chiropractic preparation or advising.
How long is chiropractic school?
The professional Doctor of Chiropractic curriculum involves several years of intensive academic and clinical education. The total time from high school depends on whether you complete a bachelor’s degree or qualify through another admission pathway.
Can international students study chiropractic in Texas?
International students can apply to eligible chiropractic programs, but they may have additional requirements involving academic credential evaluation, English-language proficiency, immigration documentation and other institutional requirements.
Related
Conclusion
Texas may not have 20 or 30 Doctor of Chiropractic schools, but it offers a combination of professional chiropractic colleges and numerous undergraduate institutions that can prepare students for chiropractic education.
The two institutions to know if you want to earn a Doctor of Chiropractic degree in Texas are Parker University in Dallas and Texas Chiropractic College in Pasadena.
For students who are still completing their undergraduate education, schools such as Texas State University, UT Tyler, Dallas Baptist University, West Texas A&M, University of North Texas, Texas Tech and Sam Houston State University provide useful pre-chiropractic or pre-health preparation options.
Before applying, carefully check the current admission requirements of your intended chiropractic college. Pay particular attention to your GPA, college credit hours, biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy and physiology courses, laboratory requirements, transcripts and other application materials.
Most importantly, do not select an undergraduate program simply because it has “pre-chiropractic” in its name. Build your academic plan around the actual prerequisites of the Doctor of Chiropractic program you intend to attend. This can help you avoid taking unnecessary courses and ensure that your undergraduate education moves you efficiently toward your chiropractic career.