Arizona Doctor of Chiropractic: Programs, Admissions & Career Path

Becoming a Doctor of Chiropractic in Arizona is more accessible than ever—and increasingly in demand. With the state’s growing population, interest in holistic health, and expanding healthcare workforce needs, Arizona is quickly becoming a prime destination for those pursuing a chiropractic career. From undergraduate preparation to clinical training and licensure, the journey is both structured and rewarding, especially for students who want to stay local while earning a respected degree.

At Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCUHS), we’re proud to lead this change by opening Arizona’s first Doctor of Chiropractic program in January 2026. Designed with flexibility, clinical excellence, and career readiness in mind, our Phoenix Metro campus is ready to welcome the next generation of Arizona chiropractors.

What to Know Before You Apply to a DC Program

Arizona is entering a new era for chiropractic education, with its first in-state program launching soon—finally offering local students a chance to train and stay close to home. Until now, students from Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, Utah, and Nevada have had to relocate to pursue a Doctor of Chiropractic degree. But with a local option on the horizon, it’s important to know what’s needed to prepare and when to get started.

Most programs follow a rolling admissions process, meaning you can apply at multiple points throughout the year. That said, early application is encouraged to ensure you secure your spot and have time to prepare for interviews, financial aid, and any prerequisite completion. Once accepted, chiropractic programs typically begin three times per year (January, May, or September) and the full-time commitment runs about three to four years depending on your academic background and program format.

Admissions Requirements at a Glance

To be eligible for most chiropractic schools, including upcoming Arizona-based options, you’ll need:

• A minimum of 90 semester credits from a regionally accredited institution
• A strong foundation in sciences like biology, chemistry, and physics
• No MCAT or GRE required
• Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
• A personal statement outlining your motivation and career goals
• Letters of recommendation (usually from professors or healthcare professionals)

Many schools also value relevant experience like volunteer work, chiropractic shadowing, or jobs in health and wellness can help your application stand out. These experiences show commitment and give you real-world exposure to the field’s values and demands.

What Chiropractic Schools Are Looking For

Academic performance in science courses is important, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Programs want to see who you are beyond the classroom: how you think, how you lead, and why this path matters to you. Chiropractic is a hands-on, people-first profession, so admissions committees are looking for applicants who bring both intellect and heart to the table.

You’ll have an opportunity to communicate your passion through your statement of purpose. This is your space to talk about your journey, the moments that drew you to chiropractic care, and how you see your future in the field. Interview questions often explore these same themes so preparing early, practicing with mentors, and knowing your “why” can make a big difference.

How to Strengthen Your Application

Admissions teams are looking for well-rounded, purpose-driven individuals who are ready to succeed both in the classroom and in clinical settings. To give yourself an edge, consider:

• Volunteering in a healthcare setting
• Shadowing a licensed chiropractor
• Staying on top of deadlines for transcripts, financial aid, and interviews
• Asking for recommendation letters well in advance
• Taking time to craft a strong, clear personal statement

With the first Doctor of Chiropractic program arriving in Arizona, there’s a real opportunity for local students to be part of something new, while skipping the relocation headaches and out-of-state expenses.

Growth, Demand, and Career Opportunity in Arizona

The future of chiropractic careers in Arizona is filled with momentum. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 10% job growth for chiropractors nationwide through 2034, which is faster than average for all occupations. That trend is echoed, and accelerated, across Arizona, where population growth, evolving healthcare preferences, and the state’s dynamic wellness culture are creating steady demand for skilled chiropractic professionals.

Arizona’s Phoenix metro area is one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, and its healthcare systems are expanding to keep up. With this growth comes opportunity. More patients are seeking drug-free, preventative care, especially for chronic pain, mobility, and musculoskeletal conditions. At the same time, rural and underserved communities across Arizona face a shortage of providers who offer holistic, whole-person approaches to health. Chiropractic professionals are uniquely positioned to step into these roles.

There’s also a noticeable shift in how chiropractic care is being delivered. Beyond the traditional solo practice, chiropractors in Arizona are increasingly working in integrated healthcare environments, alongside physical therapists, acupuncturists, and medical doctors. Insurance networks are broadening their coverage of chiropractic services, making it more accessible to patients across income levels. That growing integration means greater job stability, higher earnings potential, and increased visibility in the wider health landscape.

Chiropractors in Arizona also have options to specialize. Whether you’re drawn to sports medicine, rehabilitation, prenatal and pediatric care, or serving veterans, there are many paths to build a career that aligns with your passion. It’s an exciting time to enter the field and Arizona offers a uniquely promising environment for doing just that.

Launching in 2026: Chiropractic Education with Flexibility

In January 2026, we’re proud to open the Phoenix Metro campus of Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCUHS)—Arizona’s first and only Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) program. This expansion means aspiring chiropractors in Arizona can now complete their entire education locally, with a flexible format built around real life. Our hybrid model blends online learning with immersive, in-person clinical training, giving students structure and flexibility in one powerful package.

This program was designed with Arizona students in mind. Whether you’re looking to stay close to home, switch careers, or train while balancing work and family, our hybrid DC program gives you that option without sacrificing the clinical experience that defines great chiropractors.

What to Expect at SCUHS Phoenix

We’ve built our Arizona program around the most important elements of a modern chiropractic education:

• Online academic courses with live, interactive faculty sessions
• 3–5 day clinical intensives every few weeks on campus in Phoenix
• Entry with 90+ undergraduate credits—no bachelor’s degree required to start
• Embedded BSHS degree option that allows you to earn your bachelor’s and doctorate together
• Clinical rotations at SCU Health Clinics and 500+ partner sites across Arizona
• Specialized tracks and electives in sports medicine, business, and more
• Dual doctorate pathways, including our DC + DACM option

With a curriculum rooted in evidence-based care and a strong foundation in hands-on practice, students graduate from SCUHS career-ready. Our Phoenix Metro program was developed for the needs of today’s learners: people who want access, opportunity, and a chiropractic education that meets them where they are. 

Financial Aid Support and Fixed Tuition Guarantee

We believe clarity and affordability are essential for students making long-term decisions about their education. That’s why we offer a fixed tuition guarantee—so you’ll know exactly what your tuition will be from day one through graduation. No surprise rate hikes or hidden fees along the way.

We’re committed to helping our students succeed financially as well as academically. If you have questions about what you qualify for or how to apply, our admissions and financial aid teams are here to support you at every step.

Ready to Build Your Career in Healthcare?

Choosing a chiropractic program is a big decision, especially when you’re looking for flexibility, clinical strength, and a local option that fits your life. With Arizona’s first Doctor of Chiropractic program now available through SCUHS, students can stay close to home while receiving a top-tier education, without needing to relocate or pause their careers.

Our hybrid format, career-focused training, and built-in bachelor’s degree pathway are designed for real-world goals and real-life schedules. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a future in chiropractic, we’re here to help make it happen. Apply to SCUHS today.

FAQs

What does it take to become a Doctor of Chiropractic in Arizona?

To become a chiropractor in Arizona, students must complete at least 90 undergraduate credits before enrolling in a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) program. After earning the degree, graduates must pass the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exams and apply for state licensure. The process usually takes around seven years in total and combines academic learning, hands-on training, and clinical experience.

How long does it take to complete a chiropractic degree?

Most Doctor of Chiropractic programs take about three and a half to four years of full-time study to complete. This timeline includes classroom coursework, laboratory instruction, and clinical rotations. Some programs offer hybrid or accelerated options that allow students to progress more efficiently while maintaining the same level of academic rigor and practical training.

What makes SCUHS’s Doctor of Chiropractic Arizona program unique?

We’re proud to offer Arizona’s first and only hybrid Doctor of Chiropractic program, launching January 2026 at our Phoenix Metro campus. Our model combines live online instruction with 3–5 day on-campus clinical intensives. This design provides flexibility for students balancing school, work, or family, all while maintaining the rigorous, hands-on training needed to prepare for a successful chiropractic career.

Where will SCUHS students complete clinical training in Arizona?

Students in our Phoenix Metro program will train at SCU Health Clinics and through partnerships with over 500 clinical sites across Arizona and beyond. These include hospitals, sports medicine centers, community health clinics, and veteran care facilities. Our goal is to give every student broad, real-world experience that builds confidence, strengthens patient care skills, and enhances employability.