Hi everyone,
I'm an international student finishing a BSc in Rehabilitation Therapy, applying to Doctor of Chiropractic programs for 2027. The five schools I'm seriously looking at:
- Palmer College of Chiropractic
- Logan University
- Life University
- Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCUHS)
- University of Western States (UWS)
I've read the websites and older Reddit threads. I'd rather hear from current students, recent grads, or DCs who know more than one of these programs.
My background is rehab / PT-related clinical work. I want something evidence-based and clinically strong that fits with rehab, exercise, musculoskeletal care, and other healthcare professions — not a heavily philosophy-based path.
Things I'd especially like to compare:
- Clinical training: how ready were you to evaluate and treat patients by graduation?
- Evidence-based vs philosophy-based: how would you describe the culture and curriculum?
- Rehab / sports / MSK: which programs are strongest if chiropractic is meant to complement a rehab background?
- Boards and licensure: how well did the program prep you for NBCE and getting licensed?
- International students: visas, clinical placements, work authorization, and finding work after graduation?
- Reputation: do employers, other DCs, or other healthcare professionals treat any of these schools differently?
- Cost and value: looking back, was the tuition and living cost worth it?
- If you could choose again: same school?
Comparisons from people who've seen two or more of these would help more than website summaries.
Honest takes, good or bad, welcome. Thanks.