Palmer graduates comprise one-third of the world's chiropractors, or about 18,000 active chiropractors. Teaching chiropractic as a self-contained health care system, Palmer focuses on the art, science and philosophy of the profession. The college offers a 10-trimester course of study leading to a doctor of chiropractic degree. The first year focuses on a thorough background in basic sciences comparable to that received in any health-science curriculum, plus chiropractic philosophy. The second year includes pre-clinical training and more chiropractic philosophy.
Students learn business and practice management throughout the curriculum.
Third-year students work under the direct supervision of a doctor of chiropractic to examine, diagnose and adjust patients in one of Palmer's teaching clinics. To be admitted, students must have completed specified prerequisite courses in a college or university program. Palmer also offers a Bachelor of Science degree in general sciences in conjunction with the doctor of chiropractic degree, as well as a Master of Science degree in anatomy. Copyright 2001, Moline Dispatch Publishing Co.