Chiropractic

Chiropractors are primary contact practitioners focusing on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

Chiropractic emphasises the relationship between the musculoskeletal system and general health. It promotes self-help measures and health promotion in the management of musculoskeletal disorders.

You will examine how such disorders affect biomechanics, the nervous system and health in general. The focus is on manual treatments such as spinal adjustments and other joint and soft-tissue manipulation.

Anatomy, physiology and pathology courses underpin the clinical science studies of physical examination, differential diagnosis for the chiropractor and clinical practicum.

You will begin work-integrated  learning immediately, culminating in your fourth year when you will perform patient-care duties with supervision from a registered practitioner.

Year 1

Anatomy and physiology are emphasised and you will be introduced to chiropractic history and basic assessment.

Year 2

The focus is on advanced anatomy including neuroanatomy and chiropractic studies.

Year 3

You'll begin integrating your basic sciences knowledge with what you've learned in the ongoing chiropractic classes.

Year 4

You'll enter RMIT’s teaching clinic and start treating patients, supervised by clinical teaching staff.

Year 5

You'll continue patient care and have the opportunity to do this in private clinics in Australia and overseas.

You must have successfully completed an Australian Year 12 (or equivalent senior secondary school qualification) with a minimum 70% average (check calculator below).

Equivalent qualifications may also include completion of the RMIT Foundation Studies program or a recognised post secondary diploma in the relevant discipline with the required grades.

Meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee entry. Your application will still need to be assessed and accepted. 

Successful applicants

This program includes a professional practice work placement.

You must hold registration as a student chiropractor (with the Chiropractic Board of Australia), a current first aid certificate, and a Working with Children check. You must be prepared to undergo a Police Check in year 1 and each subsequent year of the program when you are registered with the Australian Health Practitioners Registration Authority (AHPRA) as a student of Chiropractic.

Selection tasks

None

English language requirements

To study this program you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

• IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
• TOEFL (Paper based): TOEFL (Paper based): minimum score of 580 (TWE 4.5)
• TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 92 (with minimum of 20 in all sections)
• Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) 176 with no less than 169 in any component

The Bachelor of Health Science (Chiropractic) at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology offers a comprehensive overview of the financial aspects associated with pursuing this degree program. Prospective students should consider several key components when planning their finances, including tuition fees, additional costs, and available funding options. The tuition fees vary depending on whether the student is domestic or international. Domestic students are typically charged a lower fee rate, while international students pay a higher tuition fee reflective of overseas study costs. As of the latest available data, the approximate annual tuition fee for domestic students is AU$10,000, whereas international students might expect to pay around AU$33,600 per year. These fees are indicative and subject to change each academic year, so students should verify current rates directly through the RMIT admissions office or official website.

In addition to tuition, students should budget for mandatory student health insurance, textbooks, supplies, and clinical placement expenses, which are essential components of the chiropractic program. Clinical placements are a vital part of the curriculum, providing practical experience in real-world settings. These placements may incur additional costs such as transportation, uniforms, and equipment. Moreover, students should factor in living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses, which are substantial considerations when studying in Melbourne, a city known for its vibrant culture and high quality of life.

Financial aid options are available to support students financially. Australian citizens and eligible permanent residents can access government-supported financial schemes such as HECS-HELP, which defers tuition fees until after graduation when the student’s income reaches a specified threshold. International students are generally required to pay fees upfront, but they can explore scholarships and bursaries offered by RMIT or external organizations aimed at supporting international health sciences students.

RMIT also provides various scholarship programs based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the student’s background or intended specialization. Application deadlines and eligibility criteria vary; thus, prospective students should consult the official RMIT scholarship database for the most current and detailed information. Moreover, some students choose to supplement their income through part-time work options available in Melbourne, which has a diverse job market and supports student employment.

In summary, financing studies at RMIT for the Chiropractic program involves understanding tuition fee structures, planning for living and educational expenses, and exploring assistance options such as government loans, scholarships, and part-time employment. Budgeting carefully and seeking financial advice will enable students to manage their educational journey effectively and focus on achieving their academic and professional goals within the chiropractic field.

The Bachelor of Health Science (Chiropractic) at RMIT University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a career in chiropractic care, a health discipline focused on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those affecting the spine. The program emphasizes a combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and clinical experience to ensure graduates are well-equipped to provide effective patient-centered care. Students will engage with a broad curriculum that covers human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, pathology, and evidence-based practice, alongside specialized chiropractic techniques and adjustments. The program also integrates professional practice elements, including ethics, communication skills, and patient management, preparing students for real-world clinical environments.

Throughout the course, students benefit from access to RMIT’s modern teaching facilities, including dedicated chiropractic clinics where they can apply their skills in supervised settings. The program is structured to span over three years of full-time study, with opportunities for internships and placements in accredited clinics, ensuring practical readiness upon graduation. RMIT’s curriculum aligns with national professional standards, enabling graduates to register as chiropractors with relevant health authorities in Australia and pursue careers in private practice, multidisciplinary clinics, health organizations, or research.

The program is accredited by the Australian Chiropractic Regulation and Compensation Authority (ACRCA), reflecting its quality and compliance with professional standards. students receive mentorship from experienced faculty members who are experts in chiropractic care and related fields. The program also encourages a multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration with other health professionals, which is vital in holistic patient care. Graduates of the program are expected to be competent, ethical, and confident practitioners capable of making a positive impact on individual and community health.

The Bachelor of Health Science (Chiropractic) at RMIT also provides pathways for further study, including postgraduate qualifications and specializations within the chiropractic field or related health disciplines. The university fosters an innovative learning environment that emphasizes research, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. Overall, the program aims to produce well-rounded, skilled chiropractors who are prepared to meet the evolving demands of healthcare and contribute to the well-being of their communities.