Troy University’s New Chiropractic Program: A Game Changer for Alabama
Troy University has exciting news! They recently got the green light for a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) program at their Dothan Campus. This approval came during a meeting with the Alabama Commission on Higher Education on September 12. The final stamp of approval will come from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
This new program is significant. Troy will be just the second public university in the U.S. to offer a chiropractic doctorate. This makes them a key player in making chiropractic education more accessible across the Southeast.
Dr. Jack Hawkins Jr., the Chancellor at Troy University, highlighted the importance of this addition. He said it reflects their ongoing mission to improve healthcare education access.
The D.C. program will be part of the College of Health Sciences, aiming to meet the rising demand for chiropractors in Alabama and neighboring states. With a pressing need for healthcare professionals, especially in rural areas, this program hopes to equip new practitioners to fill those gaps.
State Senator Donnie Chesteen praised the university’s efforts, emphasizing Troy’s tradition of innovation. Similarly, Dr. Mike Massey from the American Chiropractic Association mentioned the tremendous opportunities this program will offer. He believes it will enhance collaboration among healthcare professionals and boost the visibility of chiropractic care overall.
Dr. Renee Bowen, Chair of the Alabama State Board of Chiropractic, also supported the program, noting how it resulted from teamwork between the university, lawmakers, and the board. She expressed excitement about the strengthened foundations in health education it will provide.
Dr. Brad Russell, a board member of the Alabama State Board of Chiropractic Examiners, pointed out that Alabama faces a healthcare provider shortage, particularly in rural areas. This new D.C. program aims to address that challenge, training professionals who truly understand the region’s healthcare needs.
Dr. LaGary Carter, Dean of the College of Health Sciences, emphasized that the program will fill a vital educational gap. It aims to offer an affordable path to entering the rewarding chiropractic field.
Students can expect to enroll in Fall 2027 if all accreditation goes smoothly. The Dothan Campus was chosen strategically, as it serves as a hub for students from Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and beyond.
The timing for this program couldn’t be better. With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting strong job growth in chiropractic care over the next decade, interest in non-drug pain management options is increasing. This puts chiropractic services in high demand, especially among an aging population.
In summary, Troy University’s new chiropractic program is more than just an academic initiative. It represents a crucial step forward in addressing healthcare needs in Alabama and the Southeast. By nurturing the next generation of chiropractors, the program aims to improve access to quality care for everyone.
For further insights on the growth of chiropractic care, you can check out the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics here.
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Chiropractic,College of Health Sciences,Dothan,Dothan Campus,Dr. Jack Hawkins,Dr. LaGary Carter
