The Academy of Chiropractic Orthopedists

Master of Science:
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
(MSc: PM&R)

This process is part of the 2010 Project by the Academy of Chiropractic Orthopedists.

Academy of Chiropractic Orthopedists Recommendation

FAQs

1. What are the requirements to begin this educational tract?

Typically, graduate or advance degree programs begin when undergraduate work ends. In this instance The Academy is recommending that perspective institutions require at least the following: a GPA of 3.0 in undergraduate work and entry-level professional doctor of chiropractic program, a Bachelor of Science degree, evidence of potential success in graduate study as demonstrated through past work experiences, continuing education, and thru letters of recommendation. The Academy is further recommending institutions to make admission decisions based on an overall evaluation of all credentials submitted and the availability of space in the class.

2. Can I have either a BA or BS degree to qualify to pursue the Masters after I have my Diplomate?

Post-professional graduate studies enable chiropractic physicians to improve clinical knowledge and skills through a specific program of advanced physical medicine and rehabilitation practice and scholarship. While a bachelor’s degree is not required to complete diplomate studies in chiropractic orthopedics, it is a requirement to apply for and participate in a masters program.

3. What benefits are there to obtaining this advanced degree?

The traditional process of graduate education to the masters or doctoral level, organized around an intensive research experience, has served as a world model for the advanced training of graduates. Graduate programs in chiropractic orthopedic science are therefore important not only as sources of future leaders in the profession, but also as an indispensable underpinning of national professional strength and prosperity--sustaining the creativity and intellectual vigor needed to address a growing range of chiropractic concerns. Graduate chiropractic orthopedists and specialists must continue the expansion of fundamental knowledge. They must also make that knowledge useful in the world.

4. Will credits from a current Masters degree apply to any part of the MSc: PM&R program?

A chiropractic orthopedist is a chiropractic physician who has completed postgraduate training leading towards board certification as a chiropractic orthopedic specialist. As institutions and advanced learners are acutely aware, nearly all chiropractic graduate educational experiences and designations are nonsequitur in the traditional graduate, advanced degree realm. The Diplomate designation of any chiropractic specialty program is not synonymous with a Master or PhD academic degree. This is equally true for chiropractic orthopedics. The Academy is recommending that institutions offering the chiropractic orthopedics programs develop a transferable credit system. This allows transfer of credits between programs and institutions, as in traditional advanced degree settings.

5. I've been in practice now for several years, I can't go back to school now, is there away for me to pursue this opportunity?

In the absence of full-time programming, the Academy expects development of a “hybrid Residency” program, and that a minimum number of years in private practice will be required for entrance to the program. This will be determined by the respective institution offering the advanced degree program and may vary from institution to institution. The milestones for achievement in the chiropractic orthopedics graduate program, include, but are not limited to: attendance, thesis development and presentation, research component, case reports, literature reviews, book reports, presentations, and seminars etc. Attendance must be held to 90% or better for successful completion.

6. Do the institutions have scholarship money or student loans available?

The number one concern for most students is financing their education. While part-time programs do allow a student to generate more income during a graduate program, they also tend to cost more, overall. It is also important to note that specialty programs usually set aside a larger percent of grant and scholarship monies for full-time students, since part-time students will be able to earn income while in the program.

AMA Scope of Practice Documents (PDF files)

See Resolution 814 here

See the Report here

It is the Academy's opinion that these documents and their direction have the potential to have a negative impact on the specialty as we know it today. These documents are evidence and support the Academy's mission to have advanced degrees available (MSc: PM&R) to orthopedic certficates.

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