At Palmer College of Chiropractic, we prepare our students to lead the profession. One of the most transformative opportunities available to students is the Department of Defense/Veterans Affairs (DoD/VA) Student Rotation Program, which offers students a chance to serve those who’ve served, while gaining experience in some of the most integrated health care systems in the country.
What Is the DoD/VA Rotation?
This optional, off-campus clinical rotation is available to qualified students in their 9th and 10th trimesters. Participants train in multidisciplinary settings at VA hospitals and DoD facilities across the U.S., working under the supervision of licensed Doctors of Chiropractic and alongside professionals in primary care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, pain management and more. Palmer has agreements with more than 50 DoD/VA locations across the country!
VA Chiropractic Care: A System Built for Integration
Veterans have access to chiropractic care through the VA in two ways:
- On-Station Care: Available at facilities with VA chiropractors.
- Community Care: When local VA clinics are unavailable or wait times are too long, the VA covers care at private practices.
The VA system is a national leader in chiropractic clinical training and research. It emphasizes evidence-based care, interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. All patient records are housed in a unified system, giving providers a comprehensive view of each patient’s health history.
Clinical Experience Highlights
Students in the rotation work with a high volume of complex patients, often managing comorbidities such as diabetes, cancer and post-surgical conditions. Training is progressive, and students may expect a progression such as:
- Weeks 1–2: Observation
- Weeks 3+: Follow-up patient care
- Later weeks: New patient management and complex case handling
Students gain more autonomy over time. This progression encourages students to strengthen critical thinking and clinical decision-making skills. The environment is strongly pro-chiropractic, with excellent collaboration across disciplines and a shared commitment to patient-centered care.
Who Should Apply?
The ideal candidate for the DoD/VA rotation is:
- Passionate, committed and eager to learn
- Grounded in an evidence-based mindset
- Interested in integrative, academic, hospital or research settings
- Academically strong—though GPA is only part of the story.
Application Process and Timeline
Students apply during the first week of their 8th trimester via the Palmer Portal. The application includes:
- A personal essay
- Resume or CV
- Two letters of recommendation
- An interview
If accepted, students will receive placement before the start of their 9th trimester. Those who decline a VA placement may pursue a preceptorship instead.
View the DoD/VA Student Rotation Handbook.
Important Notes:
- Students must meet Palmer clinic requirements through the 8th trimester (adjustments, exams, X-rays) before starting the rotation.
- Students continue earning Palmer credits during the 9th and 10th trimesters while fulfilling VA program requirements.
Why It Matters
This rotation is more than a clinical experience, it’s a chance to serve veterans, grow as a health care professional and represent Palmer’s commitment to excellence. You’ll gain exposure to complex cases, develop interprofessional communication skills and learn to deliver evidence-based chiropractic care in a collaborative environment.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
The DoD/VA Student Rotation Program is a powerful opportunity to grow as a clinician, serve those who’ve served and represent Palmer College of Chiropractic in high-impact health care environments.
Current students should apply through the Palmer Portal.
