Gain real-world experience through a preceptorship
Palmer College holds preceptorship agreements with more than 6,000 chiropractic offices across the country. Through the Intern Preceptorship Program, students in their final term can gain clinical experience under the supervision of a licensed chiropractor who’ll serve as a mentor.
During the Intern Preceptorship Program, you’ll build upon your academic and clinical experience, gain business experience, and learn how to manage a private practice. In addition, participating students who precept in the state in which they intend to practice can learn the nuances of care, regional regulations and other region-specific information to further prepare them for success in practice.
Through preceptorships students can:
Gain a lifelong mentor
Experience a variety of treatment protocols
Learn practical clinical and business skills
The location of your preceptorship impacts what type of work you may do. An ideal experience would allow you to perform chiropractic adjustments, examinations and X-rays. State regulations may limit your responsibilities to those performed by a chiropractic assistant, or observation only.
Important Student Documents:
Preceptor Doctor Documents:
Preceptorship Program – FAQs for Chiropractic Student
What is a chiropractic preceptorship at Palmer College
The Intern Preceptorship Program is an optional, off-campus clinical education experience available to qualified students in their final trimester. Students gain clinical and business mentorship under a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic in one of over 6,000 approved chiropractic practices across the country. This hands-on experience may include chiropractic adjustments, patient examinations, X-rays, and exposure to business operations.
When do Palmer students complete a chiropractic preceptorship?
Students are eligible to participate in a preceptorship during their 10th trimester at Palmer College.
How do I apply for a chiropractic preceptorship?
Start by reviewing the Preceptorship Handbook, paying close attention to eligibility requirements. Begin your search early using the preceptor database, accessible with your student login, or visit the campus Preceptorship Program Office for personalized assistance.
Where can I complete a chiropractic preceptorship?
Palmer College works with over 6,000 approved Doctors of Chiropractic nationwide. Use the preceptor database to find a match. If you would like to work with a doctor who is not yet registered, they can apply at www.palmer.edu/precept.
What should I look for in a chiropractic preceptor?
Choose a preceptor who offers mentorship, regular dialogue, and opportunities to participate in patient care and administrative tasks. Consider factors like location, clinic culture, patient demographics, and clinical focus. For example, if you’re interested in pediatric or sports chiropractic, look for a practice that aligns with those goals.
What are the benefits of completing a chiropractic preceptorship?
A preceptorship provides valuable clinical and business experience outside of Palmer’s on-campus clinics. It helps students build confidence, refine skills, and prepare for professional success after graduation.
