Key Programme Information

The Integrated Master’s Degree in Chiropractic (MChiro) is a pre-registration, professional degree programme delivered by the Scotland College of Chiropractic which prepares graduates for chiropractic practice in the United Kingdom and internationally.

Programme Description

The World Health Organisation defines chiropractic as ‘A health care profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system and the effects of these disorders on general health’.

Students preparing themselves for practice as a chiropractor must become proficient in the areas of anatomy, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and the manual, psychomotor and behavioural skills associated with clinical practice including health promotion.

Programme Structure

The MChiro is a four-year programme (full-time) with eight modules at each of Levels 4, 5 and 6 and five modules at Level 7. All modules within each level should be passed for you to progress to the next level.

  • The awarding body is Buckinghamshire New University and the accrediting body is The General Chiropractic Council*.

    *Recruitment is subject to Accreditation from the GCC.

  • The Scotland College of Chiropractic, 124a Raeburn Place, Edinburgh, EH4 1HG

    Observation of healthcare practitioners and other study visits within Edinburgh and the wider Scotland area.

  • Lectures, seminars, practical classes, and guided independent study.

  • Written exams (including case-based written tests); practical exams (including clinical entrance and exit exams); written assignments  (essay, critique of peer-reviewed papers, case reports/studies, group project); Clinical Practice portfolios; oral presentation; and research project (including literature review, research proposal and ethics application).

  • Students must be members of Disclosure Scotland’s PVG scheme before enrolling.

    Some classroom exercises enabling students to develop/practise technique-based skills may require the removal of clothes down to underwear, sports wear, and leggings, in front of groups of people.

Entry Requirements

  • Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers at AABBB or above to include Biology and at least two of the following: Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Environmental Science, Psychology, Sociology, Physical Education/Sports Science) and National 5 Maths and English at C or above.

  • ABB or above (excluding General Studies) in Biology and two other science subjects from the following: Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Psychology, Sociology, Environmental Science, Physical Education/Sports Science; and GCSE Maths and English at 4 or above.

  • Overall grade of 34 points with science at H6 or above.

  • Minimum of 5 subjects at Higher level with grades H2, H2, H3, H3, H3 or above. This should include Biology and one other science subject.

  • 45 credits at Level 3 with at least 30 credits at Distinction (including all Biology modules) and remaining 15 credits at Merit. Other Access programmes will be accepted.

  • AAB in all Life Science or Medical Studies programmes. To include all units in Biology and/or Human Biology and Chemistry at SCQF Level 6 or above.

    For more information about SWAP please visit: https://swap-east.ed.ac.uk/  

If your qualifications are not in line with those listed please contact admissions@scotlandcollegechiro.ac.uk to discuss further.

What You Will Study

All modules are 15 credits unless otherwise indicated.

Year 1 (Level 4)

Semester 1Semester 2
Principles of Human BiologyHuman Body Systems 2
Human Body Systems 1Chemistry for Life
Studying & Researching ScienceProfessional Identity 2
Professional Identity 1Introduction to Communication & Behavioural Science

Year 2 (Level 5)

Semester 1Semester 2
Clinical Assessment 1Clinical Assessment 2
Technique 1Evidence & Ethics in Contemporary Chiropractic Practice
Pathology & MicrobiologyTechnique 2
NeuroscienceRadiography

Year 3 (Level 6)

Semester 1Semester 2
Diagnostic Imaging 1Differential Diagnosis & Management 2
Differential Diagnosis & Management 1Special Populations 1
RehabilitationDiagnostic Imaging 2
Technique 3Chiropractic Clinical Practice 1

Year 4 (Level 7)

Semester 1Semester 2
Chiropractic Clinical Practice 2 (30 credits)Chiropractic Clinical Practice 3 (30 credit)
Research Project (30 credits)
Special Populations 2Integrated Clinical Management

Module Overviews

Year 1 Semester 1

  • This module provides you with a knowledge of human biology and underpins further studies in biochemistry (CH406), physiology (CH402, CH405) and pathology (CH503). It incorporates a review of general chemistry, cell theory, membrane transport, genetics, homeostasis and tissues and organ systems of the human body. You will learn about the molecular and physical structures of cells, their biochemical and physiological functions and their components, as well as the genetic basis of inheritance. 

  • This is the first of two modules that will introduce you to human anatomy and physiology that is fundamental to the practice of Chiropractic. In this module you will develop knowledge of the structures and organisational principles of the spine, limbs, and trunk. Using an integrated approach, the gross, functional and radiographic anatomy, biomechanics, histology and physiology are explored in detail. You will also be introduced to the embryological processes which form the human body from fertilisation to birth. The module develops your ability to describe the structure-function relationships and levels of organisation within the body, effectively utilise anatomical terminology, and understand and describe the anatomy and physiology of the regions and systems to be studied.  

  • In this module, you will develop the skills and knowledge which will enable you to identify, retrieve, and critically evaluate scientific research required for studying and working in the health sciences. The module will commence with an introduction to computer use and database searches, study skills, academic writing, reflective writing and referencing styles. You will learn about the history of science, as well as the epistemology and ontology of research in healthcare. You will also be introduced to how to critically evaluate a range of scientific research publications, so you can learn to recognise the inherent strengths and limitations of different research methods. Each type of research methodology provides different kinds of knowledge, and its important as a healthcare professional that you know what type of evidence each type of study provides. You will gain a fundamental understanding of epidemiological and statistical terms. 

  • n this module you will be introduced to the history of the chiropractic profession and commence developing the fundamental skills required for the evaluation of patients in chiropractic practice. The focus of your practical sessions will include the initial patient assessment through postural analysis, range of motion assessment, and palpation for bony and superficial landmarks. In work integrated learning activities, you will observe qualified chiropractors in practice and reflect on your experience in the Clinical Practice Portfolio which will continue across all four years of your study. 

Year 1 Semester 2

  • This module continues your studies of the anatomy and physiology of the human body, focussing on the brain and the viscera of the thorax, abdomen and pelvis. Using an integrated approach, the gross, functional and radiological anatomy, biomechanics, histology, and physiology are explored in detail. Emphasis is placed on the relationship of visceral structure to function, especially with respect to the important functions of breathing, digestion, excretion and reproduction. The knowledge you gain of the brain and special senses will underpin further studies in neuroscience. 

  • In this module you will develop an understanding of biochemistry and the biomedical science of immunology and haematology. In the biochemistry component you will learn about the structure and biological role of amino acids, proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates and lipids. This includes an understanding of how these biomolecules are synthesised, catabolised and interconverted through key biochemical pathways to meet the needs of the cell and organism. The haematology and immunology component will introduce you to the development and function of cells in the blood, bone marrow and immune tissues, and the role that these cells play in the body.   

  • This module introduces you to the philosophy undy pinning chiropractic and the theories which underpin chiropractic practice. You will develop further your familiarity with the GCC Code and continue to learn about the biomechanics of human movement. In practical sessions, you will continue to develop tactile and palpatory skills with a focus on the analysis of movement using techniques such as motion palpation and gait analysis. In work integrated learning activities you will observe qualified health professionals in their own practices and continue to reflect on your professional development in your Clinical Practice Portfolio. 

  • This module sets out the importance of communication skills and behavioural science to health care practice. You will learn about, and begin to develop, the communication skills that are crucial to developing and maintaining successful professional relationships, including the practitioner-client relationship and multidisciplinary team relationships. In a behavioural science component you will be introduced to the literature and scientific study of human behaviour, psychology and mental processes. There is also an overview of human behaviour and fundamental psychology as this relates to the contemporary practice of chiropractic. 

Year 2 Semester 1

  • Building on your knowledge of the GCC Code, you will develop an understanding of evidence-informed and patient-centred approaches to clinical assessment and care. In this module you will learn the rationale for undertaking and acquire the skills necessary for conducting a clinical case history and physical evaluation of the nervous and orthopaedic systems to assess normal and abnormal findings.  In conjunction with your developing knowledge of neuroscience you will learn about the physiological basis of procedures designed to test the nervous system such as assessment of the sensory and motor systems as well as reflex assessments, whilst in practical classes you will learn how to perform these tests.  Building on your knowledge of biomechanics you will learn the physiological basis of orthopaedic testing procedures designed to assess the musculoskeletal system. In practical classes you will put this knowledge into practice by performing orthopaedic tests used to evaluate the spine, pelvis and extremities.  

  • This module introduces you to common therapeutic procedures used by chiropractors in the treatment of patients. You will learn soft tissue, stretching and mobilization procedures and practise diversified pre-adjustive set-ups as this concerns the spine, pelvis and extremities. You will also learn adjustive techniques commonly used by chiropractors to manage disorders of the extremities alongside the biomechanical and kinematic principles which underpin these procedures and the indications and contraindications to their use. In practical classes you will develop your psychomotor skills in a structured and sequential manner to apply these procedures both safely and effectively, in line with the relevant principles of the GCC Code. In work integrated learning activities you will observe qualified chiropractors in practice and continue to record your professional development in your Clinical Practice Portfolio.  

  • This module introduces you to the fields of pathology and microbiology. You will study the basic cell and tissue changes which underlie the process of disease such as ischemia, inflammation and neoplasia as well as the responses seen in the healing process. You will also study topics in general and clinical microbiology, including the pathogenesis of infectious diseases of relevance within the UK community, their importance to public health and the interdisciplinary management of such conditions. What you learn in this module will underpin further studies in systemic pathology and diagnosis. 

  •  

    This module builds on your previous studies in human anatomy and physiology to further develop your knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the nervous system in both health and disease. You will gain knowledge of the properties of excitable tissue, synapses and neurotransmitters, which will underpin your understanding of the brain, special senses, spinal cord, peripheral and autonomic nervous systems, and the practical assessment of these systems in the Clinical Assessment 1 module. This knowledge will also provide the basis of understanding the adverse outcomes of neurological disease at a cellular, organ and system level. 

Year 2 Semester 2

  • In this module you will learn about clinical conditions affecting body systems other than the musculoskeletal system and the way these conditions can be assessed in chiropractic practice. Building on your knowledge of pathology you will examine the aetiology, pathogenesis and clinical presentation of important non-musculoskeletal disorders. In practical classes you will be introduced to the foundation practice and principles of undertaking a structured patient examination. You will practice commonly utilised medical examination procedures with an emphasis on procedures to assist the chiropractor differentiate serious disorders which require medical referral.  You will continue to develop your skills in professional and appropriate behaviour associated with the conduct of these examinations. 

  • In this module you will learn the importance of evidence-based practice to health care professionals. The module traces the history of evidence-based practice including arguments which have developed for and against its incorporation into health care practice. The module also examines the role of patient and practitioner experience in the application of evidence-based practice. You will learn how to identify and critically evaluate a range of research studies, using the appropriate validated tools to do so; and you will learn about the research methods that inform our understanding of the epidemiology, diagnosis, prognosis, quantification of risks of care and establishing associations between interventions and adverse effects, all of which will help inform your management of patients. Patient and/or carer perspectives and experiences are equally important. Critically understanding and evaluating the scientific knowledge available will enable you to communicate and utilise research findings in practice in an appropriate and ethical manner. When providing high quality chiropractic care it is essential to maintain ethical standards and accurately represent the available evidence in order not to make unsubstantiated claims about any care approaches.  This module also considers the principles of risk management and practice safety applicable to chiropractors in the UK health care environment.  

  • In this module you will be introduced to the fields of Thompson-Derefeld and Activator techniques. You will learn the importance of the critical selection of techniques in any given clinical scenario and the indications and contraindications to patient management. In practical classes you will develop your psychomotor skills in a structured and sequential manner to apply your adjustments both safely and effectively, in line with the relevant principles of the GCC Code.  In work integrated learning activities you will observe qualified chiropractors in practice and continue to record your professional development in your Clinical Practice Portfolio.  

  • This module introduces you to the safe and effective use of digital radiographic imaging systems to take radiographs of patients. It begins with the important elements of physics and radiation science underpinning the production of high-quality radiographic images consistent with the role of chiropractors, and continues to examine imaging technology and techniques used in contemporary diagnostic imaging practice.  The importance of exposure factors, correct patient positioning and patient protection across a range of simulated patient presentations to ensure the safe production of radiographs is emphasised, together with the legislation relevant to chiropractors in this area. An introduction to normal and abnormal radiographic appearances is also explored.     

Year 3 Semester 1 

  • This is the first of two modules which develop your skills in the interpretation of radiographic images.  Building on the skills gained in the CH508 Radiography module you will continue to develop the ability to recognise and describe the appearance of radiographic images in respect to both technical and diagnostic quality. Using a systematic approach you will learn how to identify the radiographic characteristics of a range of normal variants, congenital anomalies, musculoskeletal injuries and pathologies which may appear in clinical practice. Your ability to recognise these abnormalities and pathologies, and recognise contraindications to care and the need for referral when required, is developed in this module. 

  • This module focuses on common neuromusculoskeletal disorders which may be encountered in contemporary chiropractic practice. The aetiology, incidence, pathophysiology, clinical features, differential diagnosis and management of these conditions are discussed. You will gain a detailed understanding of the chiropractic management of people presenting with these disorders, including health promotion, the benefits of a multi-disciplinary/integrated care approach and the requirements for co-management and referral. In tutorials, you will discuss relevant cases in a manner which supports both group and individual problem-solving skills, choose your final-year research project topic and, as part of your portfolio work, conduct a literature review on that topic. The practical exam of this module constitutes the clinical entrance examination for progression to seeing supervised patient care of students in Chiropractic Clinical Practice I.

  • In this module you will learn the fundamental principles of rehabilitation including those relevant to recovery from and the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders. In lectures you will develop a detailed understanding of the physiological, biomechanical and psychosocial limitations associated with injury and recovery and the role of various allied health practitioners in assisting patients with these disorders. In practical classes you will develop skills which can be applied in musculoskeletal rehabilitation including the assessment of patients using instrument-based questionnaires. 

  • In this module you will continue to develop your psychomotor and adjusting skills with an emphasis on the fields of Gonstead Technique and Upper Cervical examination and technique. You will learn the use of electromechanical and adjunct therapies in chiropractic practice, the physiological and biomechanical principles, theory and practical procedures associated with these techniques and procedures and the indications and contraindications to their use. In practical classes you will develop your psychomotor skills in a structured and sequential manner to apply your adjustments both safely and effectively, in line with the relevant principles of the GCC Code.  In work integrated learning activities you will observe and work with qualified chiropractors in practice and continue to record your professional development in your Clinical Practice Portfolio. 

Year 3 Semester 2

  • In this module you learn about disorders which are less commonly seen in chiropractic practice including those of a serious nature and requiring referral. Disorders which may mimic the symptoms of neuromusculoskeletal disorders yet originate in other body systems are explored.  The clinical features which distinguish these from more commonly encountered disorders will be highlighted and the aetiology, incidence, pathophysiology, clinical features, differential diagnosis, and management explored. You will gain a detailed understanding of the chiropractic management of people presenting with these disorders including the requirements for co-management and referral. In tutorials you will be presented with relevant cases for discussion in a manner which supports both group and individual problem-solving skills. The practical exam of this module constitutes the clinical entrance examination for progression to supervised care of members of the public at Level 7. You will also compile, as part of your portfolio, a research proposal and ethics application based on your chosen research topic.  

  • In this module you will learn about the normal ageing process and pathological disorders affecting the older adult patient including indications and contradictions to care and safe management. A sports performance component will focus on disorders affecting athletes at various stages of life. You will also learn about health care issues which can affect other population groups including those with physical and mental disability. You will gain a detailed understanding of the chiropractic management of people presenting in these groups including health promotion and the requirements for co-management and referral. In practical classes you will be shown, and will practice, techniques to assist the management of those with sports injuries. 

  • This is the second of two modules which will develop your skills in the interpretation of radiographic images.  Building upon the skills in radiographic interpretation you have gained in CH601 you will continue to develop the ability to recognise and describe the appearance of radiographic images in respect to both technical and diagnostic quality. Using a systematic approach, you will learn how to identify the radiographic characteristics of a range of injuries and pathologies including those of a non-musculoskeletal nature affecting the chest and abdomen. You will also be introduced to radiographic findings as elicited by imaging modalities including CT, MRI and musculoskeletal ultrasound. Your ability to recognise both normal appearances and abnormalities and pathologies and to appreciate the need for referral when required is highlighted in this module.  

  • This is the first of three chiropractic practice modules which will see you engage in the assessment and management of patients. It will review and then draw together knowledge and skills previously acquired and apply these in a structured, integrated and clinically relevant manner in preparation for clinical internship. Lectures will continue to guide you in relation to the GCC Code and will introduce clinical guidelines and the public health policies which underpin practice. In tutorials and practical classes, you will review and then practise assessment and management procedures required for ethical, safe and effective patient care in a simulated clinical setting. You will also complete a basic first-aid course. Patient care commences, managing student patients in a supervised student clinic. You will continue to record your personal development in your portfolio.  

Year 4 Semesters 1 and 2

  • In this module you will be taught the skills to enable you to conduct and complete a research project. Following approval of your ethics application you will collect and critically analyse your project data, draft your research manuscript, present your findings to a panel and submit your final written thesis. By implementing the principles of ethical approval for research involving human participants you will gain an understanding of ethical and governance issues in conducting research or recruiting patients as research participants. Conducting a full research project will enable you to understand key issues surrounding the dissemination of research findings, including what you can and cannot claim from individual studies, and concepts of authorship and intellectual property. You will become familiar with the processes for peer review through publication and gain an awareness of research career pathways, research networking and collaboration.  

Year 4 Semester 1

  • This is the second of three clinical practice modules where you provide supervised patient care to members of the public in an on-campus chiropractic clinical teaching facility. You will engage in all aspects of the clinical decision-making process including history taking and appropriate physical and radiographic assessment and, in discussion with a supervisor, the formation of differential and working diagnoses and an appropriate ethical patient-centred/people-centred evidence-informed management plan. You will critically evaluate patient progress identifying the need for co-management and referral when needed. You will also learn how to support your patient in their care through the involvement of other stakeholders such as employers and relatives. Your progress throughout this module will be carefully monitored by clinical supervisors and feedback and advice provided at regular review points.  Your clinical activity is supplemented by regular case-based tutorials where in oral presentations and student-led problem-based learning activities you will discuss real-world clinical scenarios. You will continue to reflect on your professional practice in your portfolios. This module consolidates your understanding of the legal and ethical obligations of the chiropractor under UK law, the GCC Code and the critical analysis of theories underpinning the practice of chiropractic.  

  • In this module you will learn about the ethical assessment and care of patients within the paediatric, adolescent and pregnant populations. You will study the normal development of both childhood and pregnancy as well as common abnormalities and disorders affecting patients within these population groups. You will learn the appropriate assessment and management of these patients including techniques and procedures associated with the safe and effective provision of ethical chiropractic care, co-management/integrated care and referral, in line with the GCC Code. Building on your knowledge of behavioural science, a psychology component will focus on the importance of mental health to chiropractic care, including an understanding and recognition of the most common disorders and appropriate referral. 

Year 4 Semester 2

  • This is the final of three clinical practice modules. Successful completion of this module will see you meet the undergraduate clinical training requirements. Throughout this module you will continue to provide care to patients in a supervised setting, and progression through this module will see you assume greater autonomy as your knowledge and skills further develop. Your progress throughout this module will be carefully monitored by clinical supervisors and feedback and advice provided at regular review points. Your clinical activity is supplemented by regular case-based tutorials where, through oral presentations and student led problem-based learning activities you will discuss real-world clinical scenarios. The module includes a small business management component, providing you with the knowledge, skills and understanding of the legal compliance required to be successful in a clinical business environment; it builds critical thinking and leadership skills for excellence in ethical small business enterprise. You will continue to record your clinical work and professional development in your portfolios. The module also includes a critical thinking component where topics of controversy surrounding the chiropractic profession will be discussed and debated. At the successful completion of all requirements and with the approval of clinical supervisors, you will be eligible to undertake the clinical exit examination which will serve as the capstone evaluation of knowledge and skills across the MChiro course in preparation for graduation. 

  • In this module you will learn about adjunctive management utilised in chiropractic practice in the field of clinical nutrition. You will learn the nutritional requirements for optimal health and well- being in the general population and the significance and effects of nutrition on health and disease.  You will also learn the general principles of pharmacology and understand how drugs work in the various body systems. An emphasis is placed on nutrition-drug interactions and public health concerns and initiatives which may impact upon the practice of chiropractors and their patient management.   

Academic Calendar

Key dates for session AY25/26 below:

Semester 1: Monday 8 September 2025 - Friday 30 January 2026

Semester 2: Monday 9 February 2026 - Friday 26 June 2026