The Complete Guide to Chiropractic in Malaysia
Get a clear guide to the entry requirements, career options, and top universities that can set you on the path to becoming a chiropractor in Malaysia.
This is the ultimate guide to studying chiropractic in Malaysia.
In this guide, you will find out everything you need to know about the field, including what it’s really about, how to become a chiropractor in Malaysia and the best universities offering the programme in Malaysia.
So, if you’re interested in working in the chiropractic field, keep on reading!
IMU University
Bachelor of Science (Hons) Chiropractic
✓Accredited by the prestigious Council on Chiropractic Education Australasia
#1. What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is a field in healthcare that focuses on diagnosing, treating and preventing conditions related to the spine, joints, muscles and the nervous system. It uses hands-on, non-invasive approaches to alleviate pain, support movement and improve overall physical function.
When someone experiences back pain, neck pain, headaches or mobility issues, a chiropractor examines how the spine and musculoskeletal system contribute to the problem. After assessing posture, joint movement and nerve-related symptoms, the chiropractor will provide targeted treatments, often through manual techniques such as spinal adjustments and soft tissue manipulation, to help restore normal function.
As part of your chiropractic degree, you will study the structure and mechanics of the human body and learn how neuromusculoskeletal conditions develop. You will also build clinical skills in assessment, diagnosis and manual therapy, preparing you for a career as a chiropractor.
In Malaysia, the chiropractic field is a recognised traditional and complementary medicine discipline.
#2. Entry Requirements for Chiropractic
a) Subjects required
To pursue a Degree in Chiropractic, you must have studied these subjects at SPM or equivalent:
- Mathematics
- 2 Science subjects (Chemistry / Biology / Physics)
For A Level, STPM or equivalent qualifications, there are no specific subject requirements, provided you meet the overall entry requirements.
b) Requirements for a Degree in Chiropractic
To pursue a Degree in Chiropractic, you will need to complete a relevant pre-university or diploma programme and meet the minimum entry requirements.
- A Level: Minimum 2Ds
- STPM: Minimum CGPA of 2.50
- Foundation in Science: Minimum CGPA of 2.50
- Relevant Diploma: Minimum CGPA of 2.50
In most cases, you will also need to have at least a C in Mathematics and 2 Science subjects at SPM level or equivalent.
TAKE NOTE:
Entry requirements for some universities may be higher, so do make sure you check the details carefully.
#3. Studying a Chiropractic Degree
a) What subjects will you study in Chiropractic?
In Malaysia, chiropractic is a discipline under the traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) field.
In your chiropractic studies, you will learn the basics of medical science, including anatomy, physiology and pathology, as well as radiography and diagnostic imaging to help understand and identify problems. You’ll also train in specific hands-on chiropractic techniques, such as examining the body by touch (palpation), performing manipulative therapies and using supportive treatments for rehabilitation and recovery.
Some of the modules you will cover include:
- Basic medical sciences (anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, psychology, first aid and emergency conditions)
- Chiropractic practice (manipulative therapies for the spine and extremities, palpation techniques, chiropractic assessment and diagnosis, therapeutics and rehabilitation)
- Biomechanics
- Clinical nutrition
- Diagnostic imaging
- Radiography
- Communicable and non-communicable diseases
- Special population (geriatric, paediatrics, athletes, special needs)
In addition, you will also be required to undergo clinical training as part of your degree and complete a research project.
b) How long is a Chiropractic course?
A Degree in Chiropractic is 5 years long.
c) How much does it cost to study Chiropractic in Malaysia?
A Degree in Chiropractic costs around RM350,000.
IMU University
Foundation in Science
✓Direct pathway into IMU's undergraduate programmes and most of IMU's international partner universities
#4. How To Become a Chiropractor in Malaysia
Here are the steps to become a licensed chiropractor in Malaysia.
- Complete a pre-university programme (e.g. A Level, STPM) or a Foundation in Science.
- Pursue a recognised Degree in Chiropractic (5 years), as this is a regulated field in Malaysia.
- Apply for provisional registration with the Traditional and Complementary Medicine (T&CM) Council Malaysia to get a temporary practising certificate.
- Undergo 1 year of residency with an approved hospital or institution.
- Thereafter, you can apply for full registration with T&CM and get your practising certificate.
The whole process from SPM to becoming a registered chiropractor typically takes approximately 7 – 8 years.
PRO TIP
The chiropractic profession is regulated by the T&CM Council, so do make sure that your chiropractic degree is recognised.
#5. Should You Study Chiropractic?
a) Is chiropractic right for you?
a) Is chiropractic right for you?Wondering if chiropractic is for you? Here are some questions to think about:
- Do you prefer hands-on or physical work over theoretical work?
- Do you aspire to work in the healthcare industry and help improve lives?
- Are you passionate about helping others and making a positive impact on their lives?
- Do you have good grades in science subjects?
- Are you physically fit with good hand coordination?
- Are you comfortable working and being in close contact with people?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, then chiropractic may be the field for you!
b) Skills required to be a chiropractor
Here are some key skills a chiropractor should have:
- Dexterity, coordination and physical strength
- Good interpersonal and communication skills
- Acute knowledge in science and healthcare
- A strong tolerance for physical jobs with constant human contact
- Ability to empathise and be vulnerable to patients
- Patience to deal with people of varying personalities
#6. Job Options With Chiropractic
As a chiropractic graduate, you will be able to build a rewarding career in healthcare. Typical work settings include private chiropractic clinics, integrative medical centres, physiotherapy and sports rehabilitation centres, as well as academic institutions.
Here are some careers that you can pursue upon graduating from a chiropractic programme:
- Chiropractor
- Wellness consultant
- Lecturer
- Researcher
IMU University
Bachelor of Science (Hons) Chiropractic
✓Accredited by the prestigious Council on Chiropractic Education Australasia
#7. Best Universities for Chiropractic in Malaysia
Interested in working as a chiropractor? Check out some of the best universities offering the programme in Malaysia here.
IMU University
Main Campus, Kuala Lumpur
Bachelor of Science (Hons) Chiropractic
Intake
Apr, Sep
Tuition Fees
RM350,000
Get up to RM800 Waiver + RM300 Rebate when you enrol through EduAdvisor! T&C apply.
