SPARTANBURG — Students interested in pursuing careers in chiropractic medicine will soon have a more direct route from undergraduate studies to doctoral education thanks to a new partnership between two Spartanburg institutions.
Sherman College of Chiropractic and Spartanburg Methodist College have signed an articulation agreement guaranteeing admission to Sherman's Doctor of Chiropractic program for qualified Spartanburg Methodist graduates who complete the designated pre-chiropractic curriculum and meet the college's admission requirements.
The agreement coincides with the launch of Spartanburg Methodist College's first Bachelor of Science degree program in exercise science, which begins this fall. Students enrolled in the program's pre-chiropractic concentration will complete coursework in exercise physiology, kinesiology and other sciences designed to prepare them for doctoral-level chiropractic education.
Leaders at both colleges said the partnership will provide students with a clear academic pathway while helping address workforce needs in healthcare.
"As Spartanburg Methodist College launches its first Bachelor of Science degree program, this partnership offers an exciting opportunity for students interested in pursuing chiropractic as a profession," Sherman College President Dr. Jack Bourla said in a statement. "Together, we're providing a clear academic pathway that enables students to transition seamlessly from undergraduate study into a doctoral program."
Bourla said the collaboration between the two Spartanburg colleges demonstrates a shared commitment to helping students achieve their educational and career goals while supporting the future of the chiropractic profession.
Spartanburg Methodist College President Scott Cochran said the agreement is designed to remove barriers for students who want to continue their education after earning a bachelor's degree.
"The objective of higher education is to develop students and provide them with the skills for better career prospects when they graduate," Cochran said. "Partnerships like this help remove barriers to that growth and clear the path for brighter futures."
Under the agreement, students must complete the Bachelor of Science in exercise science with the pre-chiropractic elective track, maintain at least a 2.75 cumulative grade-point average and earn no grade lower than a C in prerequisite courses required by Sherman College. Students may also receive tentative acceptance into the chiropractic program after completing at least 45 semester hours, with final admission granted after all academic requirements are verified.
The agreement was signed by Bourla and Sherman Provost Dr. Joseph J. Donofrio, along with Cochran and Spartanburg Methodist College Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Curt Laird.
The partnership marks another example of collaboration among Spartanburg County's higher education institutions, creating expanded educational opportunities for students pursuing careers in healthcare while strengthening the region's workforce pipeline.
