University of Western States opens doctor of chiropractic degree pathway

Capilano University (CapU) entered into a memorandum of understanding with The Community Solution Education System to formalize a pathway for CapU kinesiology students to enter the doctor of chiropractic degree program at University of Western States (UWS).

“I am thrilled with this new partnership, which signals that Capilano University’s bachelor of kinesiology prepares students to successfully enter health-related doctoral programs such as the chiropractic doctoral program at UWS,” said Caroline Dépatie, dean, faculty of global and community studies at Capilano University, in a UWS blog post.

The memorandum of understanding helps establish a pathway for undergraduates to enter the doctor of chiropractic degree program and further their studies in chiropractic healthcare.

Barbara Davis-Leigh, vice president of global engagement at The Community Solution Education System, Caroline Dépatie, dean of global and community studies at Capilano University, Dana Sims, provost at UWS, and Martha Kaeser, dean of the College of Chiropractic at UWS, signed the memorandum of understanding on December 16, 2024. The agreement formalizes a pathway for CapU kinesiology students to enter the doctor of chiropractic program at UWS.

“We are proud to collaborate with CapU to create new pathways for students to pursue careers in chiropractic healthcare,” said Nathan Long, president of UWS. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to advancing whole-person health education and preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

“It’s also a clear example of the value our university receives as a proud member of The Community Solution, allowing us to expand opportunities for students and foster more collaboration across institutions,” Long added.

The agreement outlines additional opportunities for collaboration, including the exchange of materials, faculty and students, as well as professional development and research activities. Additionally, CapU kinesiology students enrolling in the doctor of chiropractic degree program at UWS are eligible to receive transfer credits for four courses (11.5 credits) and can complete some practicums in Squamish, British Columbia.

“This partnership exemplifies The Community Solution’s commitment to building strong relationships that benefit both students and institutions,” said Michael Horowitz, chancellor of The Community Solution. “By collaborating with forward-thinking universities like CapU, we’re expanding access to high-quality education and advancing students’ professional goals. We look forward to creating similar partnerships throughout our system.”

About the programs

Applications are now open for the four-year bachelor of kinesiology program at CapU, which is expected to graduate 40 students this year. The degree focuses on developing students’ knowledge of how to assess, design and implement programs to facilitate health behavior change, leading to improved lifestyles and prevention of chronic diseases. A two-year diploma program in kinesiology is offered exclusively at CapU’s new Squamish campus in British Columbia.

The UWS doctor of chiropractic degree program is a rigorous 12-quarter doctoral program designed to be completed in three years. Students learn from experienced faculty with practical and clinical training at the UWS campus in Portland, Oregon. The program qualifies graduates with the coursework required for licensure in the US and Canada.

“Our vision, Inspired by Imagination, is grounded in co-creating a distinct university experience,” Dépatie said. “A sincere thank you to the team at The Community Solution and to our School of Kinesiology for making this partnership happen for our students and graduates.”

About University of Western States

Founded in 1904, University of Western States (UWS) hosts the longest-established Doctor of Chiropractic program in the Western United States, as well as programs in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine, Sports and Performance Psychology, Naturopathic Medicine, Sports Medicine and more. The university has deep ties to Portland, Oregon, and continues to cultivate these connections by partnering with local organizations, schools and institutions. In 2023, UWS joined The Community Solution Education System, a nonprofit education system made up of six colleges and universities that uses shared infrastructure and collaboration to drive innovation and advance student outcomes.