General Chiropractic Council recognises new chiropractic degree programme at Coventry University

The General Chiropractic Council (GCC) is pleased to announce that it has approved a new Master of Chiropractic (MChiro) degree programme at Coventry University. 

This recognition ensures graduates of the programme (which will welcome the first cohort of students in 2026) will be eligible to apply for registration with the GCC and practise as chiropractors in the UK. 

Following a rigorous assessment process, the Education Committee determined that the programme met all of the Education Standards required for chiropractic education and training (subject to conditions). The Committee’s recommendation was agreed at the Council meeting in December and approved by the Privy Council in January 2025. The announcement was delayed until the timing for start of the new course was agreed. 

Nick Jones, Chief Executive and Registrar of the General Chiropractic Council, commented: 

“We are delighted to approve the Master of Chiropractic programme, at Coventry University. Ensuring that the next generation of chiropractors receive high-quality education and training is essential for maintaining public confidence in the profession. This new programme will contribute to the growth and development of chiropractic care in the UK.” 

Dr Phillip Gould, Head of the School of Science at Coventry University, said:  

“We are thrilled to announce that Coventry University has been granted the ability to teach and award a Master of Chiropractic (MChiro) degree programme by the General Chiropractic Council. 

“This significant milestone marks a new chapter for our School of Science, as we prepare to welcome our first cohort of students in 2026 on the foundation program. The course will be led by Dr Gabrielle Swait PhD. She is a qualified, practising chiropractor, graduated from the University of Oxford with a degree in physiology, and has a doctorate in the neurophysiology of neck pain. Her recent work in education includes developing the General Chiropractic Council’s Education Standards and research in clinical placement models. This experience will underpin the development of a chiropractic curriculum of the highest quality. 

“As the Head of School, I am immensely proud of this achievement. The introduction of the MChiro degree programme aligns with our commitment to providing high-quality education and training in the health sciences. Our new programme will equip students with the knowledge, skills, and clinical experience necessary to excel in the chiropractic profession. Of particular note is that Coventry University is proud to be a widening participation university, committed to providing access to higher education for students from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds. 

“We are actively recruiting staff to teach on this course and are committed to offering placement opportunities for our students in subsequent years. These placements will provide invaluable real-world experience, enhancing their learning and professional development. As part of the development of the course we are excited to announce plans to open a chiropractic clinic, which will serve as a practical training ground for our students and a valuable resource for the community. 

“We believe that this new programme will not only enhance the academic offerings at Coventry University but also address the growing demand for skilled chiropractors in the healthcare sector. We are committed to fostering a learning environment that promotes excellence, innovation, and professional development.” 

The GCC remains committed to ensuring that all chiropractic education programmes uphold the highest standards in training and professional development. The recognition of Coventry University’s MChiro programme represents an important step in broadening access to chiropractic education and ensuring a strong, well-trained workforce for the future. With this recognition, the number of chiropractic education providers in the UK offering approved programmes now stands at six. 

More information on how the GCC assures chiropractic education