Life University

Marietta, Georgia, United States · Est. 1974 · Private University

Purpose-driven chiropractic and health sciences university in metro Atlanta with 37 national athletic championships.

  • Founded 1974 by chiropractor Sid E. Williams; formerly Life Chiropractic College
  • Private university in Marietta, Georgia; 2,692 students (718 undergrad, 1,974 postgrad)
  • Flagship Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) program; 14-quarter full-time curriculum
  • NAIA member competing in Southern States Athletic Conference; 37 national championships, 648 All-Americans
  • Accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and Council on Chiropractic Education
  • 97% NBCE pass rate for D.C. students (Spring 2026)

Academics

Life University offers undergraduate programs, graduate degrees, and its flagship Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) program. The 14-quarter D.C. curriculum blends foundational sciences with hands-on technique training and clinical practice, emphasizing vitalistic chiropractic education. Quarters 1–4 build foundations in palpation and radiology; Quarters 5–8 advance technique mastery across multiple modalities (Full Spine, Gonstead, Thompson, Chiropractic Biophysics, and others); Quarters 9–14 transition to full clinical practice with real patients and business management training. The university also offers online programs and continuing education through its Life Vision Extravaganza event.

Campus & Student Life

Located on a 110-acre campus in Marietta with iconic Bell Tower, fishing pond, green spaces, and wooded trails. Life University hosts 37 national athletic championships and 648 All-Americans across 20 intercollegiate varsity sports teams in the NAIA. The Running Eagles compete in the Southern States Athletic Conference and have achieved notable rugby success, including back-to-back national championships in 2018 and 2019. Students engage through clubs, organizations, student ambassadors, and leadership programs. The university operates Life Chiropractic Centers, NeuroLIFE Institute, and Life Center for Seniors.

Admissions

Life University welcomes prospective students through Eagle Madness (November undergraduate preview day), Life Leadership Weekend (held four times yearly: January, April, July, October), and campus tours. The D.C. program offers webinars and information sessions. Admissions contact: Admissions@life.edu, (800) 543-3202, (770) 426-2600. The university maintains a career services portal and job board for students and alumni.

Outcomes & Concerns

A 2024 U.S. Department of Education report highlighted that D.C. program graduates had a median student loan debt of $245,218 against median annual income of $50,040, yielding a 490% debt-to-income ratio (12th highest among all graduate programs). Historical analysis by Quackwatch (1999–2012) showed Life University had the highest number of defaulted health professional loans. The university has faced accreditation challenges, including a 2002 CCE revocation (later restored) and 2021 probation related to COVID-19 pandemic handling. The institution has also been associated with anti-vaccine sentiment, hosting speakers critical of vaccination.

Founded
1974
Type
Private University
Courses
8
Total intake
Not yet verified
Websitehttps://www.life.edu/
HousingNot available
Some details are still being verified.

Quick stats

Courses offered
8
Avg career outcomes
$50K
Total intake
Not yet verified
Housing
No
Data last verified June 2026 · compiled from official sources