The path to a doctorate of chiropractic

That fire’s lit for research. That’s always been my dream. I’ve always wanted to push the profession forward.

Riaz Mohammed

When Riaz Mohammed first began his post-graduate studies at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, he was nervous and excited – but more importantly, he was well-prepared.

This is because Riaz found that graduating from the Kinesiology program at the University of Guelph-Humber (UofGH) had given him a leg up on what would be expected from him in graduate school and his field of study. Riaz, who is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Chiropractic program, found challenge in the long days and difficult courses, such as neuro anatomy and histology – but he also felt ready to learn at that level.

“The University of Guelph-Humber had given me the skills I needed,” said Riaz, who graduated from UofGH in 2016. “My counterparts who came from other educational institutions didn’t have the hands-on knowledge that I had. That set me apart from other students.

“The school does everything in its power to help its students succeed.”

Riaz’s post-graduate work has included practical exams, which were also a staple of his UofGH education. He says he felt less nervous than other students who had not experienced a practical exam as part of their undergraduate studies.

Likewise, Riaz took part in human cadaver anatomy labs to work with cadavers during his studies at UofGH, whereas students from other institutions did not work from the same experience base.

“That gave us an edge,” Riaz said. “When you’re working on cadavers day-in, day-out already, the transition is easy and fluid. In terms of biomechanics, UofGH graduates are very well versed in the core courses. I know other students who didn’t have that same stepping stone.

“You walk into your first biomechanics class and say: I did this already.”

Similarly, Riaz got his first taste of research at a younger age than most, while studying at UofGH. Under the guidance of Dr. Leslie Auger, Program Head of Kinesiology, Riaz jumped at the opportunity to help with Dr. Auger’s research into how moderate to vigorous exercise affects symptoms of depression among cancer survivors.

“That ignited my passion for research,” Riaz said.

That passion lives. His current research project is a lower back pain study that examines the validity of disability indices.

As he continues his studies at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Riaz is not quite sure what is next. He would like to eventually combine clinical practice with more post-graduate education. He expects research will always be a staple.

“That fire’s lit for research,” he said. “That’s always been my dream. I’ve always wanted to push the profession forward.”

Meanwhile, Riaz has kept UofGH close after graduating. As someone who grew up a brief walk from campus, Riaz still has family here.

“I always recommend the University of Guelph-Humber. It’s a legacy. My cousin went to this school, my sister goes to this school. Hopefully, my children will go to this school.”