College of Science and Health
Pre-Podiatry
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Beyond Foot Care: Unveiling the Comprehensive World of Podiatry
Podiatry, often perceived solely as “foot care,” encompasses a far broader and more impactful realm of healthcare. Podiatrists, the specialized physicians dedicated to this field, are not merely “foot doctors”; they are doctors of podiatric medicine (DPMs), wielding expertise in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg.
Embark on a Rigorous Path to Podiatric Excellence
The journey to becoming a podiatrist is marked by unwavering dedication and intensive training. Aspiring podiatrists embark on four years of specialized medical education at one of the nine accredited colleges of podiatric medicine, earning their DPM degree. Alongside their MD and DO counterparts, they delve into the intricacies of general anatomy, laying the foundation for their specialized expertise in lower extremities.
Refining Expertise through Residency and Specialization
Upon completing podiatric medical school, podiatrists embark on a three-year, hospital-based residency training program, immersing themselves in hands-on clinical experiences. During this residency, they refine their skills in podiatric medicine and surgery, gaining proficiency in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, from common foot ailments to complex reconstructive procedures.
A Multifaceted Profession with Diverse Specializations
The podiatric profession offers a diverse array of specialization opportunities, allowing podiatrists to tailor their expertise to specific areas of interest. From surgery and orthopedics to public health and geriatrics, podiatrists can pursue their passions and make a profound impact in various healthcare settings.
Unique Expertise in Lower Extremity Care
Podiatrists stand as the sole medical professionals to receive specialized medical and surgical training, along with board certification, in the care of the lower extremity. This unique expertise positions them as the go-to providers for comprehensive foot and ankle care, addressing a wide range of conditions that affect mobility, comfort, and overall well-being.
Join the Podiatry Community and Make a Lasting Impact
Podiatry offers a rewarding career path for those passionate about improving the lives of others. With a combination of rigorous training, specialized expertise, and diverse specialization opportunities, podiatrists play a vital role in promoting foot health and enhancing the overall well-being of their patients.
The BenU Difference
Why Choose Benedictine University’s Pre-Podiatry Program?
Delve into a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential topics such as biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical skills development, providing you with a strong foundation in the sciences and medicine.
- Hands-on Experience: Gain practical experience through shadowing opportunities with experienced PAs and physicians, allowing you to observe and participate in real-world patient care settings.
- Personalized Mentorship: Receive individualized guidance from our dedicated pre-health advisors, ensuring you are well-equipped to navigate the application process and succeed in your PA studies.
What Should My Major Be?
Students who want to be podiatrists take biology, chemistry, and physics along with other science classes to get ready for podiatry school. We suggest that you follow programs for the major in Biochemistry/Molecular Biology, Health Science or Biology.
Getting What You Need
Podiatry admissions teams will check carefully to make sure you have all of the specific prerequisite courses and experiences that they require for consideration. At Benedictine, you will have an academic advisor for your major, and still be helped by a separate expert pre-health professions advisor to encourage and guide you through of all pre-requisites and extracurricular activities you will need.
Careers in Podiatry:
Podiatrist: After completing podiatric medical school and residency training, podiatrists work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They provide comprehensive foot and ankle care, including diagnosing and treating conditions such as bunions, heel pain, diabetic foot ulcers, and sports injuries. Podiatrists may also perform surgery to correct deformities or repair injuries.
Podiatric Surgeon: Podiatric surgeons specialize in the surgical treatment of foot and ankle conditions. They perform a wide range of surgeries, including bunionectomies, hammertoe corrections, and ankle arthroplasties. Podiatric surgeons may also specialize in a particular area of foot surgery, such as sports medicine or diabetic foot care.
Podiatric Educator: Podiatric educators teach podiatric medicine to students at colleges of podiatric medicine and other universities. They may also develop and deliver continuing education programs for practicing podiatrists. Podiatric educators typically have a doctorate in podiatric medicine or a related field.
Podiatric Researcher: Podiatric researchers design and conduct studies to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and ankle conditions. They may work in universities, hospitals, or research institutions. Podiatric researchers typically have a doctorate in podiatric medicine or a related field.
Podiatric Consultant: Podiatric consultants provide expert advice to healthcare providers, hospitals, and insurance companies. They may also work in product development for companies that manufacture podiatric products. Podiatric consultants typically have a doctorate in podiatric medicine or a related field.
Here is an example of some courses you may take in the Pre-Podiatry program:
- General Biology
- Genetics
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Pathophysiology
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- General Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Physics