Podiatrist

Podiatrists diagnose and treat foot and ankle problems, improving people's mobility and quality of life.

Entry requirements –

There are 3 key routes for entering your career as a podiatrist, you could enter using a degree apprenticeship, a degree in podiatry (full time or part time) or using a top up degree in podiatry if you already have a post graduate degree in a science or healthcare related subject. To get onto these routes you will normally need 2 or 3 A-Levels, preferably one in biology, grades A* - C, and GCSEs incl English, maths and science grades 9-4 (A*- C).

Career progression-

You could focus on a specialist area like surgery or orthotics, designing and fitting appliances like braces and in-shoe correction aids. You could join a professional body to get access to training in areas like nail surgery, diabetes and wound care. You could study for a Master’s (MSc) or PhD and move into research or teaching.

Podiatrist goals

• Early identification of problems to prevent chronic foot health issues and on referral to secondary care
• Management close to home
• Reduction in avoidable amputations