[ Center for the Health Professions ]

Pre-Podiatry

Doctors of podiatric medicine have rewarding careers helping improve the mobility of patients of all ages. Taking care of what’s arguably the most mistreated part of the body—the foot and the ankles—podiatrists treat everything from sports injuries to congenital defects to bunions to diabetes-related problems. It’s a profession with plenty of flexibility: many podiatrists work in private practice, where they can set their own hours and the scope of their work. And as our population ages, podiatrists are likely to see career opportunities increase in coming years. According to a survey by the American Podiatric Medical Association, median net income for all podiatrists was $134,415 in 2001.

Will I need further study?
What should I major in?
What are the course requirements?
What about advising?
Where can I find additional information?

Will I need further study?
Yes, you will need to complete a four-year course of study leading to the Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree. Some students enter podiatry school after three years of college, but 95 percent of first-year podiatry students have earned bachelor’s degrees. Most states also require that you complete a postdoctoral residency program of at least one year.

What should I major in?
You may choose any major, as long as you complete the course requirements of the podiatry college you’re applying to.

What are the course requirements?
Working with a health professions advisor, you should plan your courses of study carefully, and you should take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) at the appropriate time.

Recommended courses include:

• BIO one-year minimum from the following: 250, 251, 303, 414, 418, 428
• CHM 211, 212, 311, 312, 315
• ENG 105, 106
• PHY 111, 112 or 121, 122
• Humanities and social sciences

What about advising?
Expert advising is an important part of the Center for the Health Professions. We’ll pair you with one of our expert advisors to match your specific academic and professional interests. Your advisor will work with you throughout your Elmhurst career, clearing obstacles and giving expert guidance. Want to know more? See Advisors.

Where can I find additional information?
You can start by contacting us at Elmhurst’s Center for the Health Professions or check out these useful websites:

American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine
http://www.aacpm.org
On this site, you’ll find information about the various colleges of podiatric medicine and other institutions that offer graduate or postdoctoral training in podiatric medicine.

American Podiatric Medical Association
http://www.apma.org
The APMA represents approximately 80 percent of the podiatrists in the country. This site provides career information and more.