Bachelor of Podiatry

Summary

This program provides graduates with the skills to practice as Podiatrists after three years of full-time study. Please note that only the first and second year courses in this program are on offer in 2008.  Third year courses will be offered from 2009 onwards

Podiatrists focus on the treatment of the feet and lower limbs and are an integral part of the health care team in the public and private sectors. It is an exciting profession that offers an opportunity to contribute to the wellbeing of many members of the community.

The program is completed over three years of full-time study (or equivalent part-time) undertaken at our Central Coast Campus at Ourimbah. It involves extensive study of anatomy, physiology and biomechanics, combined with podiatric theory and a focus on professional practice.

Career opportunities

Opportunities for employment in podiatry are excellent. With a current shortage in Australia, podiatrists are in high demand.

Podiatrists work closely with many other members of the health profession from surgeons, paediatricians, dietitians, physiotherapists, general practitioners and nurses as well as exercise physiologists. Some podiatrists focus on research or teaching and some establish a private practice or do further training as podiatric surgeons .

Employment is available in a range of urban and rural health settings including private practices, general hospitals, rehabilitation and community health centres, sports clinics, research centres and consultancies.

Entry requirements

UAI Cut-offs: The UAI cutoff in 2007 was 82.15.

Assumed knowledge: Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics. Applicants who have not previously studied chemistry or mathematics are encouraged to take a bridging course in both before the commencement of the university year.

Additional entry requirements: Nil

How to apply

Australian Year 12 Students

Apply for entry through UAC. Entry based on UAI or equivalent.

Non School Leavers and Previous Australian Year 12 Students

Apply for entry through UAC. Entry based on:

• Previous year 12 studies and/or
• Higher education, tertiary or post-secondary qualifications and/or
• Overseas qualifications considered equivalent to Australian qualifications.
• Relevant vocational experience.

International Students

Not yet available to international students.

Description

IMPORTANT! You must read the Undergraduate Degree Rules. Click here to view.

The Bachelor of Podiatry is a new program offered by the Faculty of Health on the Ourimbah campus. This new program will produce graduates ready to practice in the field after just three years of full-time study (or equivalent part-time).

Studies will include anatomy, physiology and biomechanics, combined with podiatric theory and professional practice. Year 1 of the program is predominantly biomedical science courses and years 2 and 3 are predominantly podiatry courses. The program uses case-based learning and has a strong interdisciplinary focus.

Students will complete approximately 1000 hours of supervised practice in a variety of settings both locally and nationally as part of the program and must obtain a WorkCover approved First Aid Certificate prior to commencing professional practice in year 2. Rural placements are mandatory. Travel, accommodation and related expenses for professional experience will be the responsibility of the student. Students will also be required to purchase instrument kits.

Honours: It is expected that honours will be available as an additional year to meritorious students.

Credit Transfer Agreements

Credit transfer agreements with TAFE NSW and other education providers are under continuous negotiation. For more information about articulation arrangements please see the University’s website, at www.newcastle.edu.au/credit/

Students who have been offered a place in the program and have an appropriate background in human anatomy and physiology may apply for advanced standing (credit) of up to one year or study.

Program Structure

The program comprises 240 units including:

• 220 units of Prescribed Courses and
• 20 units of Elective Courses

Students will also complete approximately 1000 hours of supervised practice in a variety of settings both locally and nationally as part of the program. Rural placements will be mandatory.

Professional Recognition

Accreditation for the degree is being sought from the NSW Podiatry Registration Board.

Prescribed Courses

Schedule

The relevant program schedule is available within the Degree Rules and Schedules section of the Policy Library.