Podiatry

On average we walk 10,000 steps a day. Over a lifetime this is equivalent to walking around the planet more than four times. At some stage, between 75 and 80 per cent of the adult population will have a foot problem, and experience pain with each step, or worse still, an inability to walk. This is when we might need a Podiatrist.

Podiatry is the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot problems. Podiatrists are health care professionals and play an integral part in the health care team in the public and private sectors.

Foot problems affect athletes and sedentary people alike and can cause pain in the lower back and other joints by changing how you walk or run. Foot problems include infections, sporting or overuse injuries, or can be the consequence of some systemic diseases, such as diabetes.

What will I study?

Courses in Podiatry contribute to a three year full-time program undertaken at our Ourimbah campus. It involves extensive study of:

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Biomechanics
• Podiatric theory

Our case-based learning philosophy will ensure that you are ready with the experience, knowledge and confidence required to enter the workforce. Eligible graduates can also undertake Honours study.

Students will gain first-hand experience using the latest technology at the new state-of-the-art teaching clinic. To find out more about the University of Newcastle and Central Coast Local Health District Podiatry Clinic, including appointment information, please click here.

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 care team from surgeons, paediatricians, dietitians, physiotherapists, general practitioners and nurses to exercise physiologists. Some Podiatrists focus on research or teaching and some do further training as Podiatric Surgeons or establish a private practice.

Accreditation for the Podiatry program is being sought from the NSW Podiatry Registration Board which will entitle you to be registered in NSW and to apply for registration in all states of Australia and in New Zealand.

Academic staff in Podiatry

To view more information about a staff member, including research interests, please select the "web" option to visit that staff member's profile.