Healthcare Careers

Podiatry

What is it?

Podiatry is all about the lower limb from your knee to your toes. It’s a medical specialty, and your patients could be any age – from babies to elderly people.

A podiatrist works out what’s wrong, and gives advice and treatment. You help people deal with diseases and problems, and advise on how to keep feet healthy.

Thanks to you, your patients will be better able to get on with their lives. It could be a young child who needs a special shoe to help them walk. Or someone with diabetes at risk of losing their foot.

It could be a dancer or sports person whose demanding job causes problems. Or someone who needs minor surgery or laser treatment.

You could work in hospital, at a clinic, in people’s homes, in retail or manufacturing, run your own business or go abroad. Feet can take you anywhere!

What are the good bits?

• Varied, satisfying – helps improve lives
• When you study Podiatry at university, your tuition fees are paid
• Great job prospects – NHS, companies, private practice
• Flexible career – part or full time with options in surgery, research, education

What about pay?

£17,000 – £45,000+

What skills and interests do I need?

• Interest in science and medicine
• Problem-solving, patience
• Communication, teamwork
• Determination, dedication

What qualifications/training will I need?

After GCSE exams you need to stay on at school or go to college to study science – for example, Chemistry and Biology A levels plus another A level and AS level. Or you could do an advanced GNVQ in science, or BTEC or AVCE qualifications. Then you’ll study Podiatry for three years at university.

Compiled with reference to:
www.nhscareers.nhs.uk
www.nobarriers2uni.org
www.feetforlife.org

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