Employment opportunities for podiatrists are excellent. This course was Queensland’s first degree in podiatry and offers opportunities for hands-on learning that are unique to QUT.

During this course, you will complete more than 1,000 hours of clinical placement. At our on-campus podiatry clinic you will treat real patients under the supervision of registered podiatrists. You will provide specialist services in all aspects of professional practice including podiatric surgery and physical therapy. Commonly, patients present with conditions that include heel pain, running injuries, footwear problems and corrections, skin problems, and tendon and joint injuries.

Professional experience is also offered at external facilities where you can participate in biomechanics/musculoskeletal clinics, sports clinics, diabetes foot complication clinics, paediatric clinics and general podiatry clinics. You will also have the opportunity to participate in events that focus on prevention and treatment within the wider community.

Integral to the practice of podiatry is an understanding of human anatomy, biomolecular science, pharmacology, dermatology, and clinical medicine and surgery. This theoretical knowledge is supported with extensive professional placement to prepare you for transition into the workforce.

Podiatrists often work with other health professionals in hospitals, establish a private practice or train as a podiatric surgeon. Other careers include paediatric podiatry, sports podiatry, high-risk podiatry, community health or research.

Professional recognition

This course is seeking reaccrediation with the Australian and New Zealand Podiatry Accreditation Council during 2019. Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Podiatry Board of Australia, and membership of the Australian Podiatry Association and Sports Medicine Australia.

With additional postgraduate training, podiatrists can apply to the Podiatry Board of Australia and seek authorisation to prescribe scheduled medicines.

Student registration

QUT automatically registers students enrolled in this course with the Podiatry Board of Australia in accordance with the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law Act 2009. Details about student registration are available from the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency at www.ahpra.gov.au

Possible careers

• Community Health Officer
• Podiatrist
• Rehabilitation Professionals