Why Bachelor of Podiatry (Honours)?
Kickstart your allied health career.
For many of us, our feet are just tools that help us get around. When working as expected, we hardly think about them. But did you know that our feet can be the first to show signs of health problems?
Podiatrists are not only experts in foot, ankle and lower limb health but can assess and manage a broad range of lower limb conditions, including symptoms associated with diabetes, arthritis, gait issues, skin and toenail concerns, and identify circulatory neurological issues that impact our foot and lower leg function.
Step confidently into an allied health career, where every day brings opportunities to change lives for the better.
Overview
Discover how to treat a range of lower limb issues and enhance quality of life for people with painful feet and legs, including those managing chronic conditions in our Bachelor of Podiatry (Honours).
Through a comprehensive blend of theory, practical experiences and clinical placements you’ll develop the skills to expertly diagnose, manage and treat any disorders affecting the foot, ankle and lower limb.
Develop core knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, disease groups and conditions. Learn clinical practice skills in surgery, pharmacology and medicine use, orthopaedic management, wound management, high-risk care and chronic condition management, sporting injuries, musculoskeletal problems and more. Gain understanding of patient-centred and end-to-end approaches to care, alongside culturally responsive approaches for working with a diverse range of client populations.
Get hands on in our state-of-the-art manufacturing laboratory, where you’ll use industry-standard technology to create orthotics, casts and insoles to help modify footwear for a range of clients and conditions. Work with real clients under the supervision of accredited practicing podiatrists in one of our on-campus podiatry clinics.
Put your learning into practice in a variety of private, public, community and allied health settings through clinical placements – starting from second year onwards. Gain advanced research skills and contribute new knowledge to the field through undertaking a major honours research project.
Graduate with the knowledge, skills and experience to thrive in your podiatry career – in whatever setting you choose.
Key features
Learn how to assess, diagnose and manage disorders of the foot, ankle and lower limb. - Get experience across paediatrics, geriatrics, diabetes, sports injuries, musculoskeletal problems, high-risk foot conditions and general foot care.
- Learn how to create orthotics, casts, insoles and modify footwear in our state-of-the-art manufacturing laboratory.
- Gain real-world experience through clinical placements in a variety of industry settings.
- Work with clients in one of our on-campus podiatry clinics.
- Complete a major research project on a topic of relevance to the podiatry profession.
What you'll learn
Taught over four years, our Bachelor of Podiatry (Honours) provides you with a solid foundation in the theoretical and practical aspects of podiatry, as well as the physical, biological and social sciences that guide patient-centred, end-to-end care approaches in the allied health field.
In first year, you’ll be introduced to core health sciences topics in human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, disease groups and conditions. Second year will expand your clinical knowledge, with courses covering approaches to comprehensive and holistic assessment and management of patient conditions.
During your third and fourth years, you’ll hone your clinical practice skills, including surgery (and other orthopaedic management), paediatrics, wound management, high-risk foot management, chronic pain and sporting injuries.
You’ll learn in dedicated facilities, including our on-campus manufacturing laboratory which has a plaster room and grinder room. Here, you’ll learn how to create orthotics, casts and insoles – as well as how to modify shoes to accommodate a variety of patient needs and conditions. Additionally, you’ll get experience using the latest industry-standard technology including digital scanners to capture foot characteristics and practice your scalpel skills on 3D-printed feet.
Clinical placements begin in second year and continue throughout your studies. Under the supervision of professionally accredited and experienced podiatrists, you’ll gain valuable experience working with real clients in a wide range of public, private and community health settings. You will also have the opportunity to extend your professional experience further, working with clients in one of our on-campus community podiatry clinics.
In your final year, complete either an honours project or thesis. Working under the guidance of a team of professional mentors you will design, implement and report on a professional project of significance to the podiatry field.
Graduate with the qualifications necessary to register and practice as a podiatrist in Australia.
What courses you'll study
Complete 192 units comprising:
- 138 units for all Core courses, and
- 54 units for all Work integrated learning
Complete 138 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Human Anatomy 100
|
Course code
BIOL1006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human Physiology 100
|
Course code
BIOL1018
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human Physiology 101
|
Course code
BIOL1019
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Lower Limb Anatomy and Biomechanics 101
|
Course code
HLTH1009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Evidence Based Practice and Research in Health Sciences
|
Course code
HLTH1016
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Aboriginal Health: Culture, Community and Country
|
Course code
HLTH1017
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Podiatry Studies 100
|
Course code
PODI1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Podiatry Studies 101
|
Course code
PODI1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Pharmacology B
|
Course code
PHAR2012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Pharmacology C
|
Course code
PHAR2013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Pharmacology A
|
Course code
PHAR2014
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Podiatry Studies 201
|
Course code
PODI2003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Pain Sciences
|
Course code
REHB3006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Podiatry Studies 300
|
Course code
PODI3005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Podiatry Studies 301
|
Course code
PODI3006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Applied Podiatry Studies 300
|
Course code
PODI3007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Applied Podiatry Studies 301
|
Course code
PODI3008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Health Science Honours Preparation
|
Course code
REHB3007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Podiatry Professional Studies 200
|
Course code
SOCI3010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Applied Podiatry Studies 400
|
Course code
PODI4003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Health Science Honours Thesis
|
Course code
REHB4005
|
Units
12
|
Notes
1. To undertake field/clinical placements students are required to have current criminal history and screening checks as published by the Clinical Placement Unit (unisa.edu.au/CPU). These checks will list disclosable court outcomes that may prevent field / clinical placement involvement and subsequently may prevent completion of the program.
2. Student registration with the relevant board of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) is required in order to study this program. Students who do not meet registration criteria and are refused registration by AHPRA, or who have their registration rescinded during the program, will be unable to continue in the program. Further information will be provided by the University with offer letters.
3. Students are required to satisfy the standard of dress and behaviour as prescribed by institutions in which clinical placements are undertaken. Failure to do so may prevent them satisfying the requirements for completion of the program.
4. Students will be required to spend at least one clinical placement in a country or interstate location.
5. Students must hold a current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation certificate at the commencement of Year 2 of the program and maintain its currency for the remainder of the program.
6. The program requires participation in practical classes where manual skills are practiced. Essential learning activities in some classes may require that students partially remove their clothing to a level that is appropriate to the learning activity. Students may also be asked to act as subjects for their peer group members. If a student is unable to meet these requirements they may be at risk of being unable to successfully complete course objectives and assessments and progress through the program.
7. Participation is required in practical classes and clinical placements where students are required to physically handle people including lifting and supporting people with disabilities.
8. Students may be required to undertake clinical practice sessions outside of teaching weeks.
9. Students are strongly encouraged to study full-time. Students seeking part-time study must discuss this with the Program Director prior to enrolment. Part-time students are normally expected to complete the program in eight years.
| Course name | Units |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 4 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
12
|
Complete 54 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Clinical Podiatry Practice 200
|
Course code
PODI2002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Clinical Podiatry Practice 201
|
Course code
PODI2004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Clinical Podiatry Practice 300
|
Course code
PODI3009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Clinical Podiatry Practice 301
|
Course code
PODI3010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Clinical Podiatry Practice 400B
|
Course code
PODI4002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Clinical Podiatry Practice 401B
|
Course code
PODI4004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Clinical Podiatry Practice 401A
|
Course code
PODI4005
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Clinical Podiatry Practice 400H
|
Course code
PODI4006
|
Units
6
|
Notes
1. To undertake field/clinical placements students are required to have current criminal history and screening checks as published by the Clinical Placement Unit (unisa.edu.au/CPU). These checks will list disclosable court outcomes that may prevent field / clinical placement involvement and subsequently may prevent completion of the program.
2. Student registration with the relevant board of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) is required in order to study this program. Students who do not meet registration criteria and are refused registration by AHPRA, or who have their registration rescinded during the program, will be unable to continue in the program. Further information will be provided by the University with offer letters.
3. Students are required to satisfy the standard of dress and behaviour as prescribed by institutions in which clinical placements are undertaken. Failure to do so may prevent them satisfying the requirements for completion of the program.
4. Students will be required to spend at least one clinical placement in a country or interstate location.
5. Students must hold a current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation certificate at the commencement of Year 2 of the program and maintain its currency for the remainder of the program.
6. The program requires participation in practical classes where manual skills are practiced. Essential learning activities in some classes may require that students partially remove their clothing to a level that is appropriate to the learning activity. Students may also be asked to act as subjects for their peer group members. If a student is unable to meet these requirements they may be at risk of being unable to successfully complete course objectives and assessments and progress through the program.
7. Participation is required in practical classes and clinical placements where students are required to physically handle people including lifting and supporting people with disabilities.
8. Students may be required to undertake clinical practice sessions outside of teaching weeks.
9. Students are strongly encouraged to study full-time. Students seeking part-time study must discuss this with the Program Director prior to enrolment. Part-time students are normally expected to complete the program in eight years.
1. Students will be required to undertake a Certificate of Mandatory Notification Training before commencing their paediatric clinical practice in PODI4002 - Clinical Podiatry Practice 400B , PODI4004 - Clinical Podiatry Practice 401B , PODI4005 - Clinical Podiatry Practice 401A , and PODI4006 - Clinical Podiatry Practice 400H .
| Course name | Units |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 4 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
12
|
Career outcomes
With patient-centred care at the heart of your practice, you’ll graduate prepared to meet the full breadth of the podiatry profession including surgery, sports injuries and related biomechanics, paediatrics and high-risk foot conditions. Career paths are endless, and you can truly design your career to align with your professional and personal goals. Podiatrists can opt to work as an individual care provider in private practice or as part of an interdisciplinary healthcare team based in a clinical or community healthcare setting.
You might be based in a private podiatry clinic, helping clients with a variety of chronic conditions maintain good footcare practice. Maybe you’ll work as part of an interprofessional team in a hospital, helping assess, diagnose and treat complex and high-care patients. Perhaps you’ll find yourself focussed on paediatric podiatry, developing treatment plans and creating customised orthotics and braces to meet the varying needs of this unique patient population.
Industry trends
The healthcare and social assistance sector is the single largest employing industry in Australia. Notably, the number of allied health roles has increased by over 65% in the last three years alone and this trend is only expected to continue as Australia’s population changes (AIHW, 2023).
Additional trends driving up demand for podiatrists are Australia’s ageing population and the increase of people living with chronic health conditions. By 2066, older Australians will make up over 20% of the total population (AIHW, 2024). As we age, our demand and reliance on several healthcare services also increases. Chronic conditions that affect major body systems also become more common as we age. Podiatrists play a key role in helping patients maintain good footcare practice as well as manage and treat symptoms related to such conditions.
Accreditation
This program is accredited by the Podiatry Accreditation Committee and approved by the Podiatry Board of Australia.
Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Podiatry Board of Australia (PodBA).
Ready to apply?
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
