Podiatry BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Podiatry program at Ulster University is a three-year course that prepares students for a professional career in podiatry. The program covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy, physiology, podiatric practice, and research. Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and membership to the Royal College of Podiatry (RCPod), enabling them to practice as podiatrists in the UK and internationally.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The BSc (Hons) Podiatry program at Ulster University is a full-time, three-year course leading to a professional qualification in Podiatry. This program prepares graduates for future registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and membership to the Royal College of Podiatry (RCPod), enabling them to practice as podiatrists within the UK Health and Social Services, private practice, or even in countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and Asia. The program aims to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in podiatry, covering diverse areas such as advanced practitioner roles, lecturers, podiatric surgery assistants, NHS podiatrists, associate podiatrists, private practitioners, and research. Throughout the program, students will focus on the promotion, maintenance, and restoration of foot health, learning to assess and treat the problems associated with lower limbs and feet effectively.

Outline:

The Podiatry BSc (Hons) program is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical sessions, clinical placements, and individual study. Teaching involves a blend of approaches with both large group sessions and smaller, collaborative settings. Students will benefit from insights from staff on campus, visiting lecturers who specialize in their respective fields, and practical learning at the on-site clinic and NHS placements.

Core Content:

• Anatomy & Physiology
• Podiatric Practice 1 & 2
• Musculoskeletal Podiatry 1 & 2
• Patient Assessment
• Health Science Research
• Pharmacology
• Medicine & Pathology
• Podiatric Practice 3, 4 & 5
• High Risk Foot
• Research Project
• Prescription Only Medicine- Supply
• Diagnostic Imaging and Surgery
• Professional Development and Employability
The schedule consists of classes held on most days across the week with specific modules covered in each semester. Start dates for the program commence in September every year.

Assessment:

Students will be assessed with various methods throughout the program, including (depending on the module):

• Written Exams
• Phase Tests
• Coursework Assignments
• Presentations
• Clinical Exams (with patients)
Assessment tasks and frequency may differ between modules. Additionally, attendance at lectures, practicals, and clinics is monitored. Feedback on coursework will be provided for individual development.

Teaching:

The Podiatry program at Ulster University emphasizes student-centered learning, fostering an environment where students are regarded as future colleagues and developing practitioners. Staff provides a supportive and encouraging atmosphere to help students navigate the course complexities with confidence.

Faculty:

All teaching staff in the Podiatry program hold BSc Hons in Podiatry and are HCPC registered. The faculty includes qualified professionals with MSc level qualifications, PhDs, and extensive research and industry experience. Students benefit from learning from renowned faculty members, including visiting lecturers who are specialists in their areas. Furthermore, the program may be supplemented by suitably qualified part-time staff and guest lecturers, ensuring students receive well-rounded perspectives from diverse voices within the field.

Careers:

Graduates from the Podiatry program enjoy high employability rates, with 100% finding employment within 3 months of completing the program. Graduates typically find rewarding career opportunities in positions such as:

• Advanced Practitioner
• Lecturer
• Podiatric Surgery Assistant
• NHS Podiatrist
• Associate Podiatrist
• Private Practitioner
Career opportunities span diverse settings, including South Eastern Health & Social Care Trust, Western Health & Social Care Trust, Northern Health & Social Care Trust, Belfast Health & Social Care Trust, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, and Private Practice settings.
• Royal College of Podiatry: Graduates can join the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists upon graduation
• Student Membership: Student membership of the Royal College of Podiatrists is free, however, indemnity insurance from the College is required for clinical practice as a student.