Podiatric Medicine

Pre-professional track

Podiatric medicine, formerly called podiatry, is a branch of medicine that focuses on human movement, with the medical care of the foot and ankle as its primary focus. Similar to a dentist or ophthalmologist, a doctor of podiatric medicine thoroughly trains to become a unique specialist, well qualified to treat a specific part of the body.

As a podiatrist, you'll help your patients prevent, diagnose, and treat foot disorders, diseases, and injuries. You'll use x-rays and laboratory tests for diagnostic purposes, prescribe medications, order physical therapy, set fractures, and perform surgery when necessary.

Hamline’s pre-podiatric medicine advising program prepares you to be a competitive applicant for graduate school. You'll get hands-on experience in the skills you need for a career as a podiatrist, as well as support in applying to podiatric medicine programs.

Prerequisite coursework

Hamline’s pre-podiatric medicine program is not a major. We encourage students to major in a subject they are interested in and work with program advisors to identify and complete coursework that will meet the requirements of the graduate programs they're interested in.

Candidates applying to podiatric medicine programs should demonstrate evidence of preparation for a career in podiatric medicine. Many programs expect applicants to have a bachelor’s degree and prefer a strong science background. We also encourage students to talk with and shadow a number of podiatrists to learn about the career path. Podiatrists are generally receptive to students' requests for interviews, which can also lead to mentorship and shadowing opportunities.

Additional information