Program Overview

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Introduction to the BSc (Hons) Podiatry Degree Apprenticeship

The BSc (Hons) Podiatry Degree Apprenticeship is a work-integrated degree program designed for new and existing healthcare staff to study while in paid employment. This apprenticeship enables individuals to gain a degree and develop their skills in podiatry, with the opportunity to work in various healthcare settings.

Course Overview

The program is delivered through blended learning, using a variety of technologies to allow apprentices to learn at their own pace. Practical skills are developed in an authentic environment with expert practitioners. The course is 36 months long, with 26 hours of study per week, and is delivered online.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• GCSE minimum at grade C/4 (or accepted equivalent) in mathematics and English
• GCSE minimum at grade C/4 in a science subject
• Evidence of Level 3 qualifications
• Satisfactory Enhanced DBS check
• Students must be 18 years old or over at the start date of this course

Funding Models

There are two funding models available:

1. Fully-funded: Levy paying organisations
2. Co-funded: Non-levy organisations and levy organisations who have exceeded their levy contribution

Modules Overview

The program consists of the following modules:

• DAPOD401 Introduction to podiatric practice: Introduces the clinical environment and professionalism
• DAPOD402 An introduction to podiatric clinical practice: Focuses on disorders of the skin including wounds
• DAPOD403 Human anatomy and physiology: Introduces the fundamentals of human anatomy and physiology
• DAPOD404 Lower limb studies 1: Concentrates on lower limb anatomy and how normal gait and movement is enabled
• DAPOD405 Person centred care: Explores enabling patient choice by shared decision making, personal health budgets, supported self-management and community based support
• DAPOD406 Professional and inter-professional working: Develops understanding of professional practice and the inherent standards expected of healthcare professionals
• DAPOD501 Research methods: Concentrates on the development of a research project, combining skills relating to evidence-based practice
• DAPOD502 Special patient groups: Focuses on development of the lower limb from birth to adulthood and how this influences function
• DAPOD503 Systemic disorders of the lower limb: Theory is developed associated with patients presenting with common systemic or acquired disorders that may cause lower limb pathologies
• DAPOD504 Musculoskeletal conditions and applied biomechanics in the foot and lower limb: Develops knowledge of the aetiology and pathology of musculoskeletal conditions of the foot and lower limb
• DAPOD505 Gait, footwear and orthoses: Explores assessment and management of foot and ankle disorders responsive to footwear/orthotic therapy
• DAPOD506 Lower limb studies 2: Develop knowledge of pathological conditions including malignancies pertaining to skin and nail units
• DAPOD601 Research project: The research project initiated in DAPOD501 will be carried out, under supervision, using an ethically approved protocol
• DAPOD602 Pharmacology: Focuses on the pharmacological approach to patient management
• DAPOD603 Minor surgery: Develops skills and knowledge in the formation of assessment and management options to carry out minor surgical techniques in suitable patients
• DAPOD604 Complex podiatric medicine: Skills in diagnosis and podiatric management of patients presenting with complex conditions and comorbidities will be developed
• DAPOD605 Leadership and clinical education: Focuses on theories of leadership, communication in difficult circumstances, and clinical governance

Assessment Methods

A variety of assessment methods are used throughout the program, including:

• Coursework
• Essays
• Reports
• Reflective writing/blogs
• Clinical Logs
• Professional Development Profile
• Peer Observation of Practice
• Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS)
• Portfolio
• Case-Based Discussion (CBD)
• Graphic visual representations of knowledge, information and data
• An observation including viva and professional presentation which form the End Point Assessment (EPA)

Career Opportunities

Podiatrists are experts in foot and lower limb health, keeping people of all ages active. Becoming a podiatrist will provide a broad scope of clinical practice, including a pivotal role in reducing the risk of amputation. Career opportunities are available in:

• NHS
• Private sector
• Ministry of Defence
• Academia/Research

Accreditation

The program is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council and the Royal College of Podiatry.

Core Skills

The program develops the following core skills:

• Specialist knowledge in the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of lower limb pathologies
• Leadership and teamwork
• Analytical skills, problem-solving and effective communication
• Research literacy

Work-Based Degrees

For those who do not meet the eligibility criteria for apprenticeship funding, work-based degrees in podiatry are available, including the BSc (Hons) Podiatry Work-Based Degree and the MSc Podiatry Work-Based Degree. These degrees are taught in the same way as the apprenticeship, making study accessible for those not eligible for government funding for an apprenticeship in England.