Program Overview

Introduction to the BSc (Hons) Podiatry Work Based Degree

The BSc (Hons) Podiatry Work Based Degree is designed for new and existing healthcare staff to study for a degree while in paid employment. This work-based course allows learners to gain evidence-based knowledge and clinical aptitude in podiatry.

Course Overview

The course is delivered through blended learning, using various technologies to enable apprentices to learn at their own pace. Practical skills are developed in an authentic environment with expert practitioners. Apprentices learn virtually alongside other apprentices nationwide and participate in webinars and online forums.

Modules Overview

The course consists of several modules, including:

• Introduction to podiatric practice
• An introduction to podiatric clinical practice
• Human anatomy and physiology
• Lower limb studies 1
• Person-centred care
• Professional and inter-professional working
• Research methods
• Special patient groups
• Systemic disorders of the lower limb
• Musculoskeletal conditions and applied biomechanics in the foot and lower limb
• Gait, footwear, and orthoses
• Lower limb studies 2
• Research project
• Pharmacology
• Minor surgery
• Complex podiatric medicine
• Leadership and clinical education

Assessment Methods

A variety of assessment methods are used, 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)

Course Facts

• Duration: 36 months
• Hours of study per week: 26
• Delivery: Online
• Entry 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 completed by the employer
  • Students must be 18 years old or over at the start date of this course

Core Skills

The course develops specialist knowledge in the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of lower limb pathologies, as well as leadership, teamwork, analytical skills, problem-solving, and effective communication.

Accreditation

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

Areas of Specialism

Graduates can pursue careers in various areas, including:

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

Staff

The course is led by a team of experienced professionals, including:

• Professor Sally Abey, Head of School of Health Professions
• Mr Philip Hendy, Lecturer in Podiatry (Education) and Academic Lead and Programme Lead
• Dr Keith Walker, Associate Head of School for Postgraduate Education
• Mrs Karen Reed, Lecturer in Podiatry
• Mrs Joanna Bower, Lecturer in Podiatry
• Mrs Emma Lewis, Lecturer in Podiatry
• Mrs Sarah Michael, Lecturer in Podiatry