Program Overview

Bachelor of Podiatry (Honours)

The Bachelor of Podiatry (Honours) is a four-year undergraduate degree that provides students with the knowledge, skills, and clinical experience necessary to become a qualified podiatrist. This course is accredited by the Podiatry Accreditation Committee (PAC) and is designed to meet the requirements for registration with the Podiatry Board of Australia (PBA).

Overview

The Bachelor of Podiatry (Honours) degree is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of podiatry. The course covers a range of topics, including human anatomy, physiology, medical conditions, pharmacology, paediatrics, biomechanics, and sports injuries and management. Students will also gain practical experience in clinical settings, including hospitals, specialist clinics, and private practices.

Key Facts

• Award: Bachelor of Podiatry (Honours)
• VTAC code: (CSP)
• Start dates: Semester 1 (March 2026)
• Duration: 4 years full-time or part-time equivalent
• Learning mode: Multi-Modal

Course Structure

The course is structured over four years, with each year comprising core subjects and clinical placements. Students will complete a total of 480 credit points, including:

• Year 1: 120 credit points, including core subjects such as Cutaneous Science of the Foot, Foundations of Professional Communication, Human Biosciences A, Introduction to Human Anatomy, Microbiology for Allied Health, Podiatric Practice A, Research and Evidence in Practice, and Understanding Health and Wellbeing.
• Year 2: 120 credit points, including core subjects such as Anatomy: Lower Limb & Foot, Integrating Evidence into Practice, Pathophysiology, Pharmacology for Health Professionals, Podiatric Pathophysiology and Assessment, Podiatric Populations A, and Podiatric Practice B and C.
• Year 3: 120 credit points, including core subjects such as Musculoskeletal Pathology for Podiatrists, Podiatric Biomechanics, Podiatric Pharmacology, Podiatric Populations B, and Podiatric Practice D and E.
• Year 4: 120 credit points, including a capstone subject, core subjects, and a minor.

Minors

Students can choose from two minors:

• Industry Honours (Podiatry)
• Research Honours

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the Bachelor of Podiatry (Honours) degree may pursue careers in private practice, sports podiatry, public health podiatry, or the footwear and medical devices industry.

Professional Recognition

The Bachelor of Podiatry (Honours) degree is accredited by the Podiatry Accreditation Committee (PAC). Graduates may be eligible to apply for registration with the Podiatry Board of Australia (PBA).

Fees and Scholarships

The estimated tuition fee for domestic students is $9,537 (CSP) per 120 credit points. Scholarships are available, including the Bendigo Pioneers Bursary, Regional Benefits Program, La Trobe High Achiever Scholarship, and others.

How to Apply

Domestic students can apply directly to La Trobe University or through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC). International students can apply directly to La Trobe University.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements include:

• Recent school leavers: ATAR requirements, prerequisite studies in English and other subjects.
• Non-recent school leavers: Work experience, vocational education and training (VET) studies, or higher education studies.
• International students: English language proficiency, academic requirements.

Core Participation Requirements

The course has core participation requirements, including behavioural and relational skills, cognition, sensory abilities, and strength and mobility. Students must be able to manage their own responses and behaviour, evaluate and apply discipline knowledge, and practice culturally responsive and person-centred care.

Credit for Previous Study

Credit for previous study (advanced standing) may be available for students who have completed relevant studies or have relevant work experience.

Deferment

Deferment may be available for students who are unable to commence their studies as planned.

Pathways

Pathways are available for students who do not meet the direct entry requirements. These include the Diploma in Allied Health Sciences, Associate Degree in Allied Health Sciences, and other courses.