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Undergraduate course
BSc (Hons)
Podiatry
Podiatrists help people stay active by treating foot and ankle problems. Studying podiatry can lead to a rewarding career with options to specialise in areas like sports injuries, medicine, research and podiatric surgery.
Our typical offer
96 UCAS points
Hands-on clinical experience
The course provides early and consistent clinical exposure, including NHS placements, private practice, and specialist clinics (e.g. diabetes, musculoskeletal, and wound care).
Public health and social justice
With an emphasis on health inequalities, outreach, and inclusive care, we offer opportunities to work with vulnerable populations, gaining real-world experience in tackling foot health disparities.
Learning from lived experience
Hearing direct from service users and carers helps foster empathy, communication, and a patient-centred approach - vital qualities for future podiatrists.
About
If you are looking for a rewarding career where you can have a real impact on people's quality of life, podiatry may be just what you are looking for. I have thoroughly enjoyed my career since graduating with my podiatry degree. The possibilities within the profession are vast with great opportunities in the NHS, Ministry of Defence, private practice and abroad. I've met some great people along the way. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending it to anyone. Yes podiatrists cut toenails, but we do a whole lot more than that!
Mr Philip Hendy
Lecturer in Podiatry (Education)
This course is for you if...
you're compassionate and dedicated to caring for people who need your help
you're a team player, ready to work with healthcare professionals, patients, and families
you want to make a difference to society through healthcare
you're committed to joining the ranks of registered podiatrists making a difference
Details
Year 1
In your first year, you'll learn the key concepts and theories of podiatric practice including anatomy, biomechanics, physiology and podiatric medicine. We teach you techniques to assess the neurological and vascular systems of the lower limb and introduce you to gait analysis. Undertaking essential shared learning with other healthcare students gives you a broad perspective of multidisciplinary work and you gain practice skills through supervised placements in NHS-based training clinics.
Core modules
STPOD401
Introduction to Podiatric Practice (Including Placement)
20 credits
This practice-based learning module introduces the clinical environment, professional behaviour, evidence-based practice and record keeping.
100% Coursework
STPOD402
An Introduction to Podiatric Clinical Practice
20 credits
This module focuses on disorders of the skin including wounds. Assessment of neurological and vascular impairment will be introduced. Learners will be introduced to skin debridement and enucleation using simulated callus. Principles of padding and strapping will also be taught.
100% Clinical exams
STPOD403
Human Anatomy and Physiology
20 credits
Introduces the fundamentals of human anatomy and physiology.
100% Examinations
STPOD404
Lower Limb Studies 1
20 credits
This module concentrates on lower limb anatomy and how normal gait and movement is enabled. The theory underpinning assessment of the lower limb is explored.
100% Remotely delivered assessments
STPOD406
Professional and Inter-professional Working
20 credits
This module develops understanding of professional practice and the inherent standards expected of health care professionals. The value of inter-professional working is introduced.
100% Coursework
STPOD405
Person-centred Care (Including Placement)
20 credits
This module explores enabling patient choice by shared decision making, personal health budgets, supported self-management and community based support. This module includes a placement-based element of learning in the practice environment.
100% Coursework
HIPL400
Interprofessional Learning 1
Year 2
In your second year, you'll increase your knowledge of podiatric practice for children and older people. Learn about the complexity of foot function and how to recognise and treat pathologies of the foot and ankle. You will gain a good understanding of systemic conditions that impact on the health and function of the lower limb, and build your confidence and the personal skills required to work as a podiatrist in a placement setting. Your skills in the treatment of lower-limb disorders through the application of physical and mechanical therapies, pharmacology and surgery are developed. You learn the research skills required to develop your own research proposal and to support practice with evidence-based learning.
Core modules
SOHP503
Project Studies
20 credits
This module develops knowledge and skills related to evidence-based practice and lifelong learning. The content is designed to enable the students to understand different research designs, to evaluate the research literature and to prepare them to undertake research at undergraduate level. Meets all or part of HCPC Standards of Proficiency: 2b.1, 3a.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
STPOD501
Development and Maturation of the Lower Limb
20 credits
This module focuses on development of the lower limb from birth to adulthood and how this influences function. Recognition of conditions relating to the lower limb, which impact on mobility and stability through the life cycle will be explored.
100% Examinations
STPOD502
Systemic Disorders of the Lower Limb
20 credits
During this module theory is developed associated with patients presenting with common systemic or acquired disorders that may cause lower limb pathologies.
100% Examinations
STPOD503
Musculoskeletal Conditions and Applied Biomechanics in the Foot and Lower Limb (including Placement)
20 credits
This module develops knowledge of the aetiology and pathology of musculoskeletal conditions of the foot and lower limb. This module includes a placement-based element of learning in the practice environment.
100% Coursework
STPOD504
Gait, Footwear and Orthoses
20 credits
This module explores assessment and management of foot and ankle disorders responsive to footwear / orthotic therapy.
100% Coursework
STPOD505
Lower Limb Studies 2
20 credits
This module develops knowledge of pathological conditions including malignancies pertaining to skin and nail units.
100% Coursework
HIPL500
Interprofessional Learning 2
Final year
In your final year, you’ll undertake patient-focused clinical practice and theory addressing contemporary health issues and complex medical cases. You will also carry out a supervised project in an area that you’re interested in. Modules in the final year are enhanced by external specialist clinicians who are invited to share their skills and knowledge. A business and leadership module at the end of this year equips you with the tools for independent practice. At the end of your studies, you are an autonomous practitioner who is confident to practice your professional skills in the clinical, pharmacological and surgical management of patients in either the NHS or as an independent practitioner.
Core modules
SOHP605
Project
20 credits
This module consolidates knowledge and skills related to evidence-based practice and lifelong learning. The content will support the students to undertake research at undergraduate level, to discuss their findings in the context of the contemporary evidence base and to evaluate the implications of their activities on their future practice.
100% Coursework
STPOD601
Pharmacology
20 credits
This module focuses on the pharmacological approach to patient management. On successful completion of this module, the student will achieve the Prescription Only Medicines (POM) annotation on the HCPC register.
100% Examinations
STPOD602
Minor Surgery
20 credits
This module develops skills and knowledge in the formation of assessment and management options to carry out minor surgical techniques in suitable patients.
100% Examinations
STPOD603
Complex Podiatric Medicine (Including Placement)
20 credits
Skills in diagnosis and podiatric management of patients presenting with complex conditions and comorbidities will be developed.
100% Practicals
STPOD604
Leadership and Clinical Education
20 credits
This module focuses on theories of leadership, communication in difficult circumstances, and clinical governance. Student will develop and prepare for future roles as clinical educators.
100% Coursework
STPOD605
Critical Thinking and Problem-solving in Clinical Practice (Practice Module)
20 credits
This module provides students with the opportunity to consolidate the range of skills required to care for patients presenting with complex medical disorders. Students will have the opportunity to attain the qualification necessary to enable them to apply to the HCPC to allow them to assume the role as an autonomous registered podiatry practitioner.
100% Coursework
HIPL600
Interprofessional Learning 3
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
First class facilities to prepare you for your career
Learn alongside other undergraduate and postgraduate students from a variety of disciplines at
InterCity Place.
Our innovative suites, simulations and practice labs have been designed to help us train and develop the next generation of nurses, paramedics and allied health professionals.
InterCity Place is home to our podiatry clinical skills suits; fully-equipped, featuring plinths, couches, a range of anatomical models, and an array of equipment used in all aspects of the working life of a podiatrist.
It’s good to get to talk to a real patient, to go through that assessment process with them, and have that patient interaction. We got to use the software that we use for writing up clinical notes. We looked at simulated wounds and how we would assess them, and how that would translate into real life in a clinic, and what sort of treatment plans we would put in place.
Christina, BSc (Hons) Podiatry student
I find the course to be a good balance between placement and theory. I definitely feel like the programme is preparing me to enter the workforce as a trained podiatrist. All of our lecturers have hands-on experience, so if we have any questions whatsoever, they are always happy to help. Some are even practicing, so they are able to draw from both past and current experiences when they are teaching.
Work alongside other healthcare students
Teamwork is essential for success in health and social care and many other careers. Interprofessional learning is all about working and learning together with people from different areas of healthcare. It helps you build valuable skills for the future.
The
°µÍø½âÃÜ Integrative Health and Social Care Education Centre
supports interprofessional learning, giving students chances to work with others across different healthcare fields including podiatry, radiography, dietetics, dental surgery, psychology, and child nursing. By learning together, students become confident and ready to step into their careers from day one.
It is great to know how to ensure all of our professions can work effectively together. This benefits the service user and staff.
Healthcare systems always require improvement, it’s easier to know how to improve your area if you know how other areas work too.
Your placements
Placements provide a rich learning experience, developing clinical skills and knowledge. By the end of your degree you will have gained 1,000 hours of work-based learning gained within a range of settings - community clinics, acute hospital settings and GP surgeries - across the South West.
For the short duration of your placements, you may need to relocate to get the most out of your experience. Advice on financial support available for health care students on placement can be obtained from through the .
Year 1
4 week placement
Build confidence in communicating with patients and gain an awareness of the diverse role of the podiatrist while you start to build you clinical skills.
Build confidence in communicating with patients and gain an awareness of the diverse role of the podiatrist while you start to build you clinical skills.
3 week placement
Continue to build on your communication skills with patients alongside the wider multi-disciplinary team. There will be a focus on interprofessional working and developing the key skills and attributes of a professional. You will continue to develop you assessment and diagnostic skills and clinical skills, including scalpel debridement.
Continue to build on your communication skills with patients alongside the wider multi-disciplinary team. There will be a focus on interprofessional working and developing the key skills and attributes of a professional. You will continue to develop you assessment and diagnostic skills and clinical skills, including scalpel debridement.
Year 2
5 week placement
The focus of this placement will be on musculoskeletal podiatry and increasing your confidence in history taking, assessment and treatment planning for patients with musculoskeletal problems. You will also have the opportunity to continue consolidating your clinical skills, including advising patients on how to safely manage foot conditions.
The focus of this placement will be on musculoskeletal podiatry and increasing your confidence in history taking, assessment and treatment planning for patients with musculoskeletal problems. You will also have the opportunity to continue consolidating your clinical skills, including advising patients on how to safely manage foot conditions.
Year 3
3 week placement
The focus of this placement will be on developing your skills in delivering local anaesthesia and performing minor surgery, in particular nail surgery to manage in-growing toenails and other painful nail conditions.
The focus of this placement will be on developing your skills in delivering local anaesthesia and performing minor surgery, in particular nail surgery to manage in-growing toenails and other painful nail conditions.
5 week placement
You’ll become competent in translating theory into practice and demonstrate the range of skills needed to work as a newly qualified podiatrist. The placement focus will be around managing the complex patient, you’ll utilise a range of clinical skills including motivational interviewing to optimise outcomes for patients. You’ll work with a range of clinical specialities, such as diabetes, vascular, renal, dermatology and rheumatology.
You’ll become competent in translating theory into practice and demonstrate the range of skills needed to work as a newly qualified podiatrist. The placement focus will be around managing the complex patient, you’ll utilise a range of clinical skills including motivational interviewing to optimise outcomes for patients. You’ll work with a range of clinical specialities, such as diabetes, vascular, renal, dermatology and rheumatology.
Placements are an excellent way to get experience in clinical situations,they allowed me to really develop my clinical skills and knowledge. Being able to work in a number of different Trusts also meant that I got to see lots of different types of practice and observe different ideas which I was then able to learn from and use myself when I started working.
Zoe Boulton – BSc (Hons) Podiatry graduate
Tom's experience
"I've got a job where I completed my placement...it's a really good team. The placement enabled me to have that opportunity."
Graduate Tom talks about his time on the course and future career plans
Learn from experienced Podiatrists
Our podiatry staff are active practitioners and researchers; their expertise feeding directly into our curriculum and what you learn.
Mr Philip Hendy
Lecturer in Podiatry (Education)
Mrs Karen Reed
Lecturer in Podiatry
Mrs Joanna Bower
Lecturer in Podiatry
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Life in °µÍø½âÃÜ
°µÍø½âÃÜ's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what °µÍø½âÃÜ and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
I was drawn to podiatry predominantly through my previous career being musculoskeletal based, I really enjoy working in that kind of environment. I wanted to work for myself straight away as soon as I finished university and podiatry offered that option. I was also drawn to the variety of options within the field, such a rheumatology, paediatrics, musculoskeletal, diabetes and minor surgical procedures, general foot care – all of those things. It ticked all my boxes, not being sat in an office doing the same thing day in, day out.
One thing I love with podiatry is the problem-solving – working out why a patient is experiencing a particular problem, which can often be due to seemingly innocuous occurrence, but a slight tweak to behaviour, activity or footwear can make a huge difference and potentially solve their problem.
Podiatrists are specialist health practitioners responsible for the foot and lower limb. They aim to enhance the quality of life of their patients by assessing, diagnosing and treating conditions of the lower limb through minor surgery, provision of orthoses, wound care and rehabilitation of injury. Improving mobility and independence, they lead on patient care throughout the whole journey, utilising scientific research to inform treatment.
As the healthcare sector moves towards more integrated, home and community-based services, the range of opportunities available for newly qualified podiatrists has never been greater. Our graduates work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, GP practices, health centres, nursing homes, and sports clubs. Podiatrists can be employed by the NHS, independent podiatry providers and the armed forces. Commercial organisations may employ podiatrists in technical sales roles and marketing. Other graduates seek self-employment, running their own practice or perhaps a franchise.
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in
Full-time study
£9,790 per year
£9,790 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£815 per 10 credits
£815 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
The Government has announced that tuition fees from Academic Year 28/29 onwards will be subject to automatic annual inflationary increases, which we believe will be at a similar rate to the recent annual increases to fees, and may continue to be inflation based. The University may increase annual tuition fees in line with the Student Contract and the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government from time to time.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies and we advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
£19,200 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Additional costs
Placements
All students within the School of Health Professions will spend time in placements away from university. The South West is a largely rural region, which often requires students to travel longer and further distances than may be expected when universities are in largely urban areas. In many cases, students will stay away from home for the duration of that placement. Some students on these courses are eligible for reimbursement of additional travel and accommodation costs over normal daily travel costs. This support is part of the Learning Support Fund administered through the NHS Business Services Authority. However, this should be investigated by the student to make sure this applies to their chosen course of study.
All students within the School of Health Professions will spend time in placements away from university. The South West is a largely rural region, which often requires students to travel longer and further distances than may be expected when universities are in largely urban areas. In many cases, students will stay away from home for the duration of that placement. Some students on these courses are eligible for reimbursement of additional travel and accommodation costs over normal daily travel costs. This support is part of the Learning Support Fund administered through the NHS Business Services Authority. However, this should be investigated by the student to make sure this applies to their chosen course of study.
It is difficult to give a precise estimate of placement costs for each individual programme, due to the geographical spread of placements, and duration. However it is recommended you attend an Open Day to find out more about what placement costs can be anticipated or discuss placement with a member of our admissions teams.
Despite these costs, placements offer an excellent opportunity to learn from experienced practitioners and are recognised as an essential part of students' development towards becoming a registered practitioner.
Further information
More details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are included in Faculty of Health additional costs.
More details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are included in Faculty of Health additional costs.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at °µÍø½âÃÜ, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
You may be eligible for a £5000 NHS training grant
The NHS Learning Support Fund provides additional funding for eligible healthcare students. It is supplementary financial support to the mainstream student loans system and is intended to support students whilst they train and gain professional registration. The is for at least £5,000.
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
96 UCAS points
96 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
3 GCSEs at Grade C/4 or above to include Maths, English Language or Literature and Science.
A levels
96 points with a minimum of 2 A Levels.
BTEC
BTEC National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma - MMP in a Science, Health or Social Science subject, Applied Science, Sports Science, PE.
Please contact the Admissions team if you are not studying a second relevant subject.
Please contact the Admissions team if you are not studying a second relevant subject.
Access
Pass Access with 33 Level 3 credits at Merit/Distinction science subjects are preferred.
T level
Accepted – preference pathways would be Health and Science. Typical offer would be a Pass Overall to include C in Core.
International Baccalaureate
25 overall English and Maths accepted within Higher Level = 4 Standard Level = 5.
If overseas and not studying English within IB – MUST have IELTS.
If overseas and not studying English within IB – MUST have IELTS.
Equivalent qualifications
Equivalent qualifications may be considered. Alternatively, if you have any questions or concerns about meeting the entry requirements listed above we would encourage you to contact the Admissions team on +44 1752 585858 or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk, where a member of the team can offer you further advice. For a full list of all acceptable qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.
Extended entry requirements
- You must pass disclosure and barring service and occupational health checks satisfactorily in order to be able to start this course.
- If English is not your first language and you do not have GCSE English grade C/4 or above you will have to achieve an IELTS or equivalent qualification at the grades stated below.
- IELTS – overall average score of at least 7.0, with a score of at least 6.5 in each element.
- Meeting the academic minimum is the first stage of an application being considered. Applicants must also submit a strong personal statement in order to be considered further.
- English language requirements.
- We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.
- Students must be 18 years old or over by 31 December in the first year of the course.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
B985
B985
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(with placements)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
°µÍø½âÃÜ
°µÍø½âÃÜ
Other routes into this course
The following courses are available as routes into this programme.
BSc (Hons) Podiatry with Integrated Foundation Year
Our foundation year will help build your confidence and develop the practical, academic and study skills required to progress and succeed on the full BSc (Hons) Podiatry degree.
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
96 UCAS points
96 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
B985
B985
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(with placements)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
°µÍø½âÃÜ
°µÍø½âÃÜ
Other routes to this course
The offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to °µÍø½âÃÜ degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
Find out more at
plymouth.ac.uk/upic
or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the °µÍø½âÃÜ.
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