Pre-Podiatry Bachelor's Degree Plan
Degree: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science
Major: Varies, follows Pre-Professional program
Hours: 120
Pre-Professional Program Description
The pre-professional Pre-Podiatry Degree Plan at Lamar University leads to your further study of the medical field of your choice. Paired with the baccalaureate degree of your choosing, this program, along with your own brand of community and campus involvement, investigation and engagement in your chosen discipline and extraordinary academic performance will prepare you to apply for and excel in professional school.
Why Study Pre-Podiatry at Lamar?
During your Pre-Podiatry Degree Plan studies at Lamar University, you will work with an advisor who will guide you in tailoring your bachelor's degree for podiatry school application and admission. You will prepare to submit your curriculum, Podiatry School Admission Test and supporting application materials by the end of your junior year.
Your faculty and advisors will encourage you in maintaining a high GPA, and you'll have access to opportunities for research, volunteering and mentorship or internship experiences that reflect your potential for leadership in the medical profession.
Career Paths
To practice as a podiatrist, you must have a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from an accredited college of podiatric medicine. A DPM degree program takes four years to complete. There are nine colleges of podiatric medicine accredited by the Council on Podiatric Medical Education. After earning a DPM, you must apply to and complete a three-year podiatric medical and surgical residency program. Residency programs take place in hospitals and provide both medical and surgical experience. You may do additional training in specific fellowship areas, such as sports medicine or pediatrics. Employment of podiatrists is projected to grow 14% over the next 10 years, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Primary Careers
Podiatrist
- Private practice
- Hospital and clinical care
- Sports medicine
- Prosthetics and orthotics
- Geriatric or pediatric care
- Private practitioners/partnerships
- Hospitals and clinics
- Nursing and residential care facilities
- Sports medicine clinics
- Specialty hospitals
*Suggested majors are only examples of a few degrees that may align with your pre-professional program interests. Speak with an advisor to decide on the best major to meet course requirements for your program and professional school.