What would the educational path toward becoming a podiatrist be?

Prospective podiatrists must earn a doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM) degree from an accredited podiatry school. There are only six accredited programs in America. Students can apply to podiatry schools after completing at least 90 credit hours of undergraduate study and taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Podiatric schools offer a 4-year program with core courses like those in other medical schools. During the first 2 years, students study basic sciences, like anatomy, chemistry, pathology, and pharmacology. Third- and 4th-year students do clinical rotations in private practices, hospitals, and clinics. Rotations give students hands-on experience in taking medical histories, assisting with examinations and treatments, and observing and assisting with surgery. Podiatry school graduates continue their training in hospital residencies that last 1-3 years. In order to practice in most states, podiatrists must be licensed by the state's Board of Medicine. To qualify, candidates must graduate from an accredited podiatry school and pass the National Board of Podiatric Examiner's examination.

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