Podiatry (Pre)
Why choose pre-podiatry at North Central College?
North Central College offers a solid foundation in the liberal arts and sciences to prepare you for further studies in podiatric medicine. You’ll take courses in areas such as biology, chemistry and physics. And thanks to North Central’s small classes, your professors will know just what to say about you when you need a letter of recommendation.
A doctor of podiatric medicine (D.P.M.) focuses on preventing, diagnosing and treating conditions associated with the foot and ankle.
You can also:
- Gain insight through job shadowing of local podiatrists or volunteering in their offices.
- Conduct research with peers or faculty and present your findings at local, regional and national conferences.
- Work with North Central’s pre-health advisor.
- Network with alumni and peers through North Central’s student-run Pre-Health Organization.
Pre-Podiatry Opportunities
A North Central education integrates career preparation with rich academic study. Our faculty encourages you to refine and apply your knowledge in an interconnected world. Here you'll learn to think independently and work globally to solve problems and lead.
Graduate Schools
Graduates have been accepted at:
- Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University
- Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine
- College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery at Des Moines University
What major should I choose at North Central College?
A degree in Biology or Biochemistry is recommended unless you have a strong interest in another major.
Will I need graduate education?
Yes, after earning your bachelor’s degree at North Central becoming a podiatrist requires an additional four-years in a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) program followed by a 3-year surgical podiatric residency. The average GPA for students accepted to podiatry school is about 3.4 or higher.
What prerequisite courses do podiatry schools require?
Minimum course requirements for podiatry school admission are:
- General Biology with lab (12 semester hours)
- General Chemistry with lab (8 semester hours)
- Organic Chemistry with lab (8 semester hours)
- Physics with lab (8 semester hours)
- English (6 semester hours)
Many podiatry schools also require or recommend:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Medical Terminology
What else should I consider?
While a student at North Central, you will participate in activities that will help you develop into a competitive applicant for podiatry school. These include: observing in the podiatry field to demonstrate that you realize how a podiatrist works and are comfortable in a clinical environment; research experience to understand how new knowledge is generated; leadership activities like lab assistant, serving as an officer in a student organization, or tutoring; and, a commitment to others demonstrated through volunteer service. The Pre-Professional Health Program Coordinator will guide you in these activities, connect you with alum that have pursued this path, and advise you throughout the application process to podiatry school.
Invest in your future
Choosing the right college is a big decision. Don’t make it alone. North Central’s admission and financial aid team is here to help you design a financial aid solution that works best for you and your family.
Merit scholarships, grants, loans, campus employment - these are just some of the resources available to you. Over 95 percent of students and 100 percent of all eligible students receive aid. Let our team partner with you in finding the best value for your education.
Learn more about financial aid and costs for North Central College
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