Health Sciences/Podiatry
This course information is for local students only
Year
2012
Award
Bachelor of Health Sciences and Master of Podiatric Practice
Length
4 years
Campuses
Melbourne, Bendigo
Course description
This course aims to give students skills and knowledge related to prevention and treat disorders of the foot and ankle. Students also learn to treat patients with complex medical conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, and to work in specialised areas of podiatry such as sports injuries, paediatrics and surgery.
The curriculum blends theoretical content with extensive clinical training; students are directly involved in treating patients at La Trobe University's podiatry clinic and undertake external placements at hospitals, health centres and private practices.
Download our Frequently Asked Questions for more information.
Course structure
In first year, students undertake core subjects with students from other health sciences courses, focusing on basic human biosciences and factors influencing health, and the roles of health professionals in the health and welfare sectors. In second year, they develop podiatry skills and further explore the underpinning human biosciences and public health.
In third year, students undertake more extensive clinical placements to develop professional knowledge and skills, and in fourth year, they apply their knowledge and practical skills to the management of disorders across the lifespan. Honours runs concurrently with fourth year.
Subject details
Major areas of study
Podiatry, anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, pharmacology.
Overseas study opportunities
Overseas study opportunities are available.
Please see
www.latrobe.edu.au/international/exchange
for more information
Fee type
Fees (Fee-Help available)
Annual (or Total) Tuition Fee (AUD)
23 340
Scholarships
Applicants who are Australian citizens or who hold permanent humanitarian visas are eligible for a range of University-wide scholarships, including Commonwealth Scholarships. For details please see http://www.latrobe.edu.au/scholarships/future-undergraduatesAdditional costs (AUD)
Instruments approximately A$600 in second year and safety equipment for which prices are variable. Students must purchase a Podiatry Department shirt for clinical placements (A$60) along with a name tag (A$12) and approved leather shoes. Proof of current immunisations and National Police Check (A$15.50) may be required for some placements. Accommodation costs for clinical placements will vary according to location. Materials can be purchased from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Students must also obtain a Working with Children (WWC) Check - no cost - before undertaking a clinical professional placement.
Selection
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70%) PG1) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
IELTS (Academic) score of 7.0 with no individual band score less than 7.0; or
TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 575 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or
TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 233 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or
TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 88 with no individual score less than 22; or
or
Approved equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 80 and at least an A in English
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2011 (indicative only) - 73.30
International Baccalaureate - 26
GCE A Levels - 12
Hong Kong A Levels - 8
HKDSE - 16,6 (the student must meet the higher than standard English language requirement)
Sri Lankan A Levels - ABB
STPM - 10
MICSS (UEC) - EX Yr 12 FSP
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 80
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 4.9
Sweden Slutbetyg - VG/MVG
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 80
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.2
Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 3.2
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 3.0
GAOKAO - see: the website
Extra requirements
This course has a clinical component. For further information, please visit the: Health Sciences website for important information.
All students are required to obtain a National Police Check (A$15) and Working with Children check (no cost) before undertaking a clinical professional placement. Note the quoted costs are approximate only and subject to change.
Prerequisites
Two of Biology, Chemistry, Year 12 Mathematics or Physics.
Semester starts
Semester 1 (February)
Career opportunities
Excellent employment opportunities exist in private practice, hospitals, community health centres, sports medicine clinics, geriatric centres, nursing homes and teaching. Podiatrists may work as a sole practitioner or part of a multidisciplinary team. Opportunities exist in both the private and public sectors, with 70 per cent of practitioners in Victoria working in the private sector. Many private practices are developed in conjunction with other health care professionals, such as general practitioners or physiotherapists. Public sector opportunities exist in community health centres and hospitals.
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for registration in all Australian states and in New Zealand. There are also opportunities for voluntary and paid work overseas with registration crtieria varying from country to country. Please note: students enrolled in the program will be registered, at no cost, with the Podiatry Board of Australia by La Trobe University.