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 full-time; not available part-time
Campuses
Melbourne, Bendigo, Albury-Wodonga, Mildura, Shepparton
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
Application
VTAC
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
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.
Middle Band
Consideration is given to Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) criteria; and a regional bonus may apply.
Selection
(Note: All ATARs current for 2011)
Melbourne: ATAR 72.70
Bendigo: ATAR 73.30
Albury-Wodonga: ATAR n/a
Mildura: ATAR n/a
Shepparton: ATAR n/a
Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Extra requirements
Current Year 12 applicants with relevant work experience or employment with a podiatrist/podiatry department during and/or subsequent to school may provide these details on a VTAC Pi form (if applicable).
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.
Prerequisites
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 30 in English (ESL) or 25 in English (any) and in two of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics (any), Physical Education or Physics.
Semester starts
Semester 1 (March)
Additional information
NOTE: students at Albury-Wodonga, Mildura and Shepparton campuses must transfer to Bendigo after first year. All students must obtain a police check and Working With Children (WWC) check before undertaking a clinical professional placement. For important information about clinical placements, visit: www.latrobe.edu.au/health/study/placements
Career opportunities
Podiatrists can work as sole practitioners or part of a multidisciplinary team. Many develop private practices in conjunction with other healthcare professionals, such as GPs or physiotherapists. Others find opportunities in the public sector, e.g. in community health centres and hospitals. Full-time salaries in the public sector currently range from $50K per annum for new graduates to $90K per annum for chief podiatrists. Salaries vary from state to state, based on an Allied Health Profession award.
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for registration in all Australian states and New Zealand. They may also find opportunities for voluntary and paid work overseas, with registration criteria varying from country to country.