University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The programme combines biomedical science, clinical podiatry skills and professional practice across sequential years, moving from foundational knowledge to advanced clinical competence. Students study human anatomy and physiology, biomechanics and gait analysis, clinical assessment and diagnosis, musculoskeletal interventions, dermatology and wound care, diabetic foot management, paediatric and geriatric podiatry, pharmacology relevant to podiatry, and professional and ethical issues in practice.

• Early years – foundational biomedical subjects (anatomy, physiology, pathology), introduction to clinical reasoning, infection control and communication skills.
• Middle years – musculoskeletal assessment, applied biomechanics, custom foot orthoses, minor podiatric procedures, pharmacology, and management of common foot disorders.
• Advanced clinical training – complex case management including diabetic foot complications, wound management, sports-related podiatry, paediatric and geriatric considerations, interprofessional practice and public health perspectives.
• Honours / research component – an independent research project or thesis supervised by university staff, supported by coursework in research methods, evidence-based practice and advanced clinical decision-making.
• Clinical placements – multiple supervised placements in community clinics, hospitals and specialist services, designed to build hands‑on experience and professional readiness.

Entry requirements

Admission is normally based on completion of senior secondary qualification (for example an Australian Year 12 certificate) with a competitive selection rank. Applicants are expected to have achieved satisfactory results in English; prior study in biology, chemistry or health-related subjects is strongly recommended. The university also accepts alternative tertiary pathways such as recognised diplomas, bridging programmes and domestic or international equivalent qualifications.

Selection may include consideration of academic record, a personal statement or supplementary information. Students commencing clinical placements must meet professional requirements such as immunisation, a national police check and current first aid/CPR certification; additional clearances may be required for specific placement providers.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to register and practise as podiatrists and typically find employment in a range of settings. Common career pathways include private podiatry clinics, multidisciplinary community health centres, public hospitals and outpatient services, diabetic foot clinics, sports medicine and rehabilitation centres, aged-care services, and occupational health.

Other opportunities arise in research, teaching, public health and health administration, and further postgraduate study can lead to specialisation in areas such as podiatric surgery, advanced wound care or clinical research. Graduates often work as part of allied health teams alongside physiotherapists, endocrinologists, vascular specialists and orthopaedic clinicians.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide provides a programme delivered within an established health sciences environment with strong links to hospitals and community health services across South Australia. Students benefit from structured clinical placements, access to contemporary teaching facilities and a research-informed curriculum that emphasises evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration.

Academic staff research and clinical partnerships support student learning and the honours research project, while the university’s focus on regional and rural health provides opportunities for placements and practice in diverse community settings. The degree prepares graduates for contemporary podiatry roles with the professional competencies required for safe, effective clinical practice.