Podiatry BSc (Hons)

Key Facts

  • UCAS Code

    B985

  • Level

    Undergraduate

  • Duration

    3 years full-time

  • Starting

    September

  • BBC at A Level
    DDD at BTEC

  • Fees UK 24/25

    Full Time: £9,250

  • Fees International 24/25

    Full Time: £16,200

  • Location

Get in touch


For questions regarding study and admissions please contact us:

UK/EU Students enquiries

study@northampton.ac.uk
0300 303 2772

International Students enquiries

international@northampton.ac.uk
+44 (0)1604 893981

Overview


The University of Northampton’s BSc Podiatry degree aims to produce graduates who are fit for practice within the NHS or private sectors within the UK and overseas. You will benefit from clinical placement and education at our Podiatry Clinic adjacent to Northampton General Hospital. The clinic is equipped with the latest technology. For further information about the course, including a virtual tour of our Podiatry Clinic, please visit our Podiatry page.

On successful completion of the BSc podiatry course you will be eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). The course is accredited by the College of Podiatry.

HCPC Registered logo College of Podiatry logo

Updated 14/03/2024

Highlights


Course Content


  • Upon completion of the BSc Podiatry course you will be equipped to establish and run your own clinical practice and will have a wide variety of work opportunities both in the UK and overseas.

    Our Podiatry course comprises theory and clinical studies modules. At the end of stage one you will undertake a local placement which is preceded by pre-clinical studies. During the second stage you will undertake orthopaedic and physical medicine clinics in-house as well as completing local and national placements. During the final stage you will have the opportunity to practise at several specialist clinics which include at risk, sports and paediatrics. You will be trained to undertake selected procedures under local anaesthesia. At the final stage of the podiatry degree you may have the opportunity to attend to injuries at the London Marathon under the guidance of academic staff.

    The Podiatry degree at the University of Northampton aims to develop your skills through clinical activity and rigorous academic content, this combination will help to transform you into the highest quality practitioner.

    If you were once a registered allied health professional but took a career break and are looking for more information about financial, clinical and academic support available to return to practice visit the Health Education England site.

    Placements

    You will undertake a number of placements in a range of clinics and settings and will be trained to undertake selected procedures under local anesthesia.

    You will benefit from clinical placement and education at our Podiatry Clinic allowing you to put your skills into practice and gain valuable experience. We run busy clinics which include sports, paediatrics, at risk, orthopaedic, physical medicine, general and nail surgery.

    At the final stage of the course you may have the opportunity to attend to injuries at the London Marathon.

    As part of your second year you may be able to take part in a three week placement within an EU or international healthcare setting.

    List of modules:

    Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 23/24. The modules relating to the academic year 24/25 will be available from June 2024.

      • Module code: FHS_IPE20
        Status: Compulsory
      • Module code: POD1101
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to provide introduction to human anatomy with reference to the foot and lower limb in support of further study of podiatry, podiatric biomechanics, pharmacology, pathology and surgery. It will also provide the student with an introduction to normal human bipedal stance and locomotion and develop competence in analysing gait.
      • Module code: POD1102
        Status: Compulsory
        Pathology is the bridge between basic biological science and clinical medicine. The purpose of this module is to develop a foundation knowledge of pathological principles in preparation for clinical practice and undertaking the Podiatric Medicine Module at Level 5. The Pathology module is taught through a blended learning approach. Students will be expected to engage with directed on-line learning material which will compliment face-to-face teaching sessions through a combination of pre-session learning and post-session consolidation. Learners are encouraged to become active participants in class based activities and discussion, enabling them to develop and contextualise their understanding of pathology.
      • Module code: POD1103
        Status: Compulsory
        Physiology provides an understanding of the links between structure and function from cell organelle to organ systems. The purpose of this module is to develop a foundation knowledge of the principles of homeostasis in preparation for Podiatric Medicine & Pharmacology modules at Level 5. The Physiology module is taught through a blended learning approach. Students will be expected to engage with directed on-line learning material which will compliment face-to-face teaching sessions through a combination of pre-session learning and post-session consolidation. Learners are encouraged to become active participants in class based activities and discussion, enabling them to develop and contextualise their understanding of physiology.
      • Module code: POD1104
        Status: Compulsory
        The aim of this module is to introduce the concepts of knowledge and to develop students understanding of knowledge and the ways in which it can be acquired and processed using computer hardware and software.
      • Module code: POD1107P
        Status: Compulsory
        This module introduces students to clinical practice within a wide professional context that includes appreciation of effective business systems & processes, health and safety policy,and legal & ethical frameworks (HCPC, SCP, University H & S policy). Teaching and learning takes place though a series of compulsory pre-clinical sessions, demonstrations and hands-on practice. The student will develop essential skills in operational practices including; risk assessment; infection control; decontamination processes, in addition to to a wide range of patient assessment and treatment skills. Risk management is also a focus for this module and includes the Data Protection Act, social media benefits & cautions, patient confidentiality. Emphasis is also made on the skills of practical footwear fitting and the Healthy Footwear Guide (HFG) is introduced through a shoe fitting workshop. Motivational assessment techniques are also discused within the context of wider public health issues and the comprehensive approach to positive patient outcomes.
      • Module code: POD2101P
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to: Develop students clinical skills and knowledge of physical, mechanical and pharmacological therapies in relation to Podiatric Orthopaedics and Podiatric Medicine. The module includes work based learning through external placement rotation where inter-professional learning (IPL) skills are developed, in addition to placement at our University Podiatry Clinic and Mechanical Therapeutics Laboratory (MTL). Knowledge and understanding of Health and Safety, materials science, prescribing and manufacture of orthoses. There is three week block national placement at the end of the module with potential opportunity for international placement. Development of self as a practitioner is supported through Level 5 PebblePad and includes portfolio of competancy in compulsory skills. The portfolio supports individual development through reflective writing and formative feedback. There are a number of formal competancies that are assessed. All this will support and enable personal development of knowledge and clinical skills whilst preparing students for OSCE and viva voce?s. Integrated learning resources such as XERTE, videos support self-directed student and revision.Teaching/ learning strategies will include lectures, clinical skills demonstrations, teaching patients, seminars and group work. Academic clinical supervision at the University of Northampton clinic/ MTL supports alignment of theory to practice throughout this module within a research, global and business context. These processes collectively support the development of individual skills such as critical thinking, communication and problem solving thus enhancing autonomous practice and employability.
      • Module code: POD2102
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to develop the basic themes from Pathology. This module covers the study of the classification, epidemiology, clinical features, pathology, complications and management of human diseases and the effects of primary, secondary and idiopathic disease processes on the skin and skin appendages with particular reference to the lower limb.
      • Module code: POD2103
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to provide a theoretical framework for the use of medications relating to podiatric practice in topical, systemic and local analgesic pharmacology. This ensures that students achieve minimum standards required for podiatrists access to POMs (via exemptions to the Medicines Act 1968) and enable them to analyse the effects medications prescribed by other professionals will have on their practice. This module will provide the student with the fundamental concepts of pharmacology relating to podiatric practice. It will equip students with the knowledge and skills to link patients? current pathologies and medications and determine their requirements for further medications to be administered or supplied safely, within the constraints of the current legal framework. It will enable the student to develop their knowledge and skills in this area and help them to analyse evidence within current research literature. Students will be directed towards the appropriate use of recognised national guidelines (NICE and others) study will be via the student cohort taught by UN staff. The mode of study learning will be a combination of face to face, tutor guided seminars, online materials and self-directed / independent study.
      • Module code: POD2104
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is ? The study of abnormal structure & function of the lower limb forms the fundamental basis for podiatric orthopaedic practice. It enables the student to develop a theoretical understanding and practical appreciation of lower limb/ foot structure and how this impacts on function. This module develops upon normal structure and function covered at level 4.
      • Module code: POD2105
        Status: Compulsory
        Podiatrists are required to employ a sound research evidence base for practice. This module will introduce the students to the components and process of research within healthcare generally and podiatry specifically. It will equip and prepare the student to conduct an independent research project (dissertation) at Level 6. This module is a pre-requisite for the Level 6 Dissertation Module.
      • Module code: POD3102P
        Status: Compulsory
        This module looks at relevant knowledge in the fields of sports and paediatrics.The application of functional podiatric orthopaedics and biomechanics forms the fundamental basis of podiatric sports and paediatrics. It enables the student to apply relevent medical knowledge alongside functional biomechanics and normal development in the management of cases in these areas.
      • Module code: POD3103P
        Status: Compulsory
        The module provides a practical framework for students to develop their skills relating to all aspects of podiatric practice. Having successfully completed the module they will be ready to work as podiatrists at an appropriate level in any subspeciality competantly, confidently and autonomously or as part of a wider team. This module is primarily delivered face to face by UN staff with a high emphasis on clinical activity and developing skills, additionally students will also have exposure to and reflect on Inter-Professional Learning (IPL) from a variety of other healthcare professional professions in Multi-Disciplinary Teams (MDT?s) whilst on placement.Within this module the students will broaden their scope of practice and manage their own case loads effectively and professionally. They will be prepared for any clinical situation which may arise in practice. They will understand the mechanisms of referral to specialist practitioners. They will interact with other professionals across the School of Health and with members of the profession and other professions. They will become competent to practice within the private or public sectors in the field of Podiatry. They will become informed professionals and understand the multi faceted nature of the profession.
      • Module code: POD3106
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to provide students with the fundamental concepts of foot surgery, together with the process and methods for undertaking a pre-surgical assessment and evaluation. It will help develop an understanding of the surgical management of different orthopaedic foot pathologies and enable students to develop knowledge and skills to help them to critically appraise the orthopaedic surgical research literature. Students will be directed towards appropriate use of recognised national guidelines (NICE) and attend theatre placements in foot & ankle orthopaedics and podiatric surgery to supplement their academic training and enhance their employability.It will cover indications for and contraindications and complications that may arise from foot surgery. It will embrace procedures performed under local analgesia e.g. skin, nail, toe, lesser metatarsal, 1st metatarsophlalangeal joint surgery and amputation. The principles of foot surgery and the perioperative considerations will be explored. Various investigations and laboratory tests pertinent to the surgical patient wil be explored.
      • Module code: POD3107P
        Status: Compulsory
        Podiatrists spend much of their clinical time managing conditions which present as a potential risk to the health of the patient and/or the lower limb. Many of these conditions arise as a result of systemic disease and the consequences of such disease on the limb. This module is designed to explore the relationships between systemic disease and the degeneration of body systems with the health status of the lower limb. It aims to prepare student podiatrists and enhance employability prospects by developing podiatric risk assessment and management skills in a variety of settings and for a diverse range of service users.The module will challenge students to link knowledge of disease pathology to risk status. The students' capability in justifying differential diagnosis, selecting assessment techniques and interpreting findings will be assessed alongside the ability to construct safe and competent treatment plans.A blended approach to teaching will comprise face-to-face group teaching sessions at the University of Northampton?s Podiatry Clinic, directed on-line learning and clinical practice within the University of Northampton?s Podiatry clinic. Clinical sessions will feature a blend of individual service user management and group work under the supervision of the clinical tutor/ senior lecturer. Specialist placement in three multidisciplinary diabetic foot clinics (King?s College Hospital, Leicester General/ Royal Infirmary Hospitals, and Northampton General Hospital) is a compulsory part of the module to enhance student?s exposure to NHS practices and the dynamic work of multidisciplinary teams in managing high risk foot cases.
      • Module code: POD4101
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to provide final year students with the opportunity to plan and undertake a research project and evaluation relevant to Podiatry.
  • All applicants for the Podiatry BSc course must have:

    • BBC at A Level including Level 3 Science or
    • DDD at BTEC/Cambridge Technical 
    • DDM at BTEC Extended Diplomas
    • M at T Level

    We welcome applications from students with a mix of A levels and BTEC/Cambridge Technical qualifications.

    You will also need to have completed some work or volunteering experience within the Podiatry field. If you do not have this experience you may be asked to gain experience and, as evidence, provide a written reflective account which is to be signed by the facilitator.

    You also need one of the following qualifications:
    • Applicants must also have GCSE or equivalent in Maths and English Language at Grade C/4 or above.
    • Functional Skills/Key Skills or credits taken within an Access to Higher Education course (12 credits at Level 2 or 6 credits at level 3) as equivalent for both Maths and English Language are also acceptable.

    All offers of a place on the podiatry course will be made to applicants after completion of successful interviews, and will be conditional subject to:

    • a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check;
    • a satisfactory occupational health check, including evidence of required immunisations that includes vaccinations for exposed Prone Procedures (EPP) via the University of Northampton’s Occupational Health provider. Please refer to the department of health document used by occupational health providers.

    For more information on how to make an application for podiatry courses, please visit our How to Apply page.

    If you are an International student and would like information on making an application, please see our How to Apply page.

    English Language Requirements

    All International and EU students applying for a course with us must meet the following minimum English language requirements:

    • IELTS 6.5 overall with of 6.5 in each section 

    For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.

  • 2024/25 Tuition Fees

    Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 24/25 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

    • UK – Full Time: £9,250
    • International – Full Time: £16,200
    2023/24 Tuition Fees

    Fees quoted for the podiatry degree relate to study in the Academic Year 23/24 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

    • UK – Full Time: £9,250
    • International – Full Time: £15,750
    Additional Costs
    • we currently pay indemnity insurance for all of our commissioned students, this is £85
    • £36 for 3 years of membership of the Royal College of Podiatry
    • instruments are provided for you, you will only need to buy scissors
    • the clinical uniforms (two tops and one pair of trousers) are provided by the H.E.E. NHS funding (although extra may be purchased if needed)
    • additional expenses include a white lab coat and an optional lower limb skeletal model, approximately £85
    • students receive travelling expenses to placements. International students however will have to fund expenses incurred when travelling to placement locations although this will be less than other schools of podiatry due to our designated clinical unit
    • you will need to purchase and have suitable footwear for the clinical environment.

    Financial contribution towards your travel, and expenses in relation to your practice learning opportunities, may be available to you from the NHS Learning Support Fund. Details, including eligibility criteria, can be found on the NHS website.

    For more information about possible funding options for podiatry courses, please visit our Fees and Funding pages.

  • At the University of Northampton, everything we do, from funded trips to paid internships, is to give you everything you need to make a difference when you leave.

    If you join our full-time Podiatry degree at Northampton, you will receive a laptop when your course begins*. The laptops are built to a bespoke custom specification ideal for use in the seminar room, collaborative group work or studying at home.

    Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you to achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your podiatry course, find your strengths and secure practical experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd. We’ve created the Northampton Employment Promise because we are so confident that if you focus on your studies and complete one of our awards you’ll be highly employable by the time you graduate. Putting you in a great position to secure employment or continue your studies.

    To check out the full list of perks, visit our Student Perks page or dedicated International Perks page.

    * UK fee payers only (see Terms and Conditions for further details)

  • How will I be assessed on the podiatry BSc course?

    Assessment methods used on the BSc Podiatry include coursework and examinations.

    What are the specialist teaching facilities for Podiatry?

    You will benefit from clinical placement and education at our Podiatry Clinic allowing you to put your skills into practice and gain valuable experience.

    We run busy clinics which include sports, paediatrics, at risk, orthopaedic, physical medicine, general and nail surgery.

    Our Podiatry course aims to develop your skills through clinical activity and rigorous academic content, this combination will help to transform you into the highest quality practitioner.

Staff


Careers and Employability


An insight into the diverse range of job opportunities from podiatry courses may be shown by where our graduates and staff team have worked in National Health Service, podiatric surgical consultancies, multidisciplinary diabetic clinics (NHS), orthopaedic triage (NHS), podiatric day case surgery teams, private practice UK/overseas, sports medicine practice, teaching and research, industry, mechanical therapy laboratories, treating diabetes in European communities, treating leprosy patients in India, HMS Prisons, paediatric podiatry and forensic podiatry.

Postgraduate Opportunities

Our postgraduate courses are a great way to enhance the skills you have already learnt. Benefit from our 20% alumni discount on postgraduate fees to give you a CV that will catch the eye of employers.

Successful completion of this podiatry course could lead on to one of our postgraduate programmes: MSc Public  HealthMSc Advancing PracticeDoctor of Professional Practice in Health and Social Care

At the University of Northampton, we offer a range of short courses and continuing professional development (CPD) programmes. These will enable you to learn new skills, progress into specialisms or take on new responsibilities.

Facilities


The Podiatry Clinic


Bespoke clinic for hands-on practical experience with patients. A short walk from campus at Northampton General Hospital

Discover

Podiatry Clinic Facilities


Teaching rooms, private consulting rooms, gait analysis room, and more.

Discover

Learning Hub


The Learning Hub is at the heart of the campus and home to the student information desk.

Discover