Podiatry (Pre)
Why choose pre-podiatry at North Central College?
A doctor of podiatric medicine (D.P.M.) focuses on preventing, diagnosing and treating conditions associated with the foot and ankle. At North Central, not only will you complete the prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry and physics, you will refine your writing and communication skills that physician assistants must possess to work with patients.
In addition, you will have the flexibility to explore other interests to help make the most of your college experience. Whether it be studying business or psychology, participating in theatre productions, or spending a semester studying abroad, you will be transformed into a well-rounded person who not only excels academically but also brings diverse perspectives and skills to the table when it comes time to apply to graduate school. That’s why at North Central we encourage you to pursue both your passions and your prerequisites.
You can also:
- Job shadow or volunteer with local podiatrists.
- Conduct research with faculty, independently or with other students during North Central’s Summer Undergraduate Research Colloquium and present your findings at the Rall Symposium for Undergraduate Research or the National Conference on Undergraduate Research.
- Study abroad or apply for a Richter Independent Study Fellowship grant to conduct health-related research in a foreign country.
- Get personalized attention in small classes from professors who know you and can write letters of recommendation to graduate schools on your behalf.
- Work with a dedicated health programs advisor who will help you develop a personalized plan for college and beyond.
- Gain valuable experience with our student Pre-Health Organization.
Healthcare done differently
North Central College is a leader in healthcare education, with more than 38 undergraduate and graduate healthcare programs. Our focus is on developing excellent clinicians, educators, scholars and leaders who are driven not just by optimistic career outcomes, but also by a desire to serve. This is what makes North Central stand apart.
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Wentz Science Center
Take a virtual tour of the state-of-the-art Wentz Science Center, home to the lab science classes, labs and faculty offices.
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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
- Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine, Miami, FL
What major should I choose at North Central College?
A degree in biology, biochemistry or neuroscience 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 3.3 or higher, and the MCAT is a requirement for admission.
What prerequisite courses do podiatry schools require?
Minimum course requirements for podiatry school admission are:
- General Biology with lab (8 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 (MCAT subject)
- 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 being a 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 alums who 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.
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The first step to becoming a North Central student is reading the application instructions specific to you. Find out everything you need to know about applying by selecting the group you belong to below.