How to become a podiatrist
Focus on helping patients with injured, badly-shaped, sore, or diseased ankles and feet.
Pathways to this career
Complete an undergraduate podiatry degree, or a related degree like a Bachelor of Health, Applied or Exercise Science majoring in Podiatry.
Already studied an undergraduate degree? Progress your career pathway with a Master of Podiatry and apply for registration as a practicing podiatrist.
On completing your degrees, you must complete an application for registration with the Podiatry Board of Australia to be able to practice as a podiatrist.
What does a podiatrist do?
Podiatrists are healthcare professionals who are sometimes called ‘chiropodists’. Some podiatrists specialise in orthopedics and foot surgery. Most have private practices, but others work in government agencies, hospitals, and podiatric colleges.
Duties and tasks
Prescribe exercise, drugs, or special shoes.
Provide splints, braces, pads or various other supports.
Refer patients to general physicians for illnesses surrounding foot issues.
Order lab tests and X-rays to diagnose patients issues.
Treat foot and ankle issues through massage, manipulation, surgery, or physical therapy.
Industry bodies
Related jobs and job titles
Acupuncturist
Children's Podiatrist
Chiropractor
Massage Therapist
Sports Podiatrist
Discover related courses
Undergraduate Certificate in Health Sciences
UndergraduateCUR-CHS-CTF
Take your first step towards a career in health—including nursing
Start building your foundational knowledge of human health and healthcare. Explore human bodies. Get to know health practice. For graduates of this online health course, the pathway to health careers and further studies is open wide.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 6 months full time or part time equivalent
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Graduate Diploma in Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing
PostgraduateUON-WMH-GDI
Insight and skills to support mental health in the workplace
Explore mental health and build counselling skills specifically for the workplace. Consider Indigenous Australian’s holistic perspective. Recognise psychosocial hazards. Help build resilience. Gain confidence to support change and help colleagues in need.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 1 year full time or part time equivalent
Graduate Certificate in Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing
PostgraduateUON-WMH-GCE
Support mental health in any workplace setting
Step into high demand support roles and foster wellbeing in the workplace. You’ll learn how to identify and respond to mental health challenges. Build counselling skills. Unpack healthy mental functioning and ill-health. Make work safe and healthy.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 6 months full time or part time equivalent
Master of Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing
PostgraduateUON-MHW-MAS
Foster psychologically healthy workplaces
Lead the way to organisational effectiveness with a safe and healthy workplace. You’ll unpack key issues that effect the physical and psychological health of your employees. Reduce absenteeism. Increase productivity. Build a workplace that thrives.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- Approx. 1.5 years full time or part time equivalent
Need help making study choices for your career?
Need help making study choices for your career?
Our student advisors will turn your aspirations into a clear study path.
They'll help you with:
Choosing and enrolling in the right course for your desired career, including pathway options.
Mapping a study plan that allows you to balance work and home commitments.
Understanding eligibility for funding, including HECS-HELP loans.
Get unbiased advice at no cost today.
Looking for other ways to start the conversation? Contact us
Step up your career with these resources
How to write a business plan
Thinking about striking out on your own and starting your own company? Here's how to create an effective business plan.
10 fascinating uni subjects that are open to everyone in 2025
Want to understand the psychology behind Trumpism? Push for better climate action? Or improve your cultural sensitivity in healthcare? These online subjects—and more!—are now accepting 2025 enrolments.
5 small business courses for self-starters
Whether you’re a small business owner or plotting away at a side hustle, there are many online business courses to choose from to help you get in touch with your entrepreneurial side and launch your ideas off the ground.
How to negotiate a higher salary
Not sure what to say when negotiating your salary? Follow these tips from career strategist Kelly Magowan next time you need to make your case with an employer.