On International Podiatry Day, Arham Khalid, final year podiatry student at the University of Brighton, highlights the unique value of podiatry and the diverse routes into the profession. From hands-on clinical placements to opportunities in specialist care, she shares what makes podiatry training both rewarding and essential to modern healthcare.

When I first started studying podiatry, I quickly realised it is a profession many people know little about, yet it makes a huge difference to people’s lives. Training is both exciting and rewarding, offering a full range of variety, practical experience and opportunities that far exceed what most people expect. To celebrate International Podiatry Day, here are five key things you should know about podiatry training.

1. There is more than one route in

Not everyone takes the same path to becoming a podiatrist. You can study a BSc (Hons) in Podiatry at university, typically requiring A-levels (with a science subject) plus GCSEs in English and Mathematics. If you prefer a hands-on approach, the degree apprenticeship route lets you earn while you learn, with tuition fees covered by your employer. Graduates from other subjects can take the MSc Podiatry (Pre-registration), an accelerated master’s programme that allows you to qualify in just two years. There are also alternative qualifications like BTECs, Access to HE diplomas, or T Levels that can open the door. Whatever the route, training always includes clinical placements, ensuring every student gains essential patient experience.

2. Podiatry is more than just feet

Podiatry goes far beyond cutting toenails. We study the whole lower limb, from biomechanics and sports injuries to diabetic foot care and wound management. This wide scope means you see patients of all ages, from children to older adults, each with very different needs.

3. Clinical placements are key

Clinical placements form a core part of podiatry training. These provide hands-on experience treating patients in NHS clinics, hospitals, and community settings. During training, you complete a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised clinical practice. Some universities offer placement opportunities not only in areas such as leadership, research, education and specialist practice (e.g., podiatric surgery, sports podiatry), but also internationally in countries like Canada, Nepal, Barbados and Sri Lanka. These are mapped against the Royal College of Podiatry’s placement guidance to ensure students gain the breadth of experience needed for safe and effective practice. It is where theory meets practice; you apply classroom learning directly to patient care, developing the skills and confidence needed for life as a qualified podiatrist.

4. It is a profession that never stops evolving

Podiatrists are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and must undertake Continuing Professional Development (CPD) throughout their careers to keep skills and knowledge up to date for safe, effective practice. CPD is compulsory for HCPC registration, with detailed records required and declarations made every two years during registration renewal. As students, we are already encouraged to reflect on our learning and stay current with new evidence, ensuring the profession continuously advances with new treatments and opportunities.

5. Career opportunities are diverse

After graduating, podiatrists can work in the NHS, private practice, community care, or specialist areas such as diabetes, musculoskeletal health and sports medicine. There are also opportunities in research, teaching and even progression into podiatric surgery. Training opens doors to many specialisms, making it a flexible and rewarding long-term career. For me, the appeal is knowing I will never be limited to just one path: there are many ways to shape a career.