Health Sciences/Podiatry
This course information is for local students only
Year
2010
Award
Bachelor of Health Sciences and Master of Podiatric Practice
Length
4 years full-time; not available part-time
Campuses
Melbourne (Bundoora), Bendigo
Course description
This course gives students the skills and knowledge to prevent and treat disorders of the foot and ankle. Students also learn to treat patients with complex medical conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, and to work in specialised areas of podiatry such as sports injuries, paediatrics and surgery. Students' strong theoretical knowledge is enhanced through extensive clinical training; they are directly involved in treating patients at La Trobe University's podiatry clinic and undertake external placements at hospitals, health centres and private practices.
Course structure
In first year, students undertake an interdisciplinary common year, focusing on basic human biosciences and factors influencing health, and on developing an understanding of the roles of health professionals in the health and welfare sectors. In second year, they develop podiatry skills and further explore the underpinning human biosciences and public health.
In third year, students undertake more extensive clinical placements to develop professional knowledge and skills, and in fourth year, they apply their knowledge and practical skills to the management of disorders across the lifespan. Honours runs concurrently with the fourth year.
Handbook
Major areas of study
Podiatry, anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and pharmacology.
Overseas study opportunities
Overseas study opportunities are available.
Please see
www.latrobe.edu.au/international/exchange
for more information
Application
VTAC
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Scholarships
Applicants who are Australian citizens or who hold permanent humanitarian visas are eligible for a range of University-wide scholarships, including Commonwealth Scholarships. For details please see http://www.latrobe.edu.au/scholarships/prospective/uniwide/index.htmlAdditional costs (AUD)
Students must also complete a First Aid Level II course; this costs approximately $160. La Trobe University does not conduct the course.
Other approximate costs include A$459 for instruments in first year, A$248 in second year, safety equipment that varies in price, A$50 for shirts, A$12 for name tag; and approved leather shoes. Students can purchase uniforms, books and equipment from any supplier; these remain students' personal property. Accommodation costs for clinical placements vary depending on venue.
Middle Band
A regional bonus applies (Bendigo) for applicants whose home postcode is from regional Australia as per the Rural Remote and Metropolitan Area Classification 3-7 (see www.healthworkforce.com.au/main_rrma.asp to determine the RRMA classification for your locality).
Selection
Bundoora: ENTER 78.10
Bendigo: ENTER N/A (newly available)
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must call (03) 9479 5815 to request a Podiatry Supplementary Information Form, and submit it by 25 September 2009. Late applicants must call before applying. Current Year 12 applicants must outline relevant work experience or employment with a podiatrist/podiatry department during and/or subsequent to school, on the VTAC Pi form. Applicants aged 21 or over on 1 January 2010 who have not completed a semester of tertiary level studies in the last two years must complete the STAT Multiple Choice.
For important information about clinical placements, visit www.latrobe.edu.au/health/courses/undergrad/about_courses
Prerequisites
VCE Units 3 & 4: Study score of at least 30 in English (ESL) or 25 in English (any) and in two of Biology, Chemistry, a Mathematics (any), Physical Education or Physics.
Semester starts
Semester 1 (March)
Additional information
Please note that the first year of this course will be introduced at the Albury-Wodonga, Mildura and Shepparton campuses in 2011.
Prior to undertaking professional placements, students must obtain a police check (Victoria Police: $A14.50 for local students) and provide proof of immunisations.
Career opportunities
Podiatrists may work as a sole practitioner or part of a multidisciplinary team. Many private practices are developed in conjunction with other healthcare professionals, such as GPs or physiotherapists. Public sector opportunities exist in community health centres and hospitals. Full-time salaries in the public sector currently range from $50K per annum for new graduates to $90K per annum for chief podiatrists. Salaries vary from state to state, with podiatry salaries based on an Allied Health Profession award.
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for registration in all Australian states and New Zealand. There are also opportunities for voluntary and paid work overseas with registration criteria varying from country to country.
Contact information
Enquire Online
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Future Students Centre:
T 1300 135 045
E study@latrobe.edu.au
Department of Podiatry:
T (03) 9479 5815
All students may pay a
Voluntary General Service Fee.
Most international students must pay for
Overseas Student Health Cover