How To Become A Podiatrist

Step 1: Focus on Science Classes in High School

If you are thinking about becoming a Podiatrist, you need to focus on your science classes in high school. You will want a strong foundation in sciences to prepare you for college. You will need to major in a science field, so taking as many science classes as possible in high school will be beneficial.

You should also focus on taking advanced math classes in high school. If you take challenging classes in high school, you will be better prepared for the classes you will take in college.

Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

You will go to college and earn a Bachelor’s Degree in one of the Sciences. You will take courses in sciences, such as Biology, Chemistry, Physiology, Anatomy, and more. It is important to do well in school because it is competitive to get into Medical School.

During your third year of college, you need to prepare to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). This is a standardized test that you take to get into Medical School. Your score plays an important role in your admission to Medical School, so you should take it early enough that you can take it again if you don’t get the score you want.

Step 3: Earn Your DPM

When you go to Medical School, you will take graduate level courses in Physiology, Anatomy, Pharmacology, and other related subjects. You will do your coursework during the first two years of Medical School, and then you will spend two years doing clinical rotations where you will get direct experience that is supervised.

Step 4: Attend a Podiatric Medicine and Surgery Residency Program

Once you graduate from Medical School, you will need to attend a Podiatric Medicine Surgery Residency Program. This is a four-year program where you will get experience in a hospital setting. When you do your residency, you will be able to gain experience in surgical and noninvasive procedures.

Step 5: Pass the American Podiatric Medical Licensing Exam

Once you complete your residency, you will need to pass the American Podiatric Medical Licensing Exam. It is offered by the National Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners. You may also need to take exams for your state. The requirements vary from state to state. You can also get your certification through the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, the American Board of Podiatric Medicine, and the American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry.

Step 6: Get a Job

Once you have obtained your medical license, you can get a job in your state. You can apply to work at hospitals or in private practices. You should get your resume together and show all of your experience clearly. You will want references from your supervisors and professors, as well.

Once you have some experience, you can open your own practice. You can also partner with another doctor. Most doctors work toward this goal over their careers.

Step 7: Maintain Your Certification

You have to renew your license periodically, and that requires that you attend continuing education courses. These rules vary from state to state, so you need to make sure that you know the requirements in your state. Some states have a specific date each year for all Podiatrists, and they might have a state exam that needs to be passed.