Course Summary
This new programme is designed to appeal to healthcare and other professionals who hold degrees in cognate areas, leveraging their existing expertise and providing a versatile pathway into the field of Podiatric Medicine. The pre-registration course in Podiatric Medicine aims to train high calibre, competent HSCP graduates, to level 9, who can, from the point of graduation demonstrate high level skills that will enable them to become ACPs and managers/ leaders.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
Pre-requisites and co-requisites
Mature learners who may already be in healthcare and want to specialise in Podiatric Medicine.
Graduates with an equivalent to a University of Galway minimum 2.1 Degree in cognate* disciplines in Ireland, UK and Europe.
International students with an equivalent to a University of Galway minimum 2.1 Degree who would prefer the option of 2 years full-time study option other than the traditional route of 4 years BSc Podiatric Medicine. And achieve the required level of English language as per admission onto the BSc undergraduate program that currently exists on entry.
Before entering the Degree programme every student must furnish Garda Clearance. This is organised through the Undergraduate Admissions Office on entering the University. Failure to obtain clearance will result in the student being unable to access practice education placements which are a core requirement of the programme.
Students also require mandatory vaccinations as part of a health care programme, which are part of pre-placement medical requirements for practice.
*Cognate degree (To include but not restricted to): Level 8 Cognate Degrees: BSc Nursing, Biomedical engineering, Human biological/ clinical sciences (e.g. biology, physiology, pharmacology, Anatomy). Other health and social care professions, clinical services background and relevant BSc qualification e.g. HSCP Physiotherapy, Engineering, Science, Sports Science.?
Documentation that is required to be uploaded as part of the application process
Official qualifications and exam results (transcripts) to date: required for all non-University of Galway applicants and for University of Galway graduates who did not receive their undergraduate degrees from University of Galway. Applicants who have still to graduate must upload final transcripts on receipt.
English language competency: if necessary, evidence of English language competency.
Personal statement: all applicants must enclose a typed personal statement of approximately 600 words explaining why you wish to undertake the programme, outlining experience and transferrable skills, and overall how it fits into your career objectives.
Passport or Birth certificate:—a copy of your passport or birth certificate must also be submitted.
Current CV
Two written references (One professional and ideally one academic)
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
In the event that a student requests an element of RPL, upon registration onto the programme, the programme director will consult with the Head of School and RPL champions in the School of Health Sciences to consider their request on a "case-by-case basis".
Their request will be considered and allocated where appropriate based on School of Health Sciences, University and National policies, being cognisant of professional registration requirements.
Application Details
Applications must be completed online at: https://nuigalway.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login.
An application requires a registration fee of €35. You will be asked to upload proof of identification, academic transcripts, a personal statement, an academic reference and documentation to fulfil the English requirement (where English is not your first language).
Next start date September 2025
Fees
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Career Progression
Graduates will benefit in several ways for their career and will provide an excellent foundation for a long-term career as a podiatrist. There is an established and successful career pathway for Podiatry practitioners, and a high demand for recruitment nationally and internationally. Typically, qualified Podiatrists registered professionally can establish private clinics, or work within public healthcare services.
Duration
1GPM1 (Year 1), 2GPM1 (Year 2)