Pre-Podiatric Medicine
Central College's strong programs in science, athletic training and exercise science all support preparation for the field of podiatric medicine. Although entrance requirements vary, a strong foundation in the natural and social sciences as part of a well-rounded liberal arts education is considered excellent preparation for podiatry school.
Central students succeed on MCAT entrance exams and in securing acceptance into podiatry schools with help from an on-campus pre-health advisorand academic advisors to ensure that you complete the required courses, complete the required hours of observation, maintain a GPA of 3.6 or higher and take advantage of the many on- and off-campus opportunities for research and professional development. Central’s pre-professional program prepares you to pursue podiatry education in graduate school. With the help of your advisor, you will choose a major that best prepares you for further study.
The Central Difference
Individualized Attention
Thanks to Central's small class and laboratory section size, faculty can provide each student with individualized attention and the opportunity to develop skills necessary for graduate school. Our faculty members also provide personalized advising that ensures students meet the coursework requirements for graduate school. And to help students get into graduate school, faculty provide letters of recommendation that make a vital difference in the decision process for acceptance into medical programs.
Heartland Global Health Consortium
Central College is a founding member of the Heartland Global Health Consortium whose mission is to establish and expand multidisciplinary educational, research and service opportunities to inspire and equip students to become leaders in global public health. The consortium provides additional opportunities for students to participate in educational, global research and global medical service experiences.
Hands-On Research
Central faculty provide students with many research and professional development opportunities, of which students are encouraged to take full advantage while on campus. Opportunities include undergraduate research and presentations at scientific meetings, internships, shadowing programs, targeted service-learning opportunities related to career goals and much more.
Off-Campus Experiences
Central students can study off-campus — both internationally or domestically in the United States. These opportunities give students the chance to prepare to be global citizens, equipped to compete in the global job market. Students can check out experiences led by Central faculty or attend select academic programs across the world that provide opportunities for study, service, internships and other types of experiential learning. Options include experiences in Chicago, Washington, D.C., Central America, Ghana, England, the Scottish Highlands and more.
Facilities
Central’s Vermeer Science Center was awarded the silver Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating from the United States Green Building Council, the first LEED-rated building in the state. Students have direct access to classrooms and laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation and presentation technology.
Beyond Central
Putting the “Hire” in Higher Education
- Podiatric surgeon, Cedar Valley Foot & Ankle Center, Cedar Falls
- Podiatrist, Foot and Ankle Specialist of Iowa, Marion
- Podiatrist, Northeast Mission Foot Clinic, Kirksville, Mo.
- Staff podiatrist, Preferred Podiatry Group, Carmel, Ind.
Organizations
- Tri-Beta (national biological sciences honor society)
- Health Professions Club
- CAAT (athletic training club)
- SCATE (Students Concerned About The Environment)
Graduate Placement
As a well-rounded liberal arts graduate, Central alumni pursue graduate school around the country. Many podiatric medicine students have studied at the Des Moines University Podiatric Medicine Program.
Internships
Students interested in the podiatric medicine program are able to shadow local professionals for limited hours. Shadowing opportunities are available across the state including Pella Regional Health Center and Broadlawns Medical Center.
Courses & Faculty
Students may major in any area that fits with personal and professional life goals. Regardless of major choice, students are required to successfully complete a series of courses in biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, social sciences and English.
The Central College Career Center provides the following activities to help pre-health students narrow career options: individual appointments to identify career options in the health field, job shadowing opportunities with local professionals or Central alumni, assistance with finding and applying for internships and summer opportunities, help with graduate school applications and much more.
Learn more about this discipline in the course catalog.
Meet the Faculty
- Dave Pavlat, B.S., M.S., Ed.D., Associate Professor of Kinesiology and Director of Strength & Conditioning and Personal Training
- John Roslien, B.S., M.S., Associate Professor of Kinesiology
- Jim Shriver, B.S., M.S., Ph.D., Professor of Chemistry
Learn More
Want to find out more about Pre-Podiatric Medicine at Central? Contact us to learn more about this discipline and our other strong academic programs.
Visit campus to observe classes and experience The Central Difference firsthand.
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