Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.)

Podiatric Medicine is a branch of the medical sciences devoted to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle disorders, diseases and injuries. The growing demand for high quality care of disorders of the foot, ankle, and lower leg is driven in large measure by the critical role of podiatrists in sports medicine, in diabetic foot care, and in the care of the geriatric population. The profession requires four years of rigorous study at an accredited podiatric medical school/college after four years of pre-medical education. Podiatric medicine as a career opportunity provides outstanding quality-of-life benefits for practitioners. Podiatrists experience the education of a medical specialist, the variety of a general practitioner, and the freedom of an entrepreneur.

The Midwestern University (MWU) Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine is a 4-year program whose core curriculum is similar to that of other medical schools. Courses in the clinical sciences are integrated with basic science courses during the first two years of the curriculum. Clinical courses continue through the summer and part of the fall quarter of the third year. All basic science courses and some clinical courses are shared with osteopathic medical students. Part time clinical training occurs in the second year. Full time clinical training occupies eight months of the third year and all of the fourth year. The overall goal of the School is to prepare the finest possible podiatric physicians for entry into residency training.

Second, third, and fourth year students complete clinical rotations in private practices, hospitals, and clinics. During these rotations, they learn how to take general and podiatric histories, perform routine physical examinations, interpret tests and imaging, make diagnoses, and perform therapeutic procedures. The only podiatric medical school in the Southwest, Midwestern University's program offers innovative instructional and learning techniques and takes full advantage of the abundant resources available on the campus and in the community. Students are taught fundamental skills early in the curriculum, which allows them to benefit more fully from an early introduction to patient care. Many elective rotations are available to podiatric medical students attending Midwestern University.

The integration of podiatry with the other health sciences disciplines at Midwestern University more fully prepares graduates to function effectively in the increasingly multidisciplinary care patterns of the future. Through the rigorous curriculum at Midwestern University, podiatry students gain the requisite medical knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in residency and practice. Through an extensive program of community service, podiatric medicine students develop an appreciation for the importance of ethics and professionalism in combination with compassion and cultural sensitivity.

The Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine is accredited by the Council on Podiatric Medical Education. Accreditation is an indication of public approbation, attesting to the quality of the podiatric medical education program and the continued commitment of the institution to support the educational program. The Council is recognized as the professional institutional accrediting agency for podiatric medical education by the U.S. Department of Education and by the council for Higher Education Accreditation. For further information, please contact the Council on Podiatric Medical Education at the following address: Council on Podiatric Medical Education, 9312 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD  20814, 301/571-9200.

Midwestern University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604-1413.

• Treatment, screening, education, referral, consultation, wellness promotion and prevention
• Athletes, elderly, children, diabetic patients, and others with chronic diseases

To be considered for admission to the Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine, the successful candidate must submit the following documented evidence:

1. Minimum cumulative GPA and science GPAs of 2.75 on a 4.00 scale.
2. Ability to successfully complete a rigorous curriculum that requires critical thinking skills, effective oral and written communication skills, and voluminous reading, as well as the capacity for responsible, self-directed learning.
3. Competitive scores on the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) earned no more than 3 years prior to the planned enrollment year.
4. Completion of the necessary course prerequisites.
   • Candidates must complete a minimum of 90 semester hours/135 quarter hours at regionally accredited colleges or universities
   • A bachelor's degree or higher is preferred
   • Ordinarily, prerequisite courses must have been completed within seven years of the date of admission
5. Two Letters of Recommendation are not required but will be accepted.
6. A good understanding of podiatric medicine and a sincere interest in a career in the field.
   • Candidates are required to visit at least one podiatric practice
7. Demonstration of extracurricular or community activities that indicate a well-rounded background and a service orientation.
8. Medically-related experiences that indicate sufficient exposure for candidates to make informed decisions about medical careers.
9. Personal integrity and sound moral character.
10. Interpersonal and communication skills necessary to relate effectively with others.
11. Passage of the Midwestern University criminal background check.
12. Commitment to abide by the Midwestern University Drug-Free Workplace and Substance Abuse Policy.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Students must apply for admission via the American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine Application Service (AACPMAS). The deadline for priority consideration is April 1st of each year. The final application deadline is June 1st. Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis. Students are advised to complete their application files as early as possible to ensure timely consideration.