FAQs

Question 1: What is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM)?
A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) is a doctor specializing in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of foot disorders resulting from injury or disease. A DPM makes independent judgments, prescribes medications and performs surgery. The human foot has a complex interrelation with the rest of the body which means that it may be the first area to show signs of serious conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Since the podiatric physician is often the first to detect symptoms of these disorders, he or she becomes a vital and sometimes lifesaving link in the health care team.

Question 2: Is there a demand for Doctors of Podiatric Medicine?
Yes! Injuries sustained by an increasing number of men and women engaging in exercise and fitness have created a great demand for doctors of podiatric medicine. Ailments of the foot are among the most widespread and neglected health problems in our nation today. Additionally, the number of older Americans is increasing almost three times as fast as the rest of the population, and subsequently adds to the demand for podiatric physicians. Studies on manpower in the health professions indicate the need to increase the number of practicing podiatric physicians in the United States.

Question 3: Is WesternU’s College of Podiatric Medicine accredited?
Yes. Please visit our accreditation page.

Question 4: How many students will you be accepting?
We anticipate seating a class of approximately 50 students. Visit the competitve candidate profile page for more information on the qualities we seek in our incoming students.

Question 5: Will you offer a program or advanced standing credit for foreign trained chiropodists?
No, at this time, we are not offering a separate program or advanced standing for foreign trained chiropodists. However, foreign trained chiropodists who meet the prerequisite requirements may apply for admission into the first year after completion of the MCAT and documentation of college courses.

Question 6: Is residency training required?
The state of California requires a minimum of three years post-graduate residency training for licensure in addition to passing Part III of the NBPME. As of July 1, 2008, the BPM will accept either the COMLEX or USMLE as equivalent licensing exams to the NBPME.

Question 7: Can you help me find a DPM in my area to shadow?
Yes, we’d be happy to refer you to a DPM in your area. Just send an email to recruitment@westernu.edu and let us know the city (or cities) close to you.

Question 8: What can you tell me about the MCAT?
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores are required as part of your application file. MCAT scores are valid for up to three years. For more information about the MCAT, please visit the Association of American Medical Colleges website.

Question 9: Can I submit my MCAT scores to WesternU now?
All MCAT scores must be submitted to AACPMAS.

Question 10: Where can I find information on Board Passage Rates, Graduation Rates and Residency Placement?
Please visit our Board Passage Rates, Graduation Rates and Residency Placement page for the latest updates.

Question 11: Is there still a residency shortage?
Presently, there are enough residency positions for the number of current DPM graduates. However, there are some graduates from former graduating classes who are also applying to residency positions because they did not match previously or because they seek additional training. The Council on Podiatric Medical Education (CPME) and WesternU CPM continue developing new residency programs or work to increase the number of positions in high-quality established residency programs. It is important to recognize that this does not guarantee graduates a residency program. For more information, please visit the CPME website.