Podiatry
Job description
By training in podiatry, you are entering a modern health profession. The profession of podiatrist or medical chiropodist was newly regulated in 2002 and is distinct from cosmetic chiropody. Podiatrists are qualified to make diagnoses and work in close co-operation with doctors to provide therapeutic treatment. Pathological changes in the nails, calluses, deformities in the toe area and restrictions in foot mobility are treated by podiatrists. This also includes training in specialised knowledge for advice on shoe fittings, hygiene, care products and movement exercises. Podiatrists make an important contribution to preventive measures for feet that are at risk of serious consequential damage from diseases such as diabetes mellitus.
Career prospects
Podiatrists work as employees or self-employed in podiatry practices, rehabilitation centres, doctors' surgeries, medical and orthopaedic centres, geriatric care facilities, diabetic foot clinics, spa and wellness facilities as well as in the field of training and further education. Further training or studies can expand the range of activities: for example, wound manager, vocational education, bachelor's degree in podiatry. You have many further training opportunities, e.g. as a specialist in healthcare and social services or with a bachelor's degree in healthcare management.
Admission requirements
- Secondary school leaving certificate/secondary school leaving certificate or equivalent educational qualification
- other completed ten-year school education (which extends the secondary school leaving certificate)
- Secondary school leaving certificate/main school leaving certificate or equivalent school education and successful completion of at least two years of vocational training
You will be informed of other specific entry requirements during the interview.
Training structure
Your full-time training at the vocational school for podiatry lasts two years. Part-time training in Döbeln lasts three to four years. In Döbeln, lessons take place two days a week alongside work, plus one block week per school term. The average teaching time is 40 hours per week in the full-time programme.
Learning fields
- Professional, legal and political studies
- Language and literature
- Specialised physics and chemistry
- Anatomy and physiology
- General and special medical science
- Hygiene and microbiology
- First aid and dressing techniques
- Prevention and rehabilitation
- Psychology/education/sociology
- Pharmacology, materials and product knowledge
- Theoretical principles of podological treatment
- Chiropody measures
- Podological treatment measures
- Physical therapy as part of podological treatment
- Podological materials and aids
Application
We look forward to receiving your application with the following application documents:
- Cover letter
- complete CV in tabular form (signed and with e-mail address)
- one passport photo (+ one digital passport photo)
- notarised copies of certificates
- Proof of sufficient German language skills (at least level B2)
You will be informed of other specific entry requirements during the interview.
Please enclose a stamped envelope with your application if you are applying by post. You can also apply directly online using our application form.
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Conclusion
The state examination takes place at the vocational school for podiatry under the supervision of the competent examination authority. It consists of a written, oral and practical part. After passing the examination, you will be authorised to use the professional title"podiatrist" upon application.
Additional information
If you have already completed training in a medical therapy or nursing profession or as a beautician, you can shorten your training by up to six months. You must apply for the shortening at the Chemnitz State Directorate, which will decide on a case-by-case basis.
Please note: This does not reduce the length of the training programme, but rather the density of the weekly timetable.
Dormitory in Döbeln
Are you looking for a flat or a room in Döbeln during your theory training? How about a room in the school's own hall of residence? Get in touch with us! We can tell you if there is anything available and how much a room costs.
Nationwide
Graduates up to the age of 28 also have the opportunity to apply for a further education or advancement scholarship from the "Stiftung Begabtenförderung berufliche Bildung" (www.sbb-stipendien.de).
Do you have further questions about the process and planning your training? We will be happy to advise you!
BAföG
The latest changes to BAföG have brought numerous improvements: there are more people entitled to funding and higher funding amounts. Please contact your education funding office. You can find the locations of all offices at www.das-neue-bafoeg.de
- BAföG can be applied for our vocational training programme. Find out more at: www.bafög.de
- AFBG: Upgrading Training Assistance Act ("Meister BAföG"). Find out more at: www.aufstiegs-bafoeg.de
- Education loan: www.kfw.de
During the interview, we will also inform you about the possibility of municipal reimbursement of travel expenses, scholarship offers and job vacancies with our cooperation partners.
Education voucher
Funding via education voucher from the employment agency or job centre (according to SGB II or III), but also possible via pension insurance providers and BFD.
Please enquire with your case manager about your personal funding options. If you fulfil the requirements, the course fees and any other costs will be covered.