A Career in Podiatry - Current Education

The importance of changing the name to Podiatry was realised when, in 1994, the Institute of Health Care, University of Malta, organised the first course. Mr. Ivan Vella was the first course coordinator. Mr. Vella was replaced by Mr. Andrew Scicluna when he left government service to practice privately. Since then, three four-year Diploma courses were finished.

For 10 years no new course in Podiatry were offered by the University of Malta. However in the year 2005 the University of Malta offered Podiatry at a BSc. level for the first time.

There are currently 8 students pursuing the course with Ms Cynthia Formosa as the new course coordinator. The course extends over a period of four years of full-time study. It incorporates academic and clinical components. Clinical education provides learning experiences and practice relevant to the stages of the course.

Candidates may apply for admission to the course leading to the Degree of Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Podiatry if they are in possession of the Matriculation Certificate Examination, passes in the Secondary Education Certificate Examinations at Grade 5 or better in Maltese, English Language and Mathematics. Candidates must also satisfy the following Special Course requirement which is an advanced level pass in Biology.

For entry to the Degree course in Podiatry, applicants are required to be not younger than 18 years of age within 3 calendar months from the commencement of the course.

However, there is a huge swing by podiatrists to study in the UK. In fact, various podiatrists obtained their B.Sc (Hons) degree from Queen Margaret College, Edinburgh and University of Brighton in the past few years since this was not yet available in Malta.

A few Podiatrists are now furthering their education in Podiatry in the United Kingdom. Three Podiatrists are currently ready with their Masters Degree and three others are studying Podiatry at a Doctorial level in various Universities in the United Kingdom.

For more information about the current BSc. curse being offered inside the Institute of Health Care visit http://www.um.edu.mt/courses.