Doctor of Podiatric Medicine Samuel Merritt University

Podiatric physicians are devoted to preventing, diagnosing, and treating foot and ankle disorders, diseases, and injuries. They are the only health professionals who exclusively specialize in this area—and it’s a field in growing demand. An ageing population coupled with an increase in chronic conditions that impact mobility, such as diabetes, means more people seek care.

At the heart of the California School of Podiatric Medicine (CSPM) program is a rigorous curriculum in the basic medical and clinical sciences mixed with hands-on learning experiences that begin in students' second year, a full year earlier than other programs. Students gain clinical experience in various inpatient, outpatient, and speciality facilities in the Bay Area and beyond—including in surgery, radiology, wound care, biomechanics, medicine, anaesthesia, and, of course, podiatric medicine and surgery. You’ll provide care to patients of all ages and backgrounds and, in line with SMU’s mission, connect with and learn from underserved communities.