Why podiatry might be the most underrated career in healthcare (and why you should study it at UEL)

When you think of healthcare careers, what do you picture? Doctors, nurses, or maybe even physiotherapists?
But there’s one path that doesn’t get nearly enough spotlight - even though it’s essential, in-demand, and incredibly rewarding: a podiatry career.

Podiatry is the science and medical art of treating feet, ankles, and lower limbs. It might not sound flashy at first glance, but podiatry career paths are booming, with more opportunities than most people realise.

And if you’re considering where to study podiatry, the University of East London (UEL) should be at the top of your list.

So, what exactly is podiatry?

In simple terms, podiatrists are foot and lower limb health experts. They deal with everything from sports injuries and fractures to diabetic foot care, wound healing, gait analysis, and even minor surgeries. It’s a specialised role that blends physical treatment with diagnostics, biomechanics, and patient care.

But more importantly, podiatrists change lives. Think about how much mobility impacts people’s daily happiness. A patient who can walk again without pain? That’s life-changing. That’s you, future podiatrist.

Is there demand for podiatrists?

Big yes. According to the NHS, podiatrists are on the Shortage Occupation List, which means the UK desperately needs more of them. The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) reports that the need for registered podiatrists is outpacing the number of trained graduates.

And here’s a stat that might surprise you:

Over 4.5 million people in the UK have diabetes, and that number is rising. Diabetic foot care is one of the core reasons people seek podiatric treatment.

Add to that an ageing population, rising obesity rates, and a growing interest in sports and fitness injuries and boom, you’ve got a rock-solid, future-proof podiatry career path.

How much can you earn?

Starting salaries for NHS podiatrists are around £28,407 (Band 5), and with experience, you can earn up to £50,656 (Band 7) or higher if you move into consultant or specialist roles. Private practices or sports clinics can pay even more.
Not bad for a degree you can complete in three years, especially when UEL supports you every step of the way.

What’s it like studying podiatry at UEL?

Now we’re getting to the good stuff.

UEL’s BSc (Hons) Podiatry course is built for people who want hands-on, real-world learning. It’s not just theory and textbooks - you’ll be treating real patients in UEL’s on-campus podiatry clinic, gaining practical experience from Year 1.
You’ll also get placements across NHS Trusts and private clinics, so by the time you graduate, you’ll already be comfortable in a professional healthcare setting.

The lecturers are active clinicians, researchers, and mentors, so they’re people who know the industry inside out – and know how to get you job-ready.

Why East London is a great place to start your podiatry career

East London is one of the most diverse, dynamic, and medically underserved areas in the UK, which makes it a prime training ground for future podiatrists.

Whether you're treating patients from different backgrounds or learning how social factors affect foot health, East London offers real-world insights you just can't get from a textbook. Plus, you’re in London - one of the world’s best cities for healthcare careers, full stop.

Starting your podiatry career here gives you a huge head start, both professionally and personally.

What kind of jobs can you get after graduation?

Here’s where a podiatry career path gets really exciting. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. After graduating and registering with the HCPC, you could go into:

• NHS clinics or community health services
• Private practice, running your own clinic
• Sports podiatry, working with athletes
• Surgical podiatry, assisting in minor surgeries
• Biomechanics, specialising in gait and posture
• Research or teaching, if academia is your thing

And if you’re thinking long-term, many podiatrists move into leadership or consultancy roles. It’s a flexible, varied field where no two days are the same.

Ready to take the first step?

If you’ve been wondering where your future lies – and want a career that blends science, people skills, and real impact – then the podiatry career route could be exactly what you’ve been looking for.

Apply now for the BSc (Hons) Podiatry course at UEL and take the first step toward a fulfilling, high-demand podiatry career path that’s waiting for you.

Your future patients are out there, and they need someone like you.