By: Nicole Laidler

DIPLOMA IN PEDORTHICS ONE-OF-A-KIND IN CANADA

Most people don’t give much thought to their feet, but when a problem arises there’s a good chance they’ll turn to a Certified Pedorthist for help. These lower limb specialists are experts in the biomechanics of the feet and lower limbs, and are trained in the manufacturing, fitting, and modification of orthotics and footwear.

It’s a growing field, says Jordanna Jones, Manager of BioPed Footcare London. “There’s a high demand for our skills. There are not enough Pedorthists out there.”

Jones is also an instructor in the Diploma in Pedorthics program offered through Western Continuing Studies. The 12-month program is the only one of its kind in Canada.

The curriculum – eight online courses and three practicum placements – prepares graduates to successfully complete their certification exams through The College of Pedorthics of Canada.

“It’s very hands-on learning,” says Jones. “While students are completing the online courses, they are also in practicum where they get to work with a supervisor and interact with real patients.”

The Diploma in Pedorthics is designed for university graduates in Kinesiology who are looking for a rewarding career with plenty of variety. “Pedorthists work with a wide range of people, from children, to athletes, to people working on their feet, to seniors suffering from arthritis and diabetes,” says Jones.

After 15 years in the field, Jones still enjoys being able to clinically asses her patients and then to go into her lab to create something that will improve their quality of life.

“To be a Pedorthist you need to like working with people. You need to have critical thinking skills to complete the assessment and come up with a treatment plan. You need to be creative and to like working with your hands. And you need to be OK touching feet,” she says.

Western's Diploma in Pedorthics attracts students from across Canada. Courses begin in September, with applications now being accepted until March 15.

Become a Certified Pedorthist

Diploma in Pedorthics

This eight-course online diploma program will prepare you for a career as a Pedorthist.  Discover the field of pedorthics: the assessment of the lower limbs through observation of surface anatomy, palpation, gait, and range of motion. Explore the manufacturing, fitting and modification of foot appliances and footwear for the purposes of alleviating painful or debilitating conditions of the lower limbs.

The practicum provides hands-on experience, a strong network of industry contacts, and an edge in the job search process. It is the culmination of your work in the classroom and the bridge to a great career in your target industry.

Less than a year after graduation

100%

of our students secured full-time employment in the Pedorthics field!