B.S. in Biology/Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.) Dual Degree Program
A joint program leading to a Bachelor in Science in Biology from Saint Elizabeth University/Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.) from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine.
Podiatrists specialize in diagnosing, treating and preventing ailments and injuries of the foot, ankle and lower leg. Podiatrists are trained in surgery, management of wound care and radiology. In addition, podiatrists can prescribe orthotic devices to assist in aligning the feet, knees and hips properly to relieve pain. The number of diabetic patients is rapidly increasing in the United States. Podiatrists play a critical role in the management of diabetic foot care. The need for foot and ankle care will become increasingly important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Saint Elizabeth University (SEU) and the New York College of Podiatric Medicine (NYCPM) have developed a 3+4 program for qualified students. SEU has four seats available for each entering class at NYCPM. Students attend Saint Elizabeth University for three years and complete their required prerequisite science and math courses as well as general education course requirements. Following the successful completion of all course requirements at SEU, a student will then attend the New York College of Podiatric Medicine for four years and complete training in podiatric medicine. A student receives his/her B.S. in Biology after completing the first year of the program at NYCPM and his/her D.P.M. at the completion of the program.
Combined Degree Program Requirements
Admission to combined degree program:
Applicants will be evaluated based on high school record (completion of high school English, mathematics, biology, chemistry, and physics), grade point average, satisfactory SAT scores, and high school math/science teacher recommendations.
While enrolled at SEU, students must meet the following criteria:
- Completion of prerequisite math and science courses. A grade of C+ or better is required for Bio. 111 and Bio. 113. A grade of C or better in the other prerequisite math and science courses.
- Students are to maintain a minimum cumulative G.P.A of 3.2 (on a 4.00 scale) or better in the prerequisite math and science courses and an overall cumulative G.P.A. of 3.4.
- Completion of all General Education requirements.
- Shadowing a podiatrist (minimum of 60 hours).
Qualifying for enrollment at NYCPM:
- Completion of all prerequisite math and science courses (as described above) along with the completion of general education courses and all prerequisite courses required for admission to NYCPM.
- Required G.P.A as described under SEU requirements.
- Submission of a satisfactory Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) score.
- Three letters of recommendations. Two letters must be from faculty in the biology program.
- Satisfactory evaluation in a personal interview by NYCPM interviewer.
- A timely and satisfactory formal application.
A complete description of the New York College of Podiatric Medicine program can be found at http://www.nycpm.edu/.
Required Courses (64 or 68 credits)
Other Requirements
Completion of all General Education requirements
BIO111 and BIO113 or their equivalents are prerequisites for all major courses designated 200 or above except BIO209. Students can fulfill the prerequisites by means of College Level Examination Program (CLEP) examinations or advanced placement tests.