Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2026 - Inquire Today! |
Bridge to Podiatric Residency |
Accelerate Your Path to Surgical ResidencyA focused program built for professionals ready to shift into podiatric medicine
The Bridge to Podiatric Residency program at SMU is designed for healthcare professionals who are ready for a change. In just 29 months, qualified MDs, DOs, and DDS/DMDs can earn their DPM and transition into U.S. podiatric surgical residency programs. Our curriculum emphasizes compassionate care and clinical excellence, with immersive experiences that prepare you for long-term success in a high-demand specialty. If you’re ready to reenter medicine with a clear path forward, SMU can help you get there. 
Designed for Advanced EntrantsTailored for MDs, DOs, and DDS/DMDs ready to specialize in podiatric surgery. 
Accelerated Path to ResidencyEarn your DPM and qualify for surgical residency in just 29 months. 
Hands-On from the StartGain early clinical experience through rotations in leading healthcare settings. 
Outcomes That Open DoorsGraduate prepared for licensure, board exams, and long-term career growth. |
Gain Surgical Insight.
|
What Makes SMU the Right Bridge for Your Career
Next-Gen Oakland CampusTrain in a high-tech, downtown facility
National ClerkshipsAccess top clinical sites across the U.S.
Accelerated PathwayComplete your DPM in just 29 months 
Enrichment ProgramExplore podiatry before you commit
Surgical FocusPrepare for residency from day one
Personalized MentorshipLearn directly from faculty experts |
Financing Your DPM Education With Confidence
The College of Podiatric Medicine offers a wide range of financial support, including federal aid, student loans, work-study, and institutional scholarships. Through generous gifts like the Russell Odell Lewis, DPM ’65 estate, we’ve significantly expanded scholarships for students with financial need, furthering our mission to diversify healthcare. We personalize each financial aid package using federal guidelines and your unique situation, helping you plan for direct and indirect costs like housing, supplies, and transportation. WICHE grants are also available for qualifying students from western states. Have questions? Our financial aid team is ready to help you navigate every step. REQUEST FINANCIAL SUPPORT INFO
|
Where Your Expertise Can Take You
Completing SMU’s Bridge to Podiatric Residency opens doors to advanced clinical practice and surgical residency opportunities. You’ll leave with a deep foundation in biomechanics, trauma care, wound management, and surgical judgment, all rooted in evidence-based patient care. Whether you pursue residency in a major health system or build a practice that makes a measurable difference in community health, this program positions you to lead with confidence and integrity in a critically needed specialty. REQUEST MORE INFORMATION |
Bridge to Podiatric Residency FAQs
What is the Bridge to Podiatric Residency (BPR) program at SMU?The Bridge to Podiatric Residency program is a 29-month advanced DPM pathway for qualified MDs, DOs, and DDS/DMDs that leads to eligibility for U.S. podiatric surgical residency. Request program information to learn more about curriculum and outcomes. When does the Bridge to Podiatric Residency program start?The program typically begins in the Summer term, with separate designated deadlines for U.S./Canadian and international applicants. Summer 2026 Deadlines:
Who is eligible to apply to the Bridge to Podiatric Residency program?Applicants must hold a medical or dental degree (MD, DO, DDS, DMD, or equivalent) and meet academic standards. Required documentation includes personal statement, letters of recommendation, transcripts and diplomas from all graduate programs, WES evaluation, and MCAT exam or USMLE score. How can I finance my Doctor of Podiatric Medicine through the Bridge program?SMU provides personalized financial aid guidance, including federal aid, grants, and planning support. To explore tuition, aid options, and cost planning, request information from the financial aid team. How do I apply to the Bridge to Podiatric Residency program?Applications are submitted through the AACPMAS portal. Applications require supporting transcripts, recommendations, and a personal statement. For step-by-step guidance, make an appointment with an admissions specialist by requesting more information. What will I learn in the Bridge to Podiatric Residency curriculum?The curriculum covers advanced podiatric sciences, including surgery, biomechanics, trauma care, and diabetic wound management, with structured clinical rotations and national clerkships. Request full curriculum details for more information. Where is the Bridge to Podiatric Residency program offered?The BPR program is offered on the Samuel Merritt University campus in Oakland, California, with national clinical rotations and clerkship opportunities across the U.S. Request program information for full campus and rotation details. What outcomes can I expect after completing the Bridge to Podiatric Residency?Graduates earn a DPM degree, prepare for podiatric surgical residency, and build skills in advanced clinical care. Request program information to learn about residency placement support and long-term career pathways. |
Accreditations
|
Our Campuses
Samuel Merritt University offers undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and nursing certificate programs at four campuses in Northern California and online. 
 |
Ready to Begin Your Next Chapter in Medicine?
If you’re a trained MD, DO, or DDS/DMD looking for a direct path into podiatric surgery, the Bridge to Podiatric Residency program could be your next step. Get personalized support, expert training, and the momentum to match into a U.S. residency program. REQUEST PROGRAM INFO TODAY |