A Region with High Health Needs
- The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) is a medically underserved region characterized by high poverty rates and significant health disparities.¹
- Approximately 30% of residents live below the federal poverty level, and many are uninsured or underinsured, limiting access to preventive health care.¹ ²
- The RGV has significantly higher diabetes prevalence than national averages, with diabetes affecting approximately 44% of the Medicare population.¹
- Diabetes is a leading cause of preventable vision loss, including diabetic retinopathy and macular edema, making early detection through eye exams critical.³
- Optometrists play a key role in the early identification and management of diabetes-related eye disease, helping prevent irreversible vision impairment.³
- In the RGV region (specifically Hidalgo and Cameron counties), there is approximately 1 optometrist per 14,000‒15,000 residents⁴
- This optometrist-to-population ratio is substantially worse than national estimates, which average approximately 1 optometrist per 7,000‒8,600 people.⁵
- High poverty and exceptionally high diabetes prevalence further amplify the need for optometrists trained to serve underserved communities.¹
1. De la Cruz N, et al. Burden of Diabetes Mellitus in the Medically Underserved Rio Grande Valley. Cureus. 2024.
2. MySanAntonio. South Texas has among the highest uninsured rates in the U.S. 2023.
3. National Eye Institute. Diabetic Retinopathy. National Institutes of Health.
4. Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Health Professions Resource Center. Supply and Distribution of Licensed Optometrists in Texas, County-Level Tables, 2022‒2025.
5. Myers J. Starting an Eye Care Practice: Workforce and Market Data. MySolutionsInsight. 2023
Requirements for Matriculation:
Newly admitted students should plan ahead to complete and submit all required pre-matriculation requirements to the UTRGV School of Podiatric Medicine in a timely manner. Failure to complete all requirements may result in rescission of the offer of admission.
The Contingencies for Matriculation Form functions as your seat deposit. This document outlines the requirements necessary to move forward in the admissions process and secure your place in the program. After reviewing the form, please initial the designated sections, sign, and return it to confirm your acknowledgment and agreement to comply with each requirement. Completed forms should be submitted to dpmadmissions@utrgv.edu.
As referenced in the Contingencies for Matriculation Form, the Technical Standards document outlines the essential abilities required to successfully pursue podiatric medical education and to ensure patient safety. By completing this form, you affirm your ability to meet the program’s professional and academic expectations. Please review the document carefully, sign it, and return it to dpmadmissions@utrgv.edu.
All admitted students must comply with the State of Texas Higher Education Mandatory Immunization Requirements, the Texas Department of State Health Services Immunizations Division, and the Department of Health and Human Services CDC. Proof of the following immunizations is required for enrollment:
- Hepatitis B
- Tuberculosis Skin Test or Blood Assay for Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Test
- Tetanus/Diphtheria/Acellular Pertussis (Tdap)
- Mumps, Measles, and Rubella (MMR)
- Meningitis
- Varicella
- Influenza
- Polio
- COVID-19 vaccine and boosters
Please submit your immunization records to CastleBranch (link found on Contingency Form). You may also complete the Standardized Immunization Form — have it signed by a healthcare provider, and upload it. Documents must be in English and include your full name, date of birth, UTRGV student ID, medical school level (PMS1), and your graduation class (Class of 2030).
All admitted students are required to complete a national criminal background check (CBC) through CastleBranch. Admission is contingent upon the receipt of a CBC showing no felony convictions or other serious violations. Applicants with misdemeanor convictions will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Applicants with a felony conviction will not be considered for admission.
All admitted students are required to complete a drug screening. This screening must be completed no later than 30 days before the first day of Orientation. Information about the drug screening is available on your CastleBranch Portal.
Final Transcripts from all institutions previously attended must be submitted electronically by the institution to SOPMregistrar@utrgv.edu or mailed to:
UTRGV
Attn: SOPM Registrar Services
2102 Treasure Hills Blvd.
Harlingen, TX 78550
All incoming students are required to attend Orientation Week; a mandatory in-person program held the week before classes begin. Orientation provides an essential introduction to the School of Podiatric Medicine, covering academic expectations, campus resources, student services, and professional development. The week features a variety of sessions designed to prepare you for a successful start to your podiatric education. Attendance is required for all new students, and participation ensures you are fully prepared for your first day of classes. Orientation typically begins on a Tuesday in the last week of July.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Learn more about the UTRGV School of Podiatric Medicine or begin your application process.

