The Council on Podiatric Medical Education (CPME) was established in 1918 when a standing committee of the National Association of Chiropodists was created for the purpose of formulating educational standards. Then known as the Council on Education, the Council conducted its first evaluation/accreditation activities in 1922. The Council has evolved over the years to a position exemplifying leadership as the nationally recognized accrediting agency for the podiatric medical profession.
Important Dates in the History of the Council
2020: CPME establishes guidelines for the conduct of virtual on-site evaluations for colleges, residencies, and fellowships
2018: Council on Podiatric Medical Education, previously the Council on Education, celebrates its 100th anniversary
2011: CPME implements requirements for a single three-year residency
2006: Collaborative Residency Evaluator Committee established
2000: Initiation of an evaluation and approval process for fellowship programs
1995: Joint Committee on the Recognition of Specialty Boards established
1989: Joint Residency Review Committee established
1985: First expansion of accreditation granted to a college of podiatric medicine for the oversight of preceptorship programs
1983: Residency Review Committees for surgery and podiatric orthopedics established
1977: Initiation of an evaluation and approval process for continuing education programs
1975: Council granted recognition to the first active board to certify in a special area of podiatric medical practice
1975: Council granted initial recognition from the Council on Postsecondary Accreditation
1974–75: First evaluation and accreditation granted to an institution sponsoring a program in podiatric medical assisting
1969: Council granted initial recognition from the National Commission on Accrediting
1964–65: First on-site evaluation and approval process conducted for postdoctoral training programs (residencies and internships)
1952: Council granted initial recognition from the US Commissioner on Education
1922: First college accreditation activities conducted
1918: Council on Podiatric Medical Education (Council on Education) established