I'm currently in the post-bacc program and really satisfied with my decision to attend. You can do the two-year masters program, but most students (including myself) do the one-year certificate program with the goal of getting into the DO program the following year. If you get a 3.0 GPA and MCAT score in the 40th percentile or higher, you'll be guaranteed an interview at the beginning of the second semester. If your interview goes reasonably well, you'll most likely be accepted into the med school. It's definitely a lot more challenging than undergrad courses (due to volume of material more than difficulty), but if you're willing to put in the work and are happy with attending LECOM, it's a pretty direct path to success.
As far as competitive applicant stats, someone posted here previously saying they were told averages were 3.0-3.2 cGPA and ~25 MCAT score for post-bacc admissions. This seems to be pretty accurate based on what I've heard from classmates. My cGPA fell within this range, but my MCAT and sGPA were slightly slower. However, I made mostly A's in the last 1.5 years of coursework (a combination of repeats and new upper level science courses) and had a lot of medical and non-medical EC's throughout undergrad. So I do feel that they look at applicants holistically and are willing to consider a lower GPA if you show that you've improved and can now handle a rigorous science based-curriculum. I think a demonstrated commitment to medicine and helping others is also really important. So if your GPA is around a 3.0 when you apply but you've adequately shown both of these things, I think you'll be good to go. And I personally wouldn't suggest doing podiatry unless it's what you really want to do and not just a faster alternative. I know multiple people that went into podiatry for that reason, became disillusioned with the field very quickly, and either failed out or hate what they're doing now. On the other hand, I can see it being an awesome and fulfilling career for those who are truly passionate about it. Regardless of what you decide, best of luck to you!
