fully funded phd programs in rehabilitation

PhD in Rehabilitation Science

The PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science prepares researchers, educators, and leaders in Rehabilitation Science to contribute to the development of rehabilitation practice, research, and policy. Rehabilitation Science is an interdisciplinary field that includes basic and applied research from health sciences, social sciences, engineering, and related fields. 

Commitment to diversity

The Department of Rehabilitation Medicine is committed to:

• Cultivating diversity, equity, and inclusion; and fostering a climate of respect for patients and their families, as well as our students, trainees, faculty, and staff.
• Recruitment, retention, and advancement of faculty, fellows, residents, students, and staff from groups under-represented in rehabilitation medicine in an inclusive and equitable environment.
• Advocacy and outreach to underserved and marginalized populations to improve equity in healthcare outcomes.

Visit our Diversity page to learn more. 

Core Faculty

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Stefania Fatone , PhD, BPO(Hons)

Mary Beth Brown , PT, PhD

Carolyn Baylor , PhD, CCC-SLP

Valerie E. Kelly , PT, PhD

Tracy Jirikowic , PhD, OTR/L FAOTA

Tracy Mroz , PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA

Many additional faculty members within our department work with PhD students as supervisors, instructors, mentors, and collaborators. Our full faculty list is available here . 

Learning Objectives

Graduates of the PhD program will be expected to demonstrate competence relative to the following goals:

• Understand Rehabilitation Science and biopsychosocial constructs of disability, and apply this information to develop excellence in research, education, service delivery, and policy development and interpretation.
• Understand the unique role and contribution to Rehabilitation Science of entering disciplines (e.g., physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, prosthetics and orthotics, rehabilitation counseling, and other rehabilitation-related professions); as well as appreciating integration and synergy across these disciplines.
• Engage in preparation as a teacher of rehabilitation science and in the student’s respective discipline.
• Critically evaluate and synthesize research in Rehabilitation Science.
• Understand research methods relevant to Rehabilitation Science.
• Design and implement innovative research relevant to Rehabilitation Science.
• Take a leadership role in team science.
• Design and deliver scholarly presentations and facilitate effective discussions.
• Disseminate research and other scholarly products/manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals and other venues appropriate to the field of rehabilitation science.
• Effectively design, implement and evaluate instruction related to a focused area of study and reflecting a Rehabilitation Science perspective.

The PhD in Rehabilitation Science curriculum is founded on a biopsychosocial framework and a commitment to interdisciplinary research and interprofessional practice. Though we expect each student's pathway to be highly individualized, all students will complete specific requirements:

• A seven-quarter core course series (21 credits)
• A seven-quarter professional development seminar series (7 credits)
• Extensive coursework and/or independent study in research methods, including research ethics (minimum of 18 credits)
• Coursework and practicum experiences in teaching (minimum of 5 credits)
• Three cognates (areas of study) specific to the student’s individual interests and or goals (minimum of 6 credits each). Each cognate will include a series of courses and/or independent studies.

In addition to these requirements, the curriculum for each student will include 1) an early research experience, including participation in a mentor’s research culminating in the completion of a manuscript and scholarly presentation, 2) completion of the General Examination, and 3) successful defense of the Dissertation. 

Credit from other universities

Credits from other universities cannot be transferred to UW to count towards these requirements; however, some coursework pursued to fulfill these requirements can be adjusted to ensure students are moving beyond their current knowledge and skill set.

The PhD program admits a new cohort of students every other year on even-numbered years. The application deadline is January 15 of even-numbered years for entry into the program in September of that year. Potential applicants may reach out to  faculty  if they are interested in talking with faculty members to learn about their research. Applicants do not need to have identified a mentor prior to application. Matching students with mentors is completed as part of the application process.

All items are submitted online through the  UW Graduate School .

Please schedule and complete an informational meeting with a program representative well before the January 15 application deadline. (We recommend September, October, or November). This informational meeting does not have to be in person but must be completed for your application to be considered. Additional interviews with the PhD Program Core Faculty and/or potential mentors may be scheduled during the application review phase. Please email the program office to arrange a time:  [email protected].

Application requirements

Application requirements are:

• CV or resume
• Transcripts from all colleges attended (unofficial, and uploaded to Grad School application)
• Professional license number, type, state of issue, expiration date (if applicable)
• Three letters of reference
• Interview(s) with program representative(s)
• Why are you pursuing doctoral study in Rehabilitation Science?
• Describe your short- and long-term career goals.
• Describe your qualifications and readiness for doctoral study.
• Describe an area in Rehabilitation Science on which you would like to focus.
• Describe why you selected the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science at the University of Washington and why you believe this specific program will help you meet your educational and career goals.

In addition to online materials submitted to the UW Graduate School, the PhD Program may request a copy of official transcripts.

Eligibility criteria

Prospective students typically have backgrounds in occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech-language pathology, rehabilitation counseling, prosthetics & orthotics, medicine, nursing, engineering, or other fields related to Rehabilitation Science.

In addition, all applicants will be required to have outstanding academic records and, in most cases, documentation of clinical expertise and leadership. Factors considered in admission to this degree are:

• Previous background, including work experience (preferred) and licensure and/or certification to practice (as appropriate) in occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech-language pathology, rehabilitation counseling, prosthetics and orthotics, medicine, nursing, engineering, or other field related to rehabilitation science. Applicants with bachelor's, master's, and clinical doctoral degrees will be considered.
• Undergraduate and/or graduate minimum GPA of 3.0 in their field of study.
• Letters of reference from both academic and clinical settings (as appropriate).
• Evidence of certification and licensure to practice (if applicable)

Selection process

The PhD Administrative Core Faculty reviews all applications to the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science and considers potential mentors for the applicants. Selection decisions weigh the strength of an application and the availability of an appropriate program mentor.

Applications received by the application deadline are given first consideration.  If there is space available in the program after this initial round, applications received after the deadline may be considered.

Program Costs

Resident and non-resident tuition for the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science are based on Tier I  Graduate Tuition & Fees  for the Seattle campus, available from the University of Washington Office of Planning & Budgeting. 

In addition to living expenses, other expenses associated with doctoral study may include books, computer hardware and software, transportation, costs related to conducting dissertation research, and dissertation preparation.

Although we cannot guarantee financial assistance in the form of graduate student appointments to all students, we make every effort to find financial support within the Department’s ongoing teaching and research activities, training grants, and other funding opportunities.  We will also facilitate funding support and graduate student appointments through other campus departments when available and appropriate. Please talk with the program representatives about common funding options.

Please review the information on Fellowships and Assistantships provided on the  Graduate School website .

Additional resources for financial assistance include:

• UW Office of Student Financial Aid
• Grants and Funding Information Service  (GFIS): Offers help in searching for outside funding through databases and workshops.

Thanks to generous donors, the following funds are also available to assist PhD students.

PhD Education and Training Funds

With deep appreciation to the generosity of donors, the PhD in Rehabilitation Science Education and Training Funds provide support for an array of PhD student-centered needs including travel to conferences, publication fees, research expenses, and related costs. 

• Kartin Fund:  This fund was named in honor of Deborah Kartin, PT, PhD.  Dr. Kartin, Professor Emeritus in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, was the inaugural Director of the University of Washington PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science.
• Wang/Robinson Fund:   The Wang/Robinson endowed fund was initiated by Leilei Wang, PhD, MD, and Lawrence R. Robinson, MD. Dr. Wang, Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, and Dr. Robinson, Professor, and the Chair of the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine when the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science was established, all co-founded this endowed fund to support students in the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science.
• Anderson Fund:   The Anderson endowed fund was established by Marjorie E. Anderson, PhD, Professor in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and the Department of Physiology and Biophysics at the University of Washington.  Dr. Anderson served as Director of Rehabilitation Research, Vice-Chair of the Department, and twice as interim Chair, and endowed this fund to support students in the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science.
• McEwen Fund:  Established through the generous support of the McEwen Family, this fund helps support PhD students with a research focus on pediatric physical therapy.

Meet our current students

Students Completing their Dissertations:

Hoda farhadi .

Discipline:  Physical Therapy

Mentor:   Sujata Pradhan, PT, PhD

Sarah Thomas

Orli shulein.

Discipline:  Speech-Language Pathology

Mentor:   Jeanne Hoffman, PhD 

Originally From:  New York

Research Interests:  Exploring the biopsychosocial factors influencing early concussion recovery, including perceived injustice, stress, and patient-provider communication. Clinically, she specializes in high-level cognitive-communication treatment of adults with persistent post-concussive symptoms.

2020 Cohort

Reham a. abuatiq.

Mentor:   Heather Feldner, PT, PhD  

Originally From:  Amman Jordan

Research Interests:  Pediatric physical therapy, enhancing the involvement and inclusion of disabled children in society, exploring the psychological impact of gross motor disabilities on children.

Jennifer “Niffer” Brodsky

Mentor:  Val Kelly, PT, PhD

Originally From:  Bourbonnais, IL

Research Interests:  The potential use of technology to improve access to care and provide supplement guided exercise programming to underserved populations. She is specifically curious about the prevention of decline in physical function and secondary health conditions in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders after the transition from pediatric to adult medical care.

Mentor:   Carolyn Baylor, PhD, CCC-SLP and T racy Mroz, PhD, OTR/L

Originally From:  New Orleans, Louisiana

Research Interests:  Her research interests relate to investigating the characteristics, outcomes, and value of speech-language pathology utilizing health services research methods. She is also interested in understanding the impact of policy and health economics on clinical practice especially in long-term care and for people living with dementia.

Claire Child

Mentor:   Beth Brown, PT, PhD  

Originally From:  San Diego, CA

Research Interests:  Claire Child is originally from San Diego, CA but has lived in multiple states across the US, practicing as a physical therapist in large academic medical centers and specializing in critical care rehabilitation and heart and lung transplantation. Her research interests are in exercise optimization for individuals with advanced cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions and the use of technology and behavioral change strategies to augment physical activity in at-risk populations. Claire previously received a Doctor of Physical Therapy from the MGH Institute of Health Professions and a Masters of Public Health in Health Care Policy and Management from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. She is an ABPTS board-certified clinical specialist in cardiovascular and pulmonary physical therapy (CCS) since 2014.

Rich Henderson

Mentor:   Chet Moritz, PhD  

Originally From:  McKinney, TX

Research Interests: My research interests center around developing and testing neuroprosthetic devices to restore and improve movement following a stroke or spinal cord injury. By integrating advanced technology into neurorehabilitation treatment paradigms, I believe we can promote independence and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with paralysis.

Rachael Rosen

Discipline:  Prosthetics and Orthotics

Mentor:   Brian Hafner, PhD 

Originally From:  Redmond, Washington

Research Interests:  Evaluating health and mobility outcomes related to prosthetic & orthotic interventions; utilizing big data to improve health equity, reducing disparities, and addressing social determinants of health in people who have or are at risk for amputation. Outside of academia, you can find her hiking to her favorite Alpine Lakes, cultivating her urban garden, skiing, or stand-up paddleboarding.

Alissa Smith

Discipline:  Speech-Language Pathology

Mentor:  Carolyn Baylor, PhD, CCC-SLP

Research Interests: Cognitive-communication disorders and cognitive change associated with post-intensive care syndrome.

Melody (Bishan) Yang

Discipline:  Occupational Therapy

Mentor:   Danbi Lee, OTD, PhD  

Originally From:  Guangdong, China

Research Interests:  Aging populations including 1) improving the quality of life for people who have disabilities, especially the aging populations; 2) contributing to social and health services for older adults; and 3) assisting older adults in achieving active aging and aging in place.

2022 Cohort

Adam babitts.

Mentor:   Sean Rundell, PT, DPT, PhD  

Originally From:   New Jersey, Maryland, and then Southern California prior to settling down in Washington

Research Interests: My research focus is on prognostic indicators for low back pain with a more specific focus on psychological determinants.  I would like to understand the roles a patient’s perceptions and personality traits play in reaching their goals.

Tyler Barrett

Discipline:  Clinical Counseling

Mentor:   Mark Jensen, PhD  

Originally From:   Ames, IA

Research Interests:   Tyler's research focuses on psychosocial interventions for chronic pain, and the effect of such interventions beyond pain. He is currently exploring how psychological self-conception and adaptation can aid in chronic pain management and rehabilitation.

Adrià Robert Gonzalez

Discipline:  Physical Therapy / Occupational Therapy

Mentor:   Chet Moritz, PhD 

Originally From: I'm Catalan, from Malgrat de Mar a small town in the coast north of Barcelona.

Research Interests: My research interest is in upper extremity rehabilitation for people with diverse neurological conditions such as stroke and spinal cord injury. 

Originally From:   Petersburg, IL

Research Interests:   My general research interests are related to neurological rehabilitation. More specifically, I am interested in cognitive changes that occur with acute neurological injuries such as stroke, and how those cognitive changes impact participation and quality of life for people after stroke.

Molly Gries

Mentor:   Sujata Pradhan, PT, PhD 

Originally From:   Chicago, IL

Research Interests:  My research focuses on measurement of gait and balance changes with aging and pathology.

If you would like to support our students, please visit our Donate page.

PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences

Conduct Rehabilitation Research and Make an Impact on Practice

The PhD program in Rehabilitation Sciences at MGH Institute of Health Professions trains scientists to conduct research in health and rehabilitation-related fields. Applicants may be clinicians in a health or rehabilitation field (e.g., physical or occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, nursing, medicine) or scientists, engineers, or other professionals seeking advanced graduate study and interprofessional research training. A graduate degree (MS or MA) or entry-level clinical degree is required.

The impact of disabilities on society is growing as our population ages. Demand is rising for professionals who can conduct clinical research in rehabilitation, with a focus on assessing the effectiveness of new interventions. The MGH Institute's Interdisciplinary PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences is meeting this critical need by preparing clinicians and healthcare professionals to conduct high-quality rehabilitation research in academic, research, and/or healthcare settings.

• Research Mentor
• Application Process
• Scholarships & Fellowships

Curriculum Plan

Our program's core curriculum focuses on developing fundamental clinical research skills across rehabilitation disciplines. Since there are a minimum number of specific course requirements, you can design a program of study tailored to your research interests and career plans. Courses are scheduled to allow you to devote time to mentored research experiences, and/or your doctoral fellowship.

View Curriculum Plan

33 core credits are required. 9 credits of electives (typically three additional 3-credit courses) are required and can be fulfilled by taking RS 990 (Independent Study) or by approval of transfer credit for courses taken at other institutions per prior arrangement with each student's Academic Advisory Committee.

The dissertation phase of the program will be initiated after passing a Qualifying Examination, which typically is scheduled after students have completed 6 consecutive semesters of coursework.

Students are required to register for a 1-credit continuing student course (RS 998) for each semester during the dissertation phase of their program.

Dissertation Details

The dissertation comprises a series of papers formatted and submitted for publication to peer-reviewed journals along with an introductory chapter and an overall conclusions chapter.

This approach is modeled after the format that has been used successfully for some time in several European and Scandinavian countries and is being increasingly adopted by academic departments in the United States as a way to facilitate the publication of dissertation research.

The final product must be successfully presented and defended orally before a Dissertation Committee comprising faculty with expertise in areas related to the dissertation topic.

Student performance in the didactic courses in the core curriculum and elective coursework will be primarily evaluated using traditional approaches including formal testing, projects/problem sets, and/or written assignments/term papers. Students must maintain a B (80%) average in these courses to continue in the PhD program. Mentored experiences in teaching and research will be assessed on a pass-fail basis.

You'll be paired with a faculty researcher who has a similar focus to your own interests. Moving forward, your mentor will:

• Assist you with course selection.
• Supervise your research in his or her lab.
• Guide your independent research.
• Advise you on dissertation preparation.

Your mentor will be available to cultivate your career as a professional researcher.

Required for Getting Started

As part of the pre-application process, prospective students should identify a potential Research Mentor who is willing to work with them as part of the pre-application process. View available  research opportunities .

Overview of the Application Process

This is a mentor-based training program. In order to be admitted, a student must have a Research Mentor identified. The Research Mentor is an experienced/active investigator who is engaged in well-established programs of research that align with the interests of the student. The Research Mentor may be an IHP Faculty member or adjunct professor with a primary affiliation at another institution. The Research Mentor must formally commit to providing the time, training, and mentorship necessary for the student to develop and execute a successful dissertation.

Applicants should reach out to potential Research Mentor(s) with their qualifications (e.g. resume/CV, transcript, GRE scores) and potential research interests prior to official application submission. 

Applicants will be asked to input the name of the identified Research Mentor when completing the official application process.

Application Deadline: Rolling Admission. Priority deadline Dec 15, 2023 for Fall 2024 admission. Students who have identified a potential research mentor can continue to apply through Spring 2024. 

MGH Institute welcomes applications from individuals seeking training in health or rehabilitation related research. Applicants often have clinical or research experience in a health or rehabilitation related field (e.g., physical or occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, nursing, physiatry, engineering, etc.). US clinical certification and/or licensure is preferred (international licensure considered), but not required. Applicants must have a Masters (e.g., MS or MA) or clinical doctoral degree (e.g., DPT, OTD).

The program is designed for experienced clinicians who want to become trained clinical research scientists. Applicants should have demonstrated success in their fields as clinicians and have a strong aptitude for further advanced graduate study and research.

Applicants are required to submit a transcript from each college and/or university attended, even if a degree was not received from that institution. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted throughout the application process, and official transcripts will only be required prior to enrolling in the program.

The Office of Admission strongly encourages the use of online electronic transcript ordering which can be sent directly via email to admissions [at] mghihp.edu (admissions[at]mghihp[dot]edu) . If this is not an option and your institution does not participate in electronic transcript delivery, please request official transcripts be sent to the mailing address listed below:

Admission Office MGH Institute of Health Professions 36 First Avenue Boston, MA 02129

Applicants that have earned a degree from a non-US institution are required to submit a course-by-course credential evaluation from one of the following NACES (National Association of Credential Evaluation Services) members: Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc., SpanTran: The Evaluation Company , World Education Services (WES), or the Center for Educational Documentation. If you earned your bachelor's degree outside of the U.S. this credential evaluation must document the minimum equivalency of a US baccalaureate degree or higher.

The GRE general test is required for admission consideration. An official score report should be sent directly to MGH Institute of Health Professions. Score reports can be obtained by contacting ETS ( www.ets.org ). The institution code for the IHP is 3513.

TOEFL/ IELTS

The language of instruction and clinical education at the MGH Institute is English and a high level of proficiency in both written and spoken English is required. Applicants who have not completed either an undergraduate or graduate program where English is the language of instruction must demonstrate English Language proficiency as part of your application to the MGH Institute of Health Professions. If you have questions about the language requirements, please contact the Office of Admissions.

• Applicants who are citizens of Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Great Britain, Ireland, South Africa, New Zealand, Guyana, an Anglophone country of Africa, or an English-speaking country of the Caribbean are not required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
• Applicants who are candidates for graduation from an accredited degree-granting program in the United States or at an English-speaking school in one of the countries listed above are also not required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Acceptance to the IHP will be contingent upon successful completion of this degree prior to matriculation.

Please note that in some circumstances, demonstrating English language proficiency may be required by the academic program even if you are a citizen of a country in which the (or one of the) national language(s) is English. Decisions about the need for TOEFL or IELTS scores are at the discretion of the academic program to which you are applying in coordination with the department of OES. The IHP accepts either the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) . The test must have been taken within two years of the application deadline and official score reports are required. The minimum TOEFL (internet-based) score accepted is 89 and the minimum IELTS score accepted is 6.5.

• To forward your TOEFL score please contact the Educational Testing Service (ETS) . The MGH Institute of Health Professions code is 3513.
• For IELTS, a Test Report Form may be mailed to MGH Institute of Health Professions and score information will be verified by the IHP directly. You may designate up to 5 schools to receive Test Report Forms at the time you register for the test. To request additional Test Report Forms, contact your test center.

Please contact the Office of Admissions if you have any questions about the MGH Institute’s English Language requirements.

Essay/Goal Statement

All applicants are required to submit an essay, through the online application prompt.

Recommendation Letters

Applicants are required to provide three recommendation letters. Letter writers should be current or former employers, professors or another professional supervisor who can speak to your strengths and ability to succeed in a PhD program. All recommendations will be processed electronically through our online application. Please provide contact information for each recommender within the online application.

Letter of Support

All applicants are required to submit a letter of support from Proposed Research Mentor.

Resume or CV

Applicants are required to submit a current resume or CV.

Is a research mentor required for all students?

Yes, we require agreement from a qualified and approved research mentor. See our list of potential PhD mentors or research opportunities for listings of open opportunities. You may also view our current IHP faculty to identify people with common interests to explore mutual interests, the availability of faculty members to mentor incoming students, and potential doctoral fellowship funding.

Where can I find more information on the admissions requirements and program particulars?

If you have any questions related to the application process we also strongly encourage you to contact the admissions [at] mgihp.edu (subject: PhD%20in%20Rehabilitation%20Sciences%20application%20process) (Office of Admission) who in coordination with the PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences program, will be happy to assist.

What is your mailing address?

MGH Institute of Health Professions Office of Enrollment Services 36 1st Ave. Charlestown Navy Yard Boston, MA 02129

Scholarships

Accepted PhD RS students will receive full tuition scholarship for IHP courses for the first 4 years of enrollment. 

Fellowships 

PhD students may be awarded Fellowships funded by the PhD program or research mentor grants. Students receiving Fellowships work 20 hours per week on research projects in their mentor’s lab, alongside coursework and other research commitments.  

Other Funding

PhD students are also able to borrow federal student loans to help cover living expenses: Unsubsidized and Grad PLUS loans.

Learn More About Tuition & Aid

Admissions Events

Study in the hub of healthcare & higher education

Studying at the MGH Institute, you'll enjoy access to cutting-edge research labs in prestigious Boston hospitals and healthcare facilities, as well as the opportunity to take additional classes at preeminent universities.

An Interdisciplinary Framework

Your classmates and professors come from a variety of rehabilitation backgrounds. This diverse mix offers you a variety of perspectives and enhances your understanding of other disciplines.

Tailor Your Research Specialty

In addition to the interdisciplinary core curriculum, each Rehabilitation Sciences PhD student chooses a mentor and the supplemental course work needed to prepare you to carry out independent research in a particular area of interest.

Cultivate your career as a professional researcher.

You'll be paired with a faculty researcher who has a similar focus to your own interests. Moving forward, your mentor will assist you with course selection, supervise your research in his or her lab, guide your independent research and advise you on dissertation preparation.

Jordan R. Green, PhD, CCC-SLP, FASHA

Chief Scientific Advisor Matina Souretis Horner Professor in Rehabilitation Sciences Director of the Speech and Feeding Disorders Lab Office of Provost Communication Sciences and Disorders

• [email protected]
• (617) 945-3624
• 1CW - 172.03

Tiffany Hogan, PhD, CCC-SLP

Director of the SAiL Literacy Lab Professor Communication Sciences and Disorders Research: SAiL Literacy Lab

• [email protected]
• (617) 724-1054
• 1CW - 182.04

Teresa Jacobson Kimberley, PT, PhD, FAPTA

Professor, Physical Therapy Director of the Brain Recovery Lab

• [email protected]
• (617) 643-9237
• 1CW - 170.03

Ruth Palan Lopez , PhD, GNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN

Professor and Associate Dean of Research Jacques Mohr Chair Nursing

• [email protected]
• (617) 726-1015
• Shouse - 208

Kathleen D. Lyons, ScD, OTR/L

Professor, Occupational Therapy Director, Cancer Rehabilitation (CaRe) Lab

• [email protected]
• (617) 643-5372
• 1CW - 170.05

Prudence Plummer, PhD, PT, BPhysio(Hons)

Professor Physical Therapy Cognitive-Motor Behavior Lab

• [email protected]
• (617) 724-3103
• Shouse - 408

Elise Townsend, DPT, PhD, PCS

Associate Professor Associate Director, PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences Physical Therapy

• [email protected]
• (617) 724-6345

Student Profiles & Stories

Erin Futrell, PT, PhD, MPT, OCS

Hannah Mercier, PhD, MS, OTR/L

Jarrad Van Stan, PhD, CCC-SLP

Alumni stories.

Change lives. Every day.

Search NYU Steinhardt

Doctor of Philosophy Rehabilitation Sciences

Prepare for a scholarly career in interdisciplinary rehabilitation research that will improve the quality of life for individuals across ability levels who may benefit from social, physical, or cognitive adaptations. You will further your specialized knowledge by working collaboratively with leading faculty across health fields, and build a strong foundation in applied research and scientific inquiry.

Degree Details

Official degree title.

PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences

The Rehabilitation Sciences doctoral program held an Open House in October 2023. If you wish to view the recording please reach out to [email protected] .

Funding for Full-Time PhD Students

If you are accepted as a full-time NYU Steinhardt PhD student without an alternate funding source, you are eligible for our generous Steinhardt Fellowship Program, which includes a scholarship and tuition remission.  Learn more about our funding opportunities .

What You’ll Learn

Your academic experience, career opportunities.

At the completion of the program, you will be able to:

Demonstrate applied scientific inquiry that is relevant to enhancing human performance and quality of life for persons with disabilities

Develop theories and critically examine integrative, holistic, multi-disciplinary approaches to enhancing the functioning of people with disabilities (physical, cognitive, sensory, psychological) across the lifespan

Experience successful collaboration with one or more mentors in the development of original interdisciplinary rehabilitation research projects

Analyze theory, research, and health care policy relevant to the promotion of rehabilitative health

Develop a unique area of research leading to externally funded research grants

Investigate and compose significant and original contributions to the rehabilitation field by undertaking original research resulting in scholarly works presented at professional conferences and published in science journals

Analyze research and scholarship in ways that inform practice

A Biopsychosocial Paradigm

Our program uses a biopsychosocial paradigm to prepare you to become a scientist-practitioner who studies physical, cognitive, and psychological conditions across the developmental continuum in diverse contexts, both nationally and globally, and promotes those studies for better human development and functioning.

A Rigorous Scientific Training Model 

Our curriculum is designed around a rigorous scientific training model that includes advanced courses in quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research design. The core research methodology component offers cutting-edge applied statistical courses and workshops in methods and measurement with options for advanced modeling and statistical analysis relevant to your research interests and goals.

Throughout your degree, you’ll develop a strong network through ongoing research in collaboration with one or more faculty members as they help you identify sites and resources throughout New York City for your research, and focus your specialization toward a dissertation topic. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared for an outstanding and fulfilling academic career in research and teaching.

Rehab Sciences Alumni Spotlight

Dr. Mark Vorensky

Mark Vorensky holds a PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences and is a board certified specialist in orthopedic and sports physical therapy. Mark's dissertation, which can be found on ProQuest using ISBN 9798379549046 , investigated the effect of patient-clinician relationships on objective measures of function and appraisals of pain for individuals with chronic low back pain, and examined the presence of health disparities in patient-clinician relationships. Currently, Mark is an Assistant Professor in the department of physical therapy at Touro University in Manhattan and an orthopedic physical therapist at NYU Rusk.

Dr. Claire Kearney-Volpe

Dr. Claire Kearney-Volpe holds a PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences and is trained in Art Therapy and Interactive Telecommunications. Claire's dissertation , on accessible web development, can be found on ProQuest using ISBN  28409956. She is an Accessibility Specialist and Senior UX Researcher at Verizon. Her research focuses on digital accessibility, STEM education, and human-centered design .

News & Events

Rehabilitation Sciences Research Featured at Rusk Rehabilitation 75th Anniversary Research Symposium

Core faculty, as well as current and former students representing the PhD program in Rehabilitation Sciences, presented recent research at the NYU Rusk Rehabilitation 75th Anniversary Research Symposium on September 22, 2023.

Rehabilitation Sciences PhD Candidate among 2023 Recipients of Saffran Student Scholar Award

Farha Najah Hussain has received a Saffran Student Scholar Award for the 17th Annual Eleanor M. Saffran Conference on Cognitive Neuroscience and Rehabilitation of Communication Disorders, to be hosted by Temple University on September 28-30, 2023.

PhD Student Receives 2023 Diversity Innovation Grant

Farha Najah Hussain, PhD student in Rehabilitation Sciences, was awarded a 2023 Diversity Innovation Grant from the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Belonging at NYU Steinhardt.

PhD Student Receives NIH Grant

Anna Palumbo has received a F31 grant from the NIH, which is the most prestigious pre-doctoral award that the NIH grants.

Rehabilitation Sciences student Annalissa Vicencio received the American College of Lifestyle Medicine's 2022 HEAL Scholarship

Annalissa Vicencio, a Rehabilitation Sciences PhD student, was awarded the 2022 ACLM HEAL Scholarship.

Rehabilitation Sciences PhD Students Presented at CoHRR's 2022 Spring Research Showcase

Five Rehab Sciences PhD students presented at CoHRR's annual Spring Research Showcase in May

• Partnerships

Human Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences (PhD)

YOU ARE BOUVÉ

Translating innovative research from bench to clinic

Our PhD in Human Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences prepares you to conduct independent and original basic, translational, and applied research to restore and maximize human functional capacity and promote health and wellbeing across the lifespan.

Our interdisciplinary program and its faculty, emphasize core competencies in movement and rehabilitation science, cognitive and behavioral science, and communication science.

Students get: 

• Interdisciplinary mentoring by distinguished faculty 
• To conduct innovative research that positively impacts human lives and wellbeing 
• Core training in movement and rehabilitation science, cognitive and behavioral science and communication science 

We leverage our unique faculty and research laboratories as well as our highly ranked programs in Bouvé College of Health Sciences, the College of Science, the College of Engineering, College of Arts, Media and Design, and Center for Cognitive and Brain Health. 

Northeastern is dedicated to advancing the field of clinical and rehabilitation science, translating research from bench to clinic and promoting lifelong wellbeing from early development through successful aging in the community.

Students benefit from our new research laboratories utilizing state-of-the-art movement and rehabilitation methods including virtual reality, ultrasound, neuroscience, neurophysiology, robotics, and movement measurement technologies. 

Degree Type: Human Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences PhD

Study options: – On-ground (Boston Campus) – Full-time or part-time

Application deadline: April 1

GRE: Not required

Applicants accepted: Domestic and International

Term Start: Fall only*

* Requests for a Spring start are considered on a case-by-case basis by the Program Director.

Human Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences PhD

Our doctoral students conduct research that address several factors in human movement, rehabilitation, cognition, behavior and communication science, including but not limited to: 

• Health promotion across the lifespan from early childhood to aging 
• Psychology of human movement and communication 
• Exercise, speech and cognitive neuroscience  
• Rehabilitation and assistive technology 
• Virtual environments for rehabilitation 
• Biomechanics and ergonomics 
• Science of human communication and neurodevelopment 

Students must complete 32 credit hours of courses, complete a comprehensive exam, and publish a doctoral dissertation. The course requirements include five required courses and then a set of electives determined by the student and their research advisor to provide the individual set of skills needed for their research project and career.

Our graduates are well-prepared to enter into a number of post-doctoral career paths including:

• Industrial research positions
• Government consultants
• Post-doctoral or junior faculty positions in academic institutions in either technology programs or schools of health science, public health, or medicine

Sample Curriculum

Curriculum subject to change. See the course catalog for most up-to-date information.

Required Courses

We expect each student in the program to have core knowledge and skills addressing the common issues for human movement and rehabilitation sciences as well as research methods. These are reflected in the core courses in:

Biostatistics (3 SH)

Core Concepts in Rehabilitation Science and Research (3 SH)

Measurement and Analysis of Human Movement and Bioinstrumentation (4 SH)

Technologies in Movement and Rehabilitation (4 SH)

Interdisciplinary Seminar in Rehabilitation Science (1 SH)

Admission Requirements

Our program does not have specific requirements with regard to classes applicants must take or have taken prior to applying. While competitive applicants typically already possess an advanced degree, we will consider exceptionally qualified applicants with a bachelor’s degree, as well.

Completed application All applications must be submitted through the University PhD application system. In addition to the application, applicants must submit a resume and a personal statement.

Personal statement Your personal statement should discuss how your background informs your research interests. It should demonstrate how your training and experience motivates you to pursue a type of research. The type of research doesn’t have to be specific, but it should also not be too general (e.g. movement and rehabilitation sciences). Prospective students are highly encouraged to reach out to research faculty in the program with overlapping areas of interest.

A CV or Resumé (no more than 3 pages) 

Three letters of recommendation Only academic and professional letters of recommendation will be accepted.

Official transcripts Official transcripts generated by the registrar’s office at all previous institutions attended should be submitted. Student generated/unofficial transcripts are not accepted. If transcripts are being mailed, use the below mailing address.

Transcripts mailed from inside the US :

Northeastern University Bouvé College of Health Sciences Applicant ID: XXXXXXX ( insert your applicant ID number )  Graduate Application Processing Center  P.O. Box 1434  Portsmouth, NH 03802 USA 

Transcripts mailed from outside the US :

Northeastern University Bouvé College of Health Sciences Applicant ID: XXXXXXX ( insert your applicant ID number )  Graduate Application Documents  360 Huntington Ave.  Boston, MA 02115 USA 

TOEFL scores are required from international applicants who possess degrees from institutions outside the United States. Use code #3629 . The PhD Program requires a minimum score of 100 on the TOEFL (official test scores from similar English-language tests may not be substituted in place of the TOEFL).

Faculty and Research

Our program focuses on research within a highly interdisciplinary setting using multidisciplinary and multidimensional concepts of the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health model (ICF). It operates with the support of University based research activities at the interface of rehabilitation, neuroscience, and movement sciences that span the colleges of the university. All students will have exposure to basic, translational, and applied research training since these are considered hallmarks of the program. The curriculum incorporates global concepts for human movement and rehabilitation sciences.

Kristen Allison, PhD, CCC-SLP

Faculty Biography | Speech Motor Impairment Lab (SMILe)

open to research assistants

Leanne Chukoskie , PhD

Faculty Biography | Rehabilitation Games and Extended Reality Lab

Kris Dorsey, PhD

Faculty Biography |

Neha Gothe, PhD

CJ Hasson, PhD

Faculty Biography | Neuromotor Systems Laboratory

Charles Hillman, PhD

Faculty Biography | Center for Cognitive and Brain Health

Winston Kennedy, PhD, DPT, MPH

Faculty Biography

Aston McCullough, PhD, M.Phil

Erin Meier, PhD, CCC-SLP

Faculty Biography | The Aphasia Network (TAN Lab)

Timothy Morris , PhD

Jonathan Peelle , PhD

Zhenghan Qi, MD, PhD

Faculty Biography | Language Acquisition and Brain Lab (QLAB)

Lauren Raine, PhD, MPH

Aaron Seitz , PhD

Faculty Biography | Brain Game Center

Max Shepherd , PhD

Faculty Biography | Shepherd Lab

Joshua Stefanik, PhD

Faculty Biography | Musculoskeletal Epidemiology and Biomechanic

Gene Tunik, PhD

Faculty Biography | Movement Neuroscience Laboratory

Mathew Yarossi, PhD

Emily Zimmerman, PhD, CCC-SLP

Faculty Biography | Speech and Neurodevelopment Lab (SNL)

Faculty in the News

You’ve heard it at least 100 times — regular physical activity does wonders for your health. It can help you maintain a healthy weight and dramatically reduce your risk for developing heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. But less well-known is the impact of physical activity on the mind…

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i transfer credits and can i waive submitting official test scores.

A maximum of 9 semester/12 quarter hours of credit obtained at another institution may be accepted towards the degree, provided the credits consist of work taken at the graduate level for graduate credit, carry grades of 3.000 (B) or better, and have not been used toward any other degree. These courses must have been taken within 5 years prior to the transfer.

TOEFL scores are required from all international applicants who have received degrees from institutions outside the United States. Guidelines for submitting a request to waive the TOEFL requirement are outlined in the Admissions section.

How much does the program cost and what kind of funding is available?

Doctoral students in the Human Movement and Rehabilitation Science PhD program pay per credit taken. The latest cost per credit for Bouve College of Health Sciences programs can be found on Northeastern’s Student Financial Services webpage.

Our program offers a select number of graduate assistantships for doctoral students, which covers tuition and includes a yearly stipend in exchange for 20 hours of work each week. You do not need to do anything further than submitting an application to the Program to be considered for a graduate assistantship.

Can I be waived from submitting official test scores?

Applications to the Human Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences PhD program must include GRE scores (taken within the past five years) from all applicants. This requirement cannot be waived.

In addition, TOEFL scores are required from all international applicants who have received degrees from institutions outside the United States. Guidelines for submitting a request to waive the TOEFL requirement are outlined in the Admissions section.

Can I speak with faculty in the PhD program that share my interests?

Yes, we would be happy to put you in touch with our faculty. Please send your query along with a description of your research interests so you can be appropriately matched.

[email protected]

Do you offer online courses?

Some required courses have online course equivalents that doctoral students may choose to take, but it is not required.

Still have questions?

We welcome any questions you might have about our program. Please feel free to send general program inquiries and admissions-related questions to Elizabeth Holaday, the Program Manager.

This program is not accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education .

Elizabeth Holaday

Program Manager Physical Therapy, Human Movement, and Rehabilitation Sciences

301T Robinson Hall

Program Leadership

Leanne Chukoskie

Associate Professor Physical Therapy, Human Movement, and Rehabilitation Sciences

407C Robinson Hall

Associate Professor; Assistant Director of the PhD in Human Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences Physical Therapy, Human Movement, and Rehabilitation Sciences

Connect with us

Have more questions about Health Sciences? We’re here to help.

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Want to take the next step and start your journey at Bouvé?

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PhD in Neuroscience - Movement and Rehabilitation Science Program

The PhD in Neuroscience with specialization in Movement and Rehabilitation Science (NUIN-MRS) program combines a solid training in fundamental neurobiology with training in basic quantitative methods to help development the scientific knowledge base required for the construction of more effective rehabilitation interventions. Students in the NUIN-MRS program receive a broad education, from cellular/molecular to systems neuroscience, and are expected to approach the study of movement disorders in a rigorous and fundamental way, whether the work is focused on basic, translational or clinical research.

We encourage students to apply if they are interested in pursuing a career in Movement and Rehabilitation Science research with an emphasis on quantitative methods and techniques. We welcome applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds, including physical therapy, occupational therapy and other health professions, exercise science, biomechanics, engineering and the basic sciences. Prior research experience is highly valued in the admissions process.

Interested students need to apply directly to The Graduate School. Visit the Northwestern University Interdepartmental Neuroscience (NUIN) website for more information.

All NUIN students admitted into the program receive a fellowship that covers tuition costs and a stipend for living during the first year. Students in good standing can apply for two years of funding through our National Institutes of Health training grant program, Research Training in Sensorimotor Neuroscience (RT-SNR). Access more information on this and other training programs available for NUIN students here .

Complete our contact request form for more information on the NUIN-MRS program.

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--> PhD Program Directory Related to Physical Therapy (PT PhDs) -->

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Listing of PhD programs and their focus areas.

Click for additional details., arcadia university - movement science.

MSK: Shoulder, Hip, Knee, and Lower Extremity Overuse Neuro: Stroke, Parkinson's, and MS CardioPulm: Acute care and lung transplant

Augusta University - Applied Health Sciences

Rehabilitation

Azusa Pacific University - PhD in Rehabilitation and Movement Science

This online program is designed to accommodate the working professional. Students will graduate equipped to advance education and research in rehabilitation and movement science. Areas of research focus include: musculoskeletal disorders, pain science, cardiovascular disorders, mental health, performing arts, biomechanics, and movement science.

Bellarmine University - PhD in Health Professions Education

Overall health professions

Boston University - PhD in Rehabilitation Science Program

Function, Participation and Environment; Movement Science; Rehabilitation Interventions

Drexel University - PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Movement science, muscle physiology, neuromuscular performance, pediatric rehabilitation, family centered care, community engagement and physical activity participation, pain management, functional outcomes in older adults and people living with disability

Duke University - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Population Health Sciences

Musculoskeletal epidemiology and health services research

Duquesne University - Rehabilitation Science

Clinical Biomechanics, Orthopedics, Outcomes, Musculoskeletal

East Carolina University - Rehabilitation Sciences

Human movement science and disorders, physiology of aging muscles, pediatric evaluation and rehabilitation, musculoskeletal injury biomechanics and neuromechanics, muscle physiology and exercise, locomotion optimization, degenerative disease neurobiology, age-related balance control and sensorimotor processing

Emory University - Dual Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)/PhD Degree Program between Emory University School of Medicine & Georgia Institute of Technology’s School of Applied Physiology

Neural Plasticity, Motor Control, and Neuromechanics

Georgia State University - Dual Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)/PhD Degree Program between Department of Physical Therapy & Department of Kinesiology

Orthopedics, Biomechanics, Pediatrics, Motor Control, Neuroplasticity, Skeletal Muscle Biology

Idaho State University - PhD in Rehabilitation Science

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Rehabilitation Sciences provides students with a wealth of interprofessional, academic, and scholarly training opportunities to develop their area of expertise (eg., Musculoskeletal Disorders, Neurorehabilitation, etc.) and become independent scholars, educators, administrators, or leaders within their disciplines. The program is offered through either traditional (on-campus; Pocatello, ID or Meridian, ID) or non-traditional (online) models with full-time or part-time options.

Indiana University- Indianapolis - Health and Rehabilitation Science

This in-person (face-to-face) program is designed to develop research scientists in rehabilitation and movement science across the spectrum of research from pre-clinical to clinical to implementation. Areas of research focus may include: musculoskeletal health and disorders, neuromuscular health and disorders, biomechanics, movement science.

Loma Linda University - PhD in Physical Therapy

Designed as a working professional PhD, this program strives to make the degree accessible to physical therapists seeking to enhance their knowledge, conduct outstanding research or to pursue a position to educate the next generation. The program is offered in several modalities: Face to Face, Online and Hybrid to provide flexibility for practicing PTs. A variety of themes are available to match the interest of the student including orthopedics, pain science, neurology and motion sensitivity.

Marquette University - Exercise and Rehabilitation Science

The Exercise and Rehabilitation Science graduate program provides rigorous training in translational research with a unique emphasis in rehabilitation disciplines, including biomechanics, neuroscience, motor control, exercise physiology and sports medicine. You will conduct original research and graduate with a specific area of expertise as well as a core of interdisciplinary knowledge in rehabilitation science. You will leave Marquette prepared to impact the rapidly emerging field of rehabilitation health science as a researcher, faculty scholar, or advanced clinician. Areas of focus include: Neuromuscular physiology, exercise physiology, neural control of movement, skeletal muscle bioenergetics, vascular physiology, sensory perception and pain, biomechanics, and health behavioral strategy

Medical University of South Carolina - PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Science

The three tracks of our program are Pathology and Impairment, Functional Limitations, and Health Services

MGH Institute of Health Professions - PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences Program

The PhD program in Rehabilitation Sciences at MGH Institute of Health Professions trains scientists to conduct research in health and rehabilitation-related fields. Applicants may be clinicians in a health or rehabilitation field (e.g., physical or occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, nursing, medicine) scientists, engineers, or other professionals seeking advanced graduate study and interprofessional research training. A graduate degree (MS or MA) or entry-level clinical degree is required. The impact of disabilities on society is growing as our population ages. Demand is rising for professionals who can conduct clinical research in rehabilitation. The MGH Institute's Interdisciplinary PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences is meeting this critical need by preparing healthcare professionals to conduct high-quality rehabilitation research in academic, research, and/or healthcare settings.

New York University - Pathokinesiology

Biomechanics, Motor Control, Musculoskeletal Disorders, Neurorehabilitation

Northeastern University - Human Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences

Conduct independent (original) basic, translational, and applied research to restore and maximize human functional capacity and wellbeing across the lifespan. The interdisciplinary program and its faculty emphasize core competencies in motor control and motor learning, movement measurement and analysis, knowledge translation theory, and the use of traditional and emerging technologies.

Northeastern University - Personal Health Informatics

Mobile health and applications, data safety and implications, social networking systems connecting families and their medical support networks

Northwestern University - PhD in Neuroscience with specialization in Movement and Rehabilitation Science (MRS)

This program combines a solid training in fundamental neurobiology with training in basic quantitative methods for the development of the scientific knowledge base required for the construction of more effective rehabilitation interventions.

Northwestern University - DPT/PhD (Eng) Dual Degree Program

Movement and Rehabilitation Science (MRS) research focused on understanding the mechanisms involved in movement disorders and developing alternative therapies and devices to address these impairments.

Nova Southeastern University - PhD in Physical Therapy

Clinical, Educational, and Fundamental science researches

Oakland University - Doctor of Philosophy in Human Movement Science

The mission of the Doctor of Philosophy in Human Movement Science program is to prepare leaders, educators and researchers. This degree is designed for physical therapists, exercise science and movement science professionals interested in obtaining the knowledge and skills to produce relevant research in human movement science. Certificates are available in orthopedics, orthopedic manual physical therapy, oncology rehabilitation, teaching and learning, and clinical exercise science or students may develop an individualized concentration in research.

Ohio University - Translational Biomedical Sciences

Motor Control Biomechanics Muscle Physiology

Old Dominion University - Kinesiology & Rehabilitation

This interprofessional program develops research skills of clinicians and movement scientists to contribute to our understanding of how humans move, how this breaks down with aging, musculoskeletal injury, or neurological disease, and how motor skills can be developed through rehabilitation. Students develop knowledge in motor control and learning, neuroscience, and biomechanics to answer kinesiology and rehabilitation questions.

Pacific University - PhD in Education and Leadership Program

<p>This unique, low residency PhD program in Education and Leadership is for experienced educators and health professionals who are committed to building a more equitable world through research and leadership.&nbsp;The PhD Program in Education and Leadership is an inter-professional graduate program built on a commitment to radical inclusion and interprofessional education and is structured for the 21st century working professional. </p> <p>Program is interdisciplinary, Interim Director has both a PhD and a DPT. Virtual, part-time program, 6 credits/term.</p>

Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions - PhD in Health Sciences @Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions

Neurological rehabilitation, orthopedic sports sciences, pediatric sciences, health professions education, healthcare leadership &amp; administration, athletic training, health promotion and wellness, human sport &amp; performance

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science - Interprofessional Healthcare Studies

Interprofessional Education and Interprofessional Clinical Proactice. Program admits between 4-6 students every other year.

Rutgers School of Health Professions - Rutgers University Health Professions

Movement and/or Neuro Science&nbsp;

Saint Louis University - PhD in Integrative and Applied Sciences, Health Sciences Concentration

The Health Sciences concentration, at Saint Louis University, prepares students to become scholars and researchers within academic, clinical research, and practice settings by conducting interdisciplinary studies of biological, behavioral, psychosocial and environmental aspects of human health.

Stony Brook University - Health and Rehabilitation Science in the School of Health Technology and Management

Translational research program consisting of an interdisciplinary course of study with concentrations in Disability Studies, Behavioral and Community Health, and Rehabilitation and Movement Science.​ S​tudents conduct research in areas such as basic science, applied research, clinical research, community-based participatory research, educational science, policy and public health/epidemiology.

Temple University - Neuromotor Science

Graduates are prepared to advance science in neuromotor processes including assessment and evaluation of movement, understanding of neuromotor function and integration and its impact on movement on health, functioning and disability, and contributing to the development of interventions to improve human movement – particularly posture and locomotor control and function across the lifespan.

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center - PhD in Rehabilitation Science @Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Clinical anatomy, clinical biomechanics/gait, clinical musculoskeletal rehabilitation, clinical postural control/balance, communication sciences and disorders

Texas Woman's University - PhD in Physical Therapy

The PhD program at TWU is committed to the scientific basis of clinical practice. Students are encouraged to develop their own line of research based on their interests and current areas of clinical practice. Coursework and 1:1 faculty mentoring is designed to prepare students for careers in academia as well as to lead clinical research teams. The program provides a framework for students to develop advanced research and teaching skills. The student, upon graduation, will be able to perform advanced statistical techniques, evaluate and synthesize literature, utilize various instrumentation frequently used in rehabilitation research, develop grants and manuscripts, demonstrate proficiency with current research-related software applications, and understand and apply various teaching strategies.

The Ohio State University - Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Neuroscience, Neural Rehabilitation, Spinal Cord Injury, Biomechanics (Shoulder, Hip, Knee, Gait), Degenerative Neurologic Diseases, Pediatrics (motor development),

The Ohio State University - Neuroscience PhD Program

spinal cord injury, cellular and molecular neuroscience

The University of Alabama at Birmingham - Rehabilitation Science - School of Health Professions

Movement Science, Exercise Science, Occupation Science studied across the domains of body structure and function; activity, and participation/quality of life, and applied to populations with health conditions or disease processes that involve physical rehabilitation.

The University of Vermont - Neuroscience

Neuroscience

The University of Vermont - Interprofessional Health Sciences

Biomedical and Health science, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Integrative Health, Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences

University at Buffalo, State University of New York - Rehabilitation Science PhD

Neuroscience (clinical to basic), Pediatrics, Simulation-based learning, Assistive technology, Fall and frailty prevention, Spinal Cord Injury, Vestibular and balance physiology

University of California, San Francisco - Rehabilitation Science

The UCSF Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, in collaboration with faculty from the Department of Physical Therapy at San Francisco State University (SFSU), provides a unique opportunity to study rehabilitation science. Our PhD in Rehabilitation Science program addresses the broader perspective of basic and clinical sciences in two research tracks: Neuroscience and Musculoskeletal Biomechanics.

University of Central Florida - Kinesiology

Kinesiology; Rehabilitation Science; Sports Science

University of Cincinnati - Health & Rehabilitation Sciences

This is a new program: rehabilitation science, nutrition, movement science, health sciences, human performance

University of Colorado - PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science

Applied Exercise and Cardiopulmonary Physiology, Applied Motor Control, Applied Biomechanics, Health Services, Implementation and Dissemination Science, Clinical Trials, Translational Rehabilitation Technology

University of Delaware - Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Biomechanics and Movement Science

(1) Applied Anatomy and Physiology(2) Biomechanics (3) Cytomechanics (4) Motor Control and Behavior; and (5) Clinical and Translational Science.

University of Florida - Rehabilitation Science PhD Program

Movement Science Disability Science

University of Illinois, Chicago - Rehabilitation Sciences

Neurological rehabilitation, Cardiovascular rehabilitation, Sports physical therapy, Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal rehabilitation,

University of Iowa - Physical Rehabilitation Science

Human Movement Control/Performance, Neurobiology of Pain, Neuromuscular Biomechanics, Orthopedic Gait Analysis, Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Sports Medicine, Human Integrative and Cardiovascular Physiology, Applied Neuroplasticity.

University of Jamestown - Clinical Research

Clinical Research

University of Kansas Medical Center - Rehabilitation Science

The program is designed to prepare outstanding leaders who advance innovative interdisciplinary research in rehabilitation science. A major focus of the program is to advance the science of rehabilitation and to elucidate the scientific basis for the procedures and processes used in clinical practice. Areas of research emphasis include studies designed to (1) promote an understanding of the pathology of injury, disease, functional impairment, and associated disabilities, (2) espouse the rationale for therapies designed to alleviate impaired human function and related physical and mental disabilities, and (3) to advance educational innovations in physical therapy and athletic training education.

University of Kentucky - Rehabilitation Sciences Doctoral Program

Musculoskeletal issues, neurorehabilitation, health services research

University of Maryland - Baltimore - Physical Rehabilitation Science

Neuromotor Control & Rehab Core Concentration: This core concentration area of study consists of two facets: neuromotor science and motor control. Neuromotor science refers to knowledge about brain anatomy, biology, and physiology in relation to movement and movement disorders. Relevant techniques for research might include brain imaging, transcranial magnetic stimulation, startle probes, peripheral nerve stimulation or electroencephalography each of which are available to the trainees. Motor control refers to knowledge about the principles of interaction between neural/physiological, biomechanical, behavioral and developmental systems underlying movement function and dysfunction that can inform rehabilitation assessments and interventions. Relevant techniques for research might include physiological and biomechanical analyses, adaptation and learning paradigms, and clinical tests of movement function. Students are expected to have a knowledge-base in both areas but the specific applications will depend on their research questions.

University of Miami - Doctor of Philosophy in Physical Therapy

Health Outcomes Neuroscience Cardiopulmonary Musculoskeletal

University of Michigan-Flint - PhD in Physical Therapy; Dual DPT/PhD in Physical Therapy

The focus is on the movement sciences, higher education/leadership, and research/scholarship. Students spend sufficient time on campus for coursework (mix of in-person/online), interacting with other graduate students and their Chair/Committee, conducting research, and fostering intellectual activities.

University of Minnesota - Rehabilitation Science

The mission of the Division of Rehabilitation Science is to discover and disseminate rehabilitation knowledge and improve the quality of life, participation, health, performance and well-being of people in Minnesota and throughout the world. Our mission further encompasses the cultivation of premier leaders and researchers in academia, industry and clinical environments to transform the science and practice of rehabilitation, specifically in areas of (1) Activity, Participation and Disability; (2) Cardiorespiratory Physiology and Rehabilitation; (3) Movement Disorders; (4) Musculoskeletal Health and Biomechanics; (5) Neurobehavioral and Neuroplasticity; (6) Rehab Engineering and Assistive Technology; (7) Sex Differences in Health and Disease; and (8) Therapeutic Clinical Assessment, Intervention and Outcomes.

University of Missouri - PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Science at the School of Health Professions, University of Missouri

This is an interdisciplinary, research-focused doctoral program designed to prepare students for careers in research, higher education, and organizational leadership in the health disciplines (including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, health psychology, health science and public health).

University of Montana - Integrative Physiology and Rehabilitation Sciences

Student-advisor/committee driven, but include physiology, biomechanics, and clinical applications to rehabilitation sciences.

University of Nebraska Medical Center - University of Nebraska Medical Center Medical Science Interdepartmental Area

1) Applied Behavior Analysis, 2) Clinically Relevant Basic Research, 3) Clinical & Translational Research Mentored Scholars Program, Patient Oriented Research, and 4) Health Practice and Medical Education Research, 5) Oral Biology, 6) Patient-Oriented Research, 7) Regenerative Medicine & Biomaterials Design

University of Nevada, Las Vegas - Interdisciplinary Health Sciences

Core classes - Interdisciplinary Health Sciences core classes (24 credits) Rehabilitation Sciences (36 credits) - Pathobiomechanics, neurodegenerative diseases, health services

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill - Human Movement Science Curriculum

1) Biomechanics, 2) Neuromuscular Control and Motor Learning, and 3) Exercise Physiology

Biomechanics, Neuromuscular Control and Motor Learning, and Exercise Physiology

University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center - PhD in Allied Health Sciences with Specialization in Rehabilitation Sciences

Aging, rehabilitative technology, biomechanics, cancer, musculoskeletal conditions, stroke or pediatrics

University of Pittsburgh - PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science

Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation Science and Technology, Sports Medicine, Rehabilitation Counselling, Health Information Management

University of South Carolina - Columbia - Rehabilitation Sciences Division of Exercise Science

Applied Physiology, Health Aspects of Physical Activity, and Rehabilitation Sciences.&nbsp; Health insurance also covered for students in good standing.

University of South Dakota, School of Health Sciences - PhD in Health Sciences

<p>The interprofessional Ph.D. in Health Sciences is designed to prepare practicing health care professionals to assume leadership roles in academia, research, and/or health and human services practice settings. Areas of focus are Teaching, Leadership and Issues in Health &amp; Human Services, Discipline-Related, and Research.</p>

University of Southern California - USC Division of Biokinesiology & Physical Therapy

Neurorehabilitation, Musculoskeletal Biomechanics, Exercise Science, Motor Development

University of Texas Medical Branch - Galveston - Rehabilitation Sciences

The program focuses on interdisciplinary research in health prevention, intervention and recovery associated with disabilities and chronic disease, data science, and translational research.

University of Utah - Rehabilitation Sciences

<p>The mission of the doctoral program in Rehabilitation Science is to advance the scientific knowledge underlying the clinical practice of rehabilitation by preparing students to conduct independent scientific research and function as an academic faculty member.&nbsp; Areas of focus of this interdisciplinary program include evidence based management of disease and disability (specifically low back pain, neurological and neurodegenerative diseases, knee/hip osteoarthritis, total knee/hip arthroplasty, lower limb amputation), sports injury prevention and recovery, skeletal muscle physiology (aging, metabolic dysfunction), physical activity promotion for older adults and biomechanics.</p>

University of Washington - PhD program in rehabilitation science @UW

Rehabilitation science

University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee - PhD in Health Sciences

biomedical sciences, communication sciences and disorders, health informatics, kinesiology, occupational therapy, and physical therapy, rehabilitation sciences.

University of Wisconsin-Madison - Clinical Investigation

Virginia commonwealth university - rehabilitation and movement science.

There are two program concentrations: exercise physiology and neuromusculoskeletal dynamics. The exercise physiology concentration prepares individuals to conduct research, direct external funding initiatives and teach in the area of exercise physiology, with particular focus on physical activity's impact on chronic disease states. The neuromusculoskeletal dynamics concentration prepares individuals for research, teaching and clinical initiatives associated with the identification and rehabilitation of movement disorders.

Virginia Commonwealth University - Health Related Sciences

Interdisciplinary core of courses with a specialty tract in Physical Therapy. The program emphasizes use of distance learning technologies combined with traditional didactic methods. The Department of Physical Therapy has a strong academic record of producing highly credible and clinically relevant science for this program in the areas of health services and musculoskeletal research.

Washington University in St. Louis - Movement Science Program

The Movement Science PhD Program at Washington University offers the opportunity to study at the biological intersection of mechanics, energetics, and neural control systems. The Movement Science Program offers training to investigate and improve movement in people with chronic diseases such as stroke, diabetes, low back pain, Parkinson disease, hip disorders and obesity. Studies span the full spectrum of investigation levels, from fundamental discovery through clinical application. Our students become part of the next generation of scientists improving human health through movement. They go on to pursue postdoctoral fellowships, academic faculty positions, and careers in industry.

West Virginia University - Biomedical Sciences

Pathophysiology, Rehabilitation, Performance, Neuroscience&nbsp;

Widener University - Health Professions Education

This is an Interprofessional program for those in the health professions that prepares them for education and research in their field

Email [email protected] with any questions or assistance needed to update your record.

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Value of a PhD

Long-term career earnings in academia might offset opportunity cost of full-time PhD

Why pursue a PhD?

Career paths available within the PT profession

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Rehabilitation Science PhD

School of public health and health professions, program description.

The Rehabilitation Science PhD program's interdisciplinary curriculum offers a theoretical understanding of rehabilitation science—the study of physical, musculoskeletal, psychological and functional disorders in humans—while the emphasis on research provides the practical skills needed to investigate key issues in the field. Personalize your program of study by developing and exploring the areas of rehabilitation science that interest you most.

Sharon Ray Email: [email protected] Phone: 716-829-6799 Fax: 716-829-3217

Instruction Method

• In Person   (100 percent of courses offered in person)

Full/Part Time Options

Credits required, time-to-degree, application fee.

This program is officially registered with the New York State Education Department (SED).

Online programs/courses may require students to come to campus on occasion. Time-to-degree and number of credit hours may vary based on full/part time status, degree, track and/or certification option chosen. Time-to-degree is based on calendar year(s). Contact the department for details.

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PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences

For contact information, please visit the Sargent College website .

The goal of the rehabilitation sciences program is to prepare graduates with the skills needed to become successful educators, researchers, and innovators in the field of rehabilitation sciences. Graduates develop the strong research, teaching, and leadership skills necessary for a successful academic career focused on research and teaching. Through didactic training and mentored research activities, we prepare students to teach in higher education, conduct research, and disseminate scholarly work to peers, colleagues, and consumers.

Rehabilitation sciences is a highly interdisciplinary field of study aimed at enhancing activity, function, and participation in daily life and promoting health and wellness among persons with or at risk of developing disabilities. Rehabilitation sciences spans the entire life course, from infancy to older adulthood, and addresses a wide variety of acute and chronic physical and psychological conditions that may negatively impact people’s abilities to perform daily activities and participate in their lives fully. Rehabilitation sciences integrates knowledge from diverse fields such as psychology, social sciences, movement sciences, engineering, community and family systems, health services, and epidemiology with the foundational sciences of rehabilitation clinical practice.

The rehabilitation sciences program is located in a modern facility with state-of-the-art research centers and labs . Accomplished faculty collaborate extensively with other experts within and outside Boston University, including internationally renowned research centers such as the Arthritis & Autoimmune Diseases Research Center , the Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation , and the Center for Neurorehabilitation . Faculty also collaborate with colleagues at other Boston University schools and colleges such as the College of Engineering, the  Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine , and the School of Public Health, and with community programs including schools, residential programs, community wellness programs, and centers for independent living.

The PhD Program in Rehabilitation Sciences seeks outstanding applicants interested in preparing for a career in rehabilitation sciences. Applicants will be considered with and without a clinical professional degree. Current students come from varied backgrounds and include BS and MS graduates in biology, health sciences, psychology, and engineering, as well as experienced professionals with licensure or certification in fields such as athletic training, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and psychiatric rehabilitation.

The doctoral program prepares students for research and teaching careers in the rehabilitation sciences field. The degree awarded is the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Prerequisites for entering the program depend on the area of research that the student chooses (see Admission Requirements ). The program beyond the core requirements is flexible, and necessary coursework is determined on an individual basis by the student’s area of concentration.

Learning Outcomes

Students will:

• Demonstrate the ability to design, conduct, and evaluate research in rehabilitation science.
• Demonstrate advanced knowledge of theory and existing research in rehabilitation sciences.
• Demonstrate the ability to effectively disseminate original research findings to peers/colleagues.
• Be able to articulate appropriate professional skills and ethical behaviors needed for successful academic and/or research careers.

Students take a common core curriculum designed to provide a strong foundation in rehabilitation sciences and research methods for a broad array of research questions in rehabilitation sciences and academic teaching skills. In addition, students participate in doctoral seminars with faculty and their peers to explore professional aspects of their future careers (e.g., publishing, manuscript review, grant review, project management) as well as share the development of their line of research as it advances in the program. Beyond the core coursework, students complete the required work designated in an area of concentration.

Degree Requirements

The number of credits required will depend on the student’s area of concentration and extent of previous education, including a completed master’s degree or completed prerequisites. The exact sequence of courses, comprehensive examination, and dissertation research is determined by the mentor, in consultation with the individual student.

The requirements for the degree must be completed within five years of initial matriculation.

Common Core Coursework

All courses are 4 credits unless otherwise specified.

• CAS MA 614 Statistical Methods I
• CAS MA 684 Multivariate Statistics
• SAR RS 650 Foundations of Rehabilitation Sciences (2 cr)
• SAR RS 750 Research Design
• SAR RS 790 Teaching Skills (2 cr)
• SAR RS 870 Emerging Topics in Rehabilitation Sciences (2 cr)
• SAR RS 890 Doctoral Seminar in Rehabilitation Sciences (1 cr/sem)
• SAR RS 920 Comprehensive Examination (1 cr)
• SAR RS 930 Dissertation Proposal Development (1 cr)
• SAR RS 940 Dissertation Research (3 cr)

Elective Courses

Doctoral students may take courses in various schools and colleges at Boston University, and they also benefit from the unique partnerships with many other universities and training programs in the surrounding area. Electives are selected in consultation with the student’s mentor. Students take a variety of elective courses, such as health care management, administration, psychology, statistics, computer science, engineering, disability law, and public health.

The PhD Program in Rehabilitation Sciences is carefully designed to prepare individuals for careers in research. The program is built around a mentorship model, reflecting our belief that preparation for independent research and scholarship can best be achieved by participating in ongoing research with guidance from the conducting faculty member. The student begins by assisting the faculty mentor with a specific inquiry, and gradually, as expertise builds, identifies a related line of investigation that the student will pursue for the dissertation. The work of the doctoral student contributes to and is enriched by the larger research program that the faculty member has initiated. Students must commit to a full-time, consistent involvement in their mentor’s research program. To the extent that research programs of faculty members differ in focus and methodology, research activities of students may vary. The mentor serves as a professional role model throughout the program and guides the student in developing and achieving individualized professional and academic goals.

Students are accepted into the doctoral program to work with a particular faculty member in an identified area of research. While students may choose to switch research focus after a period of time in the program, the ability to do so will depend first, on the identification of another line of ongoing research in which they will now participate and, second, on the ability and willingness of the identified faculty member to accept another student into his/her current load. Early in the student’s first semester, a mentorship plan is developed with the mentor for the first year, which specifies learning goals, performance expectations, and required tasks. For example, the mentorship relationship is likely to involve the student working on the mentor’s research project; and the mentorship plan would indicate work schedule, responsibilities, and supervision format. Typically, the first two years of mentorship experience will include collaboration on a publication.

Mentor-Based Concentration Areas

Function, participation & environment.

Research in the Function, Participation, & Environment concentration is guided by biopsychosocial and socioecological theories of health, function, and disability. These approaches are used to investigate the dynamic relationship between the person and their environment, and the impact of that interaction on function and participation at home, school, work, and the community. The overall goal is to identify pathways to successful participation that guide the creation of strategies, supports, programs, services, and social environments that enable persons with and without disabilities to achieve full participation in society.

Prerequisites

A clinical degree and experience are desirable, but not required. However, a strong interest in health-related research is essential.

Applicants must document prior coursework providing a foundation in the following three areas:

• Basic research methods and introductory statistics
• Developmental theory and/or adaptive processes
• Understanding health and disability

In addition to the common core coursework required of all students in the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, and dependent on the student’s area of research, some or all of the following courses may need to be taken during the doctoral program. Electives are selected in consultation with the mentor to build knowledge of theory and methodology in the area of planned research. Courses may be taken at BU Sargent College, other graduate programs at Boston University, or at Consortium schools (Boston College, Brandeis, or Tufts). All courses listed are 4 credits, unless otherwise specified.

• SAR HP 804 Teaching Practicum (2 cr)
• SAR HP 870 Emerging Topics in Rehabilitation Sciences (2 cr/sem)
• SSW SR 906 Qualitative Research Methods

Minimum of 16 elective credits should be taken.

Sample elective topics include:

• Cognition and Language
• Contemporary Issues in Maternal and Child Health
• Developmental Science
• Epidemiology
• Human Neuropsychology
• Psychometric Theory
• Research Methods, including survey research and clinical trials
• Social Perspectives on Aging and Old Age
• Work and Society

Rehabilitation Interventions

Research in the Rehabilitation Interventions concentration includes the development and evaluation of theoretically informed rehabilitation interventions and programs for a broad range of people with disabilities. The focus is on the development of innovative approaches, evaluation of their effects and underlying mechanisms, and identification of effective dissemination and implementation practices and procedures

A clinical degree and experience are desirable, but not required. However, a strong interest in health-related research is essential. Students must enter this concentration with a master’s degree.

Applicants must document prior coursework providing a foundation in the following two areas:

In addition to the common core coursework required of all students in the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, students must take concentration area courses and electives dependent on their area of research. The courses are selected in consultation with the mentor to build knowledge of theory and methodology in the area of planned research. The electives may be taken at BU Sargent College, other graduate programs at Boston University, or at Consortium schools (Boston College, Brandeis, or Tufts). For example, students participating in the ENACT training program have the following required concentration area courses (11 credits). All courses listed are 4 credits, unless otherwise specified.

Required concentration area courses (11 credits)*

• SAR RS 870 Emerging Topics in Rehabilitation Sciences (2 cr/sem, at least 2 semesters)
• SPH EP 713 Introduction to Epidemiology Methods (3 cr)
• SPH EP 813 Intermediate Epidemiology or Clinical Trials Research

*May substitute other research methods courses for epidemiology courses

A minimum of 8 elective credits should be taken. More electives may be needed dependent on prior completed coursework.

Sample Electives

• Applied Epidemiology of Aging
• Clinical Epidemiology
• Health, Illness, and Health Service Utilization
• Survey Research
• Clinical Trials
• Meta-analyses
• Advanced Human Movement
• Foundations of Motor Control
• Qualitative Research Methods

Movement Science

Research in the Movement Science concentration is concerned with the biomechanics of movement, the dynamics of coordination and control, and the processes of development, adaptation, and learning. The overall goal is to increase understanding of human movement and motor development and to apply this knowledge to improve the diagnosis and treatment of movement disorders in individuals with musculoskeletal and neurological impairments.

Should be taken during doctoral program if not completed previously.

• Calculus I & II
• Human Anatomy
• Neurophysiology
• Functional Anatomy

In addition to the common core coursework required of all students in the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, and dependent on the student’s selected area of research, some or all of the following courses may need to be taken during the doctoral program. All courses listed are 4 credits unless otherwise specified.

• ENG EN 124 Introduction to Engineering Computation
• SAR HP 550 Scientific Basis of Human Movement (2 cr)
• SAR HP 565 Biomechanics of Human Movement
• SAR HP 737 Instrumentation for Analysis of Motion
• SAR HP 741 Time Series Analysis
• SAR HP 771 Foundations of Motor Control
• SAR RS 870 Emerging Topics in Rehabilitation Sciences (2 cr/sem)

Comprehensive Examination and Dissertation

The comprehensive examination process occurs during the summer following the student’s second year. Students write a literature synthesis over the course of three months. During the following Fall Semester, the committee will read the student’s comprehensive examination and pose an additional question or two, for which the student has to supply a written response within one month. An oral defense completes the comprehensive examination process. A single comprehensive examination is required.

Additional tasks for all students in the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Sciences include a professional presentation and a grant proposal. The dissertation takes the form of two journal manuscripts, one of which has to be submitted before the dissertation is defended.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should refer to the program website for the most up-to-date admission requirements and application deadlines.

Financial Support

All newly admitted PhD students will receive a five-year offer of support, which may be for work as a teaching fellow or as a research assistant, or a combination of these depending on the program and mentor. The fellowship will consist of a scholarship to cover tuition and academic fees, and a stipend of at least $38,253 per academic year. As part of the fellowship award, the University will cover individual participation in the Boston University Basic Medical Insurance Plan.

Related Bulletin Pages

• Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences Courses
• Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences Departments
• Abbreviations and Symbols

Beyond the Bulletin

• More on this program
• Sargent Admissions
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• Behavior & Health
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• Physical Therapy
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• Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency Program
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Note that this information may change at any time. Read the full terms of use .

related websites

• Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences

Accreditation

Boston University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

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Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences

College of humanities and sciences, ph.d. in rehabilitation and movement science.

This rigorous program focuses on the development of teaching and research expertise in the applied science disciplines.

The Ph.D. in rehabilitation and movement science is a collaborative effort among faculty in the areas of athletic training, exercise science, physical therapy and physical medicine and rehabilitation. It is an interdisciplinary program between the departments of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, Physical Therapy and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.

This degree program uniquely addresses the multifaceted nature of our current health care delivery system and prepares applied scientists to approach health and rehabilitation initiatives from an integrative rather than competitive perspective. The program encourages applications from individuals in rehabilitation and movement science fields such as physical therapy, exercise physiology, sports medicine and physical medicine.

Concentrations

Exercise physiology.

The exercise physiology concentration prepares individuals to conduct research, direct external funding initiatives and teach in the area of exercise physiology, with particular focus on physical activity’s impact on chronic disease states.

Degree overview

Plan of study

Neuromusculoskeletal Dynamics

The neuromusculoskeletal dynamics concentration prepares individuals for research, teaching and clinical initiatives associated with the identification and rehabilitation of movement disorders.

Program Highlights

The Ph.D. in rehabilitation and movement science is a cross-disciplinary program that spans both campuses at VCU. We prepare graduates to assume research, teaching and leadership positions within rehabilitation and movement science professions.

How to Apply

All applications to the Ph.D. program must be submitted via the VCU admissions portal , and must include:

• Official undergraduate transcripts
• Official graduate transcripts
• Personal statement
• Curriculum vitae
• Three letters of reference
• GRE test scores

Admission Requirements

In addition to the general admission requirements of the VCU Graduate School and VCU College of Humanities and Sciences , applicants must have completed at least one of the following: a master’s degree in a related area, 30 hours of post-baccalaureate work (e.g., coursework at 500 level or greater) or a first-professional degree program.

Applicants being considered for admission must complete an interview with a Ph.D. admissions committee representative and/or research faculty member with whom the student would like to work.

Application Deadlines

Applications received prior to Jan. 9 will be given priority consideration for fall admission. Applications are considered until all positions are filled.

Study in Our New STEM Building

Our brand new, 169,000-square-foot STEM building has a dedicated resistance and biomechanics laboratory, as well as a running track and other types of exercise equipment for students to utilize for movement science experiments.

See Facility Details

• Doctor of Philosophy in Rehabilitation Sciences (PhD)
• Graduate School
• Prospective Students
• Graduate Degree Programs

Canadian Immigration Updates

Applicants to Master’s and Doctoral degrees are not affected by the recently announced cap on study permits. Review more details

Go to programs search

The Graduate Programs in Rehabilitation Sciences (RHSC) is jointly run by the Department of Occupational Sciences and Occupational Therapy (OSOT) and the Department of Physical Therapy (PT). It is a program for advanced research study and original investigation in areas relevant to the Rehabilitation Sciences at the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) level. It focuses on the discipline of Rehabilitation Sciences - the study of providing treatment and education to persons with temporary or permanent disability to return them to maximum function, well-being and personally-satisfying levels of independence.

It encompasses the three dimensions of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (body structure and function, activity and participation) and thus spans the individual, community and society. Our faculty have active research programs that cover this diverse spectrum.

In the Graduate Programs in Rehabilitation Sciences, we strive to create outstanding learning and research experiences for occupational therapists, physical therapists and others with various health-related disciplines. Through these opportunities, in combination with the PhD thesis, graduates advance the science of rehabilitation which aims to promote physical, mental and social well-being among people of all levels of ability. Our collaborative initiatives result in a reciprocal transfer of new knowledge among academic, clinical, and community settings.

For specific program requirements, please refer to the departmental program website

What makes the program unique?

Our faculty have an outstanding record of scholarly productivity, receiving funding from provincial and national research granting agencies. Over 30 graduate students from a broad range of backgrounds including occupational therapy, physical therapy, recreation therapy, social sciences, human kinetics, and engineering have graduated from our program. These students have authored numerous peer-reviewed journal publications and won various scholarships and awards.

Program faculty members are well integrated with several of the world class research facilities established here in BC including: Arthritis Research Centre, Brain Research Centre, Centre for Hip Health, International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries, Centre for Heart and Lung Innovation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Providence Health Care Research Institute, GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre, and the BC Children's Hospital Research Institute.

I continue to be amazed by the ways that members of the UBC community contribute to local initiatives and the wider world.

Natasha Damiano

Quick Facts

Program enquiries, admission information & requirements, 1) check eligibility, minimum academic requirements.

The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies establishes the minimum admission requirements common to all applicants, usually a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC). The graduate program that you are applying to may have additional requirements. Please review the specific requirements for applicants with credentials from institutions in:

• Canada or the United States
• International countries other than the United States

Each program may set higher academic minimum requirements. Please review the program website carefully to understand the program requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission as it is a competitive process.

English Language Test

Applicants from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must provide results of an English language proficiency examination as part of their application. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application.

Minimum requirements for the two most common English language proficiency tests to apply to this program are listed below:

TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet-based

Overall score requirement : 100

IELTS: International English Language Testing System

Overall score requirement : 7.5

Other Test Scores

Some programs require additional test scores such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Test (GMAT). The requirements for this program are:

The GRE is required by some applicants. Please check the program website.

Prior degree, course and other requirements

Prior degree requirements.

Completion of a recognized baccalaureate degree and thesis-based master’s degree in Rehabilitation Sciences, or other related field.

Course Requirements

A minimum of 3 credits in research methods or statistics

Other Requirements

Applicants from non-Canadian or United States universities may be required to provide general (GRE) (Graduate Record Examination) scores as part of their application at the request of their proposed supervisor. Scores must be valid within the past 2 years.

2) Meet Deadlines

September 2024 intake, application open date, canadian applicants, international applicants, january 2025 intake, september 2025 intake, deadline explanations.

Deadline to submit online application. No changes can be made to the application after submission.

Deadline to upload scans of official transcripts through the applicant portal in support of a submitted application. Information for accessing the applicant portal will be provided after submitting an online application for admission.

Deadline for the referees identified in the application for admission to submit references. See Letters of Reference for more information.

3) Prepare Application

Transcripts.

All applicants have to submit transcripts from all past post-secondary study. Document submission requirements depend on whether your institution of study is within Canada or outside of Canada.

Letters of Reference

A minimum of three references are required for application to graduate programs at UBC. References should be requested from individuals who are prepared to provide a report on your academic ability and qualifications.

Statement of Interest

Many programs require a statement of interest , sometimes called a "statement of intent", "description of research interests" or something similar.

Supervision

Students in research-based programs usually require a faculty member to function as their thesis supervisor. Please follow the instructions provided by each program whether applicants should contact faculty members.

Instructions regarding thesis supervisor contact for Doctor of Philosophy in Rehabilitation Sciences (PhD)

Citizenship verification.

Permanent Residents of Canada must provide a clear photocopy of both sides of the Permanent Resident card.

4) Apply Online

All applicants must complete an online application form and pay the application fee to be considered for admission to UBC.

Tuition & Financial Support

Financial support.

Applicants to UBC have access to a variety of funding options, including merit-based (i.e. based on your academic performance) and need-based (i.e. based on your financial situation) opportunities.

Program Funding Packages

From September 2024 all full-time students in UBC-Vancouver PhD programs will be provided with a funding package of at least $24,000 for each of the first four years of their PhD. The funding package may consist of any combination of internal or external awards, teaching-related work, research assistantships, and graduate academic assistantships. Please note that many graduate programs provide funding packages that are substantially greater than $24,000 per year. Please check with your prospective graduate program for specific details of the funding provided to its PhD students.

Average Funding

• 15 students received Teaching Assistantships. Average TA funding based on 15 students was $3,610.
• 24 students received Research Assistantships. Average RA funding based on 24 students was $14,208.
• 5 students received Academic Assistantships. Average AA funding based on 5 students was $5,427.
• 36 students received internal awards. Average internal award funding based on 36 students was $13,282.
• 14 students received external awards. Average external award funding based on 14 students was $22,591.

Scholarships & awards (merit-based funding)

All applicants are encouraged to review the awards listing to identify potential opportunities to fund their graduate education. The database lists merit-based scholarships and awards and allows for filtering by various criteria, such as domestic vs. international or degree level.

Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA)

Many professors are able to provide Research Assistantships (GRA) from their research grants to support full-time graduate students studying under their supervision. The duties constitute part of the student's graduate degree requirements. A Graduate Research Assistantship is considered a form of fellowship for a period of graduate study and is therefore not covered by a collective agreement. Stipends vary widely, and are dependent on the field of study and the type of research grant from which the assistantship is being funded.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA)

Graduate programs may have Teaching Assistantships available for registered full-time graduate students. Full teaching assistantships involve 12 hours work per week in preparation, lecturing, or laboratory instruction although many graduate programs offer partial TA appointments at less than 12 hours per week. Teaching assistantship rates are set by collective bargaining between the University and the Teaching Assistants' Union .

Graduate Academic Assistantships (GAA)

Academic Assistantships are employment opportunities to perform work that is relevant to the university or to an individual faculty member, but not to support the student’s graduate research and thesis. Wages are considered regular earnings and when paid monthly, include vacation pay.

Financial aid (need-based funding)

Canadian and US applicants may qualify for governmental loans to finance their studies. Please review eligibility and types of loans .

All students may be able to access private sector or bank loans.

Foreign government scholarships

Many foreign governments provide support to their citizens in pursuing education abroad. International applicants should check the various governmental resources in their home country, such as the Department of Education, for available scholarships.

Working while studying

The possibility to pursue work to supplement income may depend on the demands the program has on students. It should be carefully weighed if work leads to prolonged program durations or whether work placements can be meaningfully embedded into a program.

International students enrolled as full-time students with a valid study permit can work on campus for unlimited hours and work off-campus for no more than 20 hours a week.

A good starting point to explore student jobs is the UBC Work Learn program or a Co-Op placement .

Tax credits and RRSP withdrawals

Students with taxable income in Canada may be able to claim federal or provincial tax credits.

Canadian residents with RRSP accounts may be able to use the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP) which allows students to withdraw amounts from their registered retirement savings plan (RRSPs) to finance full-time training or education for themselves or their partner.

Please review Filing taxes in Canada on the student services website for more information.

Cost Estimator

Applicants have access to the cost estimator to develop a financial plan that takes into account various income sources and expenses.

Career Outcomes

18 students graduated between 2005 and 2013. Of these, career information was obtained for 18 alumni (based on research conducted between Feb-May 2016):

Sample Employers in Higher Education

Sample employers outside higher education, sample job titles outside higher education, phd career outcome survey, career options.

Graduates from our programs go on to become faculty members that teach and conduct research at universities. They also work as research scientists, clinical scientists and consultants to government, health authorities and other organizations with interests in rehabilitation specifically, and health care as a whole.

Alumni on Success

Amy Kirkham

Job Title Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Employer University of Alberta

Hana Al-Bannay

Job Title Assistant Professor

Employer Saad College of Nursing & Allied Health Sciences

Jill Zwicker

Employer University of British Columbia

Enrolment, Duration & Other Stats

These statistics show data for the Doctor of Philosophy in Rehabilitation Sciences (PhD). Data are separated for each degree program combination. You may view data for other degree options in the respective program profile.

ENROLMENT DATA

Completion rates & times, upcoming doctoral exams, thursday, 6 june 2024 - 9:00am - room 200.

• Research Supervisors

Advice and insights from UBC Faculty on reaching out to supervisors

These videos contain some general advice from faculty across UBC on finding and reaching out to a supervisor. They are not program specific.

This list shows faculty members with full supervisory privileges who are affiliated with this program. It is not a comprehensive list of all potential supervisors as faculty from other programs or faculty members without full supervisory privileges can request approvals to supervise graduate students in this program.

• Ardern, Clare (Electronic health (e-Health); Mobile health (mHealth); Patient and citizen engagement research; Health equity; Physical therapy; Sports medicine; Knowledge translation and implementation science in health; Orthopedics; Sex and gender-based analysis; musculoskeletal conditions; Digital health; eHealth; orthopaedics; sports medicine; rehabilitation; meta-science; peer review; research impact)
• Barbic, Skye (Occupational therapy; Rehabilitation medicine; assessment; community integration; health and well-being; Implementation Science; Individual Placement Support; measurement; Mental Health and Society; mental health; metrology; Patient Engagement; Rasch Measurement Theory; recovery; Supported Employment; youth)
• Boyd, Lara (Neurosciences, biological and chemical aspects; Neurosciences, medical and physiological and health aspects; Physical therapy; Rehabilitation medicine; Learning; Learning and Memory; Motor System; Motor learning; Neurophysiology; Physiology; Plasticity / Neuronal Regeneration; stroke)
• Camp, Pat (Physical therapy; Rehabilitation medicine)
• Campbell, Kristin (Clinical oncology; Physical therapy; Rehabilitation medicine; Biomarkers; Breast Cancer; Exercise Physiology; oncology; physical function; Physiology; Quality of Life and Aging; rehabilitation)
• Eng, Janice (Medical, health and life sciences; Stroke Rehabilitation; Motor function; Wearable sensors; Recovery of walking after stroke; Recovery of upper extremity function after stroke)
• Forwell, Susan (Neurological conditions and their impact on chosen occupations)
• Glegg, Stephanie (Child Development; Children's Health; Developmental Disabilities; Exercise for Children; Health services research; Opioid Abuse and Addiction; rehabilitation; Translational Medical Research; Knowledge translation)
• Guenette, Jordan (Respiratory diseases; Other biological sciences; Clinical exercise physiology; Cardiorespiratory physiology; Mechanisms and management of breathlessness and exercise intolerance; Chronic respiratory diseases)
• Henderson, Julia
• Holsti, Liisa (Medical, health and life sciences; premature infants; neurodevelopment; stress; pain; measurement; technology transfer; sucrose; rehabilitation; pediatrics)
• Hunt, Michael (Physical therapy; Rehabilitation medicine; Arthritis / Osteo-Arthritis; biomechanics; exercise; Joints (Articulations); musculoskeletal; Musculoskeletal Deformation; Neuromuscular Diseases; Orthoses and Prostheses; Physical Activity; rehabilitation)
• Huot, Suzanne (Occupational therapy; Human geography; asylum seekers; bilingualism; community-engaged research; critical theory; francophone minority communities; francophones; french; Gender; immigration; intersectionality; Migration Studies; Migrations, Populations, Cultural Exchanges; occupational science; Qualitative research; refugees; social inclusion; social integration; Platform economy)
• Jarus, Tal (Occupational therapy; Rehabilitation medicine; Disciplinary education; art-based research; disabled practitioners;; Disabled students;; diversifying health and human service professions; Justice and equity in health professions)
• Li, Linda (Knowledge translation and implementation science in health; Patient and citizen engagement research; Patient-centered care; Mobile health (mHealth); Health counselling; Health promotion and disease prevention; Physical therapy; Care)
• Liu-Ambrose, Teresa (Neurosciences, biological and chemical aspects; Neurosciences, medical and physiological and health aspects; Physical therapy; Rehabilitation medicine; Healthy Aging; exercise; Fall prevention; Cognitive Aging; Randomized Controlled Trials; Physical Activity; Mobility; Neuroimaging; Sleep)
• Miller, William (Occupational therapy)
• Mortenson, Ben (Occupational therapy; Rehabilitation medicine; Accessibility; Assistive technology; Caregiving; Mobility; Outcome measures; Quality of Life and Aging; rehabilitation; Robotics; Social Aspects of Aging; Social participation; Spinal cord injury)
• Nimmon, Laura (Health sciences; Qualitative research; medical education; Health Professions Education; Social network analysis; Human connection; Interdependence; Social theories; Social power; Palliative Care)
• Pollock, Courtney (Neurosciences, biological and chemical aspects; Neurosciences, medical and physiological and health aspects; Physical therapy; Rehabilitation medicine; impact of neurological changes associated with aging, disease and injury on motor control; motor control of walking balance and balance reactions)
• Sakakibara, Brodie (Clinical medicine; Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy; Gerontology; rehabilitation; Physical Activity; Physical Rehabilitation; Spinal cord injury; Stroke Rehabilitation; Chronic disease self-management and prevention; Telehealth in people with stroke and cardiovascular disease; Complex behavioural intervention development; Clinical trial methodologies; Participatory and patient-oriented research)
• Schmidt, Julia (Occupational therapy; Trauma / Injuries; cognition; Neurological diseases; Cognitive impairment; neuroscience; rehabilitation; Self-awareness; Self-identity; Traumatic Brain Injury)
• Scott, Alexander (Physical therapy; Rehabilitation medicine; musculoskeletal; Musculoskeletal Lesions and Repair; orthopaedics; physical therapy; physiotherapy; sports medicine)
• Virji-Babul, Naznin (Concussion/mild traumatic brain injury, Developmental disabilities (Down’s syndrome), Developmental neuroscience (mirror neurons, perception-action coupling) )
• Whittaker, Jacqueline (Physical therapy; Exercise counselling; Exercise therapy; Health care; Kinesiology; Knee injuries; Knee osteoarthritis; Low back pain; Osteoarthritis prevention; Physical Activity; physical therapy; rehabilitation; Sport injury prevention; sports medicine; Sports/exercise; Ultrasound Imaging; Wearable activity tracker; youth)

Doctoral Citations

Sample thesis submissions.

• Cognitive orientation to occupational performance : effect on brain structure, brain function, and motor outcomes in children with co-occurring autism spectrum disorder and developmental coordination disorder
• It takes a village : the role of social support during recovery from sport-related knee injuries
• Arch-supported lateral wedge insoles for biomechanical management of knee osteoarthritis
• Self-Management for Amputee Rehabilitation using Technology (SMART) : development of a co-created eHealth program and feasibility assessment
• The role of illness perceptions in mental health treatment-seeking and outcomes after mild traumatic brain injury
• Civic patienthood : a critical grounded theory of how patients transform from clinical subjects to civic actors
• Technology-enabled gait monitoring and modification in real-world settings for the management of knee osteoarthritis
• From mice to children : investigating involvement of the cerebellum in developmental coordination disorder and cerebellar changes with rehabilitation
• Impact of air pollution on exercise responses, dyspnea, and respiratory health in adults with and without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
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• Graduate Certificate in Rehabilitation Sciences (GCRS)
• Master of Rehabilitation Science (MRSc)
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Further Information

Specialization.

The Master of Science in Rehabilitation Science (MSc) is designed to prepare individuals to conduct research independently and in collaboration with other scientists. Students will investigate an area of research relevant to rehabilitation through critical analysis of problems related to basic sciences, clinical practice, or to development of theory.

The Master of Rehabilitation Science (MRSc) is designed for working health professionals and to enhance interdisciplinary practice. Unlike traditional thesis-based research master’s programs, the MRSc is a combination of courses and a work- or practice-based research project. The MRSc allows you to obtain a master’s degree without interrupting your work.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) focuses on the discipline of rehabilitation sciences, the study of providing treatment and education to persons with temporary or permanent disability to return them to maximum function, well-being and personally-satisfying levels of independence.

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Studying at UBC is a dream come true for me, and being part of the rehabilitation department's research is truly exceptional. The faculty here come from all over the world and possess an incredible depth of knowledge and expertise. I feel particularly blessed to work with my supervisor, Dr. Bill...

I completed a Master of Occupational Therapy degree (2017-2019) at UBC and had an immensely positive experience. Time and time again, UBC has shown up willing to listen, learn and change when called upon by students, faculty and the community. It is important to me that I study at an institution...

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I took part in an Occupational Science conference where I met my current supervisor, Dr Suzanne Huot. Her research about Francophone immigration resonated with my personal experiences of migration and international travel. I was interested in how she applies Occupational Science concepts beyond...

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Welcome to the rehabilitation science phd program at the university of colorado anschutz medical campus..

An interdisciplinary graduate school program housed within CU Physical Therapy. 

The environment is highly collaborative, with strong mentors and state of the art facilities. While in the PhD Program, students develop a wide range of skills, including research and teaching; presenting nationally, learn to write grants and publish manuscripts.

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There are a growing number of programs available for persons interested in gaining research training that focuses on issues related to neurologic disease and rehabilitation. The list below includes names of institutions who have such programs that include physical therapists as potential mentors.

A more complete listing of PhD programs related to physical therapy can be found on the APTA website

PhD programs related to neurologic rehabilitation

• Boston University, Rehabilitation Sciences
• Drexel University, Rehabilitation Sciences
• Interdisciplinary PhD Program in Rehabilitation Sciences at MGH Institute of Health Professions 
• Marquette University
• Neuroscience PhD Program at Emory University  
• New York University, Doctor of Philosophy in Physical Therapy
• Northwestern University School of Medicine, Movement and Rehabilitation Science
• Ohio State University, Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
• Temple University, Doctor of Philosophy in Physical Therapy
• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Rehabilitation Sciences
• Oregon Health and Science University, Neuroscience
• PhD in Physical Therapy Research and Rehabilitation Sciences at New York University   
• University of Buffalo, Rehabilitation Science
• University of Alabama-Birmingham, Rehabilitation Science
• University of Colorado, Rehabilitation Science
• University of Delaware, Graduate Program in Biomechanics & Movement Science
• University of Florida, Rehabilitation Sciences Doctoral Program
• University of Illinois at Chicago, Disabilities Studies
• University of Iowa, Physical Rehabilitation Sciences
• University of Kansas Medical Center, Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences
• University of Kentucky, Rehabilitation Sciences
• University of Maryland, Rehabilitation Sciences
• University of Miami, Doctor of Philosophy Program in Physical Therapy
• University of Minnesota, Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Human Movement Science
• University of Pittsburgh, Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
• University of South Carolina, Exercise Science
• University of Southern California, Biokinesiology
• University of Utah, Rehabilitation Science
• University of Washington, Rehabilitation Science
• Virginia Commonwealth University, Rehabilitation and Movement Science
• Washington University in St. Louis, Movement Science Program

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PhD Research Scholarship (Neurological and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation)

The Graduate School of Health has an exciting PhD research scholarship in the area of Physiotherapy. The scholarship on offer is valued at AU$81,246 over three years. In addition, the School provides approximately AU$1500 per annum to support research related activities.

UTS offers an innovative and stimulating scientific environment underpinned by the UTS Research Strategy. The UTS Research Strategy 2016–20 details an ambitious plan to support the University’s growing national and international reputation as a leading teaching and research institution. The University’s overall strategic goal is to increase the intensity, excellence, impact, and reputation of its research.

To support the University’s research direction in Health, the Graduate School of Health (GSH) is offering this scholarship in the discipline of Physiotherapy. It is suitable for applicants who wish to pursue research in the areas of neurological and musculoskeletal rehabilitation. The successful applicant will receive doctoral supervision from researchers from physiotherapy ( see profiles ) and may be supplemented by expertise from other disciplines within the GSH and outside of the School where applicable.

UTS’s Physiotherapy team is looking for a new doctoral candidate whose research interests align with the disciplines vision statement; ‘Reducing the Burden of neurological and musculoskeletal conditions in Society (RoBUST)’.

Scholarship Value

The full-time stipend rate associated with the scholarships is $27,082.00 per annum tax exempt. The total value of the scholarship is AU$81,246 over three years. It is available to suitable domestic and international applicants.

Tuition fees for domestic (Australian citizen or permanent visa holder) applicants are automatically covered by the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset (Domestic). A successful international applicant may be offered a UTS International Tuition Fee Waiver.

Please note that this scholarship is governed by RTPS Conditions of Award. The successful candidate must commence in Autumn 2020 intake (preferably) or either Spring 2020.

In addition to the scholarship, the Graduate School of Health also provides approximately $1,500 per annum to directly support the research related activities (conference travel, training, copy editing, participant recruitment, etc.).

Essential requirements

To be considered for the PhD, applicants must have:

a completed a Masters or Honours degree with a major research component (e.g., a thesis component of approximately 50 per cent of the degree and 20,000 words) at distinction level, unless the following exemption applies

• also  demonstrate capacity to undertake independent research through prior research engagement (e.g., as a research assistant with responsibilities in the conduct of research with publication in peer reviewed journals).
• PhD applicants will preferably have completed previous study (e.g., undergraduate or postgraduate degree) in a health-related field such as physiotherapy (preferred), exercise physiology, exercise science, epidemiology, or health science.
• PhD applicants must also demonstrate their interest in the area of research and their strong analytical and writing skills.

To discuss your eligibility for entry into the PhD program in Physiotherapy, and prior to preparing your application materials, please contact Professor Arianne Verhagen so that you can discuss your eligibility and the development of the application.

Name: Professor Arianne Verhagen Email:  [email protected] Phone: +61 2 9514 7368

Expression of Interest

To be considered for this opportunity, please register your Expression of Interest (EOI) directly by submitting an application through the UTS’s website:

Express interest

You will be required to submit a full application which includes all of the information listed in the table below and any other information as listed on the website, as well as satisfy entry requirements

• A personal statement (750 words maximum) outlining your suitability for undertaking a PhD, what you hope to achieve from your research, and your research experience to date.
• Academic curriculum vitae.
• Official academic transcripts (undergraduate and postgraduate), including master’s thesis results (if applicable).
• Evidence of writing for research output (e.g., peer reviewed publications) demonstrating your capacity to undertake independent research (if applicable)
• Proof of English proficiency (if not having completed a minimum of 5 years study in Australia).
• Written references to include contact details for suitable academic referees (two required).
• Evidence of prizes, scholarships, and awards (certificates, statements of award).

To be eligible for a scholarship, applicants are expected to have a record of excellent academic performance and, preferably, additional relevant research experience and/or peer-reviewed research activity, awards and/or prizes.

Expressions of interest - due date extended

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.

SIU uses $186K grant to fully fund training for counselors as drug, alcohol problems rise

Southern Illinois University | Tuesday, June 4, 2024

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Kierra Greer, of Chicago, a master’s student in counseling and rehabilitation education, is one of the students obtaining her CADC credentials at SIU, thanks to grant funding from the state. (Photo provided)

May 31, 2024

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale is training certified alcohol and drug counselors and fully funding their instruction, as part of a new state program to alleviate the shortage of professionals.

After record numbers of drug overdose deaths in Illinois for five consecutive years, the state is providing $3 million to eight Illinois institutions of higher education to recruit and train more behavioral health professionals as substance use counselors. SIU, which received $186,000 for the initial phase of the project, is the only one outside the Chicago metropolitan area.

“Drugs and alcohol use disorders are really pervasive, nondiscriminatory and often just not discussed,” said Jane Nichols , associate professor and counseling and rehabilitation education program (CARE) director emerita who led SIU’s program during the spring semester. “We are in an underserved area with too many people needing services and too few trained, licensed and certified counselors to meet that need. The abuse of methamphetamines continues to be a problem in Southern Illinois, as does opioid addiction, cannabis dependence and poly-substance use.

“SIU stands separately in Southern Illinois as we are the only university in the region that offers master’s level training for licensed mental health counselors with the option of obtaining a substance use disorders and behavioral addictions certificate like this. We’re covering an area that just doesn’t otherwise get covered. The state is looking to us to provide help so there is real value in this. I’m confident this grant will increase the number of people who graduate from SIU as licensed mental health counselors with their certified alcohol and other drug counselor, or CADC, credentials.”

The initial phase runs through June 30. The funding agencies plan to continue the program for at least two more years, pending state approval. It is anticipated that SIU and other current recipients in good standing will be supported during that period and can reapply for subsequent years.

Wraparound funding

The Illinois Department of Human Services/Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery  and the Illinois Certification Board developed the CADC Workforce Program , and they are providing the grant funding in a comprehensive package to reduce financial barriers to education and workforce participation, officials said.

The grant covers tuition, internship stipends, certification-related costs and a variety of other expenses for students in an ICB-accredited training program. In addition, the program helps with job placement, credential renewal, continuing education and more, as well as additional and wraparound support as needed.

“This grant has been a huge blessing,” said Mikaylah Rodriguez, an SIU master’s student in counseling and rehabilitation education. “Because of the funding, I don’t have to stress about affording tuition and the necessary materials for classes, which frees up time and mental resources that I can now put toward my classes.”

Rodriguez, who holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, works at SIU’s Evaluation and Developmental Center (EDC), to help individuals who are on probation or parole obtain employment.

“Many of the people that I’ve been serving seem to have charges that could be linked to substance use,” she said. “My hope after I graduate is to work in the prison system as a mental health and substance use counselor to essentially try to help disrupt the cycle of addiction so that individuals are not stuck in a cycle where substance use leads to reoffending for the rest of their lives.”

Kierra Greer, of Chicago , a master’s student in counseling and rehabilitation education , also decided to obtain her CADC credentials before graduating in May 2025.

“I’m interested in becoming a CADC to give hope to those who are feeling like there’s no way out of their addiction,” Greer, who holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, said. “My father runs a nonprofit called YANA (You Are Not Alone) House where I get to see firsthand how the clients in the program are rejected by society and labeled due to their addiction. I would like to be a therapist for them, another positive person in their corner, supporting them on their journey to heal.”

Greer currently works as a therapist in training for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at SIU. She said the practical experience is valuable and the grant assistance has been priceless.

“As a single mom of a 3-year-old, it is difficult to manage both work and school,” Greer said. “This grant provides financial as well as social support toward helping me reach my educational goals.”

Greer was one of three single parents who took advantage of the grant during the first semester, officials said, and SIU quickly found seven students to claim the initial scholarship openings.

“I am thankful to Dr. Nichols and the SIU team for their work to pursue and receive this grant as it creates an excellent opportunity for students,” said Scott Collins, director of the School of Health Sciences.

Looking ahead

Nichols will continue to oversee the program, and she encourages additional students to apply.

Yancy Cruz-Virella , assistant professor and CARE program coordinator, will be assisting.

SIU’s substance use disorders and behavioral addiction certificate program is accredited by the  Illinois Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Certification Association, Inc.  to prepare students to obtain their Illinois CADC credentials. Students who are working on their bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degrees in a behavioral health-related degree program are welcome to apply, officials said. Postgraduates who would like to add the certificate to their portfolio are also invited to participate.

The CADC certificate program requires five specific didactic courses along with one prepracticum course to prepare students for their clinical experiences. The students then participate in a 500-hour internship at an Illinois substance use prevention and recovery center. As of fall 2025, SIU will be offering all of the didactic courses online.

Students agree to serve in the field in Illinois for at least two years after earning their certifications.

For more information about the substance use disorders and behavioral addictions certificate or the counseling and rehabilitation education program , visit the websites or contact Cruz-Virella at [email protected] or 618-453-8223 or Nichols at [email protected] . Updates about grant and funding availability will be posted on the Counseling and Rehabilitation Education (CARE) website and the SIU School of Health Sciences Facebook page .   

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Thinking of Pursuing a PhD in Economics? Info on Graduate School and Beyond

Kasey Chatterji-Len and Anna Kovner

Becoming a PhD economist can provide a fulfilling and financially secure career path. However, getting started in the field can be daunting if you don’t know much about the preparation you’ll need and the available job opportunities. If you’re wondering what it means to be an economics researcher or how to become one, please read on. We’ll review how to prepare for a career in economics research, what an economics PhD program entails, and what types of opportunities it might bring. Economic education is a core component of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s mission to serve the community. To empower would-be economists, this post provides information for students who seek a career in economics research. We hope this information will be helpful to students interested in economics, regardless of their background and economic situation.  This information is most applicable to students applying to programs in the United States.  

The Breadth of Economics Research  

Academic disciplines conduct research in different ways, so it’s important to have a basic understanding of the types of questions economists ask and how they approach answering them. There are many definitions of economics, but a broadly useful one is the study of how people, organizations, and governments make decisions under different constraints, and how those decisions may affect their outcomes. 

When answering these questions, economists seek to ground their analyses in models and to be quantitatively precise about the effects they assign to any given cause. The range of topics economists can study is wide, but the accepted approaches to answering questions are stricter. Some examples of what economists might ask: 

• How do different public housing programs affect the children who live there? 
• Does a certain type of law encourage businesses to innovate? 
• How will a change in the interest rate affect inflation and unemployment rates? 
• How much does affordable health insurance improve people’s health? 
• How can poor countries eradicate poverty? 

There are many different subfields within economics, including, but not limited to behavioral, econometrics, energy/environmental, development, financial, international, monetary, public, and urban economics. You can familiarize yourself with the latest work in economics by subscribing to working paper series, such as NBER’s New This Week or the New York Fed’s Staff Reports . To get an idea of the breadth of questions economists can answer, you could listen to Stephen Dubner’s “ Freakonomics Radio ” podcast. You may also want to explore the Journal of Economic Perspectives , the New York Fed’s Liberty Street Economics blog, VoxDev , or VoxEU .  

What Is a PhD Program Like?    

Economics PhD programs typically last five to seven years. Unlike masters programs, they are often fully funded with a stipend, though most require students to complete teaching assistant and/or research assistant (RA) work as part of their funding package. In the first two years, students take classes, many of which are mathematically demanding. The rest of the program can include additional classes but is primarily devoted to original research with the aim of producing publishable papers that will constitute the dissertation.  

Faculty advisors are a central part of PhD programs, as students look to them for guidance during the research process. Economics PhD programs are offered within university economics departments, but there are similar programs in public policy and business schools. You can look at their websites to understand any differences in coursework and subsequent job placements. 

What Can You Do with an Economics PhD?  

Upon graduation, students can obtain jobs in a variety of industries. Many PhD students hope to become university professors. Governments and public policy-related institutions such as the Federal Reserve System, the U.S. federal government, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) also hire economists to work on policy, lead programs, and conduct research. Finally, economics PhD graduates can also find employment at a variety of private sector companies, including banks, economic consulting firms, and big tech companies. The pay for these different positions can vary. According to the American Economics Association (AEA), the average starting salary for economics assistant professors in 2022-23 was approximately $140,000 at PhD granting institutions and $98,000 at BA granting institutions. 

Programs often publish the placements of their PhD graduates, so you can look online to see specific employment outcomes. See, for example, the University of Maryland’s placements . Ultimately, economists are highly regarded as authorities on a variety of topics. Governments, nonprofits, philanthropic foundations, financial institutions, and non-financial businesses all look to economists to answer important questions about how to best achieve their goals. Thus, earning an economics Ph.D. can potentially help you to influence issues that are important to you. 

Preparing for an Economics PhD Program  

There are several components to an economics PhD program application: college transcripts, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. Please download the Appendix linked below to learn more about transcripts and letters of recommendation. The Appendix details ways in which you can select coursework, obtain research experience, and develop relationships to position yourself for success as a PhD applicant.  

If you feel that you are too far along in your academic career to take enough of the classes described in the Appendix, this does not necessarily preclude you from pursuing an economics PhD. For example, it’s possible to take some of these classes through a master’s program, or through a pre-doctoral RA job. Some pre-doctoral RA jobs, such as the one here at the New York Fed , may enable you to take classes in preparation for graduate school. If you are concerned about your transcript, reach out to an economist at your university for advice; program standards for coursework and grades vary, and it’s a good idea to get more personalized advice. 

Research Experience   

If you’re interested in becoming an economics researcher and applying to PhD programs, it’s best to get research experience as soon as possible. Working as an RA is a great way to learn how to conduct research and get a better idea of whether it’s the right career path for you. Additionally, it can help you obtain a letter of recommendation for graduate school applications and improve your qualifications.  

All types of academic research can be enriching, but it’s beneficial to gain experience working directly with an economist. To find a position, you can reach out to professors whose work you find interesting or find an RA program at your school. Typical RA tasks may involve data collection and cleaning, as well as running analyses and creating charts to represent results. This is where coding skills become crucial; having taken math, statistics, and econometrics courses will also enable you to take on more responsibilities. 

You may also have the opportunity to conduct your own research, possibly under the supervision of a professor at your university. This research could be self-initiated or part of a course such as a thesis workshop. Self-directed research is a great opportunity to learn about all stages of the research process. It’s also an excellent opportunity to create a writing sample for graduate school applications. Ultimately, though, your motivation for conducting your own research project should be that you want to answer a question.  One thing economists have in common is a love of answering questions using data and theory. 

Research experience is also often obtained after completing an undergraduate or master’s degree. Taking on a full-time RA position before applying to PhD programs is very common and can make you a more competitive applicant. You may either get an RA job working for a professor or participate in a pre-doctoral RA program.  

Research assistant programs are more structured than positions with individual professors or projects, which could be helpful. Universities, parts of the government, think tanks, research organizations, and the Federal Reserve System are all good places to look for research assistant programs. To help you decide which opportunities are most desirable, you may want to ask potential employers : Where do people in this program tend to go afterward? Will I be working directly with an economist? How much of my time will be spent on academic research work? Will I be able to take classes as part of this program? Considering whether an economist will be able to evaluate your performance is an important factor for recommendation letters. The ability to take classes, either through tuition reimbursement or waivers, can also be an important benefit. 

The Research Analyst program here at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York is one example of these programs and you should check it out here . The Federal Reserve Board of Governors also has a large program, and many other regional Federal Reserve Banks have similar programs. In addition, the PREDOC website and the  NBER post listings of RA opportunities. J-PAL and IPA also tend to recruit RAs for economic development projects. Another source of RA opportunities is the @econ_ra account on X. 

Who Should Get a PhD in Economics?  

A PhD may not be for everyone, but it is for anyone—people of all genders, religions, ethnicities, races, and national origins have PhDs in economics. Many economists majored in economics, but others majored in math, physics, or chemistry. Because economics is such an integral part of policymaking, it is important that economists come from a wide range of backgrounds so policy can be stronger and more effective. The inclusion of differing perspectives helps ensure that the contribution of economists to work in public policy, academia, and beyond effectively serves the broadest range of society. 

• Coursework Appendix

Kasey Chatterji-Len is a research analyst in the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Research and Statistics Group.

Anna Kovner  is the director of Financial Stability Policy Research in the Bank’s Research and Statistics Group.

How to cite this post: Kasey Chatterji-Len and Anna Kovner, “Thinking of Pursuing a PhD in Economics? Info on Graduate School and Beyond,” Federal Reserve Bank of New York Liberty Street Economics , May 31, 2024, https://libertystreeteconomics.newyorkfed.org/2024/05/thinking-of-pursuing-a-phd-in-economics-info-on-graduate-school-and-beyond/.

You may also be interested in: AEA: Resources for Students

PREDOC: Guidance for Undergraduates

RA Positions-Not at the NBER

Disclaimer The views expressed in this post are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the position of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York or the Federal Reserve System. Any errors or omissions are the responsibility of the author(s).

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Liberty Street Economics features insight and analysis from New York Fed economists working at the intersection of research and policy. Launched in 2011, the blog takes its name from the Bank’s headquarters at 33 Liberty Street in Manhattan’s Financial District.

The editors are Michael Fleming, Andrew Haughwout, Thomas Klitgaard, and Asani Sarkar, all economists in the Bank’s Research Group.

Liberty Street Economics does not publish new posts during the blackout periods surrounding Federal Open Market Committee meetings.

The views expressed are those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the position of the New York Fed or the Federal Reserve System.

Economic Inequality

The Unique Burial of a Child of Early Scythian Time at the Cemetery of Saryg-Bulun (Tuva)

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Pages:  379-406

In 1988, the Tuvan Archaeological Expedition (led by M. E. Kilunovskaya and V. A. Semenov) discovered a unique burial of the early Iron Age at Saryg-Bulun in Central Tuva. There are two burial mounds of the Aldy-Bel culture dated by 7th century BC. Within the barrows, which adjoined one another, forming a figure-of-eight, there were discovered 7 burials, from which a representative collection of artifacts was recovered. Burial 5 was the most unique, it was found in a coffin made of a larch trunk, with a tightly closed lid. Due to the preservative properties of larch and lack of air access, the coffin contained a well-preserved mummy of a child with an accompanying set of grave goods. The interred individual retained the skin on his face and had a leather headdress painted with red pigment and a coat, sewn from jerboa fur. The coat was belted with a leather belt with bronze ornaments and buckles. Besides that, a leather quiver with arrows with the shafts decorated with painted ornaments, fully preserved battle pick and a bow were buried in the coffin. Unexpectedly, the full-genomic analysis, showed that the individual was female. This fact opens a new aspect in the study of the social history of the Scythian society and perhaps brings us back to the myth of the Amazons, discussed by Herodotus. Of course, this discovery is unique in its preservation for the Scythian culture of Tuva and requires careful study and conservation.

Keywords: Tuva, Early Iron Age, early Scythian period, Aldy-Bel culture, barrow, burial in the coffin, mummy, full genome sequencing, aDNA

Information about authors: Marina Kilunovskaya (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Vladimir Semenov (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Varvara Busova  (Moscow, Russian Federation).  (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences.  Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Kharis Mustafin  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Technical Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Irina Alborova  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Biological Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Alina Matzvai  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected]

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Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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635th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment

635-й зенитно-ракетный полк

Military Unit: 86646

Activated 1953 in Stepanshchino, Moscow Oblast - initially as the 1945th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Regiment for Special Use and from 1955 as the 635th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment for Special Use.

1953 to 1984 equipped with 60 S-25 (SA-1) launchers:

• Launch area: 55 15 43N, 38 32 13E (US designation: Moscow SAM site E14-1)
• Support area: 55 16 50N, 38 32 28E
• Guidance area: 55 16 31N, 38 30 38E

1984 converted to the S-300PT (SA-10) with three independent battalions:

• 1st independent Anti-Aircraft Missile Battalion (Bessonovo, Moscow Oblast) - 55 09 34N, 38 22 26E
• 2nd independent Anti-Aircraft Missile Battalion and HQ (Stepanshchino, Moscow Oblast) - 55 15 31N, 38 32 23E
• 3rd independent Anti-Aircraft Missile Battalion (Shcherbovo, Moscow Oblast) - 55 22 32N, 38 43 33E

Disbanded 1.5.98.

Subordination:

• 1st Special Air Defence Corps , 1953 - 1.6.88
• 86th Air Defence Division , 1.6.88 - 1.10.94
• 86th Air Defence Brigade , 1.10.94 - 1.10.95
• 86th Air Defence Division , 1.10.95 - 1.5.98