Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences: About the Doctor of Philosophy Degree (PhD) Program

Concentration Areas:

• Pediatrics
• Movement Science
• Orthopedics

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is designed to prepare physical therapists and other professionals to contribute to the knowledge of rehabilitation science through excellence in scholarship research and education. The focus of the curriculum is on the knowledge skills and experiences necessary to effectively serve as a university faculty member a research investigator and a leader within professional and health care organizations.

Degree requirements include successful completion of 60 credits for students with a master’s degree or 96 credit hours for students with a baccalaureate degree. A comprehensive examination and a dissertation research project are required. The PhD degree can be completed in 31/2 to 4 years of fulltime study.

Upon completion of the Doctor of Philosophy degree graduates will be prepared to:

• Analyze the impact of movement dysfunction from multiple perspectives including body function activity and participation.
• Analyze theory research and health care policy relevant to individuals with movement dysfunction to promote transfer of knowledge into clinical practice.
• Develop and evaluate innovative models of service delivery and intervention for individuals with limitations in motor function.
• Effectively communicate information orally through professional presentations and in writing through grant proposals and publications in peer reviewed journals.
• Develop an ongoing area of research that is competitive for grant funding.
  Apply innovative teaching methods to a wide variety of situations including education of physical therapists and physical therapy students.

**Click here for previous PhD dissertation research projects
**Click here for a printable version of our PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences Fact Sheet.