Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Rehabilitation Sciences
PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences: Mission Statement
To prepare Doctors of Philosophy (PhD) who will take leadership roles as researchers and educators in rehabilitation sciences, and who can conduct research that will ultimately impact the quality of life for individuals with limitations in motor functions.
Overview
The field of rehabilitation sciences has become more exciting, more complex, and more demanding. By integrating clinical and basic sciences, Drexel’s faculty members educate high quality rehabilitation research scientists with a background that is both broad in scope and rigorous in depth.
Our graduates are prepared within the contextual paradigm of disability research to expand the body of knowledge in rehabilitation and movement sciences through understanding the mechanisms of movement impairments, preventing and reducing movement dysfunctions and disability, and promoting health and physical performance in people across the lifespan.
Students can select from one of two concentrations:
(1) Pediatrics.
The focus of the pediatric concentration is on understanding multiple factors that impact motor function and participation of children with special needs in home, school, and community life. Areas of research specialization include implications of healthcare policy and federal laws, models of service delivery, outcomes measurement, health promotion and prevention, biomechanics and gait, and evaluation of interventions for children and their families.
(2) Clinical Biomechanics and Orthopedics.
The primary focus of the clinical biomechanics and orthopedic concentration is investigating underlying biomechanical and neuromuscular mechanisms associated with movement dysfunctions, especially related to the spine and shoulder. Ultimately, this research translates to studies focusing on strategies that can be used to identify, prevent, and treat movement impairments in populations such as those with recurrent low back pain, overuse shoulder injuries, and hyperkyphosis secondary to osteoporosis.
Download the PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences Fact Sheet. (PDF)