Immerse yourself in an exercise and rehabilitation science research curriculum that consists of:
- 24 credits of basic science course work accepted from your post-baccalaureate clinical degree
- 70 total credits that can be completed in four years (full-time students)
- Core course work in rehabilitation systems physiology, applied neurophysiology, statistics, molecular genetics and research methodology
- Individually selected advanced electives
Who is this program for?
The doctoral program is suited for practicing physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, physician assistants and nurses with post-baccalaureate degrees interested in a translational research and clinical research training.
- The doctor of philosophy builds upon the core competencies of clinical degrees (anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical ethics and patient care) with course work in rehabilitation systems physiology, applied neurophysiology, statistics, molecular genetics and research methodology.
- Students have access to state of the art research techniques in the exercise, rehabilitation and movement disorders research core laboratories housed within the exercise science program and the Department of Physical Therapy.
Research includes the use of EMG, motion analysis, biomechanics, isokinetic dynamometry, fMRI, body composition, bone mineral density, diagnostic ultrasound, and acute/chronic exercise training to explore mechanisms of dysfunction and develop theories for restoring function in people with movement disorders.
Movement disorders cross age, gender and all ethnic boundaries and include:
- Populations with multiple sclerosis
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Traumatic brain injury
- Stroke
- Cancer survivors
- Pediatric obesity
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Chronic pain syndromes