Rehabilitation Science (PhD)

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Degree Offered: PhD
Program Leadership:
Richard Souza, PT, PhD, Program Director, Musculoskeletal Biomechanics Lead
Myriam Chaumeil, PhD, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Chair, Neuroscience Lead
Admissions Inquiries:
Mike Tressel, Admissions and Recruitment Specialist

Program Description

The PhD in Rehabilitation Science is a unique program not offered at any other University of California campus. We train aspiring scientists to propel the field of rehabilitation science forward using innovative and transformational approaches, from utilizing novel animal models to study the impacts of aging on functional mobility, to developing new tools for monitoring and enhancing physical activity. Our faculty have a wide range of expertise and come from applied research fields in health sciences, social sciences, engineering, neuroscience, and health services outcomes. Students gain not only a strong theoretical foundation in the sciences and research, but also have the opportunity to simultaneously translate that knowledge into clinical practice while fostering a commitment to the community and social justice.

Specialization Areas

A central goal of the program is to capitalize on the interdisciplinary nature of UCSF and offer an academic experience that integrates multiple disciplines. PhD students select one of the following specialized training areas:

Musculoskeletal Biomechanics

Musculoskeletal biomechanics is one of the foundations of rehabilitation science. Within this specialization, new investigators are trained on the latest advancements in the field and are prepared for research careers in academia and industry.

Neuroscience

The neuroscience track offers two pathways: a clinically focused pathway addressing neural injury and neurodegenerative disease, as well as a lab-based translational research pathway. New investigators in the lab utilize clinically relevant models of neurodegeneration to address mechanisms underlying activity-based restoration of function.

Admission Requirements

General Requirements and Prerequisites

A bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree in physical therapy, kinesiology, neuroscience, exercise physiology, biomedical engineering, or a related rehabilitation science or professional field is required. Additionally, applicants must have a grade point average of 3.0 or greater (or its equivalent).

Because of the broad and varied interests of Rehabilitation Science PhD applicants, prerequisite courses vary depending on each applicant’s area of study. Applicants are expected to have previous research experience through their undergraduate training or in post-graduate work. Applicants are expected to have completed preparatory coursework in the following areas:

  • Biology (minimum 2 semesters)
  • Chemistry (minimum 2 semesters)
  • Physics (minimum 2 semesters)
  • Mathematics (through calculus)
  • Statistics
  • Anatomy
  • Physiology

Note that applicants are not required to be a physical therapist or possess an academic degree in physical therapy.

CV and Statement of Purpose

Applicants must submit their CV and a Statement of Purpose (3 to 5 pages) discussing their background, interests, research goals, purpose in applying for graduate study, and plans for the future. Applicants must indicate what they hope to gain from being a doctoral student in rehabilitation science, how their interests fit with those of the program’s faculty, and any other pertinent information supporting their application and qualifications.

Letters of Recommendation

Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation from individuals who know them well and can speak to their ability to succeed in graduate school.

International Students

In addition to meeting the same admissions requirements domestic students meet, international applicants from non-English speaking countries must also demonstrate proficiency in English. Please visit the International Admission Requirements website to learn more about satisfying the English proficiency requirements and about submitting international transcripts.

Learning Outcomes

The objective of this program is to develop independent investigators in rehabilitation science with innovative, multidisciplinary approaches to the field. The methods and strategies used for dissertation work will vary depending on the student’s focus and needs. The core curriculum is designed to provide broad training in rehabilitation science. Elective and lab activities will be tailored to create an individualized plan for each trainee.

Additional Information

The Rehabilitation Science PhD program is offered by the UCSF Graduate Division, administered by the UCSF School of Medicine, and delivered by faculty members in the UCSF School of Medicine and at San Francisco State University. The program office is located at the UCSF Mission Bay campus. Visit the program website for more information.

Program Faculty

Career Outcomes