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.
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.