Program Overview

Definition and Mission

Our definition of Rehabilitation Science is adapted from the seminal 1997 report from the Institute of Medicine¹.  We view rehabilitation science as those disciplines which focus on both basic and applied aspects of health science and services, the social sciences, and engineering as they relate to restoring human functional capacity and improving a person’s interaction with the surrounding environment. An important point of emphasis is that we believe that rehabilitation science should encompass research ranging from molecular biology through population health. Thus, we embrace a wide range of disciplines, and support the view that by working together we can best advance human health.

The mission of the Rehabilitation Science PhD (RSD) Program at the University of Florida follows the mission of the College of Public Health and Health Professions. Our specific mission is to educate future investigators in the area of rehabilitation science. The faculty of the RSD program are charged with training future rehabilitation scientists who will be capable of engaging in translational research and sustaining independently funded research programs.

Rationale

Life-saving medical interventions are extending the lives of Americans, increasing the elder population and saving the lives of individuals who might have previously succumbed to disease or injury. These medical advances have resulted in an increased need for rehabilitation services for persons who survive, but have temporary or chronic disabling conditions which interfere with their ability to function. As a result, there is a dramatically increased demand for rehabilitation personnel and a need for new therapies to assist individuals as they recover, adjust and adapt to health changes. As the role of research personnel has expanded, so has the demand for research examination into rehabilitation outcomes and theoretical rationale by doctoral-trained investigators. This program provides an ideal training environment for tomorrow’s junior researchers and faculty members in the rehabilitation sciences.

Program Curriculum

The Rehabilitation Science PhD program includes a minimum of 90-semester credits of study at the doctoral level beyond the bachelor’s degree. Each student completes coursework pertaining to Rehabilitation Science Application, Rehabilitation Science Teaching, Research Methods and Statistics, Rehabilitation Science Research, as well as specialized coursework in one of three concentrations: Communication and Swallowing Sciences and Disorders, Disability, Health, and Participation, and Neuromuscular Plasticity.  Students also have the opportunity to simultaneously pursue a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from UF’s renowned MPH program as part of the PhD-MPH joint degree program in Rehabilitation Science.

Program Faculty and Steering Committee

¹Brandt, E. N., Pope, A. M., & Institute of Medicine (U.S.). Committee on Assessing Rehabilitation Science and Engineering. (1997). Enabling America : assessing the role of rehabilitation science and engineering. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press.