Skip to main content.

How to Apply

Apply online by February 1 to enter KU's docotral program in rehabilitation science (Ph.D.).

As you prepare to apply, please follow these steps.

  1. Review the eligibility and admission requirements, including information for international applicants.
  2. Review the technical standards.
  3. Gather the information below, before starting your online application.

Provide a succinct explanation of your relevant background and experience. This is a 1-2 page document that should include research interests relevant to this program and may aid the application evaluation process.

You're encouraged to identify research areas you want to pursue in the program. It is recommended, though not required, to identify one or more potential research mentors from the department's faculty whose research program(s) are related to your area of interest.

This document will be uploaded as a separate file with the online application.

Provide an up-to-date CV document and include information on your educational, professional and research background.

As the admissions committee evaluates your application, the following areas are critically important:

  • Research experience/publications/abstracts.
  • Professional presentations.
  • Awards and honors.
  • Intellectual pursuits (continuing education, seminars/lectures attended etc.).
  • Teaching/mentoring experience.
  • Leadership roles (service to professional/service organizations, officer in organization, administrator at job).

When you complete the online application, you will enter the names and contact information (including email addresses) of three individuals, to serve as references, who will provide letters of recommendation based on your performance in academic or professional settings.

A reference should be a faculty member, advisor, employer or another person familiar with your work and character and who can comment meaningfully on your potential as a graduate student and a researcher. At least one of the letters should come from your current place of employment or academic program. The recommendations may not be obtained from family members, friends, etc.

Please make sure each reference is willing to submit answers to the questionnaire online. They will receive a link from "KU Graduate Admissions <graduateadm@ku.edu>" with a link to complete the recommendation form and upload their letter.

Arrange to have one official copy of each transcript from every college and university you have attended sent directly to KU Medical Center. Students are not to directly handle official transcripts. They must be transmitted directly from institution to institution.

If the institution provides electronic transcripts, please have them sent to PTRSATtranscripts@kumc.edu. If using the U.S. national transcripts clearinghouse, please do NOT select "University of Kansas" and instead use the email address provided above.

Paper transcripts can be mailed to this address:

Attn: Ph.D. Admissions
Dept. of Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation Science, and Athletic Training
MS 2002 / 3901 Rainbow Blvd.
Kansas City, KS 66160

Apply Online

Note: please select KU Medical Center campus location in the online application.

apply ONLINE now

Partial or incomplete applications may not be reviewed.

Please submit your completed application and pay the application fee. The application fee is paid when you click SUBMIT from the online application. Applicants can pay by Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express or by electronic check. U.S. banks only. Application fees are non-refundable. Electronic checks will be held for approximately six business days while the check clears.

KU School of Health Professions

Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation Science, and Athletic Training
University of Kansas Medical Center
Mail Stop 2002
3901 Rainbow Blvd.
Kansas City, KS 66160
ptrsat@kumc.edu

913-588-6799