Eligibility and Requirements
Learn about the application deadline and requirements for admission to KU's doctorate in rehabilitation science program.
Classes for this program begin in August during the fall semester. We must receive your application for the program by February 1 to qualify for the next class.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission, you must meet the following requirements.
Degree and Background
A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution is required and must be documented by official transcripts indicating the degree has been conferred before enrolling in the program. A master's or other advanced degree is preferable. Official transcripts for all courses taken at any institution are also required.
You are encouraged to have a broad background in biological sciences including anatomy, physiology, neuroscience, exercise science, biochemistry, genetics and molecular and cellular biology, as well as statistics.
Applicants are not required to be a physical therapist nor possess a degree in physical therapy to enter this program.
Note: GRE scores are no longer required for students entering the program and are not considered in the admission process.
GPA
An overall minimum 3.0 grade point average (on a 4.0-scale) on prior college coursework is required.
Technical Standards and Computer Requirements
All individuals admitted to the program will be asked to verify that they can meet the technical standards with or without reasonable accommodation(s). Applicants who disclose a disability are considered for admission if otherwise qualified.
Students in this program are required to have a computer that meets the minimum software and hardware requirements.
Vaccine and Clinical Site Requirements
Matriculated students will need to provide an immunization profile prior to participating in curricular and/or clinical experiences required by the program. Please read the information found at the bottom of the program's curriculum page and be sure that you understand these requirements.
Background Check
The Joint Commission requires all students to have a background check. As an incoming student, you will provide a background check report to KU. You pay a one-time fee directly to the company performing the background investigation. You will be asked to provide information and make the payment after official acceptance into the program.
International Applicants
An applicant is considered an international applicant if they require a visa, currently reside in the U.S. with non-immigrant status, or currently reside in the U.S. while applying for permanent residency. International applicants must meet additional requirements for acceptance to KU academic programs and provide additional documentation during the admission process, including demonstration of an established level of English language proficiency (through either the TOEFL or the academic format of the IELTS) and evaluation of international transcripts. Please review the information for international applicants before applying.
"I chose KU because of the dual PT/Ph.D. degree program. My physical therapy degree allows me to have a clinical perspective on our research studies. Clinical licensure also allows me to participate in certain trainings and activities that are reserved for clinicians."- Eric Vidoni, Ph.D., PT, a 2008 KU graduate and currently associate professor in the KU School of Medicine's Department of Neurology