Program structure

The Physical Rehabilitation Science PhD program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore is structured to provide a comprehensive and multidisciplinary education in rehabilitation science. The program includes coursework, laboratory research, and professional development activities. Below is the general structure:

Core Components:

1. Coursework:

   • The curriculum includes foundational courses in rehabilitation science, neuroscience, biomechanics, and statistics.
   • Elective courses allow students to specialize in specific areas, such as motor control, rehabilitation engineering, or exercise physiology.

2. Research Rotations:

   • Students engage in research rotations during the first year to gain hands-on experience in different laboratories.
   • These rotations help students identify their research focus and mentor for their dissertation work.

3. Qualifying Examination:

   • Students take a qualifying exam to demonstrate their understanding of core concepts and readiness for independent research. This is typically completed by the end of the second year.

4. Dissertation Research:

   • A significant portion of the program is dedicated to conducting original research in the student’s chosen area of focus. This culminates in the writing and defense of a dissertation.

5. Seminars and Professional Development:

   • Students are required to attend and participate in research seminars, journal clubs, and professional development workshops throughout the program.

6. Teaching Experience:

   • Students may also gain teaching experience by assisting with undergraduate or graduate courses in related fields.

7. Program Duration:

   • The program typically takes 5 years to complete for full-time students.

For further details on the program structure, refer to the 2023 PRS Handbook and the program structure page.

Fees and Funding

The Physical Rehabilitation Science PhD program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore offers various funding opportunities and has specific fee structures:

Tuition and Fees:

• Tuition Per Credit:
  • Maryland Residents: Approximately $824 per credit
  • Non-Residents: Approximately $1,307 per credit
• Estimated Annual Fees: Vary depending on the number of credits taken and additional mandatory fees such as health services, technology fees, and student activity fees.

For detailed information on tuition and fee rates, visit the University of Maryland's Tuition & Fee page.

Funding Opportunities:

1. Graduate Assistantships:

   • The program offers assistantships that provide a stipend, tuition remission, and health insurance in exchange for teaching or research responsibilities.

2. Fellowships and Scholarships:

   • The Graduate School offers competitive fellowships based on merit. These awards can cover tuition and provide a stipend.

3. Research Grants:

   • Faculty members often have research grants that provide funding for students to work on funded projects.

4. External Funding:

   • Students are encouraged to apply for external scholarships and fellowships from organizations such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other professional associations.

5. Travel Awards:

   • Financial support is available for students to present their research at national and international conferences.

For more information on funding opportunities, refer to the Graduate School’s Financial Aid and Funding page or consult the program's 2023 PRS Handbook.

Scholarship Guidance

The Physical Rehabilitation Science PhD program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore offers several funding opportunities to help support students financially throughout their studies:

Scholarships and Funding Opportunities:

1. Graduate Assistantships:

   • These positions provide a stipend, tuition remission, and health insurance in exchange for teaching or research responsibilities. Assistantships are a common form of financial support for PhD students.

2. Fellowships and Scholarships:

   • The Graduate School offers a range of competitive fellowships based on academic merit. These fellowships can provide full or partial tuition coverage and stipends.

3. Research Funding:

   • Many students are supported through research grants held by faculty members. These grants fund student research projects and often cover tuition and provide stipends.

4. External Scholarships:

   • Students are encouraged to apply for external fellowships from organizations such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Science Foundation (NSF), and professional associations related to rehabilitation science.

5. Travel Awards:

   • The program also offers travel awards to students who present their research at national and international conferences, providing financial assistance to cover travel and registration costs.

For more detailed information on scholarships and funding, students can explore the Graduate School’s funding page or refer to the 2023 PRS Handbook.

Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for the Physical Rehabilitation Science PhD program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, are as follows:

1. Educational Background:

   • Applicants must hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, kinesiology, or other health-related sciences.

2. GPA Requirement:

   • A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is typically required.

3. Letters of Recommendation:

   • Three letters of recommendation from individuals who can assess the applicant’s academic potential and research capabilities.

4. Statement of Purpose:

   • Applicants must submit a statement outlining their research interests, career goals, and reasons for pursuing a PhD in Physical Rehabilitation Science.

5. Resume/CV:

   • A current resume or curriculum vitae highlighting the applicant’s educational background, research experience, and professional accomplishments.

6. GRE Scores:

   • GRE scores are optional for this program.

7. Interview:

   • Selected applicants may be invited for an interview as part of the admissions process.

8. International Applicants:

   • TOEFL or IELTS scores are required for non-native English speakers to demonstrate English language proficiency.

For detailed admission requirements, visit the admission criteria page and refer to the 2023 PRS Handbook.

Application Procedure

The application process for the Physical Rehabilitation Science PhD program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore involves several steps:

Steps to Apply:

1. Online Application:

   • Complete and submit the online application through the Graduate School's application portal.

2. Application Fee:

   • Pay the non-refundable application fee during the submission process.

3. Transcripts:

   • Submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities.

4. Letters of Recommendation:

   • Provide three letters of recommendation from individuals who are familiar with your academic or professional qualifications.

5. Statement of Purpose:

   • Submit a written statement outlining your research interests, career goals, and reasons for pursuing the PhD in Physical Rehabilitation Science.

6. Resume/CV:

   • Include a current resume or curriculum vitae that highlights your academic background, research experience, and any relevant work experience.

7. GRE Scores (Optional):

   • GRE scores are optional for this program but can be submitted if the applicant chooses.

8. English Language Proficiency (for International Applicants):

   • International students must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores if English is not their first language.

9. Interview:

   • Selected applicants may be invited for an interview as part of the application process.

Deadlines:

• Application Deadline: Typically in December for the following Fall intake.

For more detailed instructions, visit the admission criteria page and the 2023 PRS Handbook.