Rehabilitation Sciences - PhD

The Rehabilitation Sciences PhD program has a strong focus on interdisciplinary and translational science. Students are provided with advanced training in rehabilitation sciences, including assessment, development, restoration, and maintenance of independent function in persons with physical and cognitive impairments. PhD students in Rehabilitation Sciences are expected to master the following competencies:

PhD Rehabilitation Sciences Competencies

  1. Evaluate the roles that social, behavioral, environmental, or biological factors play in contributing to functional independence.
  2. Develop and critically evaluate conceptual models to examine disability- or rehabilitation-related research questions.
  3. Apply and interpret appropriate analytical techniques commonly used to address specific research questions in rehabilitation sciences.
  4. Critically appraise approaches to decision-making in research in accordance with the highest ethical standards.
  5. Communicate research to a broad audience in a scholarly manner through presentations, publications, or grant proposals.
  6. Apply effective teaching strategies and fundamental course design.

SPPH Graduate Programs | University of Texas Medical Branch
301 University Boulevard, Galveston, Texas 77555-1150 | (409) 772-1128


Brian Downer, PhD
Program Director, Rehabilitation Sciences PhD Program
Associate Professor, Population Health & Health Disparities
E: brdowner@utmb.edu


Christina Johnson, MBA
Program Manager, Student Affairs
Student Recruitment and Admissions
(409) 747-7584
cnross@utmb.edu