Welcome!
Welcome to the PhD in Rehabilitation Science program at Loma Linda University. This fully online program is designed for healthcare professionals looking to advance their careers through research and innovation. With a flexible format and interdisciplinary approach, students from allied health fields like Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Language Pathology, Orthotics and Prosthetics, Respiratory Therapy, and Nutrition and Dietetics collaborate to address today’s rehabilitation challenges.
Training in Research & Leadership
This research-focused, post-professional program prepares graduates for careers in academia, leadership, and advanced rehabilitation research. Students complete 74 units of coursework, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation with publishable papers. Designed to be completed in 4–5 years, it offers personalized mentorship and strong academic support—all grounded in Loma Linda University’s values of ethics, service, and excellence.
Program Overview
Curriculum
- Rehabilitation Science Core (13 quarter units)
- Elective Courses (9 quarter units, including 3 units of advanced coursework in speciality area)
- Education (6 quarter units)
- Leadership (6 quarter units)
- Religion (9 quarter units)
- Research and Dissertation (30-36 quarter units) for a total of 74-87 quarter units beyond the master's degree
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the PhD in Rehabilitation Science, graduates will be able to:
- Lead the integration of rehabilitation professions within healthcare systems.
- Commit to delivering whole-person care, emphasizing holistic well-being.
- Advance rehabilitation science through innovative research and scholarly contributions.
- Acquire and apply interdisciplinary knowledge from the social and basic medical sciences.
- Assess, design, and implement community-based, interdisciplinary services.
Admissions Requirements
To apply to the rehabilitation science, PhD program, the applicant must have the following:
- Master’s Degree in an allied health profession or related field (e.g., physical therapy, orthotics and prosthetics, occupational therapy, nutrition and dietetics, cardiopulmonary sciences, communication sciences and disorders).
- Minimum GPA: 3.0 in academic and professional coursework.
- Letter of support from a Loma Linda University research faculty member whose interests align with yours (coordinated by the program director).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing education, work history, certifications, honors, publications, and research experience.
- Written work sample such as Term paper, publication, or master’s research project/thesis.
- Evidence of participation in a research project, including data collection and a research paper or poster.
- Online Interview
Successful candidates will:
- Have access to a local research lab, if required, to support their research activities.
- Have a local mentor with relevant expertise to provide direct support and complement the guidance of their LLU faculty advisor/mentor.
- Ensure access to reliable internet for seamless connection to LLU’s online resources.
- Be available for regular virtual meetings with LLU faculty for mentoring and support.
- Engage actively with peers in the program to foster a collaborative and supportive learning community.
- (Optional) Have the ability to visit LLU’s campus to interact with faculty and utilize campus-based resources.
International Students
International students must also provide:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): Minimum score of 80 or higher (or an approved substitute).
- Foreign transcript evaluation by ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators) or WES (World Education Services).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the program fully online?
A: Yes. The PhD in Rehabilitation Science is delivered fully online with primarily asynchronous coursework and some required synchronous sessions.
Q: What is the typical time to completion?
A: Most students complete the program in 4–5 years, although some may finish in 3 years with an accelerated plan and focused research.
Q: Do I need to have a clinical license to apply?
A: While clinical experience is strongly encouraged, applicants with a research-focused master’s degree in a related field may also be considered.
Q: How is research mentorship handled?
A: Each student is matched with a faculty member whose expertise aligns with the student’s interests. Mentorship begins early and continues through the dissertation phase.
Q: Are there in-person requirements?
A: No, there are currently no required in-person components. Orientation and dissertation defenses may be conducted virtually.
Q: Is this program accredited?
A: The program is WSCUC-accredited as part of Loma Linda University but does not require professional accreditation since it does not lead to licensure.
Q: What are the dissertation requirements?
A: Students must complete original research, submit two manuscripts (one accepted for publication), and defend their dissertation in a final oral exam.
Q: What support services are available to online students?
A: Students have access to library services, academic advising, tech support, research tools, and career resources, similar to on-campus students.
Discipline Accrediting Agency
Loma Linda University is regionally accredited by the Western Association of School and Colleges (WASC), 985 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 100, Alameda, CA 94501; telephone 510-748-9001.
Program Contact