Careers
A PhD in Rehabilitation Science focuses on improving the mobility and self-sufficiency of those living with disabilities. In addition to continuing practicing in a variety of interdisciplinary areas including physical therapy and occupational therapy, this degree can prepare you to work in the following areas:
- Academic Research and Teaching
- Clinical Research
- Government and Policy
PhD in Rehabilitation Science
The PhD in Rehabilitation Science program at UAB is an interdisciplinary program sponsored by the Department of Physical Therapy and the Department of Occupational Therapy in the School of Health Professions.
Rehabilitation Science is an exciting field that focuses on helping patients with disabilities live their lives to the fullest. Our students seek to advance rehabilitation knowledge by participating in specialized research and teaching opportunities and gain a holistic viewpoint through experiences at a world-class research institution. You may choose to pursue academia, government and policy sectors, or continue to practice in the industry upon graduation. The aim of this program is to prepare candidates to become leaders in teaching and research within the field of rehabilitation science and is not a clinical training program.
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Emeritus Faculty Directory
*deceased

Connie Bonds
Administrative Supervisor
SHPB 382
205-934-5909

David M. Morris, PT, PhD, FAPTA
Chair, Department of Physical Therapy, UAB Distinguished Professor
SHPB 383
205-934-0418

Constance Blakney
Program Coordinator II
SHPB 375
205-934-4363

Patrick Berner, PT, DPT, RDN
Assistant Professor
SHPB 331
205-934-3566

Haley Harvey
Program Coordinator II
SHPB 360X
205-934-5908

Andrea Bowens, PT, DPT, PhD
Associate Professor
Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist
SHPB 370
205-934-5901

Cara Bullard, PT, DPT
Assistant Professor
SHPB 389
205-996-1359

Mackenzie Johnson
Communication Specialist
SHPB 360X
205-908-0069

Jennifer Christy, PT, PhD, FAPTA
Professor and DPT Program Director, SHP Interim Associate Dean for Academic and Faculty Affairs
SHPB 331
205-934-5903

Elisa Lewis
Program Manager II
SHPB 381
205-934-4644

Alex Evancho, PT, DPT
Assistant Professor
SRS R027
205-996-8130

Melanie Hart, PhD
Professor
SHPB 386
205-934-0066

Christopher Hurt, PhD
Associate Professor and B.S. in Disability Studies and Rehabilitation Science Program Director
SHPB 334
205-934-8517

Brian King, PT, MSPT
Assistant Professor
Board-Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist
SHPB 333
205-975-3592

Katherine Sims
Program Coordinator II
SHPB 362
205-934-3566

Donald Lein, Jr. PT, PhD
Bergman/Pinkston Endowed Professor, Director of Continuing Education and Community Outreach, Professor
SHPB 336
205-934-0241

John D. Lowman, PT, PhD
Director of Residency Education,
Professor
Board-Certified Cardiopulmonary Clinical Specialist
SHPB 344
205-934-5892

Ashley Parish, PT, DPT, PhD, CRT
Associate Professor
Board-Certified Cardiopulmonary Clinical Specialist
SHPB 376
205-975-1976

Tara Pearce, PT, DHS
Director of Clinical Education, Associate Professor
SHPB 332
205-934-5964

Patty Perez, PT, DScPT
Director of Student Affairs, Associate Professor
Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist
SHPB 387
205-934-9104

William Reed, DC, PhD
Director, PhD in Rehabilitation Science, Professor
WEBB 379
205-934-3261

Laura White, PT, DScPT
Associate Professor,
Board-Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist
SHPB 335
205-934-5447

Jereme D. Wilroy, PhD
Associate Professor and Director of Research
SHPB 132

LaDarius (LD) Woods, PT, DPT, PhD, CSCS
Director of Access and Engagement,
Associate Professor
SHPB 341
205-934-6264

Elizabeth Wylie, PT, DPT
Assistant Professor
Board-Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist
SHPB 386
205-975-9994

Abebaw Yohannes, MSc, PhD
Professor
SHPB 372
205-996-1579
Admissions
Application Process
Application Deadlines:
January 31
Application Fees:
- Domestic applicants and green card holders: $50
- International applicants: $60
Instructions for Completing the Application
Official transcripts from each institution where college credit was received can be mailed to:
UAB Graduate School
LHL G03, 1720 2nd Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35294-0013
Prospective students may apply at any time during the year; however, students only begin program courses in the fall. Applications are submitted online through the UAB Graduate School. All admissions documents (test scores, transcripts, immigration documents, WES, etc.) must be sent to the UAB Graduate School. Use code 1856.
Transcripts can be submitted electronically by choosing University of Alabama at Birmingham - Graduate Admission or using the email
Requirements
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Admission Requirements
- Each application will be reviewed by the Admission Committee to identify individuals with strong commitment and aptitude to perform research related to Rehabilitation Science, along with strong academic preparation and professional-leadership potential.
- Undergraduate or graduate degree in occupational or physical therapy, engineering, exercise science, neuroscience, medicine, nursing, or other health related professions.
- Recommended minimum GPA 3.0 on of 4.0 scale in all previous coursework.
- Recommended Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores greater than the 50th percentile in each of the three domains.
- Interview with faculty that shows passion and commitment to research and professional growth in Rehabilitation Science.
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Application Requirements
- Three strong evaluation references, with at least one from a research lab mentor and one from an academic source.
- Written essay providing evidence of appropriate goals of study, professional growth and commitment to research, with special emphasis on interest in research that is being conducted at UAB.
- Submit official GRE test score to the UAB Graduate School. Institution code: 1856.
- Submit official TOEFL test score to the UAB Graduate School (for international applicants only). Institution code: 1856.
- Request one (1) official transcript from each postsecondary institution attended. Transcripts are to be mailed by the issuing institution to UAB.
Additional Information
If you have any questions, please contact William Reed, DC, PhD at