Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science

KU's programs are nationally recognized for excellence as a leader in education and research in the field. A unit of the School of Health Professions, the KU Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science is located on the University of Kansas Medical Center campus in Kansas City, Kansas. In collaboration with The University of Kansas Hospital adjacent to KUMC, students benefit from the opportunity to interact with a large number of health care professionals and leading researchers in real-world environments.

KU offers the following degree programs in the fields of physical therapy and rehabilitation:

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) prepares new physical therapists for entry into the field. This 3-year program is full-time, and includes classroom, laboratory, research and clinical learning experiences.

Post-professional DPT program for therapists with PT degrees utilizes Web-based course technology. A degree in physical therapy from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) is required.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Rehabilitation Science prepares individuals for leadership positions in research and academia. A major focus of the program is to advance the science of rehabilitation.

News and Updates

KU Researchers Present at APTA Event

Drs. Stehno-Bittel, VanHoose, Kluding and Sabus from the Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science presented at the 2012 Combined Sections Meeting in Chicago. The program, "Intellectual Property and Partnerships: The Value of Your Ideas," explained how they obtained funding and support for physical therapy programs and activities through industry relationships. The event is hosted each year by the American Physical Therapy Association. Read a summary (see page 4)

Student Research Honored at Capitol

A student in the PhD in Rehabilitation Science program, Jessica Witherspoon, was one of four graduate students at KU to be awarded a $500 award at the ninth annual Capitol Graduate Research Summit in Topeka, Kan. Her presentation was titled, "Shoulder Instability May Depend on Labral and Capsular Properties." Release

Legacy Scholarship Awarded to Faculty Member

Linda Denney, PT, of the KU Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science receives special honor from the Midwest Assocation of Allied Health Deans of Academic Health Centers. Release

Research

KU is regarded as one of the premier research institutions in the country and researchers in our department are at the forefront of advancing knowledge in health care. Students not only have the opportunity to learn from accomplished clinicians, but from individuals who are striving to expand our knowledge base in a variety of health and science areas. To explore current research projects, visit a laboratory group site or browse individual research by faculty name.

Mission of the KU Department of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Science

The mission of the Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science at the University of Kansas Medical Center is to further the profession of physical therapy through state-of-the-art education, research, and service at the local, state, national and international level. The department is committed to translational research that has an impact on physical therapy practitioners and on their clients. The department cultivates highly competent physical therapists, proficient faculty to meet professional workforce demands, and researchers in the field of rehabilitation to advance the science of health care.