Program Overview

The therapeutic science PhD program at the University of Kansas Medical Center is an innovative, interdisciplinary doctoral program focused on studying and improving human participation, health, and quality of life. Grounded in occupational science and informed by diverse perspectives across health, social, and behavioral sciences, the program prepares scholars to generate and apply knowledge that advances therapeutic practices across the lifespan. As one of the region’s leading therapeutic science doctoral programs, it emphasizes rigorous inquiry paired with meaningful community impact.

Students in the therapeutic sciences program explore the dynamic interactions between individuals, environments, and occupations, examining how these relationships influence health, disability, and well-being. The curriculum emphasizes theory development, advanced research methods, translational science, and real-world application. Through mentored scholarship and individualized study plans, students develop the expertise to address complex health and societal challenges across clinical, community, and policy contexts.

Designed for individuals from a wide range of professional and academic backgrounds, including occupational therapy, recreational therapy, speech-language pathology, social work, clinical psychology, and special education, the program is highly customizable. Students pursuing a doctorate in therapeutic science design research agendas that align with their passions and professional goals, with support from interdisciplinary advisors and access to KU Medical Center’s research infrastructure, clinics, and community partnerships.

A hallmark of the therapeutic science PhD is its emphasis on translational research—moving discoveries from theory to practice in ways that directly improve outcomes for individuals and communities. Students are encouraged to engage in collaborative projects that span departments and disciplines, strengthening their ability to lead in academic, healthcare, nonprofit, and policy settings. Graduates of KU’s therapeutic sciences program leave prepared to contribute original scholarship that advances therapeutic knowledge and informs evidence-based practice.

Program highlights include:

  • Interdisciplinary focus spanning rehabilitation, behavioral, social, and health sciences
  • Flexible, student-centered curriculum that supports diverse research interests
  • Strong mentorship from nationally recognized faculty and funded investigators
  • Access to KU Medical Center labs, clinics, and community-based research partnerships
  • Emphasis on translational research and applied outcomes
  • Collaborative environment fostering cross-disciplinary discovery
  • Preparation for leadership roles in research, academia, healthcare systems, and public policy

Learn more about KU

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For more information about the program, visit the program page below.

Therapeutic Science, Ph.D.

KU School of Health Professions

The Doctorate in Therapeutic Science is part of the School of Health Professions, where top-notch training programs and research put our graduates in high demand.

Doctorate in Therapeutic Science Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the therapeutic science doctoral program will:

  • Develop and apply theoretical frameworks to address health, function, participation, and quality of life
  • Conduct independent, interdisciplinary research that improves therapeutic outcomes across populations
  • Translate research findings into clinical practice, community programming, and policy initiatives
  • Demonstrate advanced skills in research design, data analysis, grant writing, and scholarly dissemination
  • Collaborate across disciplines to solve complex health and societal challenges
  • Contribute to scholarship, teaching, and leadership in rehabilitation and related therapeutic fields

These outcomes reflect the core competencies expected of graduates from leading therapeutic science PhD programs, with an emphasis on both intellectual rigor and real-world application.

What Careers Are Possible With a Doctorate in Therapeutic Science?

Graduates of KU’s therapeutic sciences program are prepared for leadership roles in diverse professional sectors. According to Lightcast labor market data:

  • Median Salary: $85,000–$95,000 depending on role and sector
  • Potential Careers: Academic Researcher, University Faculty, Clinical Scientist, Rehabilitation Director, Policy Analyst
  • Top Employers: Universities, research institutes, healthcare systems, government agencies, non-profit organizations
  • Job Outlook: The demand for research-trained professionals in rehabilitation and therapeutic disciplines continues to grow, especially in roles involving integrated care, aging, disability, and chronic condition management

Many therapeutic science PhD jobs offer opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, external grant funding, and long-term impact in both clinical and community settings. Graduates are well positioned to pursue faculty appointments, research leadership roles, and senior positions within health systems.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Doctoral students in the Therapeutic Science PhD program may be eligible for research assistantships, tuition support, and other funding opportunities. Visit the KU Financial Aid & Scholarships Office for detailed information on costs and funding opportunities, and contact the program directly to ask about available assistantships.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the doctorate in therapeutic science program must meet the following criteria:

  • A master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution; official transcripts must confirm the degree was conferred prior to program entry. International degree holders must provide an independent transcript evaluation confirming equivalency to a U.S. degree.
  • A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in a bachelor’s degree program
  • Three letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources
  • Statement of academic interests and professional goals (no more than 300 words) describing how doctoral study will contribute to your career goals
  • Separate research interests statement (2–3 paragraphs) describing how your interests align with the expertise of Therapeutic Science faculty; applicants are encouraged to contact faculty prior to applying
  • Resume/CV
  • Writing sample demonstrating academic or clinical inquiry
  • Background check
  • Applicants who are not native English speakers (domestic or international) must demonstrate English proficiency per KU Graduate Studies requirements

Admission to therapeutic science PhD programs is competitive, and applicants are encouraged to identify potential faculty mentors whose research aligns with their interests. For more information, please visit the Department of Occupational Therapy.

Student Life and Learning Experiences

Students in the therapeutic science PhD program benefit from:

  • Access to KU Medical Center’s research laboratories, clinical facilities, and community-based research settings
  • Mentored research with faculty engaged in externally funded projects
  • Interprofessional learning alongside students from occupational therapy, physical therapy, public health, and related disciplines
  • Opportunities to publish manuscripts, present at national and international conferences, and participate in grant development
  • Collaboration with community health organizations and advocacy groups to promote participation and health equity

As members of the KU Medical Center community, students in therapeutic sciences enjoy a collaborative and inclusive academic environment. Interdisciplinary seminars, research colloquia, and journal clubs foster intellectual exchange and professional growth. Students also have access to campus wellness resources, professional development services, and student organizations that support leadership preparation within therapeutic science doctoral programs.

Located in Kansas City, the program provides engagement with a vibrant healthcare and research community, offering rich opportunities for partnership and applied scholarship.

Doctorate in Therapeutic Science Sample Courses

KU’s therapeutic science PhD curriculum includes core seminars, electives, and research-focused coursework designed to build theoretical depth and translational expertise. Sample courses include:

  • From Beliefs to Evidence
  • Evolving Interdisciplinary Views of Disablement
  • Designing Effective Knowledge Transfer
  • Multidisciplinary Theoretical Perspectives

For more information on the degree plan and course sequencing within the doctorate in therapeutic science, refer to the KU Catalog.

Doctorate in Therapeutic Science Frequently Asked Questions

When should I apply?

Applications are due Dec. 1.

How long will it take to complete the degree?

Full-time students typically complete this degree in 4–5 years, with a program maximum of 8 years. Part-time students should expect a longer timeline.

Contact Information

Department of Occupational Therapy Education 913-588-7195

Accreditation & Notes

The Doctor of Philosophy in Therapeutic Science is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and is the official degree awarded. References to “therapeutic science PhD program” or similar terms are used for clarity and student understanding.

The Ph.D. in Therapeutic Science is a research degree and does not confer eligibility for professional licensure or clinical credentialing. Applicants who are currently licensed health professionals should note that this program does not extend or replace clinical credentials.