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Tuition support and stipends may be available during the PhD
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The Doctor of Physical Therapy/PhD in Engineering Combined Program at Northwestern University is a highly specialised dual-degree pathway designed to train future leaders in rehabilitation science and biomedical innovation. The program combines the clinical excellence of Northwestern's nationally recognised Doctor of Physical Therapy program with rigorous doctoral research training in engineering disciplines. Students develop advanced competencies in patient care, movement analysis, biomechanics, neurorehabilitation, motor control, rehabilitation technology, and evidence-based clinical practice while simultaneously conducting cutting-edge engineering research. Through collaboration between the Feinberg School of Medicine and the McCormick School of Engineering, students gain access to world-class laboratories, interdisciplinary research centres, and internationally recognised faculty mentors. Research areas may include biomedical engineering, robotics, wearable technologies, neural engineering, human performance, assistive devices, computational modelling, and rehabilitation technologies. The integrated curriculum is designed to foster innovation at the intersection of engineering and clinical rehabilitation. Graduates are uniquely positioned to pursue careers as clinician-scientists, academic faculty members, rehabilitation researchers, industry innovators, healthcare technology developers, and leaders in translational rehabilitation science. The program contributes to advancing patient care through the development and evaluation of novel technologies and evidence-based rehabilitation interventions.
Complete a bachelor's degree and the required DPT prerequisite coursework.
Develop a strong academic and research background in rehabilitation sciences, engineering, or related disciplines.
Identify potential faculty mentors in engineering and rehabilitation research.
Prepare application materials, including transcripts, CV, statement of purpose, and recommendation letters.
Apply to the Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
Apply to the relevant Engineering PhD program through The Graduate School.
Meet admission requirements for both academic programs.
Participate in interviews if requested.
Receive admission decisions and finalise dual-degree enrollment.
Begin integrated coursework, clinical training, and doctoral research activities.
Chicago, USA
Private College
Est. 1859
