The PhD in Physical Therapy is an advanced, research-focused program designed to develop scholars, educators, and leaders committed to advancing the science and practice of physical therapy. The program emphasizes rigorous scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice across areas such as movement sciences, health policy, and lifestyle health specialties. With a strong focus on addressing national health priorities and emerging societal needs, the program encourages original research that informs clinical practice, shapes policy, and contributes to the broader healthcare landscape. Graduates are equipped to lead in academic, clinical, and research settings at both national and international levels, driving innovation and excellence in the field.
Goals of the program
The goal of the program to prepare graduates with:
1.Skills to design and conduct novel, original research; provide evidence of an understanding of research design, and the ability to formulate and develop methodologies; collect and reduce data; interpret results; draw defensible conclusions; and effectively disseminate research findings.
2. Skills to add to the body of knowledge in physical therapy research literature through publications and presentations.
3. Ability to demonstrate a commitment to conducting research in various domains of physical therapy, pain science, movement science, or lifestyle health and wellness.
4. Ability to demonstrate a commitment to providing whole-person care.
5. Skills to serve as an educator in entry-level, post professional, and graduate-level physical therapy programs.
6. Ability to demonstrate personal and group leadership skills at institutional, professional, national, and global levels
Objectives:
1. To Demonstrate a commitment to discovery.
2. To Demonstrate a commitment to the dissemination of knowledge through publications and presentations.
3. To Demonstrate a commitment to developing treatment plans that follow current evidence-based and best practice guidelines
PhD Advantage at Foundation University
Pursuing a PhD at Foundation University offers a distinct academic advantage, shaped by global partnerships, clinical integration, and cutting-edge research infrastructure. With formal collaborations established through MoUs with internationally recognized institutions—our scholars engage in cross-border research and access to global academic networks.
The university’s affiliation with a fully equipped, state-of-the-art teaching hospital ensures seamless access to clinical settings, patient data, and real-world health challenges, enriching the translational scope of doctoral research. This is complemented by advanced laboratory facilities that support high-impact research across biomedical, pharmaceutical, and interdisciplinary domains.
A culture of academic excellence, supported by interdisciplinary collaboration and expert faculty, positions Foundation University as a preferred destination for scholars committed to excellence, innovation, and societal relevance in research.
Entry Requirement & Duration of the Program
Program: PhD Physical Therapy
Duration: 18 Credit Hours course work + 36 Research (Thesis).
Degree Programme | Total Credit Hours |
Duration Semester/Year |
|
Min | Max | ||
PHD |
18 (Course Work) 36 (Research Thesis ) |
6/3 | 16/8 |
Level: Doctoral Program
Eligibility: A minimum CGPA of 3.0 (out of 4.0 in the semester system)
60% (in the annual system) in the MS/MPhil/equivalent degree
Admission Test: Conduct the test equivalent to GRE/HAT General developed at the University, with the passing score of 60%
Statement of Purpose: As part of the application for admission in PhD Physical Therapy Program, applicants are required to submit a statement of purpose, which shall form an integral part of the application. The admissions committee shall use the information provided by the candidate to ascertain the preparedness and interest of the candidate in pursuing doctoral studies in Physical Therapy, and whether the department has the requisite resources to train and supervise the doctoral candidate in the subspecialty he or she is interested in.
A statement of purpose should also contain the following:
a. Title of the potential research proposal
b. Clear articulation of the current understanding of the intended field and ideas for potential research
c. Explanation of the intended impact of the proposed research
d. The prospective candidates shall demonstrate passion and enthusiasm for the area of research
The maximum Word limit for the Statement of Purpose is 1000 Words.
Documents Required:
- Matric and FSc Certificates (to be uploaded as one PDF file)
- DPT/BSPT – Degree and Transcript (to be uploaded as one PDF file)
- Master's/MPhil/Equivalent – Degree and Transcript (to be uploaded as one PDF file)
- Any other diploma or certificate, if applicable (to be uploaded as one PDF file)
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