Florida International University

What you'll study

This doctoral programme combines advanced coursework, rigorous research methods training and an independent dissertation to prepare graduates to lead research and education in allied health. Core topics include clinical measurement and diagnostics, intervention development and evaluation, advanced statistics and research design, implementation science, health services research, and professional ethics. Students study contemporary issues in assessment and treatment across allied health professions such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, diagnostic imaging, and rehabilitation sciences.

Typical elements of the curriculum:

• Core coursework — advanced research methods, multivariate statistics, psychometrics, clinical trial design and implementation science.
• Discipline-specific modules — assessment and diagnostic technologies, intervention theory, outcome measurement, and specialty electives aligned with the student’s clinical background.
• Research seminars — journal clubs, grant writing workshops, and doctoral colloquia that foster interdisciplinary collaboration and critical appraisal skills.
• Teaching and mentoring — opportunities to gain experience as a teaching assistant or guest lecturer in undergraduate and master’s courses.
• Doctoral dissertation — an original research project that contributes new evidence to practice, policy or theory in allied health, supervised by a faculty mentor and assessed by a doctoral committee.

Programme structure

Students typically undertake two to three years of coursework and research training followed by focused dissertation research. Progress milestones include qualifying examinations or portfolio reviews, a formal dissertation proposal, and a final oral defence. The programme emphasises interdisciplinary collaboration and encourages practicum or applied research placements with clinical partners where relevant.

Entry requirements

• A relevant master’s degree (or equivalent) in an allied health field, public health, rehabilitation science, clinical science or a closely related discipline. Exceptional candidates with substantial professional experience and a strong research record may be considered.
• Demonstrated research experience, such as a thesis, peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations or significant involvement in funded research projects.
• A strong academic record from previous degree(s); admissions committees expect evidence of ability to succeed in doctoral-level study.
• Letters of recommendation (typically two to three) from academic or professional referees who can comment on research potential and scholarly promise.
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests, proposed areas of inquiry and fit with faculty expertise, plus an up-to-date curriculum vitae.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, in line with university requirements.
• Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores or complete an interview with potential supervisors, depending on programme procedures.

Career prospects

Graduates of this PhD programme pursue a variety of careers that leverage advanced research and leadership skills. Common pathways include:

• Academic positions as faculty members teaching and leading research programmes in allied health and rehabilitation sciences.
• Research scientist roles in university research centres, hospitals, or independent research institutes focusing on clinical trials, outcomes research or translational science.
• Leadership and policy roles in healthcare organisations, governmental agencies or non-profit organisations developing evidence-based practice and service delivery models.
• Senior clinical scientist or advanced practice leader roles within hospitals and health systems, driving quality improvement and implementation of best practices.
• Industry positions in medical technology, diagnostic companies, and healthcare consulting that require expertise in assessment, outcomes measurement and intervention evaluation.

Why study at Florida International University

• Strong clinical partnerships — FIU’s location and institutional networks provide access to a diverse patient population and collaborations with major hospitals, clinics and community health providers, facilitating applied research and practicum opportunities.
• Interdisciplinary research environment — students benefit from collaboration across colleges and centres that specialise in health sciences, public health, nursing, and rehabilitation, supporting translational and population-level research.
• Research mentoring and resources — doctoral candidates are supported by experienced faculty mentors, research facilities and core services for biostatistics, study design and grant development.
• Urban and diverse clinical context — Miami’s multicultural population offers rich opportunities for research that addresses health disparities, culturally responsive assessment, and community-engaged interventions.
• Career development — the programme emphasises grant writing, dissemination, teaching experience and professional development to prepare graduates for competitive roles in academia, health systems and industry.