Rehabilitation Sciences constitutes the study of physical and occupational performance with special emphasis on individuals with impairments and disabilities. Encompassing the three dimensions of health as determined by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (body structure and function, activity, and participation), Rehabilitation Sciences spans the individual, community, and social levels of society.
The Master of Science in Rehabilitation Sciences (MSc) is designed to prepare individuals to conduct advanced research, both independently and in collaboration with others, in the field of Rehabilitation Sciences. Through the program, students are supported to investigate an area of research relevant to rehabilitation through critical analysis of problems related to basic sciences, clinical practice, or to development of theory. In combination with a MSc thesis, graduates are enabled to advance the science of rehabilitation to promote physical, mental, and social well-being for people of all levels of abilities.
Over 30 students from a broad range of backgrounds, including occupational therapy, physical therapy, recreation therapy, social sciences, human kinetics, and engineering, have graduated from the MSc program. In addition to authoring numerous peer-reviewed journal publications and winning various scholarships and awards, our graduates have established successful careers within the field of rehabilitation.
What makes the program unique?
Courses offered by our faculty members of internationally renowned scholars and educators help students learn critical evaluation of the scientific literature relevant to rehabilitation, analysis of theoretical constructs through quantitative and qualitative methods of inquiry, and the design, execution and presentation of their results.
Students also have the opportunity to study in state of the art laboratories, including the McGregor-Hudson Physical Therapy Research Lab, the Margaret Hood Occupational Therapy Lab, the Post Polio Research Lab, the UBC MacDonald Research Laboratory at St. Paul’s Hospital, the Rehabilitation Research Laboratory at GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre, the Blusson Spinal Cord Centre, and the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Research Clinic in Kelowna.
In addition, our faculty members are well integrated with several of the world class research facilities established here in BC, including the Arthritis Research Centre, Brain Research Centre, Centre for Hip Health, International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries, Centre for Heart and Lung Innovation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Providence Health Care Research Institute, GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre, and BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute.
“I have been amazed by how much financial, emotional and academic support I receive from my supervisor, the faculty, my program and the university. It is invaluable to be surrounded by a community that has your success and best interest at heart.”
– Anne-Cecile Delaisse, MSc ‘20, PhD Student
Other Programs in Rehabilitation Sciences
The online Master of Rehabilitation Science (MRSc) is designed for working health professionals who wish to gain additional knowledge to impact care and shape future rehabilitation practice. The MRSc degree will position you for leadership opportunities such as expert practitioner, clinical educator, practice lead, healthcare manager, or consultant in program evaluation.
The advanced (post-entry-level) Graduate Certificate in Rehabilitation (GCR) is designed for working health professionals who wish to upgrade their knowledge to meet the demands of practice today. Consisting of five courses, participants have the opportunity to develop the essential knowledge and skills required for best practice in rehabilitation.
The MOT program is a two-year professional master’s degree program, and the only occupational therapy program offered in British Columbia. The MOT program prepares graduates to be self-directed, lifelong learners who consciously use theory, evidence and critical thinking skills to maintain, evaluate, and improve their practice of occupational therapy.
The MPT program is a two-year professional degree program, and the only physical therapy program offered in British Columbia. The MPT program prepares graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to assess and manage a broad range of conditions that affect musculoskeletal, circulatory, respiratory and nervous systems.