School of Physiotherapy
Doctor of Philosophy
Click here to print : Doctor of Philosophy Information Package (pdf)
The School of Physiotherapy at La Trobe University has a long established history of running postgraduate programs. The School’s PhD program has successfully attracted a range of students from different places and academic backgrounds. The high standard of supervision and research opportunities within the School is reflected in its reputation for excellence, both within Australia and internationally.
The School’s PhD program provides opportunities for students with suitable undergraduate training to develop their research skills while being supervised by experienced and active researchers.
The PhD research degree programs enable students to develop :
- Independent research skills;
- Expert knowledge in the science and theories underpinning physiotherapy and clinical practice;
- Skills relevant to investigating the effectiveness of clinical practices;
- Advanced skills in research design and critical analysis of literature;
- Skills relevant to publishing papers in peer reviewed journals;
- And, promote the use of evidence-based practice.
PhD programs within the School of Physiotherapy are research degrees open to suitably qualified students from a range of backgrounds (physiotherapists and non-physiotherapists).
Admission Requirements
For entry requirements into the Doctor of Philosophy, candidates will normally have either an Honours Degree (H2A standard or above) or Masters Degree. Either degree course must have included a substantial research dissertation as part of the requirements of the course.
The School of Physiotherapy reserves the right to conduct an interview as part of the selection process.
Course Structure
The degree of Doctor of Philosophy can be undertaken on a full-time basis over not less than two and a half years and not more than five years. Admission as a part-time candidate is also possible. Research is undertaken under the guidance of a primary supervisor in the School of Physiotherapy, with other supervisors involved where appropriate. A PhD thesis shall not exceed 100,000 words (it is recommended that it not exceed 50,000 words in science or 75,000 words in non-science subjects) and students should demonstrate a capacity for independent research and an ability to make a substantial and original contribution to learning.
Applications
Application forms and details of closing dates for all research degrees are available from the Research and Graduate Studies Office at La Trobe University.
International applicants should contact the University’s International Programs Office. International students for all courses are required by the Australian Government to study on a full-time basis.
Fees
Commonwealth Supported Places (previously known as HECS).
Candidature in the Doctor of Physiotherapy degree is offered under the Research Training Scheme (RTS). The RTS provides Commonwealth-funded higher degree by research (HDR) students with an ‘entitlement’ to a commonwealth supported place exemption for the duration of an accredited HDR course, up to a maximum period of four years’ full-time equivalent study for a doctorate by research. An RTS student must be: (1) an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or New Zealand citizen; and (2) enrolled in an accredited HDR course leading to a Doctorate by research (including a professional Doctorate) on a full-time or part-time basis. Students are also required to pay the University’s General Service Fee.
Information on fees for international students can be obtained from the International Programs Office.
Allocation of Places
The following will be considered by the Selection Committee in the assessment of applications :
- Qualifications and academic record.
- Referees’ reports.
- Research experience.
- Availability of supervisors, equipment and suitable research facilities.
- Availability of RTS places in the Faculty of Health Sciences.
School Facilities
The School of Physiotherapy is located in the Health Sciences 3 building on the Bundoora Campus of La Trobe University. The building is purpose built (opened in 1998) and facilities include technologically advanced equipment and large research laboratories. Students have opportunities to see and use the following:
- Modern, well equipped research laboratories including one of the most advanced movement laboratories in the world, a high class electrophysical agents laboratory and biomechanics facilities.
- Modern library with one of the most extensive collections of physiotherapy books and serials, and advanced on-line searching facilities.
- Up-to-date information technology services including computers for on-line learning and software for thesis construction and data analysis.
- State of the art lecture, practical, and clinical teaching facilities.
Teaching and Research Supervision Staff
The PhD degrees are all supervised by La Trobe University School of Physiotherapy staff. The teaching and research staff involved with this course have higher degrees in research, extensive research and publication experience, and are recognised internationally for their work. In addition, expert researchers and supervisors (often from a clinical facility) external to La Trobe University can be involved as associated supervisors for specific research projects.
International Links
The School of Physiotherapy encourages and has developed valuable collaborative links with physiotherapists and physiotherapy teaching and research facilities in different regions of the world including – Canada, USA, Thailand, the United Kingdom, China, Israel, India and Singapore.
Graduate Outcomes
Graduates of the PhD degree contribute to research in physiotherapy and related areas. They typically have the skills required to publish their research in peer reviewed journals. Many graduates obtained accelerated career advancement because of their research skills and knowledge.
Features of the Programs
- High quality research supervision and education.
- High quality teaching staff.
- Access to established research teams, and advanced research base and infrastructure.
Enquiries
Enquiries relating to academic content or admission should be directed to :
Dr Nora Shields
Postgraduate Co-ordinator
School of Physiotherapy
Faculty of Health Sciences
La Trobe University
Victoria 3086
AUSTRALIA
Telephone : +61 3 9479 5815
Facsimile : +61 3 9479 5768
Email : N.Shields@latrobe.edu.au
International applicants please initially contact :
International Programs Office
La Trobe University
Victoria 3086
AUSTRALIA
Telephone : +61 3 9479 1199
Facsimile : +61 3 9479 3660
Email : International@latrobe.edu.au
Web : www.latrobe.edu.au/international/
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