The School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences offers the following master’s degree programs and two certificate programs:

Master of Science degree in Coordinated Master in Dietetics.

Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) degree

Master of Arts (MA)/Master of Science (MS) degrees in communication science and disorders with concentrations in:

• Speech–language pathology
• Audiology

Master of Science degree program in health and rehabilitation sciences with concentrations in:

• Clinical dietetics/nutrition
• Health information systems
• Health care supervision and management
• Occupational therapy
• Physical therapy
• Rehabilitation counseling
• Rehabilitation science and technology
• Sports medicine
• Wellness and human performance

Master of Science degree in Physical Assistant Studies

Advanced certificates

• Certificate in Rehabilitation Technology
• Certificate in Disability Studies

Contact Information

School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Office of Admissions

4019 Forbes Tower

Pittsburgh, PA 15260

412-383-6558

Fax: 412-383-6535

E-mail: admissions@shrs@pitt.edu

www.shrs.pitt.edu

Admission Requirements and Application Process

International Student Applicants

(See also the Graduate Admissions of International Students section in the Application for Admission section of this bulletin.)

Academic Standards

Specific SHRS academic standards are outlined below. In addition, SHRS students are governed by the University-wide academic rules and regulations as detailed in the General Academic Regulations section of this bulletin.

Maintenance of Active Status

All students working toward graduate degrees must be registered for a minimum of 1 credit in each 12-month period from the time of admission until the degree is granted. Those students who fail to observe this rule will be placed on inactive status and will have to seek formal readmission in order to continue their graduate programs.

Readmission

A student who has not registered for at least 1 credit or full-time dissertation study during a 12-month period will be transferred automatically to inactive status and must file an application for re-admission to graduate study (and pay the application fee) before being permitted to register again.

Inactive students cannot apply to graduate or take preliminary or comprehensive examinations. While on inactive status, a student is not eligible to use University facilities and should not expect to receive counseling by the faculty or active supervision by his/her advisor and committee.

Readmission is not automatic nor does it necessarily reinstate the student to the academic status enjoyed prior to becoming inactive. If the requirements for successful completion of the specific graduate program in which the student was enrolled have changed during the period of non-enrollment, the re-admitted student may be required to meet the revised requirements of the program that are in effect at the time of readmission. This will be decided by the Department Chair of the student's particular program; for the doctoral program the decision will be made by the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies.

Readmission is automatic, however, for students who receive prior approval for a formal leave of absence.

Academic Probation

Graduate students must have a 3.000 cumulative GPA to be eligible to graduate.

Graduate students who have completed at least 9 credits and whose cumulative GPA falls below a 3.000 will be placed on academic probation and will receive written notification of this status. At this point it is the student's responsibility to meet with his or her advisor.

In order to be removed from academic probation, the student will need to achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.000 within his or her next two terms of study. Failure to do so may subject the student to immediate dismissal from the program at the discretion of the Department Chair.

Students who fail to demonstrate progress toward meeting graduation requirements in a timely manner may be placed on academic probation or be dismissed from the program at the discretion of the Department Chair.

Thesis Option

Students pursuing a master’s degree with a thesis option are required to take a minimum of 6 credits of research over a period of no less than two terms. See individual program sections for program-specific guidelines.

Non-Thesis Option

Students pursuing a master’s degree with a non-thesis option are required to take a minimum of 6 credits (students in the rehabilitation counseling program are required to take 3 credits) in an area in which they want to further their professional skills. For program-specific guidelines, see individual program sections.

Comprehensive Examination

The purpose of the comprehensive examination is to give students an opportunity to show their integration of information presented to date, to see how well they communicate in written form, and to test if adequate clinical skills have been achieved before allowing them to proceed in graduate study. This diagnostic tool gives the faculty an opportunity to evaluate the student’s comprehension of content to date, whether the student is ready for more advanced work, and the student’s potential to successfully complete the program. All students must take the comprehensive examination when they have completed at least two-thirds of their graduate program. Any student who fails to perform satisfactorily on the comprehensive examination will be given a second chance to qualify. The student will be examined only on those areas in which the student did poorly. Grading will be the same as on the first exam. However, a second failure will be cause for dismissal from SHRS. Please refer to the individual program concentrations for specific program requirements.

Graduation Requirements

Candidates for the degree of Master of Arts, Master of Science, or Master of Occupational Therapy from the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences must, in addition to completing all course and other degree requirements, have a minimum GPA of 3.00. All students must be registered for at least 1 credit during the term in which they plan to be graduated. No student will be graduated with an existing F, G, or I grade in a required course. No student will be graduated who has not resolved all financial obligations with the University.

The Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) degree program prepares students for entry-level practice as occupational therapists. The MOT program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA), located at 4720 Montgomery Lane, Suite 200, Bethesda, MD 20814. Additional information regarding occupational therapy accreditation may be obtained from the AOTA Web site at www.aota.org or from the AOTA accreditation staff at 301-652-6611.

Contact Information

Recruitment Coordinator

Department of Occupational Therapy

School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

5012 Forbes Tower

412-383-6620

Fax: 412-383-6613

E-mail: OTpitt@shrs.pitt.edu

http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/ot/

Admission Requirements/Application Process

The MOT program begins in June of each year. The MOT program subscribes to the Occupational Therapy Centralized Application Service, known as OTCAS.  Applicants for the entering class need to apply online using the OTCAS application.  The deadline for applying to the MOT program is February 1; however, we encourage applicants to apply before this deadline as the Department of Occupational Therapy will begin reviewing applications in November.

Program Requirements 

The entry-level MOT program is a two-year professional course of study requiring 78 credits, including fieldwork education.

Certification

Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the Occupational Therapist Registered OTR® Certification Examination administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT®). After successful completion of this examination, the individual becomes an Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR®). Most states, including Pennsylvania, require licensure to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination. A felony conviction may prevent a graduate from taking this examination or obtaining state licensure.

MOT Curriculum and Course Descriptions

Coordinated Masters in Dietetics/Master of Science

Preparation for a career in dietetics as a Registered Dietitian requires the completion of an approved 4-year college degree program, completion of an accredited supervised practice experience (providing a minimum of 1200 hours), and successful performance on the National Registration Examination for Dietitians.

The Coordinated Masters Program in Dietetics is currently granted continuing accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics, 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2000, Chicago, IL 60606-6995, 312/899-5400.

Contact Information

Deborah Hutcheson, DCN, RD, LDN, CDE

Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition

School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

4048 Forbes Tower

412-383-6534

Fax 412-383-6636

E-mail:  dhutches@pitt.edu

http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/cmd/

Admissions Requirements/Application Process

Application Deadline:

March 15

Prerequisite Courses

Program Requirements

The Coordinated Master in Dietetics program is a two-year Master of Science course of study requiring 53 credits including supervised practice.

Curriculum and Course Descriptions

Registration

This graduate curriculum provides students with a Master of Science degree and the accredited supervised practice component. The CMD will offer supervised experiences in a variety of major health care and community settings including the renowned University of Pittsburgh Health Care System (UPMC). Upon successful completion of the CMD program, graduates are eligible for the National Registration Examination for Dietitians.

** CHEM 0350 (3 cr.) offered each Spring Term will satisfy the Organic Chemistry requirement. Students who do not take CHEM 0350 must take OCHEM 1 & 2 (6 cr.).

Graduation Requirements

Graduation from the Coordinated Masters in Dietetics requires completion of 53 credits as follows:

• 26 credit hours of core academic requirements.
• 20 credit hours of supervised practice.  This will provide the minimum of 1200 hours of supervised practice as specified by CADE.
• 7 credit hours of research requirements.

Program Requirements

The Coordinated Master in Dietetics program is a two-year Master of Science course of study requiring 53 credits including supervised practice.

Curriculum

TOTAL CREDITS = 53

* Courses may vary dependent on transfer courses accepted.

Registration

This graduate curriculum provides students with a Master of Science degree and the accredited supervised practice component. The CMD will offer supervised practice experiences in a variety of major health care and community settings including the renowned University of Pittsburgh Health Care System (UPMC). Upon successful completion of the CMD program, graduates are eligible to sit for the National Registration Examination for Dietitians.

The communication science and disorders program provides students with a specialized academic education in communication processes and disorders, including disorders of speech, language, swallowing, and hearing; the knowledge and skills needed to critically evaluate empirical research; and clinical expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of individuals having communicative disorders.

The master’s degree program has two concentrations: one in speech-language pathology, including general clinical requirements and a public school option, and one in audiology (non-clinical). For students interested in a clinical degree in audiology, please see the section on the Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degree in this bulletin.

A research track (resulting in the Master of Science degree) in both audiology and speech-language pathology is also available.

The Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association accredits professional entry-level programs (MA/MS for Speech-Language Pathology and AuD for Audiology).

Contact Information

Program Director

Department of Communication Science and Disorders

School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

4033 Forbes Tower

412-383-6540  

Fax: 412-383-6555

http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/CSD/

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Communication Science and Disorders Program Requirements

In addition to the General Academic Regulations of the University and the SHRS Academic Standards, students in both the speech-language pathology and audiology concentrations have a series of shared requirements:

Comprehensive Examination for the Master of Arts (MA) and AuD degrees

All students in the Master of Arts and AuD degree programs are required to pass a two-part oral and written comprehensive examination. The comprehensive examination assesses students’ ability to think critically, to communicate their thoughts in written and oral form, and to demonstrate their grasp of the major academic and clinical content provided in their graduate program.

Students pursuing the Master of Arts (MA) degree in audiology must successfully complete a comprehensive examination in the spring of the second year of study. This will be in a written test format that will test the depth and breadth of the student's knowledge attained during the first four semesters of graduate study. (Students seeking the Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degree must complete a second comprehensive examination. Details about that comprehensive examination can be found in the section on the AuD.)

Students pursuing the Master of Arts (MA) degree in communication disorders with a concentration in speech-language pathology must satisfactorily complete a one credit course taken in the fall or spring term of their last year in the graduate program. The course includes a final oral examination which consists of a brief presentation by the student followed by an extended question and answer session by selected members of the faculty. Requirements for passing the comprehensive examination course are provided in the course syllabus.

Proseminar Requirement

All students must complete the proseminar requirement, which consists of attending a specified number of scientific and professional presentations that have relevance to communication science and disorders.

Clinical Practicum

Clinical practicum requirements are met in Communication Science Disorders Clinical Network which consists of more than 100 facilities in Western Pennsylvania with which the program is affiliated. These include hospitals, home based services, specialty clinics, not-for-profit clinics, early intervention, and private practices in the area, as well as public and private schools. All course work and practicum credits must be completed with a minimum grade of C to satisfy requirements for the degree.

Thesis Option for Master of Science (MS) degrees

Students pursuing the Master of Science degree in speech-language pathology or audiology must successfully complete a thesis project. Students who complete a Master’s thesis are exempt from the comprehensive examination. Thesis students will have an examining committee of at least three University faculty members, including the research director, who serves as chair.

The master’s program concentration in speech-language pathology has a set curriculum.  All students are required to take the same courses.  Students have the option to take either an adult or pediatric hearing management course. Students participate in 10 credits of practicum and have the option to complete a School Practicum making them eligible for a PA Educational Certification in Speech-Language Impaired. 

Program Requirements

The program is designed to require two full years (six terms) of study, but some students may be able to complete the requirements in five terms. Course work must be passed with a C grade or better in order to count for graduation and to qualify the student for the comprehensive examination.

General Clinical Track

This track requires 60 credits distributed as follows: Required Coursework (50 credits) and Clinic Practicum (10 credits).

Public School Option

In addition to the general clinical requirements, students must complete 3 credits of non-CSD course work in each of the following content areas: child development; foundations of education; instructional methods for regular education; and instructional methods in special education.  They must complete a 4-day/week School  Practicum  for a full semester. Specific Praxis examinations as well as English and Mathematics requirements set forth by the state of Pennsylvania, are also required.

The progression of courses for the general clinical requirements and the public school option are outlined on the Department’s web site and which can be accessed by following this link to the Program Curriculum.

Speech Language Pathology Curriculum and Course Descriptions

This program is designed for those students interested in pursuing the research track in audiology. The audiology concentration requires 68 credits of coursework. All credits must be passed with a B grade or better in order to count for graduation. 

Audiology Curriculum and Course Descriptions

The programs (areas of concentrations) for this degree are described below.

Clinical Dietetics/Nutrition

Contact Information

Diane Helsel, PhD, RD, LDN, CSSD

Coordinator of Graduate Studies in Nutrition
Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition

4054 Forbes Tower

412-383-6532

Fax: 412-383-6636

E-mail: dih1@pitt.edu

http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/mscdn and http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/mswhp

 

 

Dietitians who are registered through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) and individuals who possess a baccalaureate degree from an ADA-approved program may pursue a Master of Science degree in health and rehabilitation sciences with a concentration in clinical nutrition. This concentration has been developed to provide an advanced theoretical framework, highlighting selected areas of clinical dietetics practice such as cardiac rehabilitation, physical assessment, and nutrition support. Completion of a comprehensive examination or thesis is required.

SPECIAL NOTE: This program will provide applicants who are not already registered dietitians with a Master of Science degree but will not provide the required supervised practice experience necessary to sit for the National Registration Examination for Dietitians.

Admission Requirements and Application Process

*Required

**One of these courses can be used to fulfill the research course requirements. Alternate selections require approval by the dean.

Required Courses: 20 Credits

Collateral Courses: 3 Credits

Additional Requirements: 11 Credits

Thesis Option:

Non-Thesis Option:

Wellness and Human Performance

The Advanced MS in HRS will focus on wellness and human performance for those students seeking graduate training to develop knowledge and skills related to nutrition and exercise in maintaining and improving health and physical performance. The Advanced Program will include the integration of course work, clinical education, and research pertaining to nutritional aspects of health, fitness, and athletic training/performance. This Advanced MS Program in HRS with a concentration in wellness and human performance will parallel the Advanced MS with a concentration in sports medicine and provide students with access to the sports medicine research facilities and faculty.

Contact Information

Diane Helsel, PhD, RD, LDN, CSSD

Coordinator of Graduate Studies in Nutrition
Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition

4054 Forbes Tower

412-383-6532  

Fax: 412-383-6636

E-mail: dih1@pitt.edu

http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/mswhp/

Program Requirements

This degree requires the completion of a minimum of 40 credits.

Core Requirements: 23 credits 

*Required

**One of these courses can be used to fulfill the research course requirements. Alternate selections require approval by the dean.

Additional Requirements: 11 Credits

Thesis Option:

Non-Thesis Option:

Wellness and Human Performance Curriculum and Course Descriptions

Clinical Dietetics/Nutrition Curriculum and Course Descriptions

The Department of Health Information Management (HIM) offers two concentrations leading to the Master of Science degree in Health and Rehabilitation Science, Health Information Systems (HIS) which also offers an RHIA option and Health Care Supervision and Management (HSM).

Contact Information:

Mervat Abdelhak, PhD, RHIA, FAHIMA, Chair

Department of Health Information Management

6051 Forbes Tower

412-383-6650  

Fax: 412-383-6655

E-mail: him@pitt.edu

http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/HIM/

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Financial Aid

There are scholarships and loan opportunities available to graduate students from the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Further information can be obtained from the AHIMA web site at www.ahima.org under the "AHIMA" Foundation link. Additionally, the Pennsylvania Health Information Management Association (PHIMA) awards scholarships to qualified students in Pennsylvania.  Further information can be obtained from PHIMA’s web site at http://www.phima.org/careercenter.html ..... and then click on PHIMA Scholarships.

The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) also awards scholarships to HIMSS student members who have achieved academic excellence and have the potential to be future leaders in the health care information and management systems industry. Visit the HIMSS site at http://www.himss.org/ and navigate to "Scholarships" under the Professional Development menu.

Health Information Systems (HIS) 

The concentration in health information systems (HIS) prepares professionals for the development and management of health information systems consistent with the clinical, fiscal, administrative, ethical, and legal requirements of health care institutions. Graduates of this program analyze, design, implement, and evaluate health information systems. As members of the health care team, they interact with other health care professionals and administrators, and provide health care data for patient care, research, quality improvement, strategic planning, reimbursement, and related managerial functions.

MS-HIS/RHIA Option: Students enrolled in the HIS graduate program may choose this option for eligibility to sit for the AHIMA Registration Examination to become credentialed as a registered health information administrator (RHIA).

Program Requirements 

The HIS concentration requires a student to complete 41–42 credits, including foundation courses in health informatics and health management, as well as an internship.  Courses are chosen with the advisor and a Plan of Study developed to enable each student to design in-depth study of Health Informatics taking into account student’s previous academic preparation and experience. A written comprehensive examination is also required. See SHRS Comprehensive Examinations.

Thesis Option

Students are required to take 6 credits, HRS 2924 and HRS 2925.

Non-Thesis Option

Students are required to take 6 credits in an area in which they want to further develop their professional skills; courses offered within the Department, School, or within the University.

HIS Curriculum and Course Descriptions

The HIS curriculum allows students to choose from required core courses and elective courses. Elective courses can be chosen from SHRS or other academic programs within the University.

Health Care Supervision and Management (HSM)

The concentration in health care supervision and management provides health professionals an opportunity for career advancement in areas of administration and supervisory management in health care, long-term care, and rehabilitation.

This program is designed for health care professionals who wish to attain skills and knowledge at the graduate level to prepare for a supervisory management position or to upgrade competencies.

Program Requirements 

Students are required to take a minimum of 41–42 credits and must take the comprehensive examination. HSM offers students the thesis or non-thesis option. Students electing the thesis option must complete 6 credits, HRS 2924 and HRS 2925. Students choosing the non-thesis option must complete 6 credits in an area in which they want to further develop their professional skills.

HSM Curriculum and Course Descriptions

The health care supervision and management curriculum allows students to choose from required core courses and elective courses. Elective courses can be chosen from SHRS or other academic programs within the University.

Post-professional graduate studies in this field enable occupational therapists to pursue an area of interest in clinical practice, management, education, research, or health and disability policy.

Contact Information

Recruitment Coordinator
Department of Occupational Therapy

School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

5012 Forbes Tower

412-383-6620  

Fax: 412-383-6613

E-mail: OTpitt@shrs.pitt.edu

http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/msot/

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Program Requirements

This degree requires 30 credits distributed as follows:

• Four core courses (12 credits):  HRS 2501, 2502, 2503, and 2504.
• Career Design/Redesign (18 credits): See Program Curriculum below.

A written comprehensive examination prepared by the faculty and covering content of the four core courses is also required. A thesis is not required but is an option.

Program Curriculum and Course Descriptions

Career Design/Redesign (18 credits) is the largest component of the curriculum and is designed to meet the individual needs of the student. Courses are chosen with the advisor and a plan of study is developed that enables each student to design in-depth study in a particular area, or to redesign a new career path.

MS Degree, Physician Assistant Studies

The Physician Assistant Degree program prepares students to become highly qualified physician assistants.  The University of Pittsburgh graduates  will go on to  serve as tomorrow’s leaders in patient centered care, education and professional service.

Physician Assistants (PAs) are health care professionals licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision. PAs practice primary and specialty patient care in medical and surgical settings throughout the United States and worldwide. In order to practice, Physician Assistants must graduate from an accredited educational program and become certified through an examination by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).

The University of Pittsburgh Physician Assistant Studies Program received Accreditation by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA) in March of 2012. Students are admitted into the program upon successful completion of:  an undergraduate degree at an accredited institution and fulfillment of all prerequisites.

Contact Information

Marsha LaCovey, MS                                                                      Diane Fajbik

Physician Assistant Studies                                                          Physician Assistant Studies

School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences                       School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

3010 William Pitt Way                                                                     3010 William Pitt Way

Pittsburgh, PA 15238                                                                      Pittsburgh, PA  15238

412-624-6719                                                                                     412-624-6743

Fax: 412-624-7934                                                                            Fax: 412-624-7934

E-mail: mlacovey@pitt.edu                                                         Email:  dlf21@pitt.edu

Webpage: http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/pa

Admission Requirements/Application Process

Applications are accepted through CASPA each year from mid April to September 1.  Students are admitted each spring semester.

Program Requirements

Prerequisite course work

• Anatomy and Physiology, two semesters*
• This requirement may be met by taking either one semester of Anatomy with lab and one semester of Physiology or two semesters of Anatomy & Physiology combined.
• Biology with lab designed for Science Majors, two semesters*
• Chemistry with lab designed for Science Majors, two semesters*
• English Composition/Writing, two semesters
• Microbiology with lab, one semester*
• Organic Chemistry with lab, one semester*
• Psychology, Introduction, one semester
• Psychology, Developmental, one semester
• Statistics, one semester
• Medical Terminology, one semester

*Prerequisite Science Courses GPA of 3.0 or higher is required

Other admission criteria

Successful completion of an undergraduate degree at an accredited institution

• A valid Professional Rescuer CPR certification from AHA. CPR certification must be maintained throughout the two year program.
• Overall grade-point average (GPA) of 3.0 (based on a 4.0 scale) in all college-level course work and a minimum (GPA) of 3.0 (based on a 4.0 scale) in the prerequisite science courses marked above with an asterisk (*).
• Three letters of recommendation, one from a former college/university instructor and one from a supervisor of the required clinical experience.
• A minimum of 500 hours of hands-on patient care experience.

The patient care experience must be direct, "hands-on" patient contact e.g., RN, EMT or paramedic, health educator, patient care attendant or nurse's aide, clinic assistant, Peace Corps volunteer or other cross-cultural health care experience, technologist, therapist, clinical research assistant, respiratory therapist/aide, medical assistant, or tech, PT/OT assistant, therapist.

The GRE is required for applicants seeking seats for January of 2013. The University of Pittsburgh institution code is 2927.

All coursework, requirements, and degree must be completed by August 31st each year in  order to be considered for a seat in the class that will begin the following January.

Although not required, the following will be considered when determining the applicant's candidacy score:

• Biochemistry with lab, one semester
• Advanced Biology Courses

• Calculus, one semester
• Nutrition, one semester
• Shadowing a PA

The program is two full years (six consecutive semesters) and classes start each January(spring semester). Applications will be considered until the class is filled. Students are highly encouraged to apply early. The program does not offer advanced standing. All courses within the curriculum are required. No credit is granted for pre-admission experiential learning. Only full-time students are admitted.

Interview Process

Applications for admission will be reviewed by the PA Program Admission’s Committee. Candidates selected will be required to meet with the Admissions Committee. The University of Pittsburgh’s PA program finds the personal interview to be a necessary and important component to the admission process. The faculty looks for such personal attributes as maturity, empathy, compassion, motivation, ability to communicate, cultural sensitivity, critical thinking skills and the potential to achieve career fulfillment within the PA role. Interviews will be conducted on campus to provide the candidate and faculty an opportunity to meet and discuss the program objectives, student’s goals, rationale for choosing the PA profession and more specifically the program at the University of Pittsburgh.

Plan of Study

The Physician Assistant curriculum is comprised of a rigorous 24 month Master of Science Program. The goals and objectives of our program are guided by the criteria set forth in the Standards and Guidelines for an Accredited Educational Program for the Physician Assistant as established by ARC-PA. The first three semesters (12 months) are made up of classroom instruction. Course content is presented through traditional lecture, integrated instruction, case based and hands on skills labs.  The clinical year is comprised of rotations in internal medicine, primary care, emergency medicine, general surgery, women’s health, pediatrics and behavioral health.  The curriculum is presented by practicing physician assistants, medical and surgical physicians and providers who have the expertise in their respective specialty.

Each course in the program is offered only once during the academic year, therefore, any departure from completing a course in its planned sequence (e.g. failure to receive a passing grade of 'C' or better; leave of absence from program) will result in the delay of completion of program requirements and graduation from the program. 

Didactic Year 1:

Semester 1:

Course Credits
PAS 2101 Introduction to the PA Profession 1
PAS 2102 Human Anatomy/Lab 4
PAS 2103 Human Physiology 3

PAS 2105 Health Policy 2
PAS 2106 Principles of Research 2

PAS 2205 Pathophysiology 3
Semester Total Credits: 15

Semester 2:

Course Credits

PAS 2104 Genetic and Molecular Mechanisms of Health and Disease 12
PAS 2107 Patient Education & Counseling 2
PAS 2201 History Taking and Physical Examination I/ Lab 3
PAS 2202 Clinical Medicine I/ Lab 3
PAS 2203 Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures in Medicine I/ Lab 3
PAS 2204 Pharmacology I 3
Semester Total Credits: 15

Semester 3:

Course Credits
PAS 2301 History Taking and Physical Examination II/ Lab 3
PAS 2302 Clinical Medicine II/ Lab 3
PAS 2303 Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures in Medicine II/ Lab 3
PAS 2304 Pharmacology II 3
PAS 2305 Health Issues Across the Life Span 1
PAS 2306 Fundamentals of Surgery 2
Semester Total Credits: 15

Year 1 Total Credits: 45

Clinical Year 2:

Clinical Year 2(1)
(1)The schedules presented in Semesters 4, 5, and 6 are an example. The actual clinical schedule and order a student will complete the identified clinical rotation may vary.

Semester 4:

Course Credits
PAS 2701Internal Medicine I 4
PAS 2702Family Medicine I 4
PAS 2703Emergency Medicine 4
Semester Total Credits: 12

Semester 5:

Course Credits

PAS 2704 Pediatric 4
PAS 2705General Surgery 4
PAS 2706Behavioral Health 4

Semester Total Credits: 12
Clinical Year 2

Semester 6:

Course Credits
PAS 2707Women's Health 4
PAS 2708Geriatrics 4
PAS 2711Elective 4
PAS 2712Summative Evaluation 1
Semester Total Credits: 13

Year 2 Total Credits: 37

Program Credits Total: 82

Certification

Graduates of the professional program are eligible to sit for the Physician Assistant National Certification Exam (PANCE) administered by the National Commission on Certification of the Physician Assistant (NCCPA). All States and the District of Columbia have legislation governing the qualifications or practice of physician assistants. All jurisdictions require physician assistants to pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination. Only those successfully completing the examination may use the credential “Physician Assistant-Certified.” To remain certified, PAs must complete 100 hours of continuing medical education every 2 years. Every 6 years, they must pass a recertification examination.

Post-professional graduate studies enable physical therapists to improve their clinical knowledge and clinical skills through a specific program of advanced physical therapy practice and scholarship. The Master of Science in Health and Rehabilitation Science program offers a choice of concentrations in Physical Therapy: Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy and Neuromuscular Physical Therapy. This program is designed to provide advanced clinical skills in the areas of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular physical therapy. The program leads to a professional clinical degree at the post baccalaureate level. The program is 12 months in length and 31 credit hours.

Program Requirements

Failure to meet any of the above requirements may result in the student not being recommended for graduation from the program.

Contact Information

Program Director

Department of Physical Therapy

School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

6035 Forbes Tower

412-383-6630    

Fax: 412-647-1454

E-mail: ptinfo@shrs.pitt.edu 

www.shrs.pitt.edu/mspt/

Admission requirements and Application Procedures

Financial Aid

A very limited graduate student assistantships (GSA) and teaching assistantships (TA) could be available to licensed physical therapists in the United States who are full-time students. For more information on alternative financial aid options, see section on Financial Aid earlier in this bulletin.

Examination and Testing Requirements

Throughout the plan of study, a series of written and/or oral-practical examinations are integrated within the formal course work. These examinations are used to determine mastery of the core elements of the plan of study.

The written examination will cover the levels of "application and analysis" and "synthesis and analysis" so as to gauge the student's ability to utilize information in their clinical decision making.

The practical examinations will focus on the clinical application of therapeutic assessment and treatment techniques. Students will be expected to demonstrate appropriate patient handling, awareness of safety issues, application of technique, and decision-making rationale at the level of an advanced clinician.

Curriculum and Course Descriptions

Master of Science Degree in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences with a Concentration in Rehabilitation Counseling

Contact Information

Michael McCue, PhD, CRC

Rehabilitation Counseling

Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Technology

5040 Forbes Tower

412-383-6589

Fax: 412-383-6597

E-mail: mmccue@pitt.edu

http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/msrc/

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Program Requirements

Students participate in the equivalent of full-time graduate study for two academic years (i.e., a minimum of 60 semester hours). The emphasis in rehabilitation counseling requires two practicum experiences (minimum of 100 field hours each) and an internship (minimum of 600 hours). One practicum is recommended in the area of counseling or job placement and the other in assistive technology. The internship must be in rehabilitation counseling.

Thesis/Non-Thesis Options 

Students in rehabilitation counseling may pursue either a master’s thesis under the direction of a faculty advisor and thesis committee or a non-thesis option. Students electing to pursue the non-thesis option must develop an Alternative Research (competency) Plan of Study that is approved by the faculty advisor and a committee of at least two additional faculty members. Upon approval of the project by the chair and the committee, the student must register for at least 3 credits of course work. This should result in the completion of a substantive project in the form of one or some combination of the following:

1. Research or scholarly paper of publishable quality
2. Policy research, implementation, and/or evaluation
3. An alternative project of substance and relevance to the profession

Curriculum and Course Descriptions

The program curriculum is designed to permit the student to obtain the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to function effectively as a professional rehabilitation counselor.

Contact Information

Rory Cooper, PhD

Chair

Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology

5044 Forbes Tower

412-383-6596

Fax: 412-383-6597

E-mail: rcooper@pitt.edu

http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/RST/

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Program Requirements/Minimum Credits

All students enrolled in the RST concentration are required to complete 44 credits to meet degree requirements. Students must complete a common set of core courses (HRS 2703, HRS 2704, HRS 2705, HRS 2715 or HRS 2706, HRS 2708, HRS 2724, HRS 2731, HRS 2901, and HRS 2903 or HRS 2905) before pursuing approved electives in assistive technology and rehabilitation science. The curriculum covers basic science, engineering principles, assistive technology, pathology, rehabilitation, and consumer advocacy.

Students must complete all core courses. Other units may be taken as electives to meet the required number of credits for graduation.

Thesis/Non-Thesis Options 

Students in the rehabilitation science and technology program are encouraged to pursue graduate research by completing a master’s thesis under the direction of a faculty advisor and thesis committee. However, a non-thesis option is also available.

RST students electing to pursue the non-thesis option must develop an Alternative Research (competency) Plan of Study that is approved by the faculty advisor. The student must register for at least 6 credits of course work. This should result in the completion of a substantive project in the form of one or some combination of the following:

1. A research or scholarly paper of publishable quality
2. Policy research, implementation, and/or evaluation
3. A teaching internship
4. An alternative project of substance and relevance to the profession

Comprehensive Examination

All RST students in both thesis and non-thesis options must pass a comprehensive examination developed by the RST faculty, prior to registering for credits to fulfill the graduate requirements.

The Master of Science with an area of concentration in sports medicine is a two-year intensive program focused on enhancing the student’s knowledge base in the prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries and illness. The program accomplishes this by providing a core curriculum that is central to the pathokinesiology of joint injury and the principles by which restoration of joint function is accomplished. Individuals who qualify for graduate assistantship positions (certified athletic trainers) are provided experiences in athletic training and sports medicine settings. All students are provided a research experience within the Neuromuscular Research Laboratory (www.pitt.edu/~neurolab). The clinical experience affords athletic trainers the opportunity to obtain graduate student assistantships in exchange for providing athletic training services. The research experience in the neuromuscular Research Laboratory focuses on issues central to clinical research in orthopedics and sports medicine. Research includes the use of electromyography, motion analysis, isokinetic dynamometry, and proprioceptive and balance assessment modalities for the purpose of defining and restoring function in the injured athlete and physically active individual. Weekly seminars sponsored by the Departments of Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine provide students with access to the most current research and clinical developments related to patient care.

Contact Information

Timothy C. Sell, PhD, PT

Director of Graduate Studies in Sports Medicine

Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition

4044 Forbes Tower

412-246-0460  

Fax: 412-246-0461

E-mail: tcs@pitt.edu

http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/mssm/

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Financial Aid

Graduate assistantships are available to master’s candidates who are athletic trainers and include appointments at the University of Pittsburgh, local colleges and high schools, and sports medicine clinics. The yearly assistantships include tuition remission and stipend.

An average of at least B (GPA=3.00) is required in all courses that make up the MS emphasis in sports medicine. A student who receives a grade lower than a B is required to retake the course according to School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences policy. A student with full graduate status who has obtained at least 9 quality point credits will be automatically placed on probation by the dean of the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences whenever the student's cumulative GPA falls below 3.00. After one academic year of probation (fall and spring semester), a student who fails to obtain the required GPA of 3.00 will be dismissed from the academic program. This policy is in compliance with the general policy published in the University of Pittsburgh Graduate and Profession Bulletin 2002–03 and the University of Pittsburgh Regulations Governing Graduate Study at the University of Pittsburgh (rev 5/98).

Student Scholarship Appointment Standards

The Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition, in accordance with the University of Pittsburgh and School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, defines a student scholarship as a teaching assistant, teaching fellow, graduate student assistant, or student employee trainee (TA/TS/GSA/SET). Although student scholarship appointments may not be made for more than one year, a student may be reappointed. While it is impossible to guarantee reappointments, most students making satisfactory progress toward a graduate degree and whose teaching or other service performance is satisfactory will receive at least one renewal of their appointment or an offer of other financial assistance. If it is impossible to offer renewal or other appointments, priority will be given to those with superior academic, teaching, and service qualifications.

The criteria for reappointment are the quality of assigned work and academic achievement. Unsatisfactory academic performance is a cumulative GPA below 3.00 or completion of fewer than 9 credits of graduate work per term. As such, students who have a cumulative GPA below 3.00 at the time of scholarship reappointment will not receive reappointment of their scholarship. This policy is in accordance with the University of Pittsburgh Policy Statement for Teaching Assistants, Teaching Fellows, and Graduate Student Assistants.

Program Requirements

The concentration in sports medicine requires a student to successfully complete a minimum of 36 credits and is available with a thesis and non-thesis option. Master’s degree candidates must successfully defend a thesis research project or scholarly paper (non-thesis track) in the second year for completion of the program. The thesis track requires a minimum of 6 credits (HRS 2921 and HRS 2926) while the non-thesis track requires a minimum of 9 credits.

Curriculum and Course Descriptions

In addition to the course work, students who are certified athletic trainers and are awarded graduate student assistantships are provided with clinical experiences in athletic training and sports medicine settings. All students are provided the opportunity for research experience within the Neuromuscular Research Laboratory.

SHRS Certificate Programs

SHRS offers two certificate programs for graduate students or for professionals who hold graduate degrees.

Certificate in Rehabilitation Technology

The Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology has developed an innovative program that prepares individuals who are well-versed in science, assistive technology, and the rehabilitation process to either work directly with persons with disabilities or participate in a research environment related to rehabilitation sciences and/or engineering.

Eligibility

To be eligible for admission into the certificate program, a student must:

• currently be enrolled in a Master of Science or PhD program in RST, physical or occupational therapy, communication science and disorders, or engineering program and
• possess an MS, PhD, or MD degree in an appropriate health-related or technology field.

Program Requirements

The certificate will be awarded upon completion of a Master’s or higher degree and completion of 15 credits. The following courses are required:

Students must also complete a three-credit clinical internship or practicum focused on Assistive Technology. Either of the following two courses satisfy this requirement:

And at least three credits must be completed from any combination of the following courses (or other courses if approved by the Chair of the Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology):

Certificate in Disability Studies

The School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences offers a 15-credit certificate program in disability studies. This multidisciplinary field of inquiry examines how psychosocial and societal participation issues potentially affect the estimated 45 million people with disabilities.

Eligibility

To be eligible for admission to the certificate program, a student must have a doctoral degree, or be currently enrolled in a graduate degree program.

Program Requirements

The certificate will be awarded upon completion of the following courses. These 15 credits can be taken over two or more semesters:

Master of Science in Prosthetics and Orthotics

Contact Information

Ashli Molinero, DSc, MSPO Clinical Coordinator
Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology
4019 Forbes Tower

Pittsburgh, PA 15260
412-624-6214
Fax: 412-383-6597
E-mail: ashli@pitt.edu
http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/po/

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Prerequisite courses

1) Baccalaureate Degree.  No specific major is mandated; however, the degree should include a well-rounded general education with a distribution of courses in the sciences, mathematics, psychology, social sciences, and humanities.

2) Prerequisite coursework includes foundation courses in the following areas:

•                Physics with lab                            4 credits

•                Biology with lab                            4 credits

•                Chemistry with lab                        4 credits

•                General Psychology                      3 credits

•                Mathematics (algebra or higher)  3 credits

•                Human anatomy                           3 credits

•                Human physiology                        3 credits

•                Statistics                                       3 credits

3) Recommended minimum overall grade point is a 3.0 grade-point average in all college-level courses and a 3.0 average in prerequisite courses.  Applicants with less than a 3.0 but with other outstanding qualifications will be considered.

4) Demonstration of knowledge of the profession of orthotics and/or prosthetics through volunteer or work experience. We suggest 250 hour minimum of O&P shadowing.

5) Recommendations: (Three): At least one academic reference from a college instructor, and at least one reference from a health-care professional (preferably a certified orthotist or prosthetist).

6) Essay describing background leading to the choice of this profession and long-term goals.

Program Requirements/Minimum Credits

Students enrolled in the MSPO Program are required to complete 66 credits to meet degree requirements.  The curriculum meets all requirements for students to do NCOPE residencies and take the American Board of Certification in Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Pedorthics certification examinations.  Specific courses include: HRS 2771, HRS 2772, HRS 2773, HRS 2901, HRS 2706, HRS 2704, HRS 2883, HRS 2785, HRS 2926 (3 credits total), HRS 2775, HRS 2779, HRS 2776, HRS 2921 (8 credits total), HRS 2786, HRS 2883, HRS 2783, HRS 2921, HRS 2781, HRS 2881, HRS 2778, HRS 2708, HRS 2903, HRS 2905, and HRS 2777.

Thesis/Non-thesis Options

MSPO Students are required to complete a Scholarly Paper, of publishable quality, under the direction of an SHRS faculty member.  However, in place of the Scholarly Paper, students may elect to complete a master’s thesis under the direction of a faculty advisor and thesis committee.

Comprehensive Examination

All MSPO students must pass a comprehensive examination developed by the MSPO faculty, prior to graduation.