PhD Program Description

Ph.D. Program in Occupational Science

In the fall of 2005 this new Ph.D. in Occupational Science at UNC-Chapel Hill began accepting applications to start in the fall of 2006 from individuals who have completed masters degrees in occupational therapy, relevant social and behavioral sciences, or related fields. This degree is designed for individuals who wish to pursue an academic careers that include research, scholarship and teaching. The doctoral course of study includes content in five domains:

•   Core foundation courses in occupational science;
•   Doctoral seminars in occupational science;
•   Courses in a cognate area that focuses on occupation & human activity,
•   Research design & methodology courses, &
•   Academic Career courses in pedagogy & grant writing.

We anticipate a four year course of study that will allow doctoral students to engage in learning how to study occupation & complete a doctoral dissertation.

Graduates will be prepared to:

• Generate new knowledge in occupational science,
• Successfully & effectively teach from a base of knowledge in occupational science, &
• Synthesize interdisciplinary perspectives related to everyday activities & apply these perspectives as well as knowledge generated in occupational   science to promote the evidence-based services.

Doctoral Faculty Bios:

Dr. Grace Baranek

Dr. Malcolm Cutchin

Dr. Virginia Dickie

Dr. Ruth Humphry

Current Doctoral Students:

Link here to bios of current doctoral students

Interested in the PhD Program?

For questions or further information about the PhD program, please contact:

Ruth Humphry, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Professor and Coordinator of the PhD program.

UNC-CH Division of Occupational Science
CB #7122, Bondurant Hall, Suite 2050
Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7122
Tel: (919)966-2451 Fax: (919)966-9007
Email: rhumphry@med.unc.edu