School of Physiotherapy

University of Otago

Research

Doctorate (PhD)

The School has a strong research programme, which in part is evidenced by its growing cohort of PhD candidates many of whom hold scholarships (Health Research Council, University of Otago).  This cohort of candidates conducts research in a diverse range of disciplines providing and is acquiring skills and knowledge that will underpin the rest of their careers whether it be in further research or teaching.

Study at the doctoral level, usually for a minimum of three years' full-time study, is by advanced research thesis. The School welcomes applicants wishing to enrol in a PhD either as a full time or part time candidate. As such, candidates are expected to be appropriately qualified, usually having a research based Honours or Masters degree. They are expected to be able to develop, in conjunction with their supervisory team, a research thesis that leads to an original and significant contribution to the body of knowledge.

Supervisory teams are compiled of School and University staff with experience in the candidates’ field of research. The School’s Research Groups have a number of staff able to supervise candidates and provide them with the guidance and support necessary to complete a PhD programme.  The School’s international links (International Advisory Board) enable the School, through the provision of advisors, to ensure that candidates’ work is of a world-class standard. PhD candidates are encouraged and supported to publish, attend conferences, apply for grants and begin the relationships with their peers that will eventually lead to collaborative work in the post-doctoral phases of their careers.

Rehabilitation

There are a number of PhD projects currently available, but discussion is also welcomed from those who have a project in mind and would like to know what is possible. Should you wish to discuss your ideas with one of our researchers, or if you would like more information, please contact our research administrator:
Emma Tumilty

If you are intending to apply for PhD study at the School of Physiotherapy you will need to visit the Research Higher Degrees & Scholarships PhD study website where appropriate forms, information and contacts are listed. Non-resident and international students wishing to enrol for a PhD at the University of Otago will initially need to contact the International office where you can seek advice and download the appropriate forms for application.

The University also has a number of Scholarships available for application. Both international and residential applicants for PhD study are eligible to apply for these Scholarships. Further information on the University’s Scholarship application process can be found on the Postgraduate Scholarships and Awards page.

Applicants intending to apply for PhD research that may involve Physiotherapy practice will need to be appropriately registered with the Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand. The Board can be contacted at from the Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand web site where enquiries can be addressed and appropriate forms downloaded.

PhD Projects

The School welcomes enquires from all students wishing to undertake a PhD in a physiotherapy-related area and is happy to discuss any ideas you may have. Staff at the School of Physiotherapy often also have projects linked to their own work available for potential PhD candidates to consider.  These projects are listed below by Research Group and should you wish to discuss them further please feel free to either contact the staff member involved or our research administrator for information. 

REAL Neurological Research Group

AMOCK Research Group

SPEX Research Group

PhD Procedures

The School of Physiotherapy recommends that all PhD candidates utilize the University of Otago PhD Handbook throughout their PhD candidacy.  The handbook can be found at: http://www.otago.ac.nz/study/phd/handbook/

In addition to this, the School of Physiotherapy also has its own procedures relating to the PhD process.  PDF-PhD Procedures

For an outline of research student support:

Research Student Support

PhD Administrative Forms

A number of administration forms exist that a necessary throughout the course a PhD candidacy.  The general forms used by the University of Otago can be found:
http://www.otago.ac.nz/study/phd/#forms

In addition, the School of Physiotherapy also has the following forms (word documents):

Should you require any help with these forms or need further information, please contact either your primary supervisors or our research administrator.

 

Disclaimer

The University of Otago makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information provided on its web pages. However the matters covered, including the availability and structure of courses, are subject to regular review and no warranty or representation can be provided regarding the accuracy of such information, and the University does not accept liability for any losses or damage arising directly or indirectly from reliance on the information.

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