Master of Social Work - Traditional
The traditional Master of Social Work (MSW) program at the University at Buffalo is des...
M.S. in Rehabilitation Science
Buffalo, New York
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The M.S. in Rehabilitation Science at UB is a 30-credit hour program, typically completed within 1.5 to 2 years for full-time students. It is primarily a research-intensive degree, designed to provide students with foundational knowledge in rehabilitation science and rigorous training in research methodologies. The program culminates in a required Master's thesis, providing students with the opportunity to conduct original research under the guidance of a faculty mentor. This focus on research prepares graduates for roles in academia, research institutions, and advanced clinical research settings, or for continued doctoral education.
Curriculum: The 30-credit curriculum for the M.S. in Rehabilitation Science is structured to provide a strong foundation in the scientific principles underlying rehabilitation. Core coursework often includes "Rehabilitation Science Foundations," "Research Methods in Rehabilitation Science," "Advanced Statistics in Rehabilitation Science," and seminars on current topics in rehabilitation. Students may also take courses in areas such as motor control, biomechanics, neurorehabilitation, assistive technology, health outcomes, and measurement in rehabilitation. The significant component of the curriculum is dedicated to thesis research, involving proposal development, data collection, analysis, and thesis writing, providing a comprehensive research training experience.
Research Focus: The M.S. in Rehabilitation Science at UB has a robust research focus, with faculty members actively engaged in cutting-edge investigations aimed at improving functional outcomes and quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Research areas within the Department of Rehabilitation Science are diverse and span the breadth of rehabilitation, including neurological rehabilitation (e.g., stroke, spinal cord injury), musculoskeletal rehabilitation, motor control and learning, assistive technology, balance and falls prevention, health services research in rehabilitation, and community participation for individuals with disabilities. Students work closely with faculty mentors on their thesis research, leveraging state-of-the-art laboratories and access to diverse patient populations through clinical affiliations.
Industry Engagement: The M.S. in Rehabilitation Science program at UB primarily prepares graduates for research-oriented roles within academic institutions, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers, or for continuation into doctoral programs. While it is not a direct clinical licensure program, its strong research focus provides graduates with highly valued analytical and evidence-based practice skills that are applicable across various healthcare and rehabilitation settings. Graduates can contribute to the development of new rehabilitation techniques, technologies, and interventions. Faculty maintain connections with clinical partners and research organizations, which can facilitate thesis projects and provide networking opportunities for students.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Rehabilitation Science at UB inherently fosters a global perspective by addressing issues of disability, function, and rehabilitation that are universal. The principles of rehabilitation science are applicable worldwide, and the global burden of disability necessitates internationally informed research and interventions. The program encourages students to consider rehabilitation from a broad public health lens and to critically evaluate research from diverse contexts. As a major public research university, UB attracts a diverse international student body and faculty, enriching the learning environment with varied cultural viewpoints and different approaches to understanding and addressing disability on a global scale. This exposure prepares graduates to contribute to international research collaborations and to advocate for improved rehabilitation services worldwide.
Location
Buffalo, New York
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 28210
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 90 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 61 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 120.
The University at Buffalo (UB) offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically aimed at supporting international students who wish to pursue their studies in the United States. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement, helping to make education more affordable for talented students worldwide.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UB provides competitive merit scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate and graduate students. Awards such as the International Student Academic Excellence Scholarship recognize high-achieving students based on their academic records, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement.
Graduate Fellowships and Assistantships: Graduate international students can apply for teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and fellowships which offer tuition remission and stipends. These opportunities allow students to gain valuable teaching and research experience while offsetting the cost of their education.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at UB offer scholarships tailored to students in specific programs or fields of study. These awards may consider academic merit, research interests, or financial need.
External Scholarships: UB encourages international students to explore external scholarship options from private organizations, governments, and international foundations that support study in the U.S. The university’s International Student Services office provides guidance on identifying and applying for such funding sources.
Graduates with an M.S. in Rehabilitation Science from UB are primarily prepared for research-focused roles, advanced clinical research, or doctoral studies. Their expertise is valuable in settings focused on improving human function and addressing disability.
Rehabilitation Research Assistant/Associate: Work in university labs, research institutes, or medical centers, assisting with or leading research projects focused on rehabilitation outcomes, interventions, or assistive technology.
Clinical Research Coordinator (Rehabilitation): Manage and coordinate clinical trials and research studies within rehabilitation hospitals or clinics, ensuring data integrity and compliance.
Data Analyst (Rehabilitation Science): Analyze large datasets related to functional outcomes, disability, and rehabilitation interventions for research purposes or quality improvement initiatives.
Grant Writer (Health/Rehabilitation): Assist researchers and institutions in securing funding for rehabilitation research projects by preparing grant proposals.
Rehabilitation Technology Specialist: Evaluate, design, and implement assistive technologies and adaptive equipment to improve function and independence for individuals with disabilities, often in research or product development roles.
Outcomes Measurement Specialist: Develop and utilize tools to measure the effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions and programs, often in healthcare systems or research organizations.
PhD Student (Rehabilitation Science or related fields): Continue academic training by pursuing a doctoral degree to become an independent researcher or university professor.
Rehabilitation Program Evaluator: Assess the effectiveness and impact of rehabilitation programs or services in various settings (e.g., community-based programs, hospitals).
Scientific Writer/Medical Writer (Rehabilitation): Translate complex rehabilitation research findings into scientific papers, reports, or educational materials for professional or public audiences.
Consultant (Disability & Function): Provide expert advice on issues related to disability, accessibility, and functional improvement to organizations, industry, or policy makers.
