Post-Professional Health Science Research Certificate Program

The Department of Physical Therapy offers a 12-credit hours Post-Masters Certificate in Health Science Research that provides Clinicians and Clinical Faculty the foundation they need to develop research studies and the statistical knowledge required to interpret them. This certificate is ideal for: 

  • Clinical faculty looking to grow their research skills
  • Clinicians preparing to transition into teaching
  • Early-career faculty seeking stronger research foundations and mentorship
  • Educators needing scholarship for promotion or tenure
  • Professionals across the health sciences including: 
  • Physical Therapy
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Athletic Training
  • Speech-Language Pathology
  • Nutrition
  • Nursing
  • Exercise Physiology
  • Related Fields
 

Unlike certificate-only programs, this program awards 12 graduate credit hours in research methodology and statistics from a SACSCOC-accredited university, providing participants with an official academic transcript. These credit hours may be considered for transfer into a future doctoral program, such as an DSc, EdD, or PhD, though acceptance of transfer credit is determined solely by the receiving institution.

If your background is rooted in patient care rather than research methods, this program provides the practical tools you need to design solid studies, interpret results and engage confidently in academic work in the health sciences. 

Program Format:

  • 12 credit hours
  • Fully online and asynchronous
  • Finish in 1 year

Admission to the Program

Individuals must have at least a Master’s degree in a health science related field from an accredited institution and meet the admission requirements for the UTC Graduate School. 

Course Requirements:

PHYT 7510 – Introduction into Statistical Analysis for Health Science (3-credit hours) 

This class is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of statistical methods commonly used in health research. Emphasizing practical applications, students will learn to analyze data, interpret statistical results, and use SPSS for data analysis.

PHYT 7511 – Introduction to Research Design and Methodology (3-credit hours)        

This course provides a foundational overview of research design and methodology for the health care professional. Students will gain an understanding of the essential principles of research, including how to formulate research questions, design studies, search databases, and how to use critical appraisal tools. This course will focus on quantitative research methodologies such as randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, case series, case studies, etc. Upon completion of the course students will be equipped with the critical thinking skills needed to assess and conduct clinical research.

PHYT 7520 – Advanced Statistical Methods for Health Science (3-credit hours)          

This class builds on PHYT 7510 Introduction into Statistical Analysis for Health Science to equip students with advanced statistical tools and methods necessary to design and analyze health science research. With a strong emphasis on practical application, students will learn how to select and apply appropriate statistical techniques to their research and analysis of the literature. This course will focus on regression models and analysis of categorical data. Students will use SPSS and Excel to assist them in their data analysis.

PHYT 7521 – Advanced Research Design and Methodology (3-credit hours)               

This course is designed to deepen the healthcare professional’s understanding of advanced research methodologies. It covers a range of topics including qualitative research methods, mixed methods approaches, systematic reviews, meta-analysis, survey design, and knowledge translation. Through practical applications and critical analysis, students will learn how to design robust research studies, analyze complex data, and interpret research findings. This course equips students with the tools needed to design various alternative research plans.

How To Apply

  • Complete the Graduate Application
  • For assistance with the Graduate Application, please contact the Graduate School Program Liaison Mark Fairchild, at [email protected] or 423-425-1780.

For more information about the program contact Dr. Max Jordan

Dr. Max Jordon
Associate Professor of Physical Therapy
College of Health Education and Professional Studies
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
[email protected]

Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy