Alumni News
Occupational Therapy
Biomedicine
General News
Salus University’s Office of Graduate Programs in Biomedicine is proud to offer the University’s first PhD program, welcoming students with a strong commitment to scholarship, leadership and a desire to be on the leading edge not only of scientific exploration and applications, but also of its practical utilization. Salus PhD students come from a variety of backgrounds, as demonstrated in the student profiles below.
Salus University Occupational Therapy Instructor and Fieldwork Coordinator
Why did you choose the Salus Biomedicine PhD Program?
I chose the Salus Biomedicine program because of flexible scheduling. The program allowed me to continue working as fieldwork coordinator full-time while pursuing my degree, and the residency requirements allowed for a more flexible path than other similar PhD programs. The design of the program allowed me to have so much flexibility in my research project and how I wanted to delve into it.
How does the program complement your current career?
It gives me the opportunity to continue my professional growth in other areas, while developing my research self as well. I think it also allows me to be more well-rounded.
How has your experience been so far?
The professors and faculty in the program are always willing to discuss and help guide you, which is really a great asset to the program. I was able to secure a wonderful mentor early on who has been great at helping me develop my research question and design, which has been integral for my success up until this point.
Why did you choose the Salus Biomedicine PhD Program?
I completed my master’s degree at Salus University and fell in love with the school and faculty. Thus, when I decided to further my education, I contacted the University’s Office of Graduate Programs in Biomedicine and was very pleased with the willingness of the staff and the faculty to help and offer information. Everyone was very kind and supportive, which is something I look for in a school because it creates a very positive learning environment! I also really liked that the students have a lot of freedom in choosing their dissertation topic. This is a unique aspect to this program that I do not think you can find elsewhere. Lastly, I liked that the program is designed to allow students to further their education and continue working simultaneously.
How does the program complement your current career?
I chose to further my education in studying Blindness and Low Vision because I believe in each individual's right to continue living an independent and fulfilling lifestyle regardless of visual impairment. During my studies it became obvious that the number of individuals who are visually impaired is increasing due to longevity and complications of age-related diseases, but not enough research is available on this population, especially related to rehabilitation. As such, I decided that once I completed my master’s program, I would focus on finding ways to help individuals who are visually impaired continue living as they see fit, as well as raise awareness of the resources available. Research on the rehabilitation process for individuals who are visually impaired can assist in identifying the best compensatory strategies, assistive devices and/or ways to heighten sensory awareness to enhance independence and quality of life.
When do you expect you will complete the program and how has your experience been so far?
I am scheduled to complete the PhD program in Biomedicine by 2020. Thus far, I have found the program to be quite challenging but very rewarding. I feel I have learned a lot in just two semesters both academically and personally. The professors and administration have been very supportive, helpful and easily accessible; the dean is also actively involved and communicates with his students which is hard to find at the graduate level.
Do you have a message for potential applicants?
I would suggest that any potential applicants contact the department’s dean and discuss the program. It was my conversation with the dean that made my decision to enroll in the program much easier. I believe that any career goal is achievable. However, keep in mind that this program is primarily online and has numerous requirements. Additionally, the expectations from professors are also very high. The academic component is very challenging but with good time management and organizational skills, it is doable!
