The Leading Edge Scholar Program
the Leading Edge Scholarship is an independently funded award which assists talented young people to complete their final year of academic studies (Years 2 and 3 of Masters Programs) in Physical Therapy.
Now Accepting Applications for 2025 Graduating Classes
We are a locally owned team of physiotherapists with a goal of ensuring our communities remain healthy and vibrant utilizing advanced training, hands-on skills, the latest technology and lively environments. We believe in the power of education to transform lives. Our scholar program aims to support bright minds with clinical knowledge and skills while completing their physiotherapy Masters degree. Students who are committed to excelling in their field of study and making a positive impact in the world are encouraged to apply.
We encourage applications from talented physical therapy students everywhere. Acceptance to this private scholarship program goes beyond a financial benefit, it also provides mentorship and an environment to challenge your clinical knowledge, skills and attitudes. It provides a pathway to begin your career with clinically relevant skills beyond practicum experience and the entry level experience. The scholarship also provides an avenue to employment at a Leading Edge Physiotherapy facility upon completion of your education program.
eligibility criteria
- Academic commitment
- Registered in a physical therapy graduate program’s final year of the physical therapy program (Entering their 2nd/final academic year)
- Selection based on a demonstrated dedication to gaining strong clinical skills and innovation in clinical fieldwork placements
- Recipient will demonstrate leadership qualities in sport, involvement in the broader community in advancing quality of life, charitable work and/or innovative care
- Scholarship can only be held once by a student
- Open to Canadian citizens
- Open to permanent residents
- Open to foreign nationals holding Canadian study permits
- Open to applicants in course-based study programs in physical therapy
- Open to applicants in masters programs
- Open to full time registered students only
the selection criteria – becoming a leading edge scholar
There is no such thing as a ‘type’ when the selection committee weighs who is selected for the Leading Edge Scholarship. The strength of the Scholarship applicant and application comes from its diversity and focus beyond academic achievement.
The following 5 major guiding criteria will be utilized:
- Academics – the student demonstrates literary and scholastic commitment
- Character – the student shows commitment to ethics, truth, courage, devotion to duty, sacrifice, sympathy for and protection of the weak, kindliness, unselfishness and fellowship
- Purpose – the student has enthusiasm and is excellence driven to acquire, master and use one’s skills and talents to the fullest in the area of improving human life or and condition
- Authenticity – the student demonstrates a clear understanding of self and the ability to remain genuine, real and true to who they are
- Leadership – the student has exhibited instincts to lead, and takes an active interest in improving one’s fellow beings. (this can be demonstrated by mastery in areas such as sports, music, dance, theatre, and/or artistic pursuits, particularly where teamwork is involved)
We are looking for young people of outstanding intellect, character, leadership, and commitment to service.
the leading edge scholarship
- $5000 cash award provided to the Leading Scholar paid in 2 installments
- First installment ($2500) provided upon being named a Leading Edge Scholar
- Second installment ($2500) upon demonstrating the successful completion of physiotherapy program
how many scholarships are available?
There is no definitive number of scholarships available. For example, this year we may confer 3 Alberta scholarships while next year may be 5. The number of scholars will be dictated by the strength of the applicant pool in the province that they apply.
how does mentorship work?
During the application process, you will be asked to identify a clinical area of interest. These include MSK Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Vestibular Therapy, Pelvic Health, Pediatrics and Cancer Rehabilitation. If you live out of province we are pleased to arrange virtual mentorship via teleconference or video conference.
Upon selection as a Leading Edge Scholar, you will be paired with a mentor who has advanced training and credentials in the area of your interest. You will have the opportunity to liaise with that mentor and if you choose, you can accept a paid position to work as an advanced clinical assistant along side your mentor.
application process/deadlines:
- Download our application form
- December 15, 2024: Complete your application and submit your Essay Question prior to December 15, 2024
- Successful written submissions will be contacted and selected for an in person or virtual interview January 16, 2025
- The Leading Edge Scholar(s) will be announced February 1, 2025
apply today:
ready to apply? click here to download our application
here is a snapshot of our scholar program:
Pretty Cool Stuff Huh – well this is where it gets really good! The faculty below are guiding the program and will work to ensure a mentorship opportunity that provides you education, support and experience:
