Kinesiology: Ph.D. - Doctor of Philosophy in Education

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements that apply specifically to this program are listed below:

• Kinesiology for Individuals with Disabilities Focus Area: Doctoral applicants should possess a master's degree in physical education or related discipline from an accredited college or university and a minimum of two years teaching experience.
• Sports Medicine Focus Area: Preference is typically given to applicants who are certified athletic trainers (ATC) or licensed physical therapists. Applicants must also provide a writing sample (5-10 pages), a goal statement (1-3 pages), and 2 letters of recommendation with at least one from a faculty member.

Visit our Graduate Admission page for the full admission process.

Exercise Physiology Focus Area

The exercise physiology focus area is designed to prepare students to conduct original research in aspects of exercise physiology and physical activity and nutrition intervention, and interpret and communicate the results of this research as authors, university faculty, and/or governmental or research agency officials.

The program allows students to develop unique, individualized areas of study under the direction of an advisor in exercise physiology and a faculty doctoral committee. The emphases within the exercise physiology program include aspects of human exercise physiology, measurement and etiology of physical activity, dietary intake and nutrition, and clinical and community-based interventions. Students are expected to take an active role in a productive, comprehensive exercise physiology program.

Sports Medicine Focus Area

The sports medicine focus area is designed to prepare graduates for academic careers in athletic training, physical therapy, or other disciplines related to the study of musculoskeletal and other sports injuries. The program is research-intensive and includes formal course work and research intensive experiences in preparation for completing the dissertation. Students work with primary sports medicine-focused faculty as well as several other faculty members in kinesiology, orthopedics, physical medicine and rehabilitation, and other units across the University.

Kinesiology for Individuals with Disabilities Focus Area

The focus area is designed to prepare future college/university professionals and public officials in kinesiology for individuals with disabilities. The emphasis at this level is on developing research skills and applying these skills to current questions in the field. Past graduates of the program have had an impact on kinesiology for individuals with disabilities through employment in higher education in the United States and abroad as well as in public school administration.