Kinesiology is the scientific study of human movement, encompassing various fields such as biomechanics, anatomy, physiology, psychology, and neuroscience. A PhD in Kinesiology Sciences is a research-focused degree that aims to train students to become experts in the field and advance knowledge in areas related to human movement.
The program typically involves coursework in advanced topics such as motor control, exercise physiology, sport psychology, and research methods, as well as an extensive research component where students conduct original research under the supervision of a faculty advisor.
PhD students in Kinesiology Sciences are expected to produce original research that contributes to the scientific community's understanding of human movement, potentially leading to discoveries in areas such as sports performance, injury prevention, and rehabilitation.
Graduates with a PhD in Kinesiology Sciences can pursue academic careers as researchers and educators in universities or research institutions, as well as non-academic careers in fields such as sports science, fitness, rehabilitation, and healthcare.
Here are some highlights of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Kinesiology Sciences program:
Research Focus: A PhD in Kinesiology Sciences is a research-focused program that provides students with an opportunity to conduct original research in areas related to human movement.
Interdisciplinary Approach: Kinesiology is an interdisciplinary field that combines knowledge from various areas such as biomechanics, anatomy, physiology, psychology, and neuroscience, making the program diverse and multifaceted.
Customizable Curriculum: Students can customize their coursework to align with their research interests and career goals, choosing advanced topics such as motor control, exercise physiology, sports psychology, and research methods.
Faculty Expertise: The program is typically taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective areas of research, providing students with opportunities to work with and learn from leading scholars in the field.
Professional Development: The program also focuses on developing professional skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration, which are essential for success in academic and non-academic careers.
Career Opportunities: Graduates with a PhD in Kinesiology Sciences can pursue academic careers as researchers and educators in universities or research institutions, as well as non-academic careers in fields such as sports science, fitness, rehabilitation, and healthcare.
1 | Admission requirements for a PhD in Kinesiology Sciences vary by institution but typically include a master's degree in a related field such as kinesiology, exercise science, or sports medicine. |
2 | Some programs may consider applicants with a bachelor's degree, but they may be required to complete additional coursework before being admitted. |
3 | Applicants must also meet the minimum GPA requirement, which varies from institution to institution. |
Selection criteria for PhD in Kinesiology Sciences programs include academic achievements, research experience, recommendation letters, personal statements, and potential research interests.
Admissions committees also consider the candidate's compatibility with faculty research interests and the program's goals.
To apply for a PhD in Kinesiology Sciences program, prospective students must complete an online application form and provide all required documentation such as official transcripts, standardized test scores, recommendation letters, personal statements, and a detailed research proposal. The application process may also include an interview with the admissions committee or potential faculty advisors.
The application fee for a PhD in Kinesiology Sciences program varies by institution and can range from $50 to $150.
Graduates with a PhD in Kinesiology Sciences can pursue academic careers as researchers and educators in universities or research institutions, as well as non-academic careers in fields such as sports science, fitness, rehabilitation, and healthcare. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for postsecondary teachers, including those in kinesiology and related fields, was $80,790 per year as of May 2021. The job outlook for postsecondary teachers is projected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
Some of the career opportunities for graduates with a PhD in Kinesiology Sciences include: