To earn your PhD, it requires several years of studying subject matter, learning best research practices, passing qualifying exams, and producing and presenting a dissertation. It is a great accomplishment that on average, less than 2% of Americans achieve. Why might someone go through the effort of earning their doctorate, and what opportunities does a PhD in Kinesiology open up for you?
Become an Expert in the Field
A PhD is a terminal degree, in that there is no higher level of education you can achieve in the field. Those with a PhD are referred to as doctors, and are generally recognized as experts in their chosen areas of study. A PhD is an academic doctorate rather than a professional doctorate, meaning it will prepare you for a career in research or academia, where you have the power to help shape the kinesiology field through conducting your own research in topics you’re passionate about.
Increased Earning Potential
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2020 those with a doctoral degree on average earned $1,885 a week, compared to $1,545 and $1,305 for those with a master’s or a bachelor’s degree, respectively.
A PhD in Kinesiology typically prepares students for careers in academia or research, but can also prepare students for leadership roles in additional industry settings. For those looking to get into research, the median annual pay for medical scientists is $95,310 according to the BLS. For those seeking to teach, the median annual pay for post secondary instructors is $79,640 according to the BLS.
Transition Careers Within the Field
For those who have served in clinical roles within the field that are looking to transition out of their current career, a PhD in Kinesiology allows them flexibility to utilize their current knowledge while also transitioning to a different line of work. Some may be seeking an opportunity to conduct their own research, and make breakthroughs in the field in topics they are most passionate about. Others may want to move to a professor or instructor role, serving to educate the next generation of experts within the field.
Concordia University, St. Paul offers a generous transfer credit policy for practicing chiropractors, physical therapists, or occupational therapists. Those who have already earned their DOT, DPT, or DC, or who have earned their Master of Science in Exercise Science at Concordia St. Paul, can transfer in credit covering nearly half the coursework for the program.
About Our Program
Concordia University, St. Paul’s PhD in Kinesiology program is 100% online and features a research-centered program designed to prepare students for expertise in the study of human movement and physical activity. The program emphasizes relevant techniques for contributing to knowledge and applying advanced exercise and sport science-related principles in a variety of contexts.
Students will take 55 semester credit hours of coursework covering subject matters in kinesiology, research, sports nutrition, sports psychology, biomechanics, exercise physiology, exercise prescription, and more. The dissertation is 12 semester credit hours, with dissertation milestones built into the curriculum, so you won’t have to wait until your coursework is completed before making progress on it.
Concordia University, St. Paul’s program is designed for working adults; because the program is fully online, doctorate students can earn their PhD from anywhere in the country, while balancing a full time job and their family lives.
Ready to earn your doctorate? Learn more about our program, and when you’re ready, submit a free application..
