Get a PhD in Kinesiology

PHD Exercise Physiology Emphasis

Earn a Doctorate in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Exercise Physiology through our rigorous online doctoral program at CSP Global.

Student-Centered Approach to Online Education

Application Deadline: June 16, 2025
Classes Start: June 30, 2025

Generous Transfer Credit

100% Online

No GRE/GMAT, No Comp Exam

Are you ready to take your knowledge of human movement, performance, and health to the next level? CSP Global offers a PhD in Kinesiology with an emphasis on Exercise Physiology designed to prepare scholars, researchers, and educators for impactful careers in exercise science and related fields.

Why Earn a PhD in Exercise Physiology?

Earning a PhD in Exercise Physiology positions you as an expert in understanding how the human body responds and adapts to physical activity. A key area of study in this field is cardiovascular physiology, which examines the cardiovascular responses to exercise.

This advanced degree allows you to contribute to groundbreaking research, influence policy, and improve health outcomes on a broad scale. Here’s why pursuing a PhD in Exercise Physiology could be the right step for you:

  • Contribute to Innovative Research: Investigate topics such as athletic performance, chronic disease prevention, or rehabilitation strategies to push the boundaries of exercise science.
  • Expand Career Opportunities: A doctoral degree qualifies you for leadership roles in academia, healthcare, sports science, and industry settings.
  • Make a Lasting Impact: Apply your expertise to improve public health, optimize athletic performance, and create healthier communities.
  • Master Cutting-Edge Techniques: Gain proficiency in advanced research methods, data analysis, and applied physiology to solve real-world challenges.

What Jobs Can You Get with a PhD in Exercise Physiology?

A PhD in Exercise Physiology opens doors to diverse and high-impact careers. Graduates are well-equipped to lead and innovate in various sectors, including:

  • Academic Roles: Become a professor or researcher at universities, conducting studies and teaching the next generation of exercise science professionals. The program is designed to prepare students for academic careers, with opportunities for research and collaboration that enrich the educational experience.
  • Clinical Research: Work with hospitals or research institutions to explore the role of exercise in disease prevention and treatment.
  • Sports Science: Advise professional sports teams, athletes, or organizations on performance optimization and injury prevention.
  • Healthcare Administration: Lead wellness programs in hospitals, corporate settings, or community health organizations.
  • Government and Policy: Influence public health initiatives and exercise-related policy development at local, national, or global levels.

CSP Global’s PhD in Kinesiology, Exercise Physiology Emphasis

CSP Global offers an innovative PhD program in Kinesiology with a focus on Exercise Physiology that combines rigorous academic training with real-world application. Key features of the program include:

  • Interdisciplinary Curriculum: Explore topics ranging from exercise prescription and human physiology to advanced sports nutrition and disease prevention.
  • Flexibility for Professionals: The program is designed to accommodate working professionals through online coursework and flexible scheduling.
  • Expert Faculty: Learn from leaders in the field who bring extensive research and practical experience to the classroom. The supervisory committee includes members from the graduate faculty, ensuring students meet specific academic requirements. Students also get a faculty mentor for their capstone course.
  • Hands-On Research Opportunities: Engage in cutting-edge research projects and develop skills to publish findings in peer-reviewed journals. A research project is a critical component, especially for students lacking prior research experience, serving as foundational preparation for the capstone.
  • Graduate Students’ Involvement: Graduate students engage in research experiences, collaborate on various studies, and tailor their curricula to meet specific research interests and career goals, preparing them for successful careers in academic and professional settings.
  • Comprehensive Support: Receive personalized mentorship and resources to help you succeed in your academic and professional journey.
Image of a man undergoing exercise testing, wearing a face mask.

Why Choose CSP Global for Your Education?

At CSP Global, we are committed to helping students achieve their academic and career goals. Here’s why our graduate studies programs stand out:

  • Proven Excellence: CSP Global has a strong reputation for academic quality and student success.
  • Innovative Learning Environment: Benefit advanced online tools that support deep learning.
  • Personalized Approach: Our small class sizes and dedicated faculty ensure you receive individualized attention and guidance.
  • Comprehensive Support: Our program provides extensive resources and assistance, to support students in completing their doctoral programs.
  • Career-Focused Outcomes: Our graduates are leaders in their fields, equipped with the knowledge and skills to make an immediate impact.

Continue Your Education with CSP Global

Take the next step toward a fulfilling career with CSP Global’s PhD in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Exercise Physiology. Our program is designed to prepare students by providing essential training through research projects and supervised teaching experiences. Whether you aspire to advance knowledge, improve lives, or lead in the field of exercise science, CSP Global provides the expertise and resources to help you succeed.

Ready to elevate your career and achieve your academic dreams? Contact an admissions specialist to learn more about our PhD in Exercise Physiology program and begin your journey toward making a difference.

Online Application: Create an account and submit the online application. Use the portal to track your application progress.

Official College Transcripts:  Provide official transcripts verifying a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). Note that all credits obtained from the master’s degree must have been earned within the last seven years prior to the transfer of credit. Transcripts must be sent in a sealed envelope or through secured electronic delivery.

Writing Sample: Submit a scholarly work from your Master’s program or professional experience that includes APA citations and references.

Letters of Recommendation: Arrange for two recommendation letters from professionals who can attest to your work ethic, disposition, and academic abilities.

Resume and Professional Goal Statement: Provide your current resume and a statement outlining your motivation for pursuing the doctorate and your long-term goals.

Yes, CSP Global’s program is designed to accommodate working professionals. The program offers flexible online course options to balance your studies with your professional and personal commitments.

A background in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field is recommended, as the coursework and research are advanced and build on foundational knowledge in these areas.

CSP Global provides comprehensive support, including access to experienced faculty members who guide students through their coursework and research projects, research resources, career services, and an engaged academic community. Students are also expected to engage in independent study and research experiences alongside formal coursework, deepening their expertise and contributing to their dissertation work.

Yes, CSP Global offers various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Contact the admissions office for more details on financial support.

Important Dates

Application Deadline: June 16, 2025
Next Start Date: June 30, 2025

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Curriculum

Core Courses (10 credits)

KHS7000 Issues and Trends in Kinesiology (3)
DOC7000 Professional Ethics (3)
DOC7410 Seminar 1: Drafting the Dissertation Introduction (1)
DOC7420 Seminar 2: Drafting the Dissertation Literature Review (1)
DOC7430 Seminar 3: Drafting the Dissertation Methodology (1)
DOC7440 Seminar 4: Finalizing the Dissertation Proposal Manuscript (1)

Exercise Physiology Emphasis (27 Credits)

KHS7010 Medical Aspects of Exercise and Disease Prevention (3)
KHS7020 Exercise and Health Behavior Change (3)
KHS7100 Advanced Cardiovascular Responses to Exercise (3)
KHS7120 Advanced Exercise & Sport Nutrition (3)
KHS7210 Advanced Exercise Physiology (3)
KHS7230 Advanced Exercise Prescription (3)
KHS7606 Physiology of Skeletal Muscle (3)
KHS7608 Exercise & Endocrine System (3)
KHS7595 Clinical Exercise Assessment (3)

Research Methods and Statistics (12-18 Credits)

For the PhD (18 Credits)
DOC7100 Research Methods in Kinesiology (3)
DOC7500 Data Analysis (3)
KHS7550 Qualitative Research in Kinesiology (3)
KHS7600 Quantitative Research in Kinesiology (3)
KHS7650 Mixed Methods in Research in Kinesiology (3)
KHS7700 Statistics in Kinesiology (3)

For the EdD (12 Credits)
DOC7300 Action Research in Kinesiology (3)
DOC7200 Quantitative and Qualitative Research (3)
DOC7100 Research Methods in Kinesiology (3)
DOC7500 Data Analysis (3)

Dissertation (12 Credits)

For the PhD
DOC8000 Dissertation (12)

For the EdD
DOC7900 Dissertation (12)

Total Credits for EdD = 61
Total Credits for PhD = 67

Additional Program Information

KHS7000: Current Issues and Trends in Kinesiology: This course prepares students to analyze current problems, issues, and trends impacting kinesiology professions. The emphasis is on selecting and discussing emerging and controversial topics from research and everyday experiences that lead to action. Leadership principles will be examined as students develop and identify leadership strategies, tools and applications to successfully implement a personal mission and vision statement.

KHS7010: Medical Aspects of Exercise and Disease Prevention: This course utilizes an epidemiological approach to examine the relationship between physical activity and health and/or disease outcomes. Emphasis is on the role of exercise in preventative medicine. Topics include the impact of exercise on various diseases, and the effect of various medical conditions on the ability to participate in vigorous exercise and competitive sports.

KHS7020: Exercise and Health Behavior Change: Advanced analysis of theoretical health behavior models and their application to physical activity behavior. Includes practical techniques, tools and interventions (e.g., counseling skills, motivational interviewing) to enhance exercise adherence and motivation across the lifespan.

KHS7030: Professional Ethics and Program Management in Kinesiology: This course examines ethical and socio-cultural issues that kinesiology students will face during their training and professional practice emphasizing conceptual frameworks needed to articulate concerns and engage in meaningful dialogue with others. Topics include the application of ethical program management, financial management, legal issues, and evaluation and planning.

KHS7100: Advanced Cardiovascular Responses to Exercise: This course examines the effects of acute and chronic exercise on the cardiovascular system, with an emphasis on understanding the regulatory mechanism that controls the cardiovascular system at rest and in response to aerobic and resistance exercises.

KHS7120: Advanced Exercise & Sport Nutrition: This course examines the role of nutrient selection, metabolism, and timing play in supporting and improving health and human performance. Topics include nutrient bioenergetics, optimizing nutrient timing, micronutrients and macronutrients, ergogenic aids, thermoregulation, fluid balance, and weight management.

KHS7210: Advanced Exercise Physiology: The physiological responses to exercise performance and the effects of physical activity on the body’s functions are examined in theory and application.

KHS7230: Advanced Exercise Prescription: This course focuses upon the design of individualized exercise programs and prescriptions in health and disease. Knowledge of skills necessary for safe and effective application of these prescriptions for members of diverse populations as well as the prevention and maintenance of chronic disease will be emphasized.

KHS7595: Clinical Exercise Assessment: This is a comprehensive course designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform assessments and design exercise programs for patients with various medical conditions. The course covers the principles of exercise physiology and provides an overview of the assessment process, including history-taking, physical examination, and functional testing.

KHS7606: Physiology of Skeletal Muscle: This course will provide students with an in-depth understanding of the structure and function of skeletal muscle. This course covers the anatomy and physiology of muscle fibers, myofibrils, and sarcomeres, as well as the role of motor neurons in muscle contraction. Students will learn about the mechanisms underlying muscle function and the effects of different types of exercise and physical activity on skeletal muscle. The course also covers strategies for measuring and monitoring skeletal muscle function, including muscle strength and endurance, muscle size, and muscle activation.

KHS7608: Exercise and the Endocrine System: This course will examine exercise and endocrine system physiology. Basic principles about the endocrine system will be covered as well as the effects of exercise training, detraining, and disease on this system. The physiological principles and mechanisms of the endocrine system will be reviewed including endocrine organs and hormone classifications. The influence of exercise, nutrition, and disease on endocrine function will also be covered.

KHS7800: Action Research in Kinesiology: This course is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to design, conduct, and evaluate action research projects within the field of kinesiology. This course will introduce students to the fundamentals of action research and its use in promoting change and improvement in a variety of settings, including physical activity and exercise programs, sport organizations, and health promotion initiatives.

KHS7810: Applied Measurement and Evaluation Techniques in Kinesiology: This course develops skills for the selection, development, and implementation of various types of instruments and techniques for measuring and evaluating health and human performance interventions. Evaluation of these interventions includes general health behaviors, health related fitness, nutritional and dietary intake, body composition, and other areas related to an individual’s quality of life.

KHS7820: Research Methods in Kinesiology: This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the research process in the field of kinesiology. Emphasis will be placed on real-world examples of how research is effectively accessed, interpreted, and used in professional kinesiology settings.

KHS7830: Advanced Research Seminar in Kinesiology: This course builds on the previous course, but with an intentional focus on the dissertation topic of interest for each student.  In-depth research strategies, data reliability and credibility, and the IRB process are discussed and completed during this course. Students schedule the dissertation proposal during this course.

KHS7900: Seminar 1-Drafting the Dissertation Introduction: This course provides students the opportunity to make progress on their dissertation in collaboration with a faculty mentor. Special focus on selecting the dissertation topic, forming the committee. and drafting an introduction.

KHS7901: Seminar 2-Drafting the Dissertation Literature Review: This course provides students the opportunity to make progress on their dissertation in collaboration with a dissertation advisor and advisory committee. Special focus on an annotate bibliography drafting the literature review.

KHS7902: Seminar 3-Drafting the Dissertation Methodology: This course provides students the opportunity to make progress on their dissertation in collaboration with a dissertation advisor and advisory committee. Special focus on drafting the methodology.

KHS7903: Seminar 4-Finalizing the Written Dissertation Prospectus: This course provides students the opportunity to make progress on their dissertation in collaboration with a dissertation advisor and advisory committee. Special focus on drafting a dissertation prospectus.

KHS7950: Ed.D. Dissertation: The dissertation is an independent, scholarly work of research completed by the doctoral candidate, under the guidance of a dissertation committee. A dissertation demonstrates a candidate’s ability to undertake scholarship in his or her field through intellectual endeavor and the application of research skills. The completion of a dissertation requires a scholarly mindset involving ongoing evaluation, analysis, and synthesis of previous, relevant research as well as one’s own work. A dissertation involves exploring an important problem that warrants investigation due to its centrality to issues of practice and application.

KHS7000: Current Issues and Trends in Kinesiology: This course prepares students to analyze current problems, issues, and trends impacting kinesiology professions. The emphasis is on selecting and discussing emerging and controversial topics from research and everyday experiences that lead to action. Leadership principles will be examined as students develop and identify leadership strategies, tools and applications to successfully implement a personal mission and vision statement.

KHS7010: Medical Aspects of Exercise and Disease Prevention: This course utilizes an epidemiological approach to examine the relationship between physical activity and health and/or disease outcomes. Emphasis is on the role of exercise in preventative medicine. Topics include the impact of exercise on various diseases, and the effect of various medical conditions on the ability to participate in vigorous exercise and competitive sports.

KHS7020: Exercise and Health Behavior Change: Advanced analysis of theoretical health behavior models and their application to physical activity behavior. Includes practical techniques, tools and interventions (e.g., counseling skills, motivational interviewing) to enhance exercise adherence and motivation across the lifespan.

KHS7030: Professional Ethics and Program Management in Kinesiology: This course examines ethical and socio-cultural issues that kinesiology students will face during their training and professional practice emphasizing conceptual frameworks needed to articulate concerns and engage in meaningful dialogue with others. Topics include the application of ethical program management, financial management, legal issues, and evaluation and planning.

KHS7100: Advanced Cardiovascular Responses to Exercise: This course examines the effects of acute and chronic exercise on the cardiovascular system, with an emphasis on understanding the regulatory mechanism that controls the cardiovascular system at rest and in response to aerobic and resistance exercises.

KHS7120: Advanced Exercise & Sport Nutrition: This course examines the role of nutrient selection, metabolism, and timing play in supporting and improving health and human performance. Topics include nutrient bioenergetics, optimizing nutrient timing, micronutrients and macronutrients, ergogenic aids, thermoregulation, fluid balance, and weight management.

KHS7210: Advanced Exercise Physiology: The physiological responses to exercise performance and the effects of physical activity on the body’s functions are examined in theory and application.

KHS7230: Advanced Exercise Prescription: This course focuses upon the design of individualized exercise programs and prescriptions in health and disease. Knowledge of skills necessary for safe and effective application of these prescriptions for members of diverse populations as well as the prevention and maintenance of chronic disease will be emphasized.

KHS7550: Qualitative Research in Kinesiology: This course provides an in-depth examination of qualitative research, including research designs, data collection strategies, analysis, interpretation, and evaluation methods.

KHS7595: Clinical Exercise Assessment: This is a comprehensive course designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform assessments and design exercise programs for patients with various medical conditions. The course covers the principles of exercise physiology and provides an overview of the assessment process, including history-taking, physical examination, and functional testing.

KHS7600: Quantitative Research in Kinesiology: This course provides an overview of quantitative research, including research designs, data collection strategies, analysis, interpretation, and evaluation methods.

KHS7606: Physiology of Skeletal Muscle: This course will provide students with an in-depth understanding of the structure and function of skeletal muscle. This course covers the anatomy and physiology of muscle fibers, myofibrils, and sarcomeres, as well as the role of motor neurons in muscle contraction. Students will learn about the mechanisms underlying muscle function and the effects of different types of exercise and physical activity on skeletal muscle. The course also covers strategies for measuring and monitoring skeletal muscle function, including muscle strength and endurance, muscle size, and muscle activation.

KHS7608: Exercise and the Endocrine System: This course will examine exercise and endocrine system physiology. Basic principles about the endocrine system will be covered as well as the effects of exercise training, detraining, and disease on this system. The physiological principles and mechanisms of the endocrine system will be reviewed including endocrine organs and hormone classifications. The influence of exercise, nutrition, and disease on endocrine function will also be covered.

KHS7650: Mixed Methods Research in Kinesiology: This course provides  students with an in-depth understanding of the advantages and limitations of different research methods in kinesiology, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods. This course will cover the principles of research design and data analysis, with a focus on the development and implementation of mixed methods research studies.

KHS7700: Statistics in Kinesiology: This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of statistical analysis techniques and their application in the field of kinesiology. This course will cover a range of topics, including descriptive statistics, probability, hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and non-parametric methods. Students will learn how to apply these techniques to analyze data from various kinesiology studies, including studies of physical activity, exercise, and sport performance. They will also gain experience using statistical software to perform data analysis and interpret results. Throughout the course, students will work on real-world data sets and case studies, and will engage in interactive discussions and group projects that encourage critical thinking and problem solving.

KHS7820: Research Methods in Kinesiology: This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the research process in the field of kinesiology. Emphasis will be placed on real-world examples of how research is effectively accessed, interpreted, and used in professional kinesiology settings.

KHS7830: Advanced Research Seminar in Kinesiology: This course builds on the previous course, but with an intentional focus on the dissertation topic of interest for each student.  In-depth research strategies, data reliability and credibility, and the IRB process are discussed and completed during this course. Students schedule the dissertation proposal during this course.

KHS7900: Seminar 1-Drafting the Dissertation Introduction: This course provides students the opportunity to make progress on their dissertation in collaboration with a faculty mentor. Special focus on selecting the dissertation topic, forming the committee. and drafting an introduction.

KHS7901: Seminar 2-Drafting the Dissertation Literature Review: This course provides students the opportunity to make progress on their dissertation in collaboration with a dissertation advisor and advisory committee. Special focus on an annotate bibliography drafting the literature review.

KHS7902: Seminar 3-Drafting the Dissertation Methodology: This course provides students the opportunity to make progress on their dissertation in collaboration with a dissertation advisor and advisory committee. Special focus on drafting the methodology.

KHS7903: Seminar 4-Finalizing the Written Dissertation Prospectus: This course provides students the opportunity to make progress on their dissertation in collaboration with a dissertation advisor and advisory committee. Special focus on drafting a dissertation prospectus.

KHS8000 Ph.D. Dissertation: The dissertation is an independent, scholarly work of research completed by the doctoral candidate, under the guidance of a dissertation committee. The dissertation will create knowledge and/or test a theory through the demonstration of scientific inquiry, investigative skills, methodological and analysis skills, scientific writing and presentation skills, and ethical behavior.

Concordia University, St. Paul is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

 

As part of our doctoral program, you will not have to take a comprehensive or oral exam.

There is no testing requirement to apply for our doctorate in kinesiology program. We consider your past performance as the best indicator of your future success. We’ll look at your prior college transcripts and request a writing sample showing that you can complete college-level writing.

View the tuition page for more information.

CSP Global offers a variety of sources to help you pay for your education, including state and federal loans, payment plans, and scholarships for those who qualify. Many students also receive tuition reimbursement from their employers.

1. Online Application

2. Official College Transcripts

  • Submit official transcripts from an accreditor recognized by the US Department of Education stating the conferral of a Master’s degree or higher with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 based on a 4.0 system.
  • To be considered official, transcripts must be received in a sealed envelope from the institution or through secured electronic delivery.

3. Writing Sample

  • Those seeking admission into the Doctorate in Kinesiology program should submit a sample of work from a previous master’s or doctorate program or master’s-level scholarly work.

Charting Your Course: An Inside Look at the EdD and PhD Kinesiology Dissertation Process

This special webinar features two professors alongside several students, providing an inside look at the EdD and PhD dissertation process and dissertation defense. You’ll gain invaluable insights and hear firsthand experiences from current doctoral students, successful graduates, and knowledgeable staff, all committed to guiding and supporting aspiring kinesiology doctoral candidates like you.

Nutritionist giving consultation to patient with healthy fruit and vegetables on the table

Core Program Faculty

Dr Buns Headshot

Dr. Matthew Buns

Associate Professor of Kinesiology and Health Science
Director of the Doctorate in Kinesiology

Dr. Buns’s research examines the mechanisms of expertise in sport and the psychological and cognitive factors associated with motor skills. Dr. Buns has published more than 25 scholarly articles in sport and exercise science and is the founding editor of the Track and Cross Country Journal. Learn more about Dr. Buns here.

Dr Katie Fischer Headshot

Dr. Katie Fischer

Associate VP for Academic Affairs and Strategic Program Development

Dr. Fischer’s background in higher education includes administration of in-class and online programs, development of new programs, and collaborative programming. Her academic focus includes public health, epidemiology, leadership, and program administration. Learn more about Dr. Fischer here.

Dr Lana Huberty Headshot

Dr. Lana Huberty

Dean of the College of Kinesiology, Associate Professor of Kinesiology and Health Sciences

Dr. Huberty brings with her a wealth of industry practice in both private and public sport and recreation settings. Research interests and publications focus on sport marketing and sponsorship, gender diversity within sport management, and sport leadership. Learn more about Dr. Huberty here.