Exercise Science Degrees Online

Earn degrees in exercise science from CSP Global 100% online to advance your career. CSP Global’s student-centered approach to online education sets you up for success.

Student-Centered Approach to Online Education

Application Deadline: August 19, 2025
Classes Start: September 2, 2025

Generous Transfer Credit

100% Online

No GRE/GMAT, No Comp Exam

Become an Expert in Your Field with CSP Global

CSP Global is proud to offer degrees in exercise science fully online for students. With our exercise science degrees online, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the dynamic field of exercise science and athletic training. Our programs are designed to provide exercise science students with a comprehensive understanding of the human body, exercise physiology, and the principles of fitness and health.

The Benefits of Degrees in Exercise Science

Career Opportunities

A degree in exercise science opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities. Whether you’re interested in becoming a certified personal trainer, exercise physiologist, conditioning specialist, or corporate wellness coordinator, this degree provides the knowledge and skills needed to excel in various health and fitness professions.

Advanced Knowledge and Skills

You’ll gain a deep understanding of human physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition, as well as the ability to design and implement effective exercise programs. This expertise is essential for promoting health, enhancing athletic performance, and preventing and managing chronic diseases.

Personal and Professional Growth

Earning a degree in exercise science not only advances your career but also promotes personal growth. You’ll develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that are valuable in any professional setting. Additionally, your understanding of exercise and wellness can improve your own health and well-being.

Contribution to Public Health

Graduates of exercise science programs play a crucial role in improving public health. By promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles, you can help reduce the prevalence of obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions, contributing to a healthier society.

Research and Innovation

With a background in exercise science, you have the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research and innovation in health and fitness. Whether you’re involved in developing new training techniques, studying the effects of exercise on chronic diseases, or exploring the psychological aspects of sports performance, your work can have a significant impact on the field.

Networking and Professional Development

While earning your degree, you’ll have the chance to network with professionals in the industry, attend conferences, and participate in internships. These experiences not only enhance your education but also help you build valuable connections that can support your career growth.

Versatility and Flexibility

The skills and knowledge gained from an exercise science degree are highly versatile and applicable in many settings, from hospitals and rehabilitation centers to fitness centers and corporate wellness programs. This flexibility allows you to tailor your career to your interests and goals.

Job Satisfaction

Many professionals in the exercise science field find their work highly rewarding. Helping others achieve their health and fitness goals, witnessing improvements in clients’ quality of life, and staying active and engaged in a field you’re passionate about contributes to high job satisfaction. Whether you work as an athletic trainer, a conditioning coach, or in personal training, CSP Global’s programs prepare you for a successful career.

Earning a degree in exercise science offers numerous benefits that extend beyond the classroom. From diverse career opportunities and personal growth to making a positive impact on public health, this degree equips you with the tools to succeed and thrive in the ever-evolving field of health and fitness.

CSP Global’s Doctorate in Kinesiology, Exercise Science Program

Our doctoral programs in kinesiology with an emphasis in exercise science prepare graduates to apply a complex understanding of exercise principles to their careers. We offer both an EdD and PhD option for students to choose from depending on their interests and goals.

EdD in Kinesiology, Exercise Science

Our EdD in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Exercise Science is designed to equip you with the skills to apply research to real-world problems. Graduates will be prepared for leadership roles in corporate wellness, higher education, professional sports organizations, and more, as well as teaching at the post-secondary level. EdD candidates typically work directly with clients rather than focusing primarily on scholarly research.

The EdD program consists of 49 credit hours of coursework and 12 hours dedicated to the dissertation.

PhD in Kinesiology, Exercise Science

Our PhD in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Exercise Science is crafted to prepare you for a career in academia or research. Graduates will be equipped to publish their work, collaborate with fellow researchers, and teach at the post-secondary level. This academic program allows you to explore research interests through evidence-based practice.

The PhD program includes additional courses compared to the EdD program, emphasizing a stronger focus on research. Each graduate student will complete 55 hours of core courses and research coursework, engage in independent study, and fulfill 12 hours dedicated to their dissertation.

Program Outcomes: EdD or PhD in Exercise Science

  • Advanced Knowledge: Acquire comprehensive understanding of exercise principles, strength and conditioning concepts, and the impact of nutrition on physiological adaptation to exercise.
  • Exercise Testing and Prescription: Learn to design and conduct safe exercise tests and develop exercise prescriptions focused on health, physical activity, disease prevention, and chronic disease management.
  • Psychological Approaches: Apply psychological methods to effectively work with individuals in exercise and sport settings.
  • Ethical Decision-Making: Evaluate ethical dilemmas, make informed decisions, and demonstrate a commitment to ethical behavior in professional practice.
  • Leadership in Exercise Science: Critically evaluate, create, and advance new trends and issues as leaders in the exercise science industry.

For PhD Students:

  • Research Expertise: Develop proficiency in various research methods, including experimental design, data analysis, and statistical techniques. Critically evaluate existing research and design and implement original research projects that significantly contribute to the field of kinesiology.

For EdD Students:

  • Practical Research Skills: Develop advanced research skills to design and implement rigorous, practical research projects that address real-world problems in kinesiology.

Our doctoral programs prepare students interested in health promotion, quantitative research methods, and the exercise science field to pursue rewarding careers in kinesiology. Students will conduct research in health and human performance under the guidance of a graduate faculty member, enhancing their expertise in kinesiology.

Career Outcomes in Exercise Science

Earning CSP Global’s PhD in Kinesiology, Exercise Science can unlock numerous professional opportunities, particularly in education, research, and health and wellness sectors, often leading to leadership roles. It’s important to note that some positions may require additional education, experience, or certification.

Potential career paths include:

  • Consultant: Provide expert advice to organizations on exercise science, wellness programs, and health initiatives to improve overall health outcomes.
  • Program Coordinator: Manage and oversee health and wellness programs, ensuring they meet organizational goals and standards.
  • Dietitian or Nutritionist: Develop nutrition plans and provide dietary guidance to promote healthy eating habits and improve individual health.
  • Health Educator: Design and implement educational programs to teach individuals and communities about healthy lifestyles and wellness practices.
  • Exercise Physiologist: Study the body’s responses to physical activity and develop exercise programs to improve fitness, performance, and overall health.
  • Health, Research, or Sports Scientist: Conduct research to advance knowledge in health, exercise science, and sports performance, often publishing findings in academic journals.
  • Post-secondary Biometrics Specialist: Teach and research biometric data analysis at colleges or universities, focusing on the measurement of physical characteristics and performance.
  • Exercise Science Teacher: Educate students on exercise science principles at various educational levels, preparing them for careers in health and fitness.
  • Nutrition Teacher: Instruct students on the principles of nutrition and dietetics, often at the post-secondary level, to prepare them for careers in nutrition and health.
  • Public Health Professional: Develop and implement public health policies and programs to improve community health and prevent disease.
  • Professor: Teach and mentor students in exercise science at the university level, contributing to academic research and the development of the field.
  • Researcher: Conduct scientific studies to explore various aspects of exercise science, contributing to the body of knowledge and informing best practices in health and wellness.

Why Choose CSP Global?

When researching potential kinesiology programs, it is important to evaluate your needs and how well the program aligns. Here are just a few reasons why students choose CSP Global.

100% Online Learning

Our flexible online format allows you to complete your degree from anywhere, making it easier to balance your studies with personal and professional commitments. You can learn at your own pace, on your own schedule, without compromising the quality of your education.

Generous Transfer Credit Opportunities

We recognize the value of your previous academic work and professional experience. CSP Global offers generous transfer credit opportunities, allowing you to apply previously earned credits toward your degree, which can save you time and money.

No GRE/GMAT, No Comp Exam

Our program is designed to be accessible and straightforward. We do not require GRE or GMAT scores for admission, and there is no comprehensive exam, allowing you to focus on your coursework and research.

Expert Faculty and Supportive Community

Our faculty members are experienced professionals and experts in the field of exercise science. They bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom, ensuring that you receive a high-quality education. Additionally, you’ll be part of a supportive online community, with access to resources and support services to help you succeed.

Apply to CSP Global Online Today

Start on the path to earning your doctorate in kinesiology at CSP Global by applying online. Our doctoral programs prepare you to advance your career in exercise science and give back to the field. Want to learn more? Book a call with an admissions specialist now.

Important Dates

Application Deadline: August 19, 2025
Next Start Date: September 2, 2025

BOOK A CALL TODAY

 

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.

KHS7130: Advanced Exercise and Sport Psychology: This course is designed to prepare students to apply practical and theoretical psychological principles to individuals participating in exercise and sport. Emphasis is placed on theory and research on motivation, personality, cognition, self-efficacy, leadership effectiveness, attributions, attitudes, and group dynamics.

KHS7200: Advanced Biomechanics in Exercise Science:  This course examines qualitative and quantitative elements and physics of human movement. Content areas include the structural mechanics of bone physiology, muscle mechanics, and connective tissue principles. Sport techniques and environmental conditions (e.g., friction, air, and water resistance) are also explored. Biomechanical implications of sport and fitness skill performance will be analyzed for mechanical efficiency and effectiveness.

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.

KHS7220: Advanced Mechanisms of Skilled Neuromuscular Behavior: This course examines the integration of thought processes with the human body to produce skilled motor performance. Theoretical perspectives and mechanisms of motor behavior are examined and applied to significant systems involving gross motor learning and control in sport and exercise.

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.

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.

KHS7130: Advanced Exercise and Sport Psychology: This course is designed to prepare students to apply practical and theoretical psychological principles to individuals participating in exercise and sport. Emphasis is placed on theory and research on motivation, personality, cognition, self-efficacy, leadership effectiveness, attributions, attitudes, and group dynamics.

KHS7200: Advanced Biomechanics in Exercise Science:  This course examines qualitative and quantitative elements and physics of human movement. Content areas include the structural mechanics of bone physiology, muscle mechanics, and connective tissue principles. Sport techniques and environmental conditions (e.g., friction, air, and water resistance) are also explored. Biomechanical implications of sport and fitness skill performance will be analyzed for mechanical efficiency and effectiveness.

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.

KHS7220: Advanced Mechanisms of Skilled Neuromuscular Behavior: This course examines the integration of thought processes with the human body to produce skilled motor performance. Theoretical perspectives and mechanisms of motor behavior are examined and applied to significant systems involving gross motor learning and control in sport and exercise.

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.

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

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.