Kinesiology doctorate

EdD or PhD in Strength and Conditioning

Enroll for September 2023. Become an expert in your field with a doctorate in kinesiology.

Student-Centered Approach to Online Education

Application Deadline: June 17, 2024
Classes Start: July 1, 2024

Earn your degree in kinesiology or sport management.

Generous Transfer Credit

100% Online

No GRE/GMAT, No Comp Exam

The Value Of An EdD Or PhD In Strength And Conditioning From CSP Global

If you have a keen interest in pursuing a degree in strength and conditioning, CSP Global is an esteemed university that offers exceptional doctoral programs fully online. Our program provides the convenience of online learning, allowing for the seamless transfer of credits earned from previous educational institutions. What’s more, there are no requirements for the GRE/GMAT or comprehensive exams, making it easier for you to embark on this educational journey. By enrolling in our program, you will open doors to numerous career opportunities in the field of strength and conditioning.

Upon completion of the program, graduates can expect to possess not only theoretical knowledge but also valuable hands-on experience, preparing them for their future careers. At CSP Global, we believe in providing our students with a strong foundation for success, and our distinctive dissertation process reflects this commitment. It offers students engaging and stimulating project opportunities right from the start, giving them a head start in their academic and professional endeavors. Armed with an EdD or PhD in Strength and Conditioning from CSP Global, our graduates can actively participate in real-world research or pursue a role as a scientist, a conditioning coach, a conditioning specialist, and more.

Program Outcomes: Strength And Conditioning

Demonstrate advanced knowledge of exercise physiology, nutrition, functional anatomy, and biomechanics related to exercise programming, sports science, and athletic performance.
Execute health and fitness assessments for diverse populations with modifications appropriate to individual needs.
Design and implement safe and effective evidence-based strength and conditioning programs for a variety of populations including athletes and individuals with special considerations.
Apply motivational and effective communication strategies as a leader within professional industry interactions.
Evaluate ethical dilemmas, make informed decisions, and demonstrate a commitment to behavior in professional practice.
Critically evaluate, create, and advance new trends and issues as leaders in the industry.

For PhD students, you will:

Develop expertise in a variety of research methods, including experimental design, data analysis, and statistical techniques, while also critically evaluating existing research and designing and implementing original research projects that make significant contributions to the field of kinesiology.

For EdD students, you will:

Develop advanced research skills, including the ability to design and implement rigorous, practical research projects that address real-world problems in kinesiology.

Why Choose PhD?

Our PhD in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Strength & Conditioning is designed to prepare you for a career in academia or research. Graduates will be prepared to publish their own work and collaborate with other researchers, as well as teach at the post-secondary level.

The PhD strength and conditioning program features additional courses beyond those of the EdD program since there is a stronger focus on research. Our PhD program features 55 hours of coursework and 12 hours of dissertation.

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Athletic man using suspension straps while exercising strength with coach's support in a gym.

female in gym performing a weighted barbell workout

Why Choose EdD?

Our EdD in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Strength & Conditioning is designed to help you apply research to solve real-world problems. Graduates will be prepared to pursue leadership roles within corporate wellness, higher education, professional sports organizations, and more, in addition to teaching at the post-secondary level. Those pursuing an EdD typically work firsthand with clients, rather than working primarily with other scholars.

Our EdD program features 49 credit hours of coursework and 12 hours of dissertation.

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Career Outlook

A Doctorate in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Strength & Conditioning from CSP Global can open many doors. Graduates may pursue career advancement in education, research, and health and wellness, often in leadership roles. Please note some positions may require additional education, experience, or certification.

Strength and Conditioning Coach
Physical Education Coaches
Sport Coaches
Sports Scientists
Personal Trainers
Group Fitness Instructors
Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers
Fitness and Wellness Coordinators

Our Unique Dissertation Process

CSP Global has adopted a unique dissertation process for our Doctorate in Kinesiology that follows the Carnegie Model for applied research. This approach will allow you to complete your dissertation process faster while engaging in industry-relevant projects.

You won’t have to complete all coursework before you begin your dissertation. We embed the dissertation process early in coursework through four seminar courses:

KHS7900 Seminar 1: Drafting the Dissertation Introduction
KHS7901 Seminar 2: Drafting the Dissertation Literature Review
KHS7902 Seminar 3: Drafting the Dissertation Methodology
KHS7903 Seminar 4: Finalizing the Written Dissertation Prospectus

These one-credit courses get you thinking about and working on your dissertation topic from the beginning of your educational journey at CSP Global.

By the time you complete all coursework and enroll in dissertation courses (KHS7950 for the EdD and KHD8000 for the PhD), you’ll be well on your way to completing your dissertation and earning your doctorate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of living can I make as a strength and conditioning coach?

You can make a respectable living as a strength and conditioning coach. The demand for qualified professionals in the field of strength and conditioning continues to grow, offering various career opportunities and the potential for a sustainable income.

Strength and conditioning coaches play a crucial role in helping athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals achieve their performance and fitness goals. They work in a variety of settings, including professional sports teams, college athletic programs, fitness centers, and private training facilities.

The earning potential as a strength and conditioning coach can vary depending on factors such as location, level of experience, qualifications, and the specific industry or organization you work with. Coaching positions within professional sports teams or high-level collegiate programs often offer higher salaries, while positions in smaller organizations or fitness centers may have lower pay scales, but offer their own unique benefits.

However, with experience, specialization, and a track record of success, strength and conditioning coaches can increase their earning potential. You may have opportunities to work with elite athletes, establish private training businesses, offer specialized services, or even transition into consulting or entrepreneurship.

Moreover, the field of strength and conditioning is constantly evolving, and coaches who stay updated with the latest research and trends can enhance their value in the market. Continuous learning, networking, and building a strong professional reputation are key factors that contribute to long-term success as a strength and conditioning coach.

How much can I make with a PhD in Strength and Conditioning?

The salary potential for individuals with a PhD in Strength and Conditioning can vary based on factors such as location, experience, industry, and job position. While specific figures can vary, here are some approximate salary ranges to give you an idea.

Academic Positions: With a PhD in Strength and Conditioning, you can pursue teaching and research positions in universities or colleges. Salaries for academic positions typically range from $50,000 to $100,000 or more per year, depending on the level of experience, institution, rank (assistant professor, associate professor, or professor), and the geographic location of the institution.

High-Level Sports Organizations: Some strength and conditioning coaches with a PhD may find employment in high-level sports organizations, such as professional sports teams or national governing bodies. Salaries in these positions can vary significantly depending on factors such as the sport, level of competition, and the financial resources of the organization. In some cases, salaries can exceed $100,000 per year, particularly for coaches working with elite athletes or in prestigious organizations.

Private Practice or Consulting: Some individuals with a PhD in Strength and Conditioning may choose to establish their own private practice or work as consultants. In this case, income can vary greatly based on factors such as the number and caliber of clients, pricing structure, reputation, and marketing efforts. Successful private practitioners or consultants can potentially earn a six-figure income, particularly if they specialize in working with high-profile clients or teams.

College and University Athletics: Strength and conditioning coaches employed by collegiate athletic programs can earn salaries ranging from $30,000 to $70,000 or more per year, depending on the size and competitiveness of the athletic program, the level of responsibility, and the experience and qualifications of the coach.

It’s important to note that these salary ranges are approximate and can vary significantly based on individual circumstances and other factors. Additionally, the demand for strength and conditioning coaches is influenced by factors such as the region’s interest in sports and fitness, the level of competition, and the overall emphasis on athletics and performance.

To maximize earning potential, continuous professional development, specialization, and building a strong professional network can be beneficial. These factors can contribute to career advancement, higher-paying positions, and additional opportunities for consulting or entrepreneurial ventures.

According to Salary.com, the average Strength and Conditioning coach salary for someone with a PhD ranges from $55,367 – $64,844.

What does a typical day as a strength and conditioning coach look like?

A typical day as a strength and conditioning coach can vary depending on the setting, such as working with professional athletes, collegiate sports teams, or individual clients at a fitness facility. However, here is a general overview of what a day in the life of a strength and conditioning coach may involve:

Planning and Preparation: The day typically begins with reviewing training plans, assessing individual athlete/client needs, and preparing the training session. This may involve designing workouts, setting goals, and considering any specific requirements or modifications.

Warm-up and Mobility: The coach starts the training session by leading athletes/clients through a warm-up routine, which includes dynamic stretching, mobility exercises, and activation drills. This helps prepare the body for the workout and reduces the risk of injuries.

Strength and Conditioning Exercises: The coach guides athletes/clients through a series of strength and conditioning exercises tailored to their goals and needs. This can involve weightlifting, plyometrics, agility drills, cardiovascular training, speed work, and other forms of conditioning exercises. They provide instructions on proper technique, monitor form, and adjust loads or intensity as necessary.

Skill Development: Depending on the sport or goals of the athletes/clients, the coach may incorporate skill-specific drills or sport-specific training to enhance performance in the respective disciplines. This could involve practicing sport-specific movements, refining techniques, or working on specific skills and strategies.

Monitoring and Feedback: Throughout the training session, the coach observes and evaluates the athletes’ or clients’ performance, providing feedback and corrections to ensure proper execution of exercises and optimize results. They may track progress, record data, and make adjustments to the training plan as needed.

Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation: Strength and conditioning coaches often work closely with sports medicine professionals to develop injury prevention strategies and collaborate on rehabilitation programs for athletes recovering from injuries. This may involve designing exercises that target specific muscle groups, implementing corrective exercises, and monitoring progress during the recovery process.

Communication and Education: Coaches also spend time communicating with athletes/clients, providing guidance on nutrition, recovery techniques, and lifestyle factors that can influence performance. They educate athletes/clients about the importance of proper form, training principles, and injury prevention strategies, empowering them to take ownership of their training and overall well-being.

Program Evaluation and Planning: Outside of training sessions, coaches analyze training data, evaluate the effectiveness of the program, and make adjustments or modifications to optimize results. They may also stay updated on the latest research and trends in the field of strength and conditioning through continuing education and professional development.

It’s important to note that the specific activities and timing can vary depending on the needs of the athletes/clients, the training cycle, and any upcoming competitions or events. Flexibility and adaptability are key traits for a strength and conditioning coach to ensure that training programs are tailored to individual needs and goals.

Next Start Date: September 5, 2023

Tuition $690/credit hour
Program Length 61 credit hours

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Curriculum

Core (10 credits)

KHS7000 Issues and Trends in Kinesiology (3)
KHS7030 Professional Ethics and Program Management in Kinesiology (3)
KHS7900 Seminar 1: Drafting the Dissertation Introduction (1)
KHS7901 Seminar 2: Drafting the Dissertation Literature Review (1)
KHS7902 Seminar 3: Drafting the Dissertation Methodology (1)
KHS7903 Seminar 4: Finalizing the Written Dissertation Prospectus (1)

Strength & Conditioning 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)
KHS7200 Advanced Biomechanics (3)
KHS7210 Advanced Exercise Physiology (3)
KHS7513 Scientific Principles of Strength & Conditioning (3)
KHS7514 Exercise and Fitness Assessment (3)
KHS7524 Program Design for Special Populations (3)

Research Methods and Statistics (12-18 Credits)

For the PhD (18 Credits)
KHS7820 Research Methods in Kinesiology (3)
KHS7830 Advanced Research Seminar in Kinesiology (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)
KHS7800 Action Research in Kinesiology (3)
KHS7810 Applied Measurement and Evaluation Techniques in Kinesiology (3)
KHS7820 Research Methods in Kinesiology (3)
KHS7830 Advanced Research Seminar in Kinesiology (3)

Dissertation (12 Credits)

For the PhD
KHS8000 Dissertation (12)

For the EdD
KHS7950 Dissertation (12)

Program Information

EdD Course Descriptions

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.

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.

KHS7513: Scientific Principles of Strength and Conditioning: This course focuses on the scientific principles of exercise physiology, biomechanics, and motor behavior behind foundational training principles and how they can influence performance for athletic populations and individual exercisers. Students will critically analyze scientific literature to develop evidence-based training and program design to enhance sport performance and fitness.

KHS7514: Exercise and Fitness Assessment: Students will learn how to select appropriate physical fitness tests and conduct physiological assessments on members of diverse populations and varying levels of work capacities. Topics covered will include muscular strength and endurance testing, cardiovascular endurance testing, flexibility assessments, body composition analysis, and posture assessments.

KHS7524: Program Design for Special Populations: This course provides in-depth study on variety of special populations, including older adults, individuals with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, individuals with disabilities, and individuals who are recovering from injury. Topics will include an overview of the health conditions and physical limitations associated with each special population, as well as the best practices for designing safe and effective exercise programs.

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.

PhD Course Descriptions