Kinesiology Doctorate

PhD in Exercise Physiology

Get a Doctorate in Kinesiology with an Exercise Physiology Emphasis

Student-Centered Approach to Online Education

Generous Transfer Credit

100% Online

No GRE/GMAT, No Comp Exam

The Value Of CSP Global’s PhD In Exercise Physiology

CSP Global provides a doctorate in kinesiology with an emphasis in exercise physiology, tailored for students interested in health sciences. Our exercise physiology program curriculum ensures smooth credit transfers from prior academic endeavors, offers a fully online experience and eliminates the need for GRE/GMAT or comprehensive exams. Students graduate not just with theoretical understanding but with practical exposure that prepares them for thriving careers in human physiology.

Our distinct dissertation approach at CSP Global ensures students are well-prepared, introducing them to captivating and challenging advanced graduate training from the outset. With a PhD in kinesiology with an exercise physiology concentration from CSP Global, alumni are well-positioned to delve into real-world research, serve in medical environments and become wellness coaches, among other exciting roles.

Graduate Program Outcomes: EdD or PhD in Exercise Physiology

Deepened Knowledge Base

  • Acquire advanced knowledge in exercise physiology, building upon undergraduate and master’s level understanding.

Research Proficiency

  • Demonstrate ability to design, conduct, and interpret high-level research methods in exercise physiology.
  • Conduct research and disseminate findings through publications, presentations, or other appropriate outlets.

Applied Skills

  • Exhibit proficiency in using contemporary tools and techniques in exercise physiology laboratories.
  • Diagnose and provide recommendations for exercise-related conditions and issues.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

  • Collaborate with professionals from other health and sports disciplines for holistic patient or athlete care.

Ethical Practice

  • Adhere to the highest standards of ethical behavior in research, practice and professional conduct.

Communication Mastery

  • Effectively communicate complex concepts, both in writing and oral presentation, to peers, patients and the public.

Teaching and Mentoring

  • Develop skills in teaching and mentoring the next generation of exercise physiologists or related professionals.

Leadership and Advocacy

  • Take on leadership roles within professional organizations or settings and advocate for the importance of exercise and physical activity in public health.

Career Readiness

  • Be prepared for diverse career opportunities, including academic careers, careers in healthcare, wellness coaching, research institutions, and more.
male in scrubs assessing female with kinesiology tape on her knee.

Why Choose a PhD?

Our PhD in kinesiology, concentrating on exercise physiology, is tailored to equip you for roles in academia or research. As a graduate with this doctoral degree, you’ll be adept at publishing your research, collaborating with fellow researchers and instructing at tertiary educational institutions.

Distinguishing it from the EdD program, our PhD offering has a pronounced emphasis on research. As part of this program, students will undertake 55 hours encompassing core courses, research studies, and independent learning, culminating in 12 hours dedicated to their doctoral dissertation.

Why Choose an EdD?

Our EdD in kinesiology, with an exercise physiology emphasis, focuses on translating research into actionable solutions for real-world challenges. As a graduate, you’ll be poised to assume leadership roles in domains like corporate wellness, higher academia, elite sports entities, and more. Besides, you’ll also be equipped to teach at tertiary educational institutions. The EdD path typically gears students towards direct interactions with clients rather than primarily collaborating with academics.

The EdD curriculum encompasses 49 credit hours of structured coursework, supplemented by 12 hours of dissertation work.

Career Outcomes

The successful completion of CSP Global’s exercise physiology PhD program can open many doors. Graduates may pursue career advancement in education, research, and health and wellness, often in leadership positions. Please note some positions may require additional education, experience, or certification.

  • Academic Researcher
  • University Professor
  • Clinical Exercise Physiologist
  • Sports Scientist
  • Director of Corporate Wellness
  • Rehabilitation Specialist
  • Health and Fitness Consultant
  • Public Health Advocate
  • Exercise Physiology Lab Director
  • Wellness Coach or Personal Trainer
male doctor helping young male patient with a rehabilitation movement

Our Unique Dissertation Process

CSP Global has adopted a unique dissertation process for our PhD in exercise physiology online 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:

  • KHS7901 Seminar 1: Drafting the Dissertation Introduction
  • KHS7902 Seminar 2: Drafting the Dissertation Literature Review
  • KHS7903 Seminar 3: Drafting the Dissertation Methodology
  • KHS7904 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

The expected salary for someone with a PhD in exercise physiology can vary based on the role they pursue. According to Payscale.com, common average annual salaries for roles that someone with a PhD in exercise physiology might hold can range from $95,000 to $186,000.

Depending on the program, it typically takes about four years to get a PhD in exercise physiology.

Holding a PhD in exercise physiology unlocks a myriad of career avenues. Many graduates gravitate towards academic roles, becoming esteemed professors at universities, while others delve into research institutes or healthcare environments. Some entrepreneurial spirits even venture into launching their own fitness-centric businesses.

An exercise physiology degree truly presents a vast horizon of professional opportunities. Some graduates evolve into wellness or health coaches, while others carve a niche as sports scientists. There are also those who champion health education or anchor their expertise in specialized clinics. The landscape is expansive and inviting for those equipped with this degree.

Yes! The field of exercise science physiology is growing dramatically. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a 10% growth in employment for exercise physiologists from 2022 to 2032, which is higher than the national average employment growth rate. The BLS also estimates about 1,200 job openings each year on average over the decade.

Upon completing your online PhD in exercise physiology, numerous avenues open up. You might consider joining either a private or public research institution to further deepen your expertise. If the allure of research captivates you, stepping into the role of a professor at a college or university can be fulfilling. Here, you’d not only have the chance to impart knowledge to undergraduate or graduate students, but often, academic roles come with the added dimension of undertaking personal research, contributing to the progression of exercise science.

The research landscape is vast, spanning areas such as rehabilitation techniques, sports conditioning, disease prevention and beyond.

Important Dates

Application Deadline: June 17, 2024
Next Start Date: July 1, 2024

BOOK A CALL TODAY

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)

Exercise and Sport Nutrition Emphasis (27 Credits)

KHS7010 Medical Aspects of Exercise and Disease Prevention (3)
KHS7020 Exercise and Health Behavior Change (3)
KHS7120 Advanced Exercise and Sport Nutrition (3)
KHS7210 Advanced Exercise Physiology (3)
KHS7501 Nutrition for the General Population (3)
KHS7511 Vitamins and Minerals (3)
KHS7521 Nutrition Assessment and Analysis (3)
KHS7531 Nutrition and Weight Management (3)
KHS7541 Dietary Trends and 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)

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.

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.

KHS7501: Nutrition for the General Population: This course will introduce students to the biochemical, physiological, and microbiological basics of general human nutrition. Students will gain an understanding of the relationship between nutrition and health by reviewing topics such as the nutritional needs of special populations, sociocultural influences of nutrition, community nutritional applications, and major public health concerns related to nutrition. Students will learn how to evaluate nutritional information or misinformation to create goals and apply publicly available guidelines or tools to dietary plans.

KHS7511: Vitamins and Minerals: This explores the metabolism of vitamins and minerals essential for health throughout the lifespan. Specific topics will include nutrient bioavailability, absorption, and proper micronutrient intake. The health effects of inadequate or excessive micronutrient intake will be covered along with methods to estimate nutrient requirements and upper limit levels.

KHS7521: Nutrition Assessments and Analysis: In this course, students will gain an understanding of the methods and approaches to conducting nutrition assessments of individuals throughout a lifecycle. Students will learn best practices and applications in evidence-based dietary, biochemical, and anthropometric assessments. An in-depth overview of the rationale of use, advantages, disadvantages, and validity of each assessment will be completed.

KHS7531: Nutrition for Weight Management: This course will review current evidence-based strategies to manage overweight and underweight individuals. The genetic, metabolic, and psychological factors affecting weight management will be covered. Students will gain knowledge and skills in assessment techniques, treatment options, and prevention strategies.

KHS7541: Dietary Trends and Special Populations: This course will provide students with an understanding of the ever-changing aspects of nutrition science, including emerging diets and controversies such as fad diets and supplementation. Additionally, students will learn about nutrition applications for special populations such as athletes and those with infectious or chronic diseases. Students will develop skills in the evaluation and interpretation of nutrition-related claims in both popular media and scientific studies.

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.

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.

KHS7501: Nutrition for the General Population: This course will introduce students to the biochemical, physiological, and microbiological basics of general human nutrition. Students will gain an understanding of the relationship between nutrition and health by reviewing topics such as the nutritional needs of special populations, sociocultural influences of nutrition, community nutritional applications, and major public health concerns related to nutrition. Students will learn how to evaluate nutritional information or misinformation to create goals and apply publicly available guidelines or tools to dietary plans.

KHS7511: Vitamins and Minerals: This explores the metabolism of vitamins and minerals essential for health throughout the lifespan. Specific topics will include nutrient bioavailability, absorption, and proper micronutrient intake. The health effects of inadequate or excessive micronutrient intake will be covered along with methods to estimate nutrient requirements and upper limit levels.

KHS7521: Nutrition Assessments and Analysis: In this course, students will gain an understanding of the methods and approaches to conducting nutrition assessments of individuals throughout a lifecycle. Students will learn best practices and applications in evidence-based dietary, biochemical, and anthropometric assessments. An in-depth overview of the rationale of use, advantages, disadvantages, and validity of each assessment will be completed.

KHS7531: Nutrition for Weight Management: This course will review current evidence-based strategies to manage overweight and underweight individuals. The genetic, metabolic, and psychological factors affecting weight management will be covered. Students will gain knowledge and skills in assessment techniques, treatment options, and prevention strategies.

KHS7541: Dietary Trends and Special Populations: This course will provide students with an understanding of the ever-changing aspects of nutrition science, including emerging diets and controversies such as fad diets and supplementation. Additionally, students will learn about nutrition applications for special populations such as athletes and those with infectious or chronic diseases. Students will develop skills in the evaluation and interpretation of nutrition-related claims in both popular media and scientific studies.

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 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 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 Master’s-level scholarly work that includes APA in-text citations and references. A sample of work from a previous Master’s program and/or professional doctorate will be acceptable.

4. Letters of Recommendation

  • Students seeking admission to the Doctorate in Kinesiology program should arrange to have two letters of recommendation completed by professionals who can speak to their greatest strengths and successes. It is recommended that these letters speak specifically to the applicant’s work ethic, disposition and academic ability.

5. Current Resume and Professional Goal Statement

  • Provide a copy of your resume and a brief statement detailing your motivation for pursuing a doctorate in kinesiology and your persistence toward achieving long-term goals.

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.