Online PhD in Kinesiology
Enroll for May 2024. Become an expert in kinesiology with CSP Global’s doctoral programs.
PhD in Kinesiology Program Overview
- 100% online
- 55 hours of coursework
- 12 hours of dissertation
4 Concentration Options
Research Opportunities
A PhD program in kinesiology offers doctoral students extensive opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research. This allows individuals to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in areas such as exercise physiology, sports nutrition, strength and conditioning and exercise science. In their graduate studies, students will learn advanced research methods that they can continue to use in the field after graduation.
Career Advancement
A PhD can open up various career paths in academia, research institutions, healthcare settings and the sports industry. It can also lead to higher-paying positions and increased job opportunities compared to individuals with only a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
Expertise and Specialization
Doctoral programs provide the chance for PhD students to develop deep expertise and specialization in a specific area of kinesiology, allowing graduates to become experts in their chosen fields.
Benefits Of Getting Your PhD In Kinesiology Online
Flexibility
Online programs, like those offered by CSP Global, allow students to create a flexible schedule that fits their existing commitments. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who are working professionals, have family responsibilities or live in remote areas, as it enables them to balance their studies with other aspects of their lives.
Location Independence
With an online PhD, you can choose a program from anywhere in the world, eliminating the need to relocate. This opens up opportunities to access top-notch programs and esteemed professors, regardless of your geographic location.
Cost Savings
Online PhD programs often come with reduced tuition fees compared to on-campus options. Additionally, you can save on commuting, housing and other associated expenses, making it a more cost-effective choice for many students..
Career Outcomes For Kinesiology PhD Programs
Earning a PhD in Kinesiology prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities in both academia and various sectors of the industry. Here are some potential career outcomes for individuals with a PhD in Kinesiology:
- University Professor/Researcher: Many PhD graduates choose to pursue a career in academia. With a PhD degree, they can become professors in kinesiology or related departments, conducting research, publishing academic papers and educating the next generation of professionals in the field.
- Clinical Researcher: Kinesiologists with a PhD can work in clinical research settings, conducting studies to improve healthcare practices, rehabilitation techniques and sports performance. They often collaborate with hospitals, medical centers and research institutions on top of their independent research.
- Sports Scientist: Sports organizations and teams hire PhD graduates to optimize athlete performance, prevent injuries and design training programs. They may work with professional athletes, Olympians or college sports teams.
- Exercise Physiologist: PhD holders in kinesiology can work as exercise physiologists, developing personalized exercise plans for individuals with medical conditions or those seeking to improve their fitness levels. They often work in healthcare settings, wellness centers or private practice.
- Biomechanist: Biomechanists study the mechanics of human movement, which is crucial in sports, rehabilitation and ergonomics. PhD graduates in kinesiology can specialize in this area, working in research, product development or consulting roles.
- Public Health Specialist: Kinesiologists with a PhD can contribute to public health initiatives by designing and implementing programs to promote physical activity, combat obesity and improve overall community health.
- Corporate Wellness Director: Many large companies have wellness programs to promote employee health and well-being. PhD graduates can lead these programs, designing strategies to reduce workplace stress, improve fitness and enhance overall employee productivity.
- Rehabilitation Specialist: Kinesiologists can work in rehabilitation centers, helping patients recover from injuries, surgeries or medical conditions. They develop and oversee exercise programs tailored to the individual’s needs.
- Consultant: PhD graduates in kinesiology can offer consulting services to sports organizations, fitness centers, healthcare facilities and government agencies. They provide expertise in areas such as injury prevention, performance enhancement and program evaluation.
- Government Policy Advisor: Kinesiologists can work as advisors to government agencies and policymakers, influencing health and fitness policies, guidelines and regulations.
Overall, a PhD in Kinesiology offers a diverse range of career paths, allowing graduates to make a significant impact on individuals’ health and well-being, sports performance and scientific understanding of human movement. The specific career choice often depends on individual interests, expertise and professional goals.
Our Unique Dissertation Process
CSP Global has implemented a distinctive approach to the PhD program in kinesiology, following the Carnegie Model for applied research. This innovative method accelerates the research dissertation process, enabling you to engage in industry-relevant projects sooner.
Unlike traditional programs, you won’t have to complete all coursework before starting your dissertation. We integrate the dissertation process early on, spanning four seminar courses:
- KHS7900 Seminar 1: Crafting the Dissertation Introduction
- KHS7901 Seminar 2: Formulating the Dissertation Literature Review
- KHS7902 Seminar 3: Developing the Dissertation Methodology
- KHS7903 Seminar 4: Refining the Dissertation Prospectus
These one-credit courses immerse you in your dissertation topic right from the outset of your academic journey at CSP Global. By the time you finish all coursework and enroll in KHD8000, you’ll be well on your way to completing your dissertation and earning your PhD.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: December 18, 2024
Next Start Date: January 6, 2024
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
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. 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.
Core Program Faculty
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
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
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.