Pursuing an Online Doctorate in Kinesiology While Teaching and Coaching

For Dr. Pyle, earning a Doctor of Education in Kinesiology from Concordia University, St. Paul wasn’t part of the original plan, but it was the result of staying open to new opportunities and embracing challenges along the way. Today, he is shaping the next generation both in the classroom and on the track at his alma mater, Bridgewater-Raritan High School. As Head Coach of the girls’ cross country and track and field programs, he’s entering his seventh year leading student-athletes while continuing to advocate for meaningful physical education.

However, his career path looked very different when he first entered college. “When I started my undergraduate studies at Bloomsburg University, I thought I would earn a degree in Exercise Science and become a trainer at a local gym,” he said. “Going back to school once, let alone twice, was never part of my plan.”

After working for Lee S. Cohen, podiatrist for the Philadelphia Eagles, Dr. Pyle explored several healthcare careers, including podiatry, physical therapy, occupational therapy, chiropractic care, and athletic training before realizing his passion was education. He went on to earn a master’s degree in Health and Physical Education from Montclair State University and eventually returned to Bridgewater-Raritan as both a teacher and coach.

The idea of pursuing a doctorate came from an unexpected source. “One of my coworkers was pursuing a PhD through Concordia University Chicago and encouraged me to continue my education,” Dr. Pyle recalled. “That conversation planted the seed that eventually led me to Concordia St. Paul.”

As he began exploring options for a doctoral kinesiology program, CSP Global’s online EdD in Kinesiology stood out for its flexibility. “I explored some traditional and hybrid programs, but balancing travel, coursework, a full-time teaching position, and coaching responsibilities simply wasn’t realistic,” Dr. Pyle shared. “The online format allowed me to continue advancing professionally without putting my career and personal commitments on hold.”

As Dr. Pyle researched programs, he also discovered that an EdD aligned more closely with his professional goals than a PhD. I have always viewed myself as a practitioner first,” he explained. “I wanted to learn things that I could apply directly to my work as a teacher and coach, rather than focus primarily on theory and research.”

Dr. Adam Pyle completing a video analysis of his athletes during a race.

The CSP Global Doctorate in Kinesiology Experience

While flexibility drew him to CSP Global, the people made the experience exceptional. “Once I entered the program, I discovered how incredible the faculty and staff were. In particular, Dr. Buns played a huge role in my success. Without his support and guidance, I’m not sure I would have completed the degree, let alone enjoyed the process as much as I did.”

Beyond earning a doctorate, the CSP Global doctoral experience transformed how he viewed himself as a learner. “School was never easy for me,” Dr. Pyle shared. “Having learning disabilities throughout much of my life, academics often felt like an uphill battle.” Through years of persistence from undergraduate studies through his doctoral program, his confidence steadily grew.

“On a personal level, CSP helped me realize what I am capable of accomplishing. The program helped me realize that I do, in fact, have some brains up there.”

Perhaps even more meaningful has been the encouragement Dr. Pyle has received from family, friends, colleagues, and students. “I have been surprised by how proud and supportive people have been of this accomplishment. It has been a meaningful reminder that hard work and perseverance matter.”

Dissertation Research in Physical Education and Applied Kinesiology

A key milestone in any Doctorate in Kinesiology program is the dissertation process. Dr. Pyle’s dissertation, entitled “Exploring the Perceived Challenges of Teaching Secondary Physical Education: A Comparative Analysis of Physical Education Teachers and Administrators,” reflects his commitment to improving physical education from multiple perspectives.

He was most interested in understanding why people view physical education the way they do, both positively and negatively. By comparing the perspectives of secondary physical education teachers and administrators, he sought to identify shared challenges, areas of agreement, and opportunities for stronger collaboration. “The project helped me gain a greater appreciation for the administrative perspective, not just the teacher perspective,” he said. “The challenge now is figuring out how to bridge the gaps that still exist between those groups.”

Those questions continue to shape his work today, demonstrating how doctoral-level research can influence professional practice long after graduation.

Dr. Adam Pyle providing his dissertation presentation to fellow educators at the NJAHPERD (New Jersey Association of Health Physical Education Recreation and Dance).

Advancing Kinesiology Careers and Physical Education Leadership

This past year, one of his proudest accomplishments extended beyond his school community. Through his involvement with both the International Physical Literacy Association (IPLA) and the National Academy of Health and Physical Literacy (NAHPL), Dr. Pyle recognized an opportunity to connect two organizations working toward many of the same goals. “My role was simply to make the introduction and get everyone on the same Zoom call.”

That initial conversation sparked an ongoing collaboration between the organizations in the United Kingdom and United States, strengthening international dialogue around physical literacy and helping advance the field. “One of my personal goals is to contribute to the field of physical education in some meaningful way,” he said, “even if it is just helping the right people connect with one another.”

Closer to home, he also celebrated an unforgettable athletic achievement with the girls’ cross-country team. “This fall, we won the program’s first sectional championship since 2006. It was my first sectional title as a head coach and a special accomplishment for our athletes and school community.”

Looking Ahead After an EdD in Kinesiology

As he looks toward the future, Dr. Pyle’s focus remains on expanding opportunities for students and strengthening the field of physical education.

“I want physical education to matter—to have a lasting impact on students’ lives long after they leave my classroom.”

He’s also eager to continue building partnerships within the physical literacy community while remaining open to wherever the next opportunity leads. “I am not entirely sure what comes next, and I am okay with that,” he reflected. “I have learned that opportunities often appear when you stay curious, keep learning, and remain open to new possibilities.”

Reflections and Advice for Future Doctoral Candidates

Looking back on his experience at CSP Global, Dr. Pyle encourages future doctoral students to focus less on speed and more on meaningful learning. “Take your time and focus on doing quality work.”

He also emphasizes the importance of building relationships throughout the program. “Connect with your classmates. Build relationships, share ideas, ask questions, and support one another. The people I met in the program helped me more times than I can count. You do not have to do it alone.”

If you’re interested in leadership, teaching, coaching, applied practice, or conducting dissertation research, CSP Global’s Doctorate in Kinesiology program is designed for working professionals seeking to deepen their impact in the field.

Learn more about the program and discover how an online doctorate in kinesiology can support your professional goals.