A Personal Journey to Health and Wellness
Prior to starting this new role, Caleb spent 13 years teaching elementary physical education and middle school health, as well as coaching high school track and cross country. Growing up, he was always interested in sports and exercise but struggled with being overweight.
“It wasn’t until my junior year of high school that I took responsibility for my health and ultimately lost 80 pounds.”
“This experience inspired my desire to help others become the healthiest versions of themselves, even though I wasn’t sure what form that would take at the time,” he explains. Since then, Caleb has dedicated himself to expanding his knowledge through his master’s and now doctoral studies.
Transitioning from K-12 to Higher Education
His earlier experiences at Commonwealth University-Lock Haven in Pennsylvania sparked his ambition to become a college professor. However, he knew he had to build up to this goal, starting his teaching career in the K-12 setting.
For educators asking, “what can I do with a doctorate in kinesiology?”, Canterbury’s path demonstrates how the degree serves as a bridge from K-12 physical education to leading college-level health and recreation departments. Canterbury’s ability to secure the role of Lead Health, Physical Education, and Recreation Instructor at East Central Community College was directly supported by his enrollment and progression in CSP’s PhD in Kinesiology program.
Caleb Canterbury preparing for class in his new role as the Lead Health, Physical Education, and Recreation Instructor at East Central Community College in Decatur, Mississippi (2025).
Although his newest role is very different from working with kids and their parents, Caleb has found it both challenging and rewarding. “It is pushing me to grow in my understanding of higher education and in self-discovery,” he notes.
As an educator, he believes that every student is a unique individual with the potential to thrive in all aspects of life. He is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment where students are encouraged to express themselves, respect others, and grow into confident, capable individuals.
“For me, teaching provides an opportunity for continual learning and growth. In our competitive society, it is important for students not only to receive a solid education but also to work with someone aware of and sensitive to their individual needs,” Canterbury adds.
Why the Online PhD in Kinesiology?
Caleb is now balancing the demands of his new job with his PhD program. He chose CSP because of the appealing program content and structure, particularly the opportunity to focus on exercise and nutrition and the progressive dissertation process.
“Choosing CSP has allowed me to continue my aspiration to teach in higher education while directly applying my coursework to both my professional and personal development.”
Given his current commitments, the online PhD in Kinesiology program was the most practical option.
“The limited availability of local programs made CSP’s online resources an ideal fit, allowing me to access quality education from home,” he shares.
When reflecting on the highlights of the kinesiology doctoral program, Caleb says that “CSP stands out for several reasons, but what I appreciate most is the flexibility it offers. Having early access to coursework before classes officially begin and the ability to progress at my own pace has been invaluable in balancing my responsibilities.”
Researching Community College Wellness
He is more than a year into his program and starting to think ahead to his dissertation. His project’s working title is “Impact of Wellness Courses on Mississippi Community College Students’ Health.”
Moving forward, Caleb Canterbury’s goal is to earn his doctoral degree and continue growing both personally and professionally.
“While I would love to one day teach future doctoral students, I am embracing and enjoying the journey I am on right now,” he concludes.
Ready to Advance Your Career?
Caleb Canterbury is using his PhD to successfully transition from K-12 teaching into a leadership role in higher education. Whether you want to elevate your current career, enhance your research skills, or pivot to the college level, discover how the flexible, online Doctorate in Kinesiology at CSP Global can help you achieve your professional goals.