Pursuing an EdD in Kinesiology to Advance a Coaching Career

For Dr. King, coaching has always been about more than competition. It is about helping athletes break through barriers, discover their potential, and continue growing both on and off the track. His path toward a doctorate degree was deeply connected to his professional goals and long-term vision for his coaching career.

“My motivation was simple: I wanted to coach at a larger university, but my MBA kept me from being considered for those roles,” he explained. “Determined not to be overlooked again, I set my sights on a doctorate in Kinesiology.”

As a professional focused on long-term career advancement, Dr. King sought a doctoral program that aligned with his goals while allowing him to continue making an impact through coaching.

Why CSP Global’s Kinesiology Doctoral Program Stood Out

When searching for a doctoral program, Dr. King acknowledges that CSP Global immediately stood out.

“CSP was my first choice when selecting a doctoral program. The seamless integration of dissertation work throughout the curriculum intrigued me and played a significant role in my success within the program.”

Rather than treating dissertation work as something separate from coursework, Dr. King appreciated how the program allowed him to steadily build toward his research goals from the beginning. “This structure allowed me to remain engaged and excel both personally and professionally.”

For doctoral students pursuing advanced study in kinesiology, the ability to connect coursework with meaningful dissertation research can create a more focused academic experience and support professional development throughout the program.

Building Connections in an Online Doctorate in Kinesiology Program

The support system within the program also became one of the most meaningful parts of Dr. King’s experience.

“The highlight of CSP’s Kinesiology doctoral program was connecting with fellow students, especially during the class where we made videos,” he shared, referring to the Exercise and Health Behavior course. “Seeing everyone’s faces brought our discussions to life.”

He credits his cohort, advisor, and professors with helping him stay motivated throughout the doctoral journey.

“I truly valued the unwavering support from my cohort, advisor, and professors throughout the entire process.”

Like many working professionals pursuing an online doctorate in kinesiology, Dr. King valued both the academic support and sense of community he found throughout the program.

Balancing Coaching, Family Life, and Online Doctoral Education

Like many doctoral students, Dr. King needed a program that could fit into an already demanding schedule. “I chose an online program out of necessity, since doctoral kinesiology programs are rare,” he explained. “With my packed schedule, traveling for in-person classes just wasn’t realistic.”

The flexibility of the online format allowed him to continue coaching while still prioritizing family life. “The online format let me study early in the morning or late at night, so I could still make time for my family.”

That balance proved especially important during track season, when coaching responsibilities intensified.

Dissertation Research in Sport Performance and Movement Mechanics

Dr. King’s dissertation research grew directly from years spent coaching athletes and studying movement mechanics.

“My journey began on the track, first as a student-athlete and then as a professional,” he shared. “When my competitive days ended, my former coach invited me to join the coaching staff. Guiding athletes and exploring the fascinating mechanics of movement sparked a passion in me that set me on this path.”

For his dissertation, he focused on how wearable resistance could improve sprint performance and running mechanics in collegiate and high school athletes.

Applying Kinesiology Research to Coaching Practice

“For my dissertation, I aimed to investigate how increasing resistance during sprints can transform both speed and running form in collegiate and high school athletes,” Dr. King explained.

Over the course of nine weeks, athletes completed 80-meter sprint sessions while wearing weighted vests as part of the training intervention. “Years of coaching fueled my curiosity and drive to help student-athletes overcome their own barriers,” he said. “This research is more than an academic pursuit; it is a passion project that shapes how I coach and design training programs.”

The practical application of his dissertation research became one of the most rewarding parts of the experience. “This year, I’m especially proud of weaving my dissertation study into our training sessions,” Dr. King shared. “Doing so has boosted my confidence as we head into the new season.” After seeing promising outcomes with several athletes, his excitement for the future continues to grow.

Dr. Curtis King is the Head Coach of the Buccaneers Cross Country and Track programs at Park University in Gilbert, Arizona. His strong background in track and field and performance training has bolstered the program’s success.

Advice for Future Doctorate in Kinesiology Students

As he reflects on his doctoral journey, Dr. King encourages future students to pursue work that genuinely excites them. “As you begin your journey at CSP, my advice is to pick a dissertation topic you’re genuinely passionate about and think creatively about how to bring your ideas to life.”

He also emphasizes the importance of flexibility, preparation, and building relationships throughout the program: “Have a solid plan and a backup, always keeping your interests at the center. Don’t overthink assignments and make an effort to connect with your classmates; it truly pays off in the end.”

Looking to the future, Dr. King plans to continue doing what he loves most.

“For now, I am going to enjoy being a coach, growing my program, and following the path God has set for me.” But first, there is one immediate goal at the top of the list. “I plan to take a well-deserved vacation following graduation.”

Are you interested in a Doctorate in Kinesiology? Learn how CSP Global’s online programs help working professionals advance their careers through applied research, academic achievement, and professional growth.