Program Overview
The PhD in Exercise and Nutritional Sciences at Arizona State University prepares scholars to conduct impactful research in the field. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary integration, hands-on research experience, and professional development opportunities. Graduates are equipped for research careers in academia, government, industry, and healthcare settings.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Objective:
The PhD in Exercise and Nutritional Sciences program aims to cultivate scholars and leaders capable of conducting impactful, interdisciplinary research in the field. The program emphasizes the integration of exercise and nutritional science to understand disease development and design novel approaches for improving health within diverse populations.
Description:
This program prepares students to:
- Conduct high-quality, use-inspired research in exercise, nutrition, and health promotion.
- Contribute to reducing the physical, social, and economic burdens of unhealthy lifestyles.
- Integrate disciplinary knowledge through an interdisciplinary approach.
- Engage in research at every stage of the program, including dissertation research, research practicums, preclinical and clinical trials, and various research seminars.
- Work collaboratively with an approved mentor while focusing on one of three research areas:
- Translational metabolism and physiology
- Behavioral and community health sciences
- Biomechanics and motor control
Duration:
- Four years for full-time students with a master's degree.
- Part-time study option available.
Outline
Program Structure:
- The program consists of 89 credit hours, culminating in a dissertation.
- Students choose one of three focus areas:
- 9 credit hours in the chosen focus area
- Courses determined in collaboration with the student's supervisory committee
- Professional development is integrated through:
- A teaching internship (EXW 784)
- A three-semester seminar (CHS 791) addressing career opportunities and preparation for roles in nutrition, exercise, and health promotion fields.
Coursework:
- Required Core (6 credit hours):
- Applied Biostatistics in Medicine and Informatics (BMI 515) or Analysis of Variance for Exercise and Wellness (EXW 640)
- Advanced Applied Methods and Data Analysis (EXW 645)
- Required Research (12 credit hours):
- Research Methods (EXW 700)
- Scientific Grant Writing (EXW 701)
- Practicum (EXW 780 or NTR 780)
- Elective Research (15 credit hours):
- Courses chosen in consultation with the academic advisor
- Professional Development (5 credit hours):
- CHS 791 Seminar: Early Career Professional Development (3 credit hours)
- Internship (EXW 784) (2 credit hours)
- Electives (30 credit hours):
- Courses chosen in consultation with the academic advisor
- Culminating Experience (12 credit hours):
- Dissertation (EXW 799 or NTR 799)
Assessment
Assessment methods in the program likely include:
- Exams:
- Written comprehensive exam
- Oral comprehensive exam
- Dissertation defense
- Evaluation of research projects and presentations
- Coursework assignments and exams However, the program likely utilizes a combination of lectures, seminars, discussions, research projects, presentations, and independent study.
Faculty:
The program boasts a diverse faculty with expertise in various areas of exercise and nutritional sciences.
Unique Approaches:
The program emphasizes a hands-on, research-intensive approach, allowing students to engage in research throughout their studies. Additionally, the integration of professional development opportunities allows students to gain valuable experience in teaching and career preparation.
Careers
Career Opportunities:
Graduates of the program are prepared for research careers in diverse settings, including:
- Research-intensive universities
- Government agencies
- Health-related research positions in private industry
- Postdoctoral research positions
Career Examples:
- Consultant
- Entrepreneur
- Exercise physiologist
- Dietician or nutritionist
- Health educator
- Health, research, or sports scientist
- Postsecondary biomechanics, exercise science, or nutrition teacher
- Professor
- Public health professional
Other:
- The program encourages students to pursue postdoctoral research opportunities following graduation.
- The program accepts students with a master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.
- Students entering the program with a master's degree may be able to transfer up to 30 credit hours towards the program requirements.
Arizona State University: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Arizona State University (ASU) is a top-ranked research university located in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is known for its innovative approach to education, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. ASU is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity, serving learners at all stages of life and fostering a diverse and welcoming community.
Services Offered:
ASU provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Tutoring, advising, and academic success resources.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, financial aid programs, and tuition assistance.Student Life:
Housing and dining, clubs and activities, health and wellness services, and transportation.Career Services:
Job and career resources, internship opportunities, and career counseling.Student Life and Campus Experience:
ASU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events, fostering personal growth and development. The university's diverse student body creates a rich cultural environment, promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Ranked Programs:
ASU boasts numerous top-ranked programs, including 82 programs ranked in the top 25 nationally, with 37 in the top 10.Innovative Learning Environment:
ASU embraces a flexible and personalized approach to learning, allowing students to customize their academic journey.World-Class Faculty:
Students benefit from instruction led by renowned professors and researchers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.Global Impact:
ASU is consistently ranked among the top universities for global impact, demonstrating its commitment to addressing global challenges.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
ASU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing students from all backgrounds and promoting a sense of belonging.Academic Programs:
ASU offers over 800 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, including:
Undergraduate:
More than 400 undergraduate degrees in fields such as engineering, journalism, business, sustainability, nursing, education, and more.Graduate:
Over 450 graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs.Other:
ASU is known for its commitment to research and innovation, with a strong focus on addressing real-world challenges. The university is also a leader in sustainability, promoting environmental responsibility and social justice.
Entry Requirements:
The program requires applicants to meet the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Health Solutions. Here's a breakdown:
Academic Background:
- Master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution. Completion of a data-based research thesis is preferred.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of the first bachelor's degree program.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in a relevant master's degree program.
Required Application Materials:
- Graduate admission application and application fee.
- Official transcripts.
- Letter of intent outlining research or scholarly interests, primary program area, career goals, and potential faculty mentor.
- Resume or curriculum vitae.
- Three references (academic or professional).
- Writing sample (6-10 pages).
- Applicants must have completed a graduate-level research methods and a graduate-level research statistics course before admission.
- Students are expected to take a refresher in research statistics in the summer before they start the program.
- Students may be required to take undergraduate courses to address any deficiencies in their academic background, depending on their program area and focus.
- Strong applicants may be contacted for a teleconference interview prior to acceptance.
International Students:
International students must also meet the following requirements:
Language Proficiency Requirements:
English Proficiency:
All applicants whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency. The program accepts the following tests:
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic) Applicants must have a strong academic background, research experience, and proficiency in English. International students have additional requirements they need to fulfill.
