Program Overview

Human Performance and Movement Science Ph.D.

Doctoral Degree

Program Type

• Major

Format

• On Campus

Estimated Time to Complete

• 4-6 years

Credit Hours

• 54-90

The Human Performance and Movement Science Ph.D. program provides doctoral-level research training and educational opportunities to students interested in human performance and disease prevention through movement science. Students will gain knowledge and conduct research on the interrelatedness between physical activity and health in an effort to reduce health disparities in minoritized populations through physical activity and lifestyle change. The program currently offers tracks in Applied Physiology and Human Performance Psychology.

Why Earn a Human Performance and Movement Science Ph.D.?

Due to the unique focus on underrepresented populations and distinct research topics among faculty, you will gain competencies specific to the advisors and labs you join, with an emphasis on research-based experiences.

Faculty Expertise

• Applied physiology and nutrition
• Integrative metabolism and disease prevention
• Sport and exercise psychophysiology
• Cardiovascular physiology
• Exercise, stress and optimized recovery
• Disability and movement
• Pediatric movement and physical activity
• Psychosocial aspects of sport and exercise

Marketable Skills

• Communication and collaboration
• Project management, strategic planning and organization
• Analytical and creative problem-solving skills
• Scientific literacy, critical thinking and technical expertise
• Theoretical knowledge and practical application
• Leadership opportunities and relationship building

Program Highlights

• Gain comprehensive and in-depth knowledge of kinesiology research through classroom, lab and clinical experiences.
• Combine innovative research methods, state-of-the-art technology and cutting-edge data collection techniques to investigate disease prevention in diverse populations.
• Access specialized research laboratories in applied physiology and human performance psychology.
• Work side-by-side with recognized faculty who have earned honors from the American College of Sports Medicine, National Strength and Conditioning Association, Association for Applied Sport Psychology, and the Society of Health and Physical Educators.
• Use quantitative and qualitative approaches to research and address health disparities in underrepresented communities.

Career Paths

• Academic teaching, research, and/or administrative positions within colleges and universities
• Non-profit service and research organizations
• Policy-making positions in government agencies
• Industry using basic and applied kinesiology research knowledge and skills

Sample Courses

• Research Perspectives in Kinesiology, Health Promotion and Recreation (3 hrs)
• Quantitative Procedures in Exercise and Sport Sciences (3 hrs)
• Professional Development in Kinesiology (3 hrs)
• Seminar in Human Performance and Movement Science (1 hr)
• Current Topics in Exercise Physiology (3 hrs)
• Current Topics in Human Performance Psychology (3 hrs)