Program Overview

Physical Education, Ph.D.

College of Education

Prepare for a career as a leader and researcher to help future teachers ensure children and adolescents find meaning and enrichment through a physically active lifestyle.

Graduates of the physical education doctoral program often secure faculty appointments at higher education institutions while others enter careers in the private sector as educators and researchers. Concentrations are offered in physical education teaching and motor behavior with opportunities to specialize further.

Program Highlights

• Broad View: Gain exposure through diverse courses in physical education, adapted physical education, and motor behavior.
• Custom Inquiry: Develop a line of inquiry and conduct research with national and international research teams.
• Valuable Experiences: Enhance your professional career by gaining advanced statistical and grant writing skills.
• Supportive Community: Discover unique collaboration opportunities on research in the Physical and Developmental Disabilities Lab.

What You’ll Study

Courses cover historical and philosophical perspectives of physical education, research on teaching in physical education, motor learning, motor development, motor control, growth and development, curriculum, teacher education, and sport psychology. Research methods include quantitative and qualitative methodologies and specialized techniques. A dissertation is required.

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

• Data Analysis: Examining and interpreting information to uncover insights and inform decision making
• Interpersonal Skills: Communicating and interacting effectively in a variety of social and professional situations
• Research: Gathering and analyzing information to increase knowledge or solve problems
• Problem Solving: Identifying, analyzing, and resolving problems or challenges using creative and effective strategies
• Organizational Skills: Planning, prioritizing, and managing tasks and resources to achieve specific objectives
• Flexibility: Adapting to changing circumstances and being open to new ideas and approaches

Using Your Degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

• Potential Careers:
  • Faculty Member
  • Researcher
  • Educator
  • Leader
  • Trainer
• Job Titles of Alumni:
  • Assistant Professor
  • Professor
  • Associate Professor
  • Associate Professor of Exercise Science
  • Research Assistant Professor
  • Post Doctoral Research Fellow
• Average Alumni Salary: Five to 10 years after graduation without additional education $109,226
• Workplace Settings:
  • Education
  • Private Industry
  • Health Care
• Employers of Alumni:
  • University of South Carolina
  • College of Charleston
  • Medical University of South Carolina
  • The Citadel
  • University of Arkansas
  • National Strength and Conditioning Association