Program Overview

Ph.D. in Human Bioenergetics

The Ph.D. in Human Bioenergetics is a multidisciplinary study of how energy is transferred in cells, tissues, and organisms. The program focuses on the regulation of energy transfer pathways and processes, which have a fundamental influence on health. These processes convert food into energy and relate directly to human health across the lifespan and the spectrum of functional capacities from chronic disease to elite athletic performance.

What is Human Bioenergetics?

Human Bioenergetics is the study of how energy is transferred in cells, tissues, and organisms. The manner in which the body regulates energy transfer pathways and processes has a fundamental influence on health.

Get Involved in Doctoral Research in Bioenergetics

A majority of the doctoral work is spent investigating aspects of human bioenergetics in a research setting. The faculty are involved in various bioenergetics research areas, including:

• Clinical Biomechanics Lab
• Cloud Family Rehabilitation and Mobility Laboratory
• Extracellular Regulation of Metabolism Laboratory
• Healthspan Biology Lab
• Lab for the Assessment and Promotion of Physical Activity and Health
• Laboratory of Integrative Biology
• Neuromuscular Function Lab
• Movement Neuroscience and Rehabilitation Laboratory
• Physical Activity for Treatment and Prevention Lab
• Sleep and Metabolism Laboratory
• Sport Concussion and Occupational Rehabilitation Lab
• Translational Research on Aging and Chronic Disease Laboratory

Human Bioenergetics Curriculum

The Ph.D. in Human Bioenergetics requires a minimum of 72 credits to complete the program. The curriculum includes:

• HES 510: Bioethics--Concepts and Controversies (3 credits)
• Select 9 credits from the following:
  • HES 500: Environmental Exercise Physiology
  • HES 600: Research Design in Health/Exercise Science
  • HES 602: Advanced Physiology of Exercise
  • HES 608: Physical Activity Intervention Development
  • HES 610: Exercise Bioenergetics
  • HES 620: The Science of Healthspan
  • HES 619: Advanced Neural Control of Movement
  • HES 700: Professional Skills in Bioenergetics
  • HES 793: Bioenergetics Seminar (1 credit, minimum 4 semesters required)
• Statistics (6 credits)
• Directed Electives (38 credits)
• HES 799: Dissertation (12 credits)

Human Bioenergetics Ph.D. Program Application Process

To apply to the doctoral program in Human Bioenergetics, applicants must:

• Complete the graduate school application
• Submit a letter of application, including a statement of career goals and research interests
• Submit three letters of recommendation from former/current professors
• Acquire the Health and Exercise graduate faculty adviser support letter detailing the faculty adviser’s support of the application and the financial support plan

Decision on Admission

The final decision on admission into the doctoral program is made by the Doctoral Admissions Committee, consisting of the departmental Graduate Program Director, two departmental graduate faculty members, and the Department Head.

Application Deadlines

Admission to the Human Bioenergetics Ph.D. program is flexible, with no hard deadlines in place. However, planning and applying well in advance of the planned semester start date is recommended.

Resources for Prospective and Current Students

• Paying for Graduate School: Various funding opportunities are available for graduate students.
• Student Organizations: Join a club to promote health and wellness, network with industry professionals, and build leadership experience.
• Frequently Asked Questions: Answer questions about the application process, housing, research facilities, and more.
• Career Opportunities: The doctoral program prepares students for careers in health and exercise science-related fields. Learn more about where graduates are beginning their careers.