Program Overview

PhD in Kinesiology

Behavioral, Psychological, and Pedagogical Sciences

The Doctor of Philosophy in Kinesiology with a specialization in behavioral, psychological, and pedagogical sciences enhances student preparation for careers in higher education and a variety of health professions involving research competencies and program development. Behavioral, psychological, and pedagogical sciences focuses on investigating diverse determinants of health across the lifespan with an emphasis on physical activity. Specific areas include:

Health Behavior Change

• Understanding behavioral determinants of health that improve quality of life across the lifespan
• Developing and evaluating interventions and policies that improve individual and population health

Psychology of Physical Activity

• Investigating psychosocial determinants of physical activity and health
• Understanding influences of physical activity on health and well-being across the lifespan

Pedagogy

• Investigating focus areas of teacher and learner cognition, emotion, and motivation
• Enhancing professional knowledge, competencies, and skills in applied kinesiology fields such as teaching, coaching, personal training, wellness education, and mental training

Sociology of Sport, Bodies, and Health

• Social construction of the body
• Social issues surrounding bodies and health
• Social control of bodies in society

Admission Requirements

• BS or MS in Kinesiology or related field

Course Requirements

Ph.D. Program for Specialization in Behavioral, Psychological, and Pedagogical Sciences

Research Skills

• KIN 7900 Introduction to Research Methods | 3 credit hours
• EXST 7003 Statistical Methods/Techniques I (or equivalent, including EXST 7004, 7005, 7009) | 4 credit hours
• EXST 7013 Statistical Methods/Techniques II (or equivalent, including EXST 7014, 7015, 7019) | 4 credit hours
• KIN 7574 Qualitative Research in Kinesiology | 3 credit hours
• Advanced Research Elective* | 3 credit hours

Motor Behavior Elective

• KIN 7508 Analysis of Human Movement | 3 credit hours
• KIN 7510 Motor Learning | 3 credit hours
• KIN 7512 Motor Control | 3 credit hours
• KIN 7520 Motor Development | 3 credit hours

Exercise Physiology Elective

• KIN 7534 Exercise in Health and Disease | 3 credit hours
• KIN 4526 Physiology of Endurance Training | 3 credit hours
• KIN 7537 Exercise and the Environment | 3 credit hours
• Approved Electives | 15 credit hours

Specialization Requirement

• KIN 7502 Curriculum Construction in Physical Education | 3 credit hours
• KIN 7513 Seminar in Physical Education Professional Preparation | 3 credit hours
• KIN 7514 Pedagogy in Physical Education | 3 credit hours
• KIN 7515 Theories of Achievement Motivation in Physical Activity | 3 credit hours
• KIN 7528 Sport Psychology | 3 credit hours
• KIN 7601 Changing Health Behavior | 3 credit hours
• KIN 7602 Social Ecological Influences on Physical Activity and Health | 3 credit hours
• KIN 7603 Stress Management and Emotional Health | 3 credit hours

Approved Electives/Minor Specialization*

• Approved Electives/Minor Specialization* | 25 credit hours
• KIN 9000 Dissertation Research | 12 credit hours
• Degree Total | 75 credit hours

*Electives and Minor: Electives and/or the selection of a minor will be chosen on the basis of agreement between the student and the student's advisor. Courses required for the minor will be based on agreement between the student and the student's minor professor. Each of these agreements is subject to approval by the student's PhD committee.

**This is a list of suggested courses and should be viewed as a model program rather than a required course list. Students should consult with faculty advisor(s) as to the coursework plan that will prepare them to meet their goals. Courses taken in an approved master's program may be used to fulfill degree requirements.