What Will I Learn in an Online Exercise Science Degree Program?
Our PhD in Exercise Science is a journey of research, discovery and application. The program focuses on advanced study and ethical implementation in the fields of exercise physiology, biomechanics, sports nutrition and related areas.
Research Methods: You will learn advanced research methodologies and statistical analysis techniques used in exercise science research. This includes experimental design, data collection, data analysis and interpretation of results.
Exercise Physiology: You will study the physiological responses and adaptations to exercise, including cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic changes. Topics may include exercise testing and prescription, aerobic and anaerobic metabolism and the impact of exercise on various physiological systems.
Biomechanics: This area covers the analysis of human movement and the forces involved. You’ll learn about kinematics, kinetics and how biomechanics can be applied to improve athletic performance or prevent injuries.
Advanced Topics: Depending on the program and faculty expertise, you may have the opportunity to delve into more specialized areas within exercise science, such as sports performance, aging and exercise, exercise immunology or environmental physiology.
Nutrition and Exercise: You’ll explore the relationship between diet and exercise, focusing on how nutrition can impact performance, recovery and overall health.
Exercise and Chronic Disease: This area investigates the effects of exercise on various chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity and cancer. It may also cover exercise interventions for managing and preventing these conditions.
Dissertation Research: The core component of a PhD program is the original research conducted for your dissertation. This research should make a significant contribution to the field of exercise science and demonstrate your ability to conduct independent research.
Why Pursue a PhD in Exercise Science Online?
Following your calling into a form of health sciences is an admirable choice. With a variety of complex health issues existing, pursuing a PhD in Exercise Science from Concordia University Chicago is the right step to making a difference in healthcare. By advancing your career with a PhD, you are opening yourself up to more opportunities to make impactful change in the industry.
The 69-credit-hour program, which varies based on research course selection, includes coursework in leadership, health, exercise science, research, statistics and a nine-credit-hour dissertation requirement.
Choose one of the following tracks:
Track 1: Advanced Exercise Physiology
This track is designed for students interested in deepening their understanding of exercise physiology at an advanced level. It focuses on the physiological responses and adaptations to exercise, particularly in specialized populations and disease management contexts. Students will explore advanced topics in endocrinology, metabolism and the application of exercise as a preventive and therapeutic tool. The track includes courses such as Advanced Exercise Physiology 1, Exercise for Disease Prevention and Management, Advanced Topics in Endocrinology and Metabolism and Advanced Exercise Physiology and Special Population Considerations.
Track 2: Applied Strength and Conditioning
This track is tailored for individuals aiming to specialize in strength and conditioning within various contexts such as athletics, rehabilitation and general fitness. It emphasizes the application of advanced strength and conditioning principles, including biomechanics, measurement and evaluation techniques and the psychology of sport and exercise. Students will learn how to design and implement effective strength training programs, understand biomechanical principles for optimal performance and utilize psychological strategies to enhance athlete performance. The track includes courses such as Application of Advanced Strength and Conditioning 1, Psychology of Sport and Exercise 1, Measurement and Evaluation in Health and Human Performance and Advanced Biomechanics.
Pursuing a Doctorate in Exercise Science offers numerous benefits and opportunities for individuals passionate about enriching their careers and growing the field. Here are some reasons to consider pursuing a PhD in Exercise Science:
Research Expertise: A PhD program in Exercise Science provides in-depth training in research methodologies, data analysis and critical thinking. Graduates emerge as experts in their chosen areas of research, capable of conducting original investigations that contribute to the body of knowledge in the field.
Academic and Teaching Careers: For those interested in academia, a PhD is often a prerequisite for tenure-track faculty positions at colleges and universities. With this degree, you can teach undergraduate and graduate courses in exercise science, mentor students and shape the future of the field through education.
Leadership Opportunities: The knowledge and skills gained during a PhD program prepare graduates to pursue leadership roles in various settings, including research institutions, government agencies, healthcare organizations and sports organizations. Graduates can become directors of research programs, exercise physiology labs or health and wellness initiatives.
Advancement in Health and Fitness Industry: A Doctorate in Exercise Science can open doors to higher-level positions in the health and fitness industry. Graduates may find opportunities to work with professional sports teams, corporate wellness programs or elite athletic training facilities.
Networking and Collaborations: Pursuing a PhD offers opportunities to collaborate with established researchers, professors and experts in the field. These connections can lead to joint research projects, publications and presentations at conferences, enhancing your professional network and reputation.
Intellectual Challenge and Personal Growth: A PhD journey is intellectually stimulating and requires perseverance and dedication. It provides a chance for personal growth as you overcome challenges, develop resilience and cultivate strong problem-solving skills.
Contribution to the Community: As a PhD holder in Exercise Science, you can become a prominent figure in your community, promoting physical activity, health and wellness. You may engage in public outreach, workshops and initiatives that encourage healthier lifestyles.
Global Impact: The research conducted in Exercise Science often has implications beyond local borders. Your work can contribute to global efforts to combat sedentary lifestyles, obesity and other health-related issues.
Lifelong Learning: A PhD program fosters a love for lifelong learning and continued curiosity about the latest advancements in the field. Graduates stay up-to-date with current research and contribute to the ongoing evolution of Exercise Science.
Overall, a PhD in Exercise Science at Concordia University Chicago is a rewarding and fulfilling path for individuals dedicated to advancing knowledge and providing positive outcomes in physical activity, health promotion and human performance.
Institutional Accreditation
Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to award baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral degrees.
Why Choose Concordia University Chicago for Your Health Sciences Education?
Discover a unique educational experience at Concordia University Chicago, where we go beyond academic excellence. We integrate Christian principles into every aspect of our programs, focusing on integrity, service and a commitment to the common good.
Christian Foundation
CUC stands out by emphasizing a Christian perspective throughout our institution. The mission goes beyond developing programs; our doctoral programs aim to shape graduates who embody Christian values and contribute to the world in a Christ-led manner.
Vocation and Purpose
We prioritize the Christian concept of vocation, viewing education as a divine calling to serve others. Your journey at CUC is not just about a promising career; it’s a commitment to making a meaningful impact on the well-being of others.
Diverse Representation
Our commitment to inclusivity extends to visual representations. Rather than relying only on Eastern or Western practices, we showcase diverse and meaningful visuals of human movement, respecting various beliefs and ensuring every student feels understood.
Choose Concordia University Chicago for a health sciences education that transcends traditional boundaries, preparing you not only for a successful career but also for a life of compassion, integrity and purpose.
Admission Requirements
- Master’s degree in exercise science or related field
- 3.0 minimum GPA
- Objective statement
- Letters of recommendation
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Curriculum
Research
An introduction to the quantitative analysis of data; including data coding and entry of data. SPSS will be used to explore descriptive and inferential statistics: using both non‐parametric and initial parametric techniques.
An examination of qualitative research approaches with a focus on research design, the role of the researcher, data collection and analysis and writing from a qualitative perspective.
This course explores the theory and practice of mixed methods research in program evaluation and applied research. Prerequisite: B or higher in RES-7605 and RES-7700
An introduction to advanced statistical concepts including multivariate analysis, linear models, hierarchical linear models, factor analysis and data management will be covered in this course. Students will use published software packages and will learn to write basic syntax for custom analysis. Prerequisite: B or higher in RES-7605.
Common Core
HHP-7000: Cardiovascular Responses to Exercise (3 hours)
This course examines cardiovascular adaptations to acute and chronic exercise. The course will provide an in-depth analysis of metabolic, systemic and hormonal responses to the stress of exercise and the adaptive changes that occur with training, as well as the underlying mechanisms. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7005 and HHP-7900.
HHP-7005: Scientific Communication (3 hours)
Effective communication in scientific writing. Emphasis on professional scientific language and field-appropriate stylistic convention.
HHP-7010: Neuromuscular Responses to Exercise (3 hours)
This course examines neuromuscular adaptations to acute and chronic exercise. Students will engage in an in-depth analysis of neuromuscular structure and function, motor unit recruitment during different types of movement and muscle adaptations to resistance and endurance training. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7005 and HHP-7900.
HHP-7030: Advanced Exercise and Sports Nutrition (3 hours)
This course examines the latest evidence-based principles and recommendations on meal, energy and nutrient timing for optimal fueling and performance. Topics include principles of nutrient timing, regulation of metabolism by micronutrients and macronutrients and their role in weight control in athletes, safety and validity of supplements and ergogenic aids and nutritional aspects of optimal performance. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7005, HHP-7900 and RES-7605.
HHP-7090: Ethical Issues in HHP (3 hours)
This course examines the ethical conflicts and challenges around autonomy, liberty, individual rights and the common good in regard to healthful living and quality of life. Human rights, civil rights, influence of race, social class and gender/sex will be examined in the context of health issues, such as social determinants of illness, health promotion and behavior modification, social justice and research equity. Ethical considerations will center on the program design, evaluation and research aspects related to Health and Human Performance with special attention to inclusion.
HHP-7100: Seminar in Health & Human Performance (3 hours)
This course is designed to provide an opportunity for the students to study a specific topic/area of interest within the field and develop an academically sound project with the aid of an advisor. Topics/area of interest will be approved by the Program Director. Independent study should be related to specific program design of Health & Human Performance interventions, grant proposals for agency submission or academic manuscript preparation for professional presentation and/or publication. This course will culminate in an independent study that will directly demonstrate program competencies. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7020, HHP-7030, HHP-7050, HHP-7090, HHP-7500, HHP-7520, RES-7620, RES-7700 and RES-7800.
HHP-7900: Research Design (3 hours)
Principles of research theory, methods, inquiry, problem formulation, data collection, literature searches and ethical considerations. Emphasis on how to design a doctoral-level research study in the field of Health and Human Performance.
Choose either track 1 or track 2 for your specialization.
Track 1: Advanced Exercise Physiology
AES-6250: Advanced Exercise Physiology (3 hours)
Advanced study of energy metabolism and the primary physiological systems (cardiovascular, respiratory, neuromuscular) in the context of exercise and performance. Advanced topics related to mechanisms and adaptations relating to physiology during exercise. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6050.
HHP-7020: Exercise for Disease Prevention and Management (3 hours)
The purpose of this course is to provide the student with a framework for evaluating current information on exercise recommendations for special populations. Students will engage in an in-depth analysis of the implications for exercise in preventing and managing obesity, coronary heart disease, diabetes, cancer, asthma, neurological conditions and musculoskeletal conditions. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7005, HHP-7900 and RES-7605.
HHP-7510: Advanced Topics in Endocrinology and Metabolism (3 hours)
Review of hormonal regulation and function of endocrine systems at both a molecular and whole-species level, as well as endocrine & exercise interactions related to key metabolic pathways. Emphasis on hormones that regulate growth, stress, metabolism and reproduction, as well as diseases associated with these processes. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7000 and HHP-7010.
HHP-7520: Advanced Exercise Physiology and Special Population Considerations (3 hours)
Advanced concepts in exercise physiology related to cardiovascular, pulmonary, kidney and immune system pathologies. Implementation and interpretation of clinical exercise tests with a special focus on ECG and pulmonary function. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7000 and RES-7605.
Track 2: Applied Strength and Conditioning
AES-6830: Application of Advanced Strength and Conditioning (3 hours)
Identify and implement the dynamics and training principles of strength and power development based on appropriate research. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6810 or AES-6825.
AES-6835: Psychology of Sport and Exercise (3 hours)
Identify and introduce the field of sports psychology, its role in athlete performance and major issues in sport today by assessing various psychology topics. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6250.
HHP-7040: Measurement and Evaluation in Health and Human Performance (3 hours)
This course develops skills for the selection, development and implementation of various types of instruments and techniques for measuring and evaluating health and human performance interventions. Evaluation of these interventions includes general health behaviors, health-related fitness, nutritional and dietary intake, body composition and other areas related to an individual’s quality of life. Students will learn methods for developing/choosing psychometric and biometric tools, choosing appropriate evaluation designs, procedures for data collection and describing evaluation results. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7005 and HHP-7900.
HHP-7500: Advanced Biomechanics (3 hours)
Application of mechanics to biological systems including tissue mechanics, human performance and limb dynamics. Investigation of biomechanics in healthy, aging and pathological populations. Applying tools of engineering analysis to biological systems from cellular to whole body. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7010 and RES-7605.
Cognate Courses
Select 12 hours from the following:
AES-6250: Advanced Exercise Physiology (3 hours)
Advanced study of energy metabolism and the primary physiological systems (cardiovascular, respiratory, neuromuscular) in the context of exercise and performance. Advanced topics related to mechanisms and adaptations relating to physiology during exercise. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6050.
AES-6560: Special Topics: Seminar in Movement Science (3 hours)
In-depth study of selected advanced topics in human movement science. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6520.
AES-6660: Special Topics: Seminar in Sports Performance Training (3 hours)
In-depth study of selected advanced topics in sports performance training. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6620 or division chair consent.
GERO-7000: Gerontological Theory (3 hours)
Reviews major types of gerontological theory within the context of theoretical paradigms. This course explores the differences and commonalities within the various theoretical strands of knowledge construction within gerontology.
GERO-7500: The Physiology of Aging (3 hours)
Presents an in-depth analysis of the biology of aging, building up from changes occurring at the molecular and cellular level and analyzing the consequences at the organism level. Examines the influence of these age-related changes in what are commonly considered a disease of aging.
GERO-7505: The Psychological Aspects of Aging (3 hours)
Examines psychological development and change across the adult lifespan. Using frameworks of developmental psychology, this course reviews and explores adult development in the broad domains of cognition, personality and socio-emotional functioning. Issues related to normative and optimal adult development and aging are considered.
GERO-7800: Demography and Epidemiology of Aging (3 hours)
Explores fertility, mortality and global aging; distribution of health and illness within a population; age-based migration and its impact on locations of origin and destination; variations in health and mortality by gender, race, ethnicity and social class; impact of health and mortality patterns for individuals, society and public policy.
GERO-7805: Issues in Aging Policy (3 hours)
Explores the development, implementation and analysis of social policy in the United States on major issues affecting older people. Considers the determinants of aging policy. The policymaking process and development of legislation are analyzed as factors related to the making of policy for older adults.
GERO-7810: Foundation of Teaching and Learning in Gerontology (3 hours)
Exploration and application of teaching and learning strategies for communicating gerontological knowledge. This course addresses teaching gerontology in classroom settings as well as in public settings to a variety of audiences in applied and policy settings.
GERO-7820: Leadership, Applied Ethics, Aging and Global Change (3 hours)
Examines the ethical dilemmas of leadership, the foundations and context of moral choice and the moral implications of decision-making as they relate to gerontological leadership. Considers the ethical challenges and decision criteria facing leaders, the role of politics and power in organizations and the leader’s ability to promote and infuse organizational ethics and integrity in an aging and globalized world.
GERO-7900: Diversity in Aging Societies (3 hours)
Explores how ethnicity, race and gender structure the lives of individuals throughout the life course and how other factors such as age, cohort and class intersect with these realities. This course considers how the lives of people differ across diverse strata and how social policies shape individuals’ lives.
GME-6300: Introduction to Grants (3 hours)
Provides an overview of key components of the grant process. Identifying priorities, utilizing grant databases and distinguishing various giving sources such as foundations, corporations, government agencies and individuals. Strategies for proposal development, researching, identifying and cultivating partnerships.
HHP-7020: Exercise for Disease Prevention and Management (3 hours)
The purpose of this course is to provide the student with a framework for evaluating current information on exercise recommendations for special populations. Students will engage in an in-depth analysis of the implications for exercise in preventing and managing obesity, coronary heart disease, diabetes, cancer, asthma, neurological conditions and musculoskeletal conditions. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7005, HHP-7900 and RES-7605.
HHP-7040: Measurement and Evaluation in Health and Human Performance (3 hours)
This course develops skills for the selection, development and implementation of various types of instruments and techniques for measuring and evaluating health and human performance interventions. Evaluation of these interventions includes general health behaviors, health-related fitness, nutritional and dietary intake, body composition and other areas related to an individual’s quality of life. Students will learn methods for developing/choosing psychometric and biometric tools, choosing appropriate evaluation designs, procedures for data collection and describing evaluation results. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7005 and HHP-7900.
HHP-7050: Program Design in Physical Activity and Health (3 hours)
This course examines planning and organization of health programs. Students will investigate, contrast, develop and evaluate a variety of intervention activities. Theories regarding techniques to enhance behavior change and instructional design strategies to meet the health needs of a diverse population will be explored. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP 7000, HHP-7010 and RES-7605.
HHP-7060: Health Promotion and Disease Prevention (3 hours)
The course examines the process of disease prevention and control through the education and advocacy of health promotion. Students will examine the physiological and medical factors associated with common diseases/conditions including asthma, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and other metabolic disease states. Students examine various topics while utilizing methods of health communication for prevention/control of chronic diseases. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7050.
HHP-7070: The Professoriate (3 hours)
This course examines the latest evidence-based principles and experiential recommendations on the professoriate in higher education. Topics include principles and strategies of teaching and learning; professional relationships; philosophy of education; issues of race and gender, promotion and tenure and the scholarship of teaching, research and service.
HHP-7500: Advanced Biomechanics (3 hours)
Application of mechanics to biological systems including tissue mechanics, human performance and limb dynamics. Investigation of biomechanics in healthy, aging and pathological populations. Applying tools of engineering analysis to biological systems from cellular to whole body. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7010 and RES-7605.
HHP-7510: Advanced Topics in Endocrinology and Metabolism (3 hours)
Review of hormonal regulation and function of endocrine systems at both a molecular and whole-species level, as well as endocrine & exercise interactions related to key metabolic pathways. Emphasis on hormones that regulate growth, stress, metabolism and reproduction, as well as diseases associated with these processes. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7000 and HHP-7010.
HHP-7520: Advanced Exercise Physiology and Special Population Considerations (3 hours)
Advanced concepts in exercise physiology related to cardiovascular, pulmonary, kidney and immune system pathologies. Implementation and interpretation of clinical exercise tests with a special focus on ECG and pulmonary function. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7000 and RES-7605.
RES-7710: Advanced Qualitative Analysis (3 hours)
This course provides advanced introductions to a representative range of qualitative methods. It is designed to familiarize doctoral and advanced master’s students with the commonly used qualitative research methods. The course will prepare them to further understand philosophies and concepts of qualitative methods, to utilize these methods in their own research or to evaluate the qualitative work that others have done. This course also teaches how to use qualitative software as an analytic tool to analyze qualitative data. Prerequisite: B or higher in RES-7700.
Comprehensive Exam and Dissertation
COMP-7100: Comprehensive Exam (3 hours)
Written comprehensive exam questions to be completed by students in a set period of time, assessed by reviewers and revised by students if first attempt was not proficient in all areas. Students who do not pass their comprehensive exam initially or upon revision cannot progress to the dissertation courses and will be required to take the Remediation Course (HHP-7910) prior to re-taking COMP-7100. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7100. Pass/Fail only.
HHP-7910: Remediation for Comprehensive Exam (3 hours)
A remediation course for students who do not pass their Comprehensive Exam (COMP-7100). A review of scientific writing, critical analysis of literature and writing comprehensive literature reviews. Must be completed with Pass before re-enrollment in COMP-7100. Pass/Fail only.
DISS-7010: Dissertation I (3 hours)
Scholarly work on a dissertation as approved by the dissertation committee. Pass/Fail only.
DISS-7020: Dissertation II (3 hours)
Scholarly work on a dissertation as approved by the dissertation committee. Prerequisite: P in COMP-7000 or COMP-7100 and DISS-7010. Pass/Fail only.
DISS-7030: Dissertation III (3 hours)
Scholarly work on a dissertation as approved by the dissertation committee. Prerequisite: P in DISS-7020. Pass/Fail only.
DISS-8000: Dissertation Supervision (0 hours)
Taken by doctoral candidates who have completed the required semester hours of dissertation. Doctoral candidates must use this course to maintain continuous enrollment while working on their dissertation and will be charged the equivalent of one semester hour of tuition for each registration in the course until the candidates have successfully defended their dissertation. This course is not credit bearing. Prerequisite: P in DISS-7030. Pass/Fail only.
Total Hours Minimum: 69 Credit
Pursuing a PhD in Exercise Science from CUC is a commendable choice for those called to make a difference in health sciences. In a world facing increasingly complex health challenges, advancing your career with this doctoral program equips you with the expertise needed to drive meaningful change in healthcare. Earning a PhD not only deepens your knowledge and skills but also opens the door to a wide range of opportunities where you can have a lasting impact on the industry and contribute to the well-being of others.
- University Professor: Teach advanced courses in exercise science, conduct research and mentor students pursuing careers in health, fitness and sports.
- Director of Sports Science: Lead research and development initiatives within sports organizations, focusing on improving athlete performance through scientific analysis and innovative training methods.
- Exercise Science Researcher: Conduct high-level research on the physiological, biomechanical and psychological aspects of exercise, contributing to academic knowledge and practical applications in health and fitness.
- Senior Exercise Physiologist: Work in clinical settings or research institutions, designing and overseeing complex exercise programs for patients with chronic conditions, athletes or specific populations.
- Chief Wellness Officer: Develop and implement comprehensive wellness programs within corporations, hospitals or communities, integrating exercise science principles to promote health and well-being.
