The Right Doctoral Degree
Online PhD in Exercise Science
Grow your career with a Doctoral degree in Exercise Science at Concordia University Chicago. Request information today.
Online PhD in Exercise Science Program Details
Our 100% online Doctorate in Exercise Science is designed for working adults, with asynchronous classes so you can learn anytime, anywhere. We keep health sciences class sizes small, so you can connect with your classmates and professors.
What Will I Learn in an Online Exercise Science Degree Program?
A PhD in Exercise Science is a research-intensive degree program that focuses on advanced study in the field of exercise physiology, biomechanics, exercise psychology, motor control and related areas. Here are some areas you can expect to learn about and conduct research in during a PhD in Exercise Science.
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.
Motor Control and Learning: Understanding how the nervous system controls and coordinates movement is crucial in exercise science. This area explores how individuals learn and develop motor skills, as well as how these skills can be optimized through practice and feedback.
Exercise Psychology: This field examines the psychological aspects of exercise and physical activity, including motivation, adherence to exercise programs and the psychological benefits of exercise on mental health and well-being.
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.
Public Health and Exercise Promotion: Understanding how to promote physical activity at the population level is important for combating sedentary lifestyles and promoting overall health and well-being.
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.
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 Doctorate in Exercise Science?
The PhD in Exercise Science is an interdisciplinary degree program designed to prepare students to pursue academic, clinical, leadership and/or research roles in the fields of health promotion, exercise science, kinesiology, human performance and other related disciplines. This 100% online doctorate program has a strong research orientation and aims to develop outstanding scholars and researchers who create and disseminate new knowledge about issues arising out of the intersection of physical activity, health promotion and human performance.
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.
Pursuing a Doctorate in Exercise Science offers numerous benefits and opportunities for individuals passionate about advancing their careers in 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 universities and colleges. 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.
Contributing to Public Health: The research and discoveries made during a PhD program can have a profound impact on public health. By studying the effects of exercise on chronic diseases, mental health and overall well-being, graduates can help develop evidence-based interventions to improve population health.
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 is an intellectually rewarding and professionally fulfilling path for individuals dedicated to advancing knowledge, improving public health and making a positive impact in the realm of physical activity, health promotion and human performance.
Accelerated
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100% Online
Anytime, anywhere learning on your schedule
Tuition Guarantee
Your tuition rate is locked in while continuously enrolled
Admission Requirements
Master’s degree in exercise science or related field
3.0 minimum GPA
Objective statement
Letters of recommendation