Kinesiology, PhD
for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Kinesiology
Admissions
Students may apply to either the M.S. or the PhD program. Applications are due on January 15 for Fall admissions. Applications are due on October 1 for Spring admissions.
Admission to the PhD degree program requires a minimum of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution of higher education with a minimum grade point average of 3.5 (A = 4.0) for the last two years of undergraduate study. Applicants who have a master’s degree should have a grade point average of 3.5 for previous graduate-level work. All applicants are required to submit three letters of recommendation, resume, official transcripts and a personal statement that addresses the following prompts:
- What developed your interest for graduate study.
- Who, from the designated faculty, would you like to work with.
- Why do you believe you would be a good fit with aforementioned faculty.
- What do you expect to gain from a graduate experience and how will this experience prepare you for your intended career.
Although the GRE scores are not required, the scores may provide helpful supporting information in some cases. Applicants who have taken the GRE and feel their scores would benefit their application are encouraged to submit the scores. If you would like to submit scores, we recommend you scan your official score report as a PDF file and attach it to your application. You do not need to submit official scores through ETS, but if you decide to, please use our University code of 1836.
- International and some domestic students may be required to show proof of English Proficiency.
- Students for whom English is not their native language and who wish to be considered for a teaching assistantship must achieve a score on the speaking sub-section of (TOEFL or IELTS).
Major areas of specialization at both the master's and doctoral degree levels include:
- Cultural, Interpretive and Science Studies
- Exercise Physiology
- Exercise Psychology
- Motor Control / Biomechanics
- Pedagogy & Physical Activity
for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Kinesiology
Entering with approved M.S. degree
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 591 | 8 | |
| KIN 565/CHLH 565, SHS 565, RST 560 | 4 | |
| Competency in research methods | 12 | |
| Research/Project Hours (8 max applied toward degree) | 0-8 | |
Elective hours to bring total course work hours to 32 | ||
| KIN 599 | (min/max applied toward degree) | 32 |
| Total Hours | 64 | |
Other Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Other requirements may overlap | |
| Minimum Hours Required Within the Unit: | 24 (not including 599) |
| Minimum Number of 500-level Hours Required Overall in Program: | 8 |
| Qualifying Exam Required: | No |
| Preliminary Exam Required: | Yes |
| Final/Exam Dissertation Defense Required: | Yes |
| Dissertation Deposit Required: | Yes |
| Minimum GPA: | 3.0 |
Entering with approved B.S. degree
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 591 | 12 | |
| KIN/CHLH/SHS 565/RST 560 | 4 | |
| Competency in research methods | 12 | |
| Research/Project Hours (16 max applied toward degree) | 0-16 | |
| Elective hours to bring total course work hours to 64 | ||
| KIN 599 | (min/max applied toward degree) | 32 |
| Total Hours | 96 | |
Other Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Other requirements may overlap | |
| Minimum Hours Required Within the Unit: | 40 (not including 599) |
| Minimum Number of 500-level Hours Required Overall in Program: | 12 |
| Qualifying Exam Required: | No |
| Preliminary Exam Required: | Yes |
| Final/Exam Dissertation Defense Required: | Yes |
| Dissertation Deposit Required: | Yes |
| Minimum GPA: | 3.0 |
for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Kinesiology
- Content Knowledge: Students will demonstrate an advanced understanding of current and historically significant theories, models, themes, and ideas in the biomechanical, physiological, psychological, behavioral, pedagogical, biological, socioeconomic, and sociocultural correlates of Kinesiology.
- Critical Thinking and Discovery: Students will demonstrate ethical practices while applying advanced quantitative and/or qualitative methods in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data which will then be disseminated through publications and/or oral presentations.
- Awareness and Understanding: Students will understand and appreciate the diverse biological, psychological, socioeconomic, sociocultural, philosophical, and historical factors that influence health, physical activity, rehabilitation, and human movement.
- Programming and Assessment: Students will apply best practices in developing, implementing, assessing, and evaluating programs and interventions related to health promotion, physical activity adoption and adherence, and the prevention and treatment of diseases in culturally diverse populations.
- Leadership and Engagement: Students will demonstrate leadership and effective communication skills, showcasing an appreciation and commitment to health and physical activity as they develop and sustain productive relationships and work for the common good at local, national, and global levels.
Graduate Degree Programs
- Kinesiology, MS
- Kinesiology, PhD
- Joint Degree Program: Kinesiology, PhD and Master of Public Health, MPH
for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Kinesiology
Kinesiology & Community Health
Department Head: Kim Graber
Director of Graduate Studies: Laura Rice
Department of Kinesiology & Community Health website
Kinesiology & Community Health Faculty
Graduate Office: Julie Jenkins
906 South Goodwin Ave, 112 Freer Hall MC-052, Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 333-1083
Graduate Email