Kinesiology PhD

  • Doctoral
  • PhD
Format
  • In-Person
Location
  • Greeley
Start Date

Fall

Tuition Rate

Tuition & Fees

Department(s)

Kinesiology, Nutrition & Dietetics (KiND)

Credits

64

Area of Study
Apply Request Information

Program Overview

The Ph.D. in Kinesiology prepares you for research-intensive and academic leadership roles in higher education, clinical settings and industry. You’ll focus your studies in one of five areas:

  • Biomechanics
  • Exercise Physiology
  • Physical Education and Physical Activity Leadership
  • Social Psychology
  • Sport and Physical Activity

Beyond advanced coursework, you’ll gain hands-on classroom teaching experience, engage in faculty-directed research in your area of study, and develop, conduct and complete independent research that contributes new knowledge to the field of kinesiology.

To apply for the Kinesiology Ph.D., you’ll need:

  • A master’s degree from an accredited college or university
  • A cumulative GPA of 3.00 or better (on a 4.00 scale)
  • Three academic or professional letters of recommendation
  • A Letter of Intent describing your background, career goals and research interests — including the name of any faculty member you’re interested in working with. This program is mentor-based, so faculty play a direct role in admissions decisions.
  • A current resume or curriculum vitae
  • The $50 application fee (waived for current UNC students and alumni)

The GRE is optional. Most applicants don’t submit scores, and applications without them receive full consideration.

Admission Deadline:

  • Fall admission: Feb. 1 (priority screening)

View Full Admission Requirements

Why Choose UNC

As a doctoral student, you’ll work side-by-side with leading scholars and gain access to the same research tools and facilities used in top-tier studies nationwide. UNC’s unique blend of mentorship, funding, and applied research opportunities will prepare you for a lasting impact in sport and exercise science.

Funding Opportunities

Many students receive graduate assistantships with tuition support and teaching experience.

Hands-On Research

Access UNC’s advanced labs, including the Cancer Rehabilitation Institute and Human Performance Laboratories.

Learn more about NHS Centers & Institutes

Strong Career Outcomes

Our graduates hold faculty, research, and leadership roles across universities, health organizations, and sport programs nationwide.

Skills and Outcomes

The Kinesiology Ph.D. prepares you for research-intensive and academic leadership roles across higher education, clinical and industry settings.

You'll learn to:

  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge across your focus area — biomechanics, exercise physiology, physical education, or the social psychology of sport and exercise
  • Apply advanced concepts to solve complex, real-world problems in an environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion
  • Communicate advanced kinesiology concepts effectively, in both oral and written form
  • Design and conduct research that advances the field of kinesiology
  • Gain proficiency in the techniques, skills and approaches used in advanced kinesiology research and practice

UNC trainers work one-on-one with clients to build strength and confidence in the gym.

UNC kinesiology trainers guiding a client through a strength training exercise in the gym

Career Paths

A Ph.D. in Kinesiology prepares you for advanced leadership and research careers, including:

  • University Professor or Researcher
  • Postdoctoral Researcher
  • Biomechanics or Performance Consultant
  • Department Chair or Academic Administrator
  • Director of Research, Sport Science or Health Programs

Motion-sensor technology helps researchers study how the body moves.

Student conducting biomechanical motion analysis on a runner using sensor technology.

Related Programs

Not sure the Ph.D. is the right fit? Explore related graduate programs in Kinesiology, Nutrition and Dietetics below.

Master's Degree

Doctoral Degrees

Graduate Certificates

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