Doctorate Exercise and Sport Science
The Division of Kinesiology, Health and Sport Studies (KHS) within the College of Education is pleased to announce that on July 1, 2009 the WSU Board of Governors approved the establishment of a Doctor of Philosophy degree program in Kinesiology effective the fall 2009 semester. The new Ph.D. in Kinesiology will prepare students to become teachers and researchers at higher education institutions and other venues requiring Ph.D.-trained professionals. Students may select concentrations in either Exercise and Sport Science or Physical Education Pedagogy. Furthermore, students will be offered unique opportunities to conduct research in urban settings and to develop a breadth of knowledge across related disciplines such as nutrition, physical therapy, medicine and education. The program will follow policies and procedures for Ph.D. programs already established by the WSU Graduate School and by the College of Education. It requires a minimum of 100 credit hours including: 30 credits of dissertation; statistics and research methods courses; doctoral seminars; and cognate and elective courses. Normally, students who make regular progress should be able to complete the degree requirements in four years.
The doctoral program will prepare the next generation of researchers and scholars in Kinesiology. These individuals are also expected to become outstanding teachers and leaders in their respective fields. Our doctoral students will obtain professional communication skills that are appropriate to their specialization. These skills will be refined through regular participation in scientific conferences and scholarly presentations. Students will have access to a broad array of resources available at Carnegie I level research institutions, including WSU.
Physical Education Pedagogy and Exercise and Sport Science concentrations will offer graduate students access to laboratories and opportunities to plan and conduct research viable for publication. Peer learning through laboratory working groups is an important component of doctoral programs in Kinesiology. Laboratory groups will examine and debate the merits of potential research topics and agendas. Lastly, this increased level of academic rigor will lead to an increased level of external funding for research and student support.