PhD in Exercise Physiology

Receive advanced exercise physiology training to help people adopt healthier lifestyles.

The PhD in Exercise Physiology is focused on training students to prepare for academic research careers related to exercise and physical activity to prevent and treat chronic health-related conditions, health and well-being, and the underlying physiological and/or behavioral mechanisms.

The degree prepares students for academic careers focused on research, teaching, mentoring, and translation of research findings to a variety of settings.

For students interested in primarily an academic research career, this degree will also prepare students for post-doctoral fellowships.

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Program Facts

Degree Type

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Credits

72 credits

Format

In-Person

Time Commitment

Full-Time or Part-Time

Duration

3-5 years on average

Enrollment Term

Fall

Application Deadline

December 1

Admissions Requirements

No GRE Exam is required

Program Overview

Collaborate with Faculty

The student will work closely with their faculty mentor to develop a plan of study and research experiences.

Current research expertise of the faculty includes the following:

Obesity and Body Weight Regulation
Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Disease
Epidemiology of Physical Activity and Chronic Disease
Physical Activity Programming for Health and Fitness
Physical Activity for Children and Adolescents
Technology-Based Interventions for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Disease
Perceptual Responses to Physical Activity and Exercise

Required Credits

The program consists of a minimum of 72 credits.

A maximum of 30 credits can be transferred from a student’s previous master’s degree, plus up to 9 post-master’s doctoral-level courses may be applied to the doctoral plan of studies.

"The program has prepared me to be exceptionally successful in my young professional career. I am beyond grateful for the opportunities I am given to learn and grow as a student every day."
Caitlin Ann Cheruka - Pitt student

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Prerequisites

Applicants must demonstrate completion of a related degree and/or course work that are foundational to exercise physiology.

The applicant also needs to demonstrate a desire to pursue doctoral training in an area of study that is matched to the focus of graduate faculty in the department who may serve as their mentor, with a particular interest in pursuit of an academic research career.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must complete the School of Education online admissions application that will include:

Resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
Goal statement
Contact information for three professional references
Academic transcript
Writing sample

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Curriculum

The PhD in Clinical Exercise Physiology is a 72-credit program.

The curriculum consists of study through research methods, major-area courses, electives, a research practicum, first-year seminars, and an original dissertation created by the student.

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