sports and exercise science phd

PhD in Exercise and Sport Science Peak Performance Awaits: Climb to Success

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Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Pursue Your Passion for Human Performance with Liberty’s PhD in Health Sciences – Exercise and Sport Science Degree Online

Are you an allied health professional seeking a terminal degree? Do you want to further your career in research, academia, sports science, occupational performance, or exercise physiology? If so, Liberty’s online Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences – Exercise and Sport Science can help. Through this program, you can enrich your knowledge of human performance and pursue new opportunities as a professor, scientist, scholar, or industry leader.

Maybe you enjoy working in clinical settings, or perhaps you are passionate about sharing your love of exercise science with the next generation of college students. Either way, our sport science degree online can help you pursue leadership roles in a variety of health-related settings. In addition to exploring advanced health sciences topics, you’ll learn about important aspects of sports performance so you can help athletes achieve peak performance. The knowledge you gain in this program can also help you work with a wide range of clients — not just athletes — who want to accomplish certain fitness and wellness goals.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that employment in healthcare professions will grow 15% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all industries.* With our health sciences PhD, you can become equipped to address challenges in this rapidly growing field. Partner with us and earn a degree that can help you thrive in a variety of career paths.

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at Healthcare Occupations (viewed online April 26, 2021). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

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• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Why Choose Liberty’s PhD in Health Sciences – Sport and Exercise Science Degree Online?

At Liberty, your success is our success. We want to help you become an ethical, skilled professional who can make a difference in the healthcare field. Whether you’re passionate about working directly with patients and clients or passing on your knowledge to the next generation of allied health professionals, our doctoral degree in sports science can help you pursue rewarding job opportunities.

Liberty’s degree in exercise science is offered 100% online, so you can earn your degree from the comfort of home. You can easily access your course materials whenever you need them and achieve your academic goals without putting your life on hold. Most importantly, you can stay invested in the things that matter — like your family, job, and community — while taking the next step in your academic journey.

Throughout this program, you’ll study under professors who are experts in sports science, strength training, kinesiology, and other related fields. With their guidance, you can strengthen your skill set and prepare to help meet the need for allied health personnel and faculty. Our courses integrate ethical principles with industry best practices, so you can learn how to lead with integrity in your chosen career path.

What Will You Study in Our PhD in Health Sciences – Exercise and Sport Science Degree Online?

This program is broken down into 4 main parts: core courses, research and statistics, a dissertation, and the exercise and sport science specialization. Throughout the core courses, you’ll study healthcare delivery systems, leadership, risk management, and evidence-based practice as they relate to the field of health sciences. You’ll also explore effective methods for teaching and evaluation, so you can prepare to teach at the college level.

Our research courses cover important qualitative and quantitative research methods that are frequently used in the health sciences discipline. The dissertation process provides an opportunity for you to conduct original research and contribute to the base of knowledge in your field. Completing a dissertation can also help you prepare to disseminate research in a variety of human performance-related settings.

Within the exercise and sport science specialization, you can strengthen your effectiveness as a strength training and conditioning coach, military performance specialist, emergency services and occupational performance specialist, sports scientist, or exercise physiologist. You’ll explore a variety of relevant topics, including sports performance and conditioning, occupational and environmental physiology, assessment and programming, the effects of performance-enhancing substances, and biomechanics. Throughout the program, you can enhance your skill set and learn how to help athletes and other clients achieve their fitness goals.

Potential Career Opportunities

Depending on your previously obtained certifications and licenses, some of the roles you could pursue after earning this degree include:

• Exercise physiologist
• Human performance specialist
• Nutritional consultant
• Sports scientist
• Strength training and conditioning coach

Featured Courses

• EXSC 665 – Physiology of Sport Performance and Conditioning
• EXSC 670 – Physiological Interactions of Performance Enhancing Substances
• EXSC 680 – Occupational and Environmental Physiology
• EXSC 750 – Advanced Sport Biomechanics

Degree Information

• This program falls under the School of Health Sciences .
• View the Graduate Health Sciences Course Guides (login required) .

Degree Completion Plan (PDF)

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Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

• Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

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Admission Information for Liberty’s Doctorate in Exercise Science

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
• Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

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Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any networking opportunities in this degree.

You’ll have the opportunity to network with leaders in sports science and human performance from across the country while pursuing your online degree in exercise science.

What resources will be available to me in this program?

As an online Liberty student, you can access a wealth of resources through our top-notch research portal.

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Embrace a Purposeful Journey

Online phd in exercise science.

Realize your calling and elevate your career with a doctoral degree in Exercise Science at Concordia University Chicago.

Learn how our 100% online programs can help you better serve others and the common good in the exercise science field.

Application Deadline: June 26, 2024 Classes Start: July 1, 2024

Online PhD in Exercise Science Program: Nurturing Minds, Cultivating Knowledge

Seek knowledge that aligns with your values and embark on a path of growth with our 100% online Doctorate in Exercise Science. Thoughtfully designed for working adults, our asynchronous program allows you to learn at your own pace – anytime, anywhere. We keep health science class sizes small to foster an online community and allow deep connections with your classmates and professors.

At Concordia University Chicago, Christ is at the center of all we do. The CUC curriculum reflects our values, delivering a holistic and honest experience to students — preparing them to do serve the greater good in their career endeavors. Our health exercise science doctorate students use applied research and sports performance medicine teachings to make real changes in the world. Healing bodies, working toward disease prevention , and making a difference in their communities.

What Will I Learn in an Online Exercise Science Degree Program?

Our PhD in Exercise Science is a journey of research, discovery, and application. The program focuses on advanced study and ethical implementation in the fields of exercise physiology, biomechanics, sports nutrition and related areas.

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.

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.

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.

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 PhD in Exercise Science Online?

Following your calling into a form of health sciences is an admirable choice. With a variety of complex health issues existing, pursuing a PhD in Exercise Science from Concordia University Chicago is the right step to making a difference in healthcare. By advancing your career with a PhD, you are opening yourself up to more opportunities to make impactful change in the industry.

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 enriching their careers and growing 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 colleges and universities. 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.

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 at Concordia University Chicago is a rewarding and fulfilling path for individuals dedicated to advancing knowledge, and providing positive outcomes in physical activity, health promotion, and human performance.

Lock in Your Tuition!

As long as there are no interruptions in your course of study, we guarantee your tuition will remain the same and never increase while earning this degree. This guarantee ensures a stable and predictable investment in your education.

Don’t miss out on our Tuition Guarantee – enroll today!

Institutional Accreditation

Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to award baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral degrees.

Why Choose Concordia University Chicago for Your Health Sciences Education?

Discover a unique educational experience at Concordia University Chicago, where we go beyond academic excellence. We integrate Christian principles into every aspect of our programs, focusing on integrity, service, and a commitment to the common good.

Christian Foundation

CUC stands out by emphasizing a Christian perspective throughout our institution. The mission goes beyond developing programs; our doctoral programs aim to shape graduates who embody Christian values and contribute to the world in a Christ-led manner.

Vocation and Purpose

We prioritize the Christian concept of vocation, viewing education as a divine calling to serve others. Your journey at CUC is not just about a promising career; it’s a commitment to making a meaningful impact on the well-being of others.

Diverse Representation

Our commitment to inclusivity extends to visual representations. Rather than relying only on Eastern or Western practices, we showcase diverse and meaningful visuals of human movement, respecting various beliefs and ensuring every student feels understood.

Choose Concordia University Chicago for a health sciences education that transcends traditional boundaries, preparing you not only for a successful career but also for a life of compassion, integrity, and purpose.

Exercise Science Career Outlook

A variety of meaningful career paths are attainable with a PhD in Exercise Science from Concordia University Chicago. Doctorates have been shown to be a significant contributor to career growth and open many doors in numerous fields, including but not limited to:

• University Professor
• Research Scientist
• Exercise Science Educator
• Physical Health Policy Advocate
• Exercise Physiology Research Scientist
• Biomechanics Specialist

Embark on this journey with Concordia University Chicago, where values and academic excellence unite in the pursuit of knowledge and greater service.

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Admission Requirements

Free online application

Master’s degree in exercise science or related field

3.0 minimum GPA

Objective statement

Letters of recommendation

RES-7605 Quantitative Analysis

An introduction to the quantitative analysis of data; including data coding and entry of data. SPSS will be used to explore descriptive and inferential statistics: using both non‐parametric and initial parametric techniques.

RES-7700 Qualitative Research

An examination of qualitative research approaches with a focus on research design, the role of the researcher, data collection and analysis, and writing from a qualitative perspective.

RES-7800 Mixed Methods Research

This course explores the theory and practice of mixed methods research in program evaluation and applied research. Prerequisite: B or higher in RES-7605 and RES-7700

RES-7620 Advanced Topics in Statistics

An introduction to advanced statistical concepts including multivariate analysis, linear models, hierarchical linear models, factor analysis and data management will be covered in this course. Students will use published software packages and will learn to write basic syntax for custom analysis. Prerequisite: B or higher in RES-7605.

Comprehensive Exam and Dissertation

COMP-7100 Comprehensive Exam

Written comprehensive exam questions to be completed by students in a set period of time, assessed by reviewers, and revised by students if first attempt was not proficient in all areas. Students who do not pass their comprehensive exam initially or upon revision cannot progress to the dissertation courses and will be required to take the Remediation Course (HHP-7910) prior to re-taking COMP-7100. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7100. Pass/Fail only.

HHP-7910 Remediation for Comprehensive Exam (as needed)

A remediation course for students who do not pass their Comprehensive Exam (COMP-7100). A review of scientific writing, critical analysis of literature, and writing comprehensive literature reviews. Must be completed with Pass before re-enrollment in COMP-7100. Pass/Fail only.

DISS-7010 Dissertation I

Scholarly work on a dissertation as approved by the dissertation committee. Pass/Fail only.

DISS-7020 Dissertation II

Scholarly work on a dissertation as approved by the dissertation committee. Prerequisite: P in COMP-7000 or COMP-7100, and DISS-7010. Pass/Fail only.

DISS-7030 Dissertation III 1

Scholarly work on a dissertation as approved by the dissertation committee. Prerequisite: P in DISS-7020. Pass/Fail only.

DISS-8000 Dissertation Supervision (as needed)

Taken by doctoral candidates who have completed the required semester hours of dissertation. Doctoral candidates must use this course to maintain continuous enrollment while working on their dissertation and will be charged the equivalent of one semester hour of tuition for each registration in the course until the candidates have successfully defended their dissertation. This course is not credit bearing. Prerequisite: P in DISS-7030. Pass/Fail only.

Exercise Science Specialization Courses

HHP-7000 Cardiovascular Responses to Exercise

This course examines cardiovascular adaptations to acute and chronic exercise. The course will provide an in-depth analysis of metabolic, systemic and hormonal responses to the stress of exercise and the adaptive changes that occur with training, as well as the underlying mechanisms. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7005 and HHP-7900.

HHP-7005 Scientific Communication

Effective communication in scientific writing. Emphasis on professional scientific language and field-appropriate stylistic convention.

HHP-7010 Neuromuscular Responses to Exercise

This course examines neuromuscular adaptations to acute and chronic exercise. Students will engage in an in-depth analysis of neuromuscular structure and function, motor unit recruitment during different types of movement, and muscle adaptations to resistance and endurance training. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7005 and HHP-7900.

HHP-7020 Exercise for Disease Prevention and Management

The purpose of this course is to provide the student with a framework for evaluating current information on exercise recommendations for special populations. Students will engage in an in-depth analysis of the implications for exercise in preventing and managing obesity, coronary heart disease, diabetes, cancer, asthma, neurological conditions and musculoskeletal conditions. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7005, HHP-7900, and RES-7605.

HHP-7030 Advanced Exercise and Sports Nutrition

This course examines the latest evidence-based principles and recommendations on meal, energy and nutrient timing for optimal fueling and performance. Topics include principles of nutrient timing, regulation of metabolism by micronutrients and macronutrients and their role in weight control in athletes, safety and validity of supplements and ergogenic aids, and nutritional aspects of optimal performance. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7005, HHP-7900, and RES-7605.

HHP-7050 Program Design in Physical Activity and Health

This course examines planning and organization of health programs. Students will investigate, contrast, develop and evaluate a variety of intervention activities. Theories regarding techniques to enhance behavior change and instructional design strategies to meet the health needs of a diverse population will be explored. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP 7000, HHP-7010, and RES-7605.

HHP-7090 Ethical Issues in HHP

This course examines the ethical conflicts and challenges around autonomy, liberty, individual rights, and the common good in regard to healthful living and quality of life. Human rights, civil rights, influence of race, social class, and gender/sex will be examined in the context of health issues, such as social determinants of illness, health promotion and behavior modification, social justice, and research equity. Ethical considerations will center on the program design, evaluation and research aspects related to Health and Human Performance with special attention to inclusion.

HHP-7100 Seminar in Health & Human Performance

This course is designed to provide an opportunity for the students to study a specific topic/area of interest within the field and develop an academically sound project with the aid of an advisor. Topics/area of interest will be approved by the Program Director. Independent study should be related to specific program design of Health & Human Performance interventions, grant proposals for agency submission, or academic manuscript preparation for professional presentation and/or publication. This course will culminate in an independent study that will directly demonstrate program competencies. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7020, HHP-7030, HHP-7050, HHP-7090, HHP-7500, HHP-7520, RES-7620, RES-7700, and RES-7800.

HHP-7500 Advanced Biomechanics

Application of mechanics to biological systems including tissue mechanics, human performance, and limb dynamics. Investigation of biomechanics in healthy, aging, and pathological populations. Applying tools of engineering analysis to biological systems from cellular to whole body. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7010 and RES-7605.

HHP-7520 Advanced Exercise Physiology and Special Population Considerations

Advanced concepts in exercise physiology related to cardiovascular, pulmonary, kidney, and immune system pathologies. Implementation and interpretation of clinical exercise tests with a special focus on ECG and pulmonary function. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7000 and RES-7605

HHP-7900 Research Design

Principles of research theory, methods, inquiry, problem formulation, data collection, literature searches, and ethical considerations. Emphasis on how to design a doctoral-level research study in the field of Health and Human Performance.

Cognate Courses Select 12 hours from the following:

AES-6560 Special Topics: Seminar in Movement Science

In-depth study of selected advanced topics in human movement science. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6520.

AES-6660 Special Topics: Seminar in Sports Performance Training

In-depth study of selected advanced topics in sports performance training. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6620 or division chair consent.

GERO-7000 Gerontological Theory

Reviews major types of gerontological theory within the context of theoretical paradigms. This course explores the differences and commonalities within the various theoretical strands of knowledge construction within gerontology.

GERO-7500 The Physiology of Aging

Presents an in-depth analysis of the biology of aging, building up from changes occurring at the molecular and cellular level and analyzing the consequences at the organism level. Examines the influence of these age-related changes in what are commonly considered a disease of aging.

GERO-7505 The Psychological Aspects of Aging

Examines psychological development and change across the adult lifespan. Using frameworks of developmental psychology, this course reviews and explores adult development in the broad domains of cognition, personality and socio-emotional functioning. Issues related to normative and optimal adult development and aging are considered.

GERO-7800 Demography and Epidemiology of Aging

Explores fertility, mortality and global aging; distribution of health and illness within a population; age-based migration and its impact on locations of origin and destination; variations in health and mortality by gender, race, ethnicity and social class; impact of health and mortality patterns for individuals, society and public policy.

GERO-7805 Issues in Aging Policy

Explores the development, implementation and analysis of social policy in the United States on major issues affecting older people. Considers the determinants of aging policy. The policymaking process and development of legislation are analyzed as factors related to the making of policy for older adults.

GERO-7810 Foundation of Teaching and Learning in Gerontology

Exploration and application of teaching and learning strategies for communicating gerontological knowledge. This course addresses teaching gerontology in classroom settings as well as in public settings to a variety of audiences in applied and policy settings.

GERO-7820 Leadership, Applied Ethics, Aging and Global Change

Examines the ethical dilemmas of leadership, the foundations and context of moral choice, and the moral implications of decision-making as they relate to gerontological leadership. Considers the ethical challenges and decision criteria facing leaders, the role of politics and power in organizations and the leader’s ability to promote and infuse organizational ethics and integrity in an aging and globalized world.

GERO-7900 Diversity in Aging Societies

Explores how ethnicity, race and gender structure the lives of individuals throughout the life course and how other factors such as age, cohort and class intersect with these realities. This course considers how the lives of people differ across diverse strata and how social policies shape individuals’ lives.

GME-6300 Introduction to Grants

Provides an overview of key components of the grant process. Identifying priorities, utilizing grant databases and distinguishing various giving sources such as foundations, corporations, government agencies and individuals. Strategies for proposal development, researching, identifying and cultivating partnerships.

HHP-7040 Measurement and Evaluation in Health and Human Performance

This course develops skills for the selection, development and implementation of various types of instruments and techniques for measuring and evaluating health and human performance interventions. Evaluation of these interventions includes general health behaviors, health-related fitness, nutritional and dietary intake, body composition, and other areas related to an individual’s quality of life. Students will learn methods for developing/choosing psychometric and biometric tools, choosing appropriate evaluation designs, procedures for data collection, and describing evaluation results. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7005 and HHP-7900.

HHP-7060 Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

The course examines the process of disease prevention and control through the education and advocacy of health promotion. Students will examine the physiological and medical factors associated with common diseases/conditions including asthma, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and other metabolic disease states. Students examine various topics while utilizing methods of health communication for prevention/control of chronic diseases. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7050.

HHP-7070 The Professoriate

This course examines the latest evidence-based principles and experiential recommendations on the professoriate in higher education. Topics include principles and strategies of teaching and learning; professional relationships; philosophy of education; issues of race and gender, promotion and tenure, and the scholarship of teaching, research and service.

HHP-7510 Advanced Topics in Endocrinology and Metabolism

Review of hormonal regulation and function of endocrine systems at both a molecular and whole-species level, as well as endocrine & exercise interactions related to key metabolic pathways. Emphasis on hormones that regulate growth, stress, metabolism, and reproduction, as well as diseases associated with these processes. Prerequisite: B or higher in HHP-7000 and HHP-7010.

RES-7710 Advanced Qualitative Analysis

This course provides advanced introductions to a representative range of qualitative methods. It is designed to familiarize doctoral and advanced master’s students with the commonly used qualitative research methods. The course will prepare them to further understand philosophies and concepts of qualitative methods, to utilize these methods in their own research, or to evaluate the qualitative work that others have done. This course also teaches how to use qualitative software as an analytic tool to analyze qualitative data. Prerequisite: B or higher in RES-7700.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will i be considered for admission if i don't have a directly related master's degree in exercise science.

Applicants who have a tangential, but not a directly related master’s degree in Exercise Science, may be considered for provisional acceptance. Students who are provisionally accepted will have to take AES 6250: Advanced Exercise Physiology as their first course and earn a B or higher in order to continue in the program. Students who do not earn a B or higher in AES 6250 will be dismissed from the program.

Students seeking provisional acceptance must meet all other admission criteria.

How do I apply for Concordia’s graduate exercise science programs?

Students should apply online by clicking here .

Applicants will have required documentation such as official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other materials to supply in order to complete their application. To view our application checklist with all requirements, click here .

What are the application requirements?

In addition to the online application , for the master’s programs, students must submit an objective statement, all academic transcripts, and two letters of recommendation. Additionally, for the Doctoral programs, students must submit a current (within the past 3 years) Graduate Record Exam or Millers Analogies Test scores, a résumé, and a writing sample.

For full admission requirements, please visit here .

Do I have to take the GRE?

For Doctoral programs, students can either take the GRE or the Millers Analogies Test. Test scores will be accepted if taken within the past 3 years.

At the master’s level, Concordia University Chicago does not require a GRE score for admission.

Do I have to visit campus during my program?

No. Concordia’s online PhD in Exercise Science is 100% online.

What if my GPA is below the minimum?

Applicants who possess a cumulative grade point average of 2.84 or lower or who have earned a master’s degree with a GPA lower than 3.0 may receive provisional or probationary admission. Please see the admission requirements for a full description.

What are the requirements for international students?

International students must meet all standards for the program they wish to enter, as well as fulfill additional requirements covering English and transcripts.

May I start classes before I’m officially admitted?

Students do not need to be admitted to their master’s degree program in order to register for their initial semester. Students may be placed on Pending Status until all required documentation has been received and may attend classes for one semester. Pending Status status does not apply to doctoral or international students .

Does Concordia Chicago allow guest students?

Concordia University Chicago allows guest students in our Bachelor’s and Master’s Applied Exercise Science programs. This option allows students who may only want to take a limited number of classes to enroll.

Tuition rates may vary for guest students. For more information, please contact us.

Technology and Online Learning

Do i need to purchase software for the online program.

No. Online students will complete all coursework and discussions through Blackboard, which is a web-based program that includes file posting, discussion boards, a calendar, and grade posting, among other tools.

What do I do if I have technological problems?

Students with technology problems or questions should call CougarNet. CougarNet is a collective group of technology services on Concordia University Chicago’s campus serving faculty, staff, and both residential, off-campus, and online students. Contact the CougarNet Helpdesk at 708-209-3131 if you need personal assistance.

What type of computer do I need?

Students should be able to use whatever home computer they already own, whether a Mac or PC. You do not need to purchase a specific type of computer. You will need to have reliable access to the internet.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Are there scholarships available.

Currently, there are no university scholarships available for students in master’s and doctoral programs. Students are sometimes able to obtain scholarships from an outside party.

Is there financial aid or student loan support available?

Yes. Our financial aid advisors will be happy to discuss your options and go over the application process with you. Contact one of our advisors for more information or see our financial aid options for graduate students .

Click here to learn about the steps involved in financial aid for graduate students .

Graduate students should contact Ethan Muench ([email protected], 708-209-3234).

When is payment due?

Payment is due before the start of each class.

July 1, 2024

Deadline to Apply

June 26, 2024

Cost Per Credit

Related articles.

• Why Earn Your PhD Online?
• What Can You Do With a Doctorate in Exercise Science?

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PhD Program

Our doctorate program is the right path for you if you intend to build a career as a scholar, researcher, teacher, or industry professional in the science of human movement, kinesiology, or other allied health fields or biomedical science settings.

Program Overview

Students pursuing a PhD in Movement Science develop scholarly and research competence, culminating in an original doctoral dissertation contributing to the body of knowledge in kinesiology. The program is designed for students who intend to make their careers as scholars, teachers, researchers, and professionals in exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control, and allied fields.

Each doctoral student works closely with a faculty advisor from the beginning of their degree program. Under their faculty advisor’s guidance, they are expected to take relevant coursework, engage in relevant research experiences (lab rotations, independent study projects, etc.), generate research ideas, and complete a research dissertation prior to graduation.

A principal goal of doctoral student training is achieving competence as an independent scholar. This entails not only proficiency in research but in the dissemination of knowledge. To achieve this, students learn to guide the learning of others as a Graduate Student Research Assistant (GSRA) or Graduate Student Instructor (GSI).

Doctoral students and their faculty advisors will form a Guidance Committee, Qualifying Examination Committee, and a Dissertation Committee to provide advice and evaluate student progress at successive stages of the program.

Movement Science PhD Curriculum

PhD students choose from a set of core courses in Kinesiology, as well as cognate courses from other units, and complete a minimum of 30 pre-candidacy credits beyond the master's level. Qualifying examinations must be passed before advancing to candidacy, after which the student completes an original doctoral dissertation. A minimum of 50 credits including pre-candidacy and candidacy work must be completed to graduate.

The courses you take will vary, depending on your educational goals.  Courses taken for graduate credit will carry MOVESCI or KINESLGY program codes, and are numbered 500 and above.

• Browse only KINESLGY courses in the Course Catalog
• Browse only MOVESCI courses in the Course Catalog
• Browse entire Course Catalog

Movement Science Graduate Faculty

Our Movement Science graduate faculty are leaders in their fields, and have a variety of interests and specialties. View the MVS graduate faculty list .

Forms & Bulletins

The Graduate Bulletin contains a wealth of information, including requirements for admissions, coursework, doctoral candidacy, and more. The Policies and Procedures page includes a wider selection of Bulletins, plus forms required for progress towards your PhD degree.

• Graduate Bulletin 2023-24
• Graduate Bulletin 2022-23
• Graduate Bulletin for MVS and SM Programs 2021-22
• Graduate Bulletin 2020-21
• Graduate Bulletin 2019-20
• Forms and Bulletins page on this website

College of Applied Human Sciences: School of Sport Sciences

Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology, -->PhD -->

The PhD program in Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology at WVU is recognized as one of the premier training programs in the world.

It provides students with a comprehensive curriculum delivered by highly qualified faculty. The program combines academic rigor, extensive research experiences and applied consulting opportunities to train highly competent, well-rounded future sport, exercise and performance psychology professionals.

Students initiate their own line of research, work with faculty to produce publishable manuscripts, and complete three research benchmarks in addition to their dissertation. Furthermore, students take part in supervised applied experiences working within a range of different sport, exercise and performance settings, including Division I, II and III athletic programs.

This PhD program, which includes a concurrent master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling , allows individuals to sit for counseling licensure upon graduation. With this combination of research and applied aspects of sport, exercise and performance psychology, the program prepares students for careers as sport psychology consultants, researchers and future faculty members. Students may also apply for a science track with more emphasis on research, which does not include the master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Many students work 20 hours a week during the semester as a graduate assistant, either teaching, providing service or conducting research. In return for these contributions, graduate assistants receive a tuition waiver and stipend.

This program is delivered in-person and requires full-time residency in Morgantown for the majority of the 3-4 year program.

Your Degree Plan

The PhD program in Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology combines academic rigor, extensive research experiences and applied consulting opportunities to train highly competent, well-rounded sport, exercise and performance psychology professionals.

• Plan of Study

The program combines academic rigor, extensive research experiences and applied consulting opportunities to train highly competent, well-rounded future sport, exercise and performance psychology professionals. The comprehensive curriculum represents the science-practice model of psychology.

Foundational Courses Students complete 65-75 credit hours that cover traditional SEP coursework, professional practice courses and research methods. They will have individual plan of studies meetings to finalize their doctoral curriculum with all courses needed to complete the requirements for the SEP doctoral degree.

Dissertation Throughout the program students select a line of research that coincides with their area of interest. The SEP doctoral degree program culminates with a dissertation research project, exploring an important topic in the field of sport, exercise and performance psychology. The dissertation will be in the form of two or three publishable papers researching the chosen topic, which will be presented in a public forum. The dissertation committee must approve of the dissertation to be fully accepted.

Earn a Dual Degree in Counseling Once admitted into this program, students can opt to dual enroll in the master's degree program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling . Courses for these two programs are completed simultaneously. Upon completion students are eligible to sit for licensure as a licensed professional counselor in most states.

The deadline to apply for Fall 2024 has passed, but you are welcome to reach out to the admissions coordinator to learn more about Fall 2025 admission. If you have any questions about this graduate program, please contact Sam Zizzi at [email protected] .

Take advantage of special options related to this major:

Expand your curiosity — and enhance your curriculum — through the WVU Honors College. Two programs are offered: Honors Foundations for first- and second-year students and Honors EXCEL for third- and fourth-year students.

The WVU Difference

What sets this program apart from its competitors?

• 100% of program graduates are employed in the area of their choice.
• Students teach undergraduate classes in sport, exercise and performance psychology.
• Students are expected to produce publishable manuscripts.
• Graduates will be license-eligible and may pursue a counseling or consulting career with full-time applied work.
• Students consult with NCAA Division I, II and III athletic programs, high school and youth sport teams, exercise/health settings and other performance domains.
• Admitted students can dual enroll in the MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program and complete both simultaneously.
• The WVU School of Sport Sciences was recently recognized as one of the best in the country by Newsweek.

Learn by Doing

Learning happens outside the classroom. Get involved.

Research and Academic Opportunities

Applied Experiences Students have the opportunity to gain applied experience working with a range of performers, including student-athletes of Division I, II and III athletic programs. As a result, most students accrue more than 400 hours of supervised service provision allowing them to meet the requirements for AASP certification (CMPC). In addition, the dual enrollment in a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling allows individuals to sit for counseling licensure upon graduation.

Research The program boasts seven faculty members trained in sport, exercise and performance psychology. These faculty members have different training backgrounds and research specialties (see faculty profiles) allowing them to supervise students with various research interests. Students will have the opportunity to collaborate with those faculty members and are expected to produce publishable manuscripts. In their research, students are encouraged to identify topics that align with their own interests and will help them reach their professional goals.

Student Organizations

Connect with other students who share your academic interests as a member of:

• Sport and Exercise Psychology Graduate Student Club

View all of the student organizations you can join.

Professional Organizations

Network with professionals in your field as a student member of:

• American Psychological Association
• Association for Applied Sport Psychology
• European Federation of Sport Psychology
• International Society of Sport Psychology
• North American Society for the Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity
• Society of Behavioral Medicine

Internships

Graduate Teaching Assistantships

• Basic Instruction Program (BIP)

Graduate Service Assistantships

• WVU Student Recreation Center
• WVU Athletics

Graduate Service/Teaching Assistantships

• University Advising Center

What Skills You'll Take Away With You

Attending college will prepare you for many things. The Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology major will give you the following skills:

• Analytical skills
• Research skills

What you learn outside of the classroom is just as important as what you learn during class. We’ll help you follow your curiosity.

Careers and Outcomes

How does this degree prepare students for a career?

• Career Profiles
• How We Prepare You

Education Administrators, Postsecondary

Plan, direct or coordinate research, instructional, student administration and services and other educational activities at postsecondary institutions, including universities, colleges and junior and community colleges.

May require a Graduate Degree

Median Salary: $99,940

Possible job titles include: Academic Dean, Dean, Provost, Registrar.

Clinical and Counseling Psychologists

Assess, diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders of individuals through observation, interview and psychological tests. Help individuals with distress or maladjustment understand their problems through their knowledge of case history, interviews with patients and theory. Provide individual or group counseling services to assist individuals in achieving more effective personal, social, educational and vocational development and adjustment. May design behavior modification programs and consult with medical personnel regarding the best treatment for patients.

Has a Bright Outlook , May require a Graduate Degree

Median Salary: $90,130

Possible job titles include: Clinical Psychologist, Forensic Psychologist, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist, Applied Behavior Science Specialist, Child Psychologist, Clinical Therapist, Counseling Psychologist, Licensed Professional Counselor, Psychotherapist, Pediatric Psychologist.

Mental Health Counselors

Counsel with emphasis on prevention. Work with individuals and groups to promote optimum mental and emotional health. May help individuals deal with issues associated with addictions and substance abuse; family, parenting and marital problems; stress management; self-esteem; and aging.

Median Salary: $49,710

Possible job titles include: Clinician, Counselor, Mental Health Counselor, Therapist.

Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in psychology, such as child, clinical, and developmental psychology and psychological counseling. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Median Salary: $78,810

Possible job titles include: Instructor, Professor, Psychology Instructor, Psychology Professor.

Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in health specialties, in fields such as dentistry, laboratory technology, medicine, pharmacy, public health, therapy and veterinary medicine.

Median Salary: $102,720

Possible job titles include: Assistant Professor, Clinical Professor, Physical Therapy Professor, Professor.

Where our grads are working

Graduates leave the program with advanced skills in the areas of research, practice and teaching. WVU boasts one of the largest SEP alumni networks in the nation with former students working in most areas of the sport, exercise and performance psychology profession. Alumni take a genuine interest in current students and their future success. Graduates work in a variety of roles which include sport psychology consultants, researchers and faculty members.

Common career areas:

• Research based faculty positions in sport sciences
• Teaching based faculty positions in sport sciences
• Private practice consulting
• Military consulting
• Public Health

Example employers and job titles of graduates:

• Ian Connole, private practitioner, Senior Associate Athletic Director for Peak Performance, Dartmouth College
• Paul Downey, Associate Athletic Director for Academics, University of Kentucky Intercollegiate Athletics
• Adrian Ferrera, practitioner with special forces soldiers, Fort Bragg
• Aaron Goodson, Assistant Director of Counseling and Sport Psychology, Mississippi State University
• Brandon Harris, Associate Professor, Georgia Southern University
• Jesse Michel, Head Mental Skills Coordinator, Houston Astros
• Raymond Prior, private practitioner, Chicago, Illinois
• Rebecca Zakrajsek, Associate Professor, University of Tennessee

Meet Your Community

The Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology family will inspire and support you.

• Program Faculty
• Alumni Network

Damien Clement

Professional highlights:

• Fellow, Association for Applied Sport Psychology, 2020-Present
• WVU Foundation Award for Outstanding Teaching, 2015
• Dorothy V. Harris Award, Association for Applied Sport Psychology, 2014
• Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award, WVU College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, 2013
• Acting Dean, WVU Honors College, August 2019–June 2020

Ashley Coker-Cranney

• Certified Mental Performance Consultant, Association for Applied Sport Psychology
• Licensed Professional Counselor, West Virginia Board of Examiners for Counseling

Peter Giacobbi Jr.

• Research focus on chronic disease risk reduction using digital and other delivery technologies
• Expert in the use of guided imagery in sport and exercise settings, overall well-being and managing health behavior
• Current Google Scholar H-index of 33, Scopus H-index of 23

Dana Voelker

• Steelcase Education Active Learning Center Grant, 2019
• WVU Foundation Award for Outstanding Teachers, 2018
• Association for Applied Sport Psychology Dorothy V. Harris Memorial Award, 2018

• Twice recognized as Most Outstanding Teacher at WVU CPASS, and has mentored over 30 PhD students through degree completion
• Serves as the Dr. Pat Fehl Endowed Professor to focus efforts on the health and wellness of WV citizens
• Published one of the first books on self-awareness in sport, Being Mindful in Sport and Exercise Psychology (2017), with friend and colleague Mark Andersen
• Certified Mental Performance Consultant, Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP)

The SEP faculty helped me develop holistically as a scholar and person, with high expectations and a strong desire to achieve.

My success is a direct result of the training and guidance I received while a student in the SEP program.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for admission into a graduate program at WVU an applicant must submit official, bachelor's degree transcripts from a regionally accredited institution and hold a GPA of at least 2.75. WVU operates decentralized admissions. Decentralized admissions allows each graduate program to set its own application requirements in addition to the University requirements.

To be eligible for admission into the Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology graduate program an applicant must submit the following documentation:

• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendation - Two

Application Requirements

Applicants can seek admission to the doctoral program in Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology with either a baccalaureate degree or master's degree. To be considered for admission, applicants must upload the following documentation within the graduate application :

• Résumé or CV
• Transcripts from all previous institutions
• Official GRE scores
• Personal statement (1-2 written pages on professional background, goals and reasons for pursuing doctoral degree at WVU, and rationale for potential faculty advisor)
• Two (2) Letters of recommendation

You will not be able to submit your application until the above documents are uploaded. Once the application is submitted and (unofficial/official) transcripts are received, your application will be reviewed for an admission decision. International applicants will not be reviewed with unofficial transcripts.

Prospective students should NOT apply to the dual master's program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at this time. If accepted into the PhD program, admission fees will be waived.

Please contact the Office of Student Success at 304-293-4800 for more information about the application process.

Additional Application Considerations

Admission application form deadline: December 1. Admission is limited to fall start only.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their application with unofficial transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Submitting unofficial transcripts speeds up the application review process as most graduate programs make admission decisions using unofficial transcripts.

If you are offered acceptance, you are required to submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions to be fully admitted into your intended graduate program. You will not be able to register for classes until the official transcripts are received. The preferred method to submit your official transcripts is through a secure online service, such as eScript, The National Clearing House or Parchment, to [email protected] .

Alternatively, if you are unable to submit an electronic version of your official transcript, the physical, sealed, un-tampered with documents can be mailed to:

WVU Graduate Admissions, PO Box 6510, Morgantown, WV 26501

WVU Graduate Admissions, 1 Waterfront Place, 2nd Floor, Morgantown, WV 26505

• Applications that are incomplete or are submitted after the deadline may be reviewed if openings remain.
• International applicants must also submit required materials for international applicants .

Review process

Following the application deadline, program faculty will evaluate applicant credentials based on the materials submitted. After that initial review, a limited number of applicants will be invited to personal online and/or on-campus interviews with the program faculty and current students prior to a final admission decision.

Program Contact

If you have any questions about this graduate program, please contact Sam Zizzi at [email protected] .

Application Deadlines

Each graduate program sets their own terms for admission and application deadlines. Applicants can only apply for admission for the terms displayed below. Any questions regarding the application deadline should be directed to the graduate program representative.

• Fall: December 1

Ready to take the next step?

Learn how to join the WVU family.

Request Info

Want to know more about Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology at WVU? Fill out our request form to receive more information.

​​Experiencing campus is the best way to see if WVU is the right fit. Choose from in-person and virtual options.

Your first step to becoming a Mountaineer is applying for admission using our convenient online application.

• Arnold School of Public Health
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• Colleges and Schools
• Graduate Degrees
• Exercise Science
• Doctor of Philosophy

Doctor of Philosophy in Exercise Science

Are you interested in attending one of the top Ph.D. programs in the United States? Our unique mentor-based program will prepare you to lead the future of Exercise Science research!

The Exercise Science department ’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program is a mentor-based program that has consistently been ranked among the top programs in the United States by the National Academy of Kinesiology. Our graduates are prepared for entry into positions in universities, colleges, research institutes, research-oriented clinical settings, and industry.

The PhD curriculum includes coursework in exercise science, statistics, and research design, providing a solid foundation in advanced research methods.  The department's research labs further enhance the training within the areas of specialization. 

Core Curriculum

Students will complete an approved Plan of Study of up to

• 60 hours beyond the baccalaureate degree
• Includes students entering with a Master's in Athletic Training or a  Master's/Doctorate in Physical Therapy

The Plan of Study is determined in consultation with their mentor and tailored to the individual student's interest, research focus, and division. Progression within the program requires reaching specific Milestones outlined by the program. In addition to coursework and dissertation hours, doctoral students are expected to attend and present at research seminars and be heavily involved in ongoing research during their time in the academic program.

General Course Requirements – PhD Public Health (> 3 hours) Exercise Science (>6 hours) Research/Statistical Methods (>6 hours)  Dissertation (>12 hours)

Applied Physiology

Understanding the effects of physical activity, exercise, nutrition, stress, and sleep on different physiological processes provides a basis for health promotion by controlling & reducing risk factors for disease.  Managing these risk factors through enhanced nutrition, targeted exercise, and other behavioral factors in cancer survivors, women undergoing complicated pregnancy, and athletes (sport and tactical) are the current research foci of the division faculty with the goal of identifying the physiological response to and efficacy of their contribution to recovery and optimal performance.

The research programs in the division address many areas including:

• Endocrine mechanisms & biomarkers related to the HPA axis and inflammation
• Resistance training & nutritional interventions to improve functionality, mental health, and the systemic response to stress
• Impact of exercise, nutrition, and supplementation interventions during & after cancer treatments to prevent or reduce side effects of cancer
• The processes of long-term heart disease risk in women who have had certain pregnancy complications
• Integrated -omics (genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, transcriptomics, lipidomics, and diverse cellular assays) approach to identify & characterize biological factors associated with the response of lipids & lipoproteins
• Sport nutrition, eating disorders, female athlete triad, body image in female & males athletes as well as the military
• Behavioral factors such as exercise & sleep on energy balance, body composition, and cardiometabolic outcomes in women & the adult population
• Exertional heat illnesses, thermoregulation, and hydration behaviors

Shawn Arent, PhD, CSCS*D, FISSN, FACSM, FNAK

Keywords: Sport Science, Human Performance, Endocrinology, Performance Nutrition

Ciaran Fairman, PhD, CSCS, CET

Keywords: Exercise, Cancer, Body Composition

Katie Hirsch, PhD, EP-C, CISSN

Keywords: Exercise, Nutrition, Metabolism, Body Composition, Sex Differences, Female Physiology

Mark Sarzynski, PhD, FASCM, FAHA

Keywords: Exercise Omics, Exercise Responsiveness, Precision Exercise Medicine

Raymond W. Thompson, PhD

Keywords: Anatomy and Physiology, Skeletal Muscle, Endurance Index

Toni Torres-McGehee, PhD, SCAT, ATC

Keywords: Sport Nutrition, Eating Disorders, Body Image, Female Athlete Triad, Military

Xuewen Wang, PhD, FAHA

Keywords: Body Fat, Sleep Deficiency, Energy Expenditure

Susan Yeargin, PhD, ATC

Keywords: Heat Illness, Hydration Behaviors, Sports Medicine

• EXSC 723 - Genetics in Health Science
• EXSC 755 - Selected Topics in Exercise Science (3)
• EXSC 777 - Endocrinology in Exercise & Health (3)
• EXSC 780 - Physiology of Exercise (3)
• EXSC 781 - Physiology, Exercise, & Disease (3)
• EXSC 790 - Independent Study in Exercise Science (6-12 hr total)
• EXSC 880 - Myology & Exercise Science (3)
• EXSC 881 - Advanced Cardiorespiratory Exercise Physiology (3)
• EXSC 700/882 - Exercise & Public Health
• EXSC 883 - Physical Activity, Chronic Disease, & Disabilities (3)
• EPID 894 - Translational Science

Health Aspects of Physical Activity

The PhD in Health Aspects of Physical Activity (HAPA) prepares doctoral students to understand and optimize physical activity patterns, physiological & psychological well-being across diverse populations, and prevent & treat chronic health-related conditions. Research focuses within HAPA align with the flexible curriculum tailored to individual students with courses selected from exercise physiology, exercise psychology, biostatistics, epidemiology & population health, nutrition, or other areas deemed to provide a solid foundation sufficient to understand and conduct research in this area.

Physical Activity Interventions

• Examine the feasibility & efficacy of physical activity programs on behavioral & health outcomes implemented in a variety of settings, including schools, churches, after school settings, summer camps, and clinics
• Investigate the influence of lifestyle (exercise, diet, and sleep) on cardiometabolic disease prevention & weight management
• Technology-based interventions for the prevention & treatment of chronic disease

Physical Activity Epidemiology

• Explore correlations between physical activity, fitness, sleep, sedentary behavior, and physical & mental health-related variables/outcomes

Physical Activity Across the Lifespan

• Study the role of physical activity & nutrition on biological factors in populations including children & adolescents, pregnant women, older adults, cancer survivors, individuals with obesity, and patients with arthritis

Elizabeth Adams, PhD

Keywords: Child Nutrition, Obesity Prevention

Bridget Armstrong, PhD

Keywords: Childhood Obesity, Sleep, Screen Time

Micheal Beets, MEd, MPH, PhD

Keywords: Translational Science, Childhood Obesity, Prevention Science

Sarah Burkart, MPH, PhD

Keywords: Childhood Obesity, Physical Activity, Sleep

Russell Pate, PhD

Keywords: Physical Activity, Public Health, Children

Christine Pellegrini, PhD

Keywords: Behavior, Technology, Disability

Mark Sarzynski, PhD, FACSM, FAHA

Xuemei Sui, MD, MPH, PhD

Keywords: Physical Activity Epidemiology, Longitudinal Analyses, Health Outcomes

R. Glenn Weaver, MEd, PhD

Keywords: Childhood Obesity Treatment and Prevention

Delia West, PhD

Keywords: Behavioral Interventions, Weight Management, Healthy Lifestyle

Sara Wilcox, PhD

Keywords: Physical Activity, Diet, Community, Interventions

Chih-Hsiang "Jason" Yang, PhD

Keywords: Behavioral Medicine, Ecological Momentary Assessment, Healthy Aging

Courses within the HAPA division might be chosen from the following EXSC cognate classes as well as from other departments such as EPID, PSYC, HPEB, or other related fields.

• EXSC 710 - Behavioral Aspects of Physical Activity
• EXSC 727 - Controlled Trials in Exercise Science
• EXSC 732 - Measurement of Body Composition & Associated Heath Behaviors
• EXSC 742 - Clinical Exercise Testing
• EXSC 754 - Community-Based Physical Activity Interventions
• EXSC 778 - Exercise & Childhood Obesity
• EXSC 780 - Physiology of Exercise
• EXSC 781 - Physiology, Exercise, & Disease
• EXSC 787 - Research Methods & Design for Exercise Science
• EXSC 801 - Ethical Conduct in Public Health Research (1 credit)
• EXSC 802 - Predoctoral Fellowship Writing Course with Special Emphasis on NIH F31 (1 credit)
• EXSC 882 - Physical Activity & Health: Epidemiology, Research, & Practice

Rehabilitation Sciences

As the rates of chronic disability increase across the globe, the need to develop novel rehabilitation treatments that reduce disability and increase physical activity is vital for improving the health & wellness of individuals with chronic disabilities. Prevention of chronic conditions starts with assessing & treating the risk factors for their development including poor nutrition, training behaviors, and injuries that occur with sports participation. Research focuses within Rehabilitation Sciences prepare students to examine health & motor behaviors and consider how the development & delivery of rehabilitative & preventative therapies are used to reduce disability, promote health, and prevent further disease.

The research programs in the division address many areas of scientific inquiry including:

• Evidence-based practice & outcomes in physical therapy, athletic training, and rehabilitation
• Neural & behavioral basis of motor control and motor learning
• Posture-balance-gait-mobility in older adults & special populations
• Epidemiology, assessment, and treatment of musculoskeletal pain syndromes
• Movement impairment associated with musculoskeletal injury & persistent pain
• Assessment of sensory, motor, cognitive deficits, and rehabilitation following stroke & brain injury
• Sports nutrition, eating disorders, and body image in athletes & the military
• Screening for & prevention of mental health disorders in athletes & the military
• Exertional heat illness, thermoregulation, and hydration behaviors
• Upper extremity impairments in overhead athletes & breast cancer survivors

Stacy Fritz, PT, PhD

Keywords: Physical Activity, Gait, Neurological populations

Shana Harrington, PT, PhD

Keywords: Oncology Rehabilitation, Patient-Reported Outcomes, Pain Mechanisms & Treatment

Troy Herter, PhD

Keywords: Motor Behavior, Integrative Neuroscience, Neurorehabilitation

Jim Mensch, PhD, ATC

Keywords: Youth Sports, Specialization, Pediatrics, Athletic Training 

R. Davis Moore, PhD

Keywords: Concussion, Cognition, Psychophysiology, Human Performance

Sheri Silfies, PT, PhD

Keywords: Biomechanics, Motor Control, Chronic Pain, Musculoskeletal Injury

Jill Stewart, PT, PhD

Keywords: Motor behavior, Stroke, Rehabilitation, Upper extremity, Brain imaging

• EXSC 700 (3) – Physical Activity and Health: Epidemiology, Research and Practice
• EXSC 710 (3) – Behavioral Aspects of Physical Activity
• EXSC 723 (3) – Genetics in Health Sciences
• EXSC 731 (3) – Mechanisms of Motor Skill Performance
• EXSC 732 (3) – Measurement of Body Composition and Associated Health Behaviors
• EXSC 735 (3) – Applied Human Biomechanics
• EXSC 742 (1) – Clinical Exercise Testing
• EXSC 755 (1-3) – Special Topics in Exercise Science
• EXSC 775 (3) – Neural Basis of Skilled Motor Behavior
• EXSC 777 (3) – Endocrinology in Exercise and Health
• EXSC 780 (3) – Physiology of Exercise
• EXSC 781 (3) – Physiology, Exercise and Disease
• EXSC 787 (3) – Research Methods and Design for Exercise Science
• EXSC 790 (1-6) – Independent Study (maximum of 9 total hours)
• EXSC 801 (1) – Ethical Conduct in Public Health Research
• EXSC 802 (1) – Predoctoral Fellowship Writing Course with Special Emphasis on NIH F31
• EXSC 882 (3) – Physical Activity and Health: Epidemiology and Research Methods
• PHYT 788 (2) – Evidence Based Practice in Physical Therapy

Biostatistics

• BIOS 701 (3) – Concepts and Methods in Biostatistics
• BIOS 754 (3 – Discrete Data Analysis
• BIOS 755 (3) – Introduction to Longitudinal Data Analysis
• BIOS 757 (3) – Intermediate Biometrics
• BIOS 758 (3) – Advanced Biometrics
• BIOS 759 (3) – Theory and Methods of Discrete Data Analysis
• BIOS 760 (3) – Biostatistical Methods in Clinical Trials
• BIOS 765 (3) – Research Design in the Biomedical Sciences
• BIOS 770 (3) – Applied Longitudinal Data Analysis
• BIOS 820 (3) – Bayesian Biostatistics and Computation

Epidemiology

• EPID 700 (3) – Introduction to Epidemiology
• EPID 701 (3) – Concepts and Methods of Epidemiology
• EPID 741 (3) – Intermediate Epidemiological Methods
• EPID 800 (3) – Advanced Methodological Theory in Epidemiology
• EPID 802 (3) – Advanced Analytical Methods in Epidemiology

Health Promotion, Education, & Behavior

• HPEB 715 (3) – Qualitative Research Methods in Public Health
• PSYC 700 (3) – Psychological Approaches to Gerontology
• PSYC 702A (3) – Basics of Neuroscience
• PSYC 702C (3) – Basics of Developmental Psychology
• PSYC 703A (3) – Integration across Cognitive Psychology and Neuroscience
• PSYC 709 (3) – Basic Quantitative Methods in the Analysis of Behavioral Data I
• PSYC 710 (3) – Basic Quantitative Methods in the Analysis of Behavioral Data II
• PSYC 714 (3) – Psychoeducational Assessment of Children I
• PSYC 715 (3) – Psychoeducational Assessment of Children II
• PSYC 732 (3) – Clinical Neuropsychology
• PSYC 801 (3) – Cognitive Neuroscience I
• PSYC 823 (3) – Multivariate Analysis of Behavioral Data
• PSYC 824 (3) – Special Topics in Quantitative Psychology
• PSYC 825 (3) – Introduction to Statistical Mediation Analysis
• PSYC 826 (3) – Longitudinal Data Analysis for the Behavioral Sciences
• PSYC 888 (1-6) – Special Topics (vary each semester but are often highly relevant)

Physiology, Pharmacology, Neuroscience

• PHPH 750 (4)† – Fundamental Neuroscience I
• PHPH 751 (4)† - Fundamentals of Neuroscience II

Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.

• myState on Mississippi State University
• Directory on Mississippi State University
• Exercise Science PhD

The focus of the exercise science doctoral concentration is the scientific study of how biological systems function during physical activity, exercise, and sport, emphasizing applications to both clinical and healthy populations. The program is intended for students who desire teaching and/or research careers in higher education, industry, and other research institutions. Interested students should familiarize themselves with the research interests of graduate faculty in the exercise science doctoral program:  Dr. Stamatis Agiovlasitis ,  Dr. Stanley Brown ,  Dr. Harish Chander ,  Dr. Chih-Chia Chen ,  Dr. Megan Holmes ,  Dr. Adam Knight ,  Dr. John Lamberth ,  Dr. Zhujun Pan ,  Dr. JohnEric Smith , and  Dr. Benjamin Wax .

Please view the links below for details about the application process and Ph.D. curriculum.

• Application Process
• Graduate Admissions
• Current Students
• Disability Studies
• Exercise Physiology
• Sport Administration
• Sport Pedagogy
• Sport Studies PhD
• Doctoral Program Graduates

Make a Gift

Graduate programs, incredible opportunities.

The graduate programs within the Department of Exercise and Sport Science offer students a chance to work along side some of world’s top researchers in their fields.  The program is divided into three specializations.  Although the specializations share some common core requirements and classes, each one is unique in its faculty and opportunities.  Come explore the possibilities

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE GRE SCORES ARE NOT REQUIRED FOR APPLICATIONS TO THE MASTER OF ARTS DEGREE PROGRAM IN EXERCISE AND SPORT SCIENCE. APPLICATIONS FOR ADMISSION DO NOT REQUIRE SUBMISSION OF GRE SCORES.

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Sports and Exercise Sciences

• Entry year 2024
• Duration Full time 3 - 4 years, Part time 4 - 7 years

The PhD in Sports and Exercise Science is an excellent opportunity to pursue your research career in this domain, while increasing your knowledge, learning new skills and developing your own abilities as a researcher.

With a wide range of topics to be explored, you will gain in-depth knowledge in an area of your interest, contributing to our understanding of the relevant issues. You will be guided by our experienced staff, providing you direction and support so you can grow into an accomplished, independent researcher.

Your department

• Lancaster Medical School Faculty of Health and Medicine
• Telephone +44 (0)1524 592032

Entry requirements

Academic requirements.

2:1 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in a relevant subject.

We may also consider non-standard applicants, please contact us for information.

If you have studied outside of the UK, we would advise you to check our list of international qualifications before submitting your application.

Additional Requirements

As part of your application you will also need to provide a viable research proposal. Guidance for writing a research proposal can be found on our writing a research proposal webpage.

English Language Requirements

We may ask you to provide a recognised English language qualification, dependent upon your nationality and where you have studied previously.

We normally require an IELTS (Academic) Test with an overall score of at least 6.5, and a minimum of 5.5 in each element of the test. We also consider other English language qualifications .

If your score is below our requirements, you may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English language programmes .

Contact: Admissions Team +44 (0) 1524 592032 or email [email protected]

Fees and funding

The tuition fee for students with home fee status is set in line with the standard fee stipend provided by the UK Research Councils. The fee stipend for 2024/25 has not been set. For reference, the fee stipend for 2023/24 was full-time £4,712.

The international fee for new entrants in 2024/25 is full-time £26,490.

Depending on the nature of the research project, an additional programme cost may be charged. This additional fee will contribute towards the costs incurred on specific research projects. These costs could include purchasing specialist consumables, equipment access charges, fieldwork expenses and payments for transcription/translation services. Normally any additional charge will not exceed a maximum of £9,720 but this could be increased in exceptional circumstances.

Applicants will be notified of any specific additional programme cost when the offer of a place is made.

General fees and funding information

There may be extra costs related to your course for items such as books, stationery, printing, photocopying, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits. Following graduation, you may need to pay a subscription to a professional body for some chosen careers.

Specific additional costs for studying at Lancaster are listed below.

College fees

Lancaster is proud to be one of only a handful of UK universities to have a collegiate system. Every student belongs to a college, and all students pay a small College Membership Fee  which supports the running of college events and activities. Students on some distance-learning courses are not liable to pay a college fee.

For students starting in 2023 and 2024, the fee is £40 for undergraduates and research students and £15 for students on one-year courses. Fees for students starting in 2025 have not yet been set.

Computer equipment and internet access

To support your studies, you will also require access to a computer, along with reliable internet access. You will be able to access a range of software and services from a Windows, Mac, Chromebook or Linux device. For certain degree programmes, you may need a specific device, or we may provide you with a laptop and appropriate software - details of which will be available on relevant programme pages. A dedicated  IT support helpdesk  is available in the event of any problems.

The University provides limited financial support to assist students who do not have the required IT equipment or broadband support in place.

For most taught postgraduate applications there is a non-refundable application fee of £40. We cannot consider applications until this fee has been paid, as advised on our online secure payment system. There is no application fee for postgraduate research applications.

For some of our courses you will need to pay a deposit to accept your offer and secure your place. We will let you know in your offer letter if a deposit is required and you will be given a deadline date when this is due to be paid.

The fee that you pay will depend on whether you are considered to be a home or international student. Read more about how we assign your  fee status .

If you are studying on a programme of more than one year’s duration, tuition fees are reviewed annually and are not fixed for the duration of your studies. Read more about  fees in subsequent years .

Scholarships and bursaries

You may be eligible for the following funding opportunities, depending on your fee status and course. You will be automatically considered for our main scholarships and bursaries when you apply, so there's nothing extra that you need to do.

Unfortunately no scholarships and bursaries match your selection, but there are more listed on scholarships and bursaries page.

If you're considering postgraduate research you should look at our funded PhD opportunities .

We also have other, more specialised scholarships and bursaries - such as those for students from specific countries.

Browse Lancaster University's scholarships and bursaries .

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Important Information

The information on this site relates primarily to 2024/2025 entry to the University and every effort has been taken to ensure the information is correct at the time of publication.

The University will use all reasonable effort to deliver the courses as described, but the University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses. In exceptional circumstances that are beyond the University’s reasonable control (Force Majeure Events), we may need to amend the programmes and provision advertised. In this event, the University will take reasonable steps to minimise the disruption to your studies. If a course is withdrawn or if there are any fundamental changes to your course, we will give you reasonable notice and you will be entitled to request that you are considered for an alternative course or withdraw your application. You are advised to revisit our website for up-to-date course information before you submit your application.

More information on limits to the University’s liability can be found in our legal information .

Our Students’ Charter

We believe in the importance of a strong and productive partnership between our students and staff. In order to ensure your time at Lancaster is a positive experience we have worked with the Students’ Union to articulate this relationship and the standards to which the University and its students aspire. View our Charter and other policies .

Why Lancaster?

League tables and reputation

A highly-ranked university with a global reputation.

Colleges and community

Your college will be your home away from home.

Careers and employability

Career support for our students through university and beyond.

Student life

Lancaster has so much to offer. On our campus, in our city and in our community, you’ll find your place – whoever you are.

Where is Lancaster?

Lancaster is easy to get to and surrounded by natural beauty.

The campus and the city

Our campus and the surrounding area is a great place to call home.

Your global experience

Build your global community on campus and around the world.

Wellbeing and support

Services to help you fulfil your potential at Lancaster.

Recommended pages

• Undergraduate open days
• Postgraduate open days
• Accommodation
• Information for teachers
• Maps and directions
• Sport and fitness

Join our Postgraduate Open Day - Saturday 22 June

Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences PhD/ MSc by Research

£4,778 FT (UK students) £21,360 FT (International Students) More detail

• Visit an Open Day
• Request a prospectus
• Course details
• Entry Requirements
• Employability

Our Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences PhD allows you to conduct research in one of the leading research departments in the country.

Research is an essential component of the School's activity.

We are one of the leading research departments in the country, as reflected by the 2014 Research Excellence Framework. With 90 percent of its research classified as world leading or internationally excellent our School is ranked in the top three for research in the sector.

Research is an essential component of the School's activity. Because of this, we believe that it is very important to invest in excellence in postgraduate training and research infrastructure, and to maintain an intellectually stimulating environment that supports high quality research.

The School is able to meet your aspirations by offering research degrees across a wide range of areas from exercise science to sport coaching. We have expertise in both the natural and social sciences, and we run programmes in collaboration with colleagues in the Medical School and Physiotherapy, and with professional groups such as the Professional Golfers’ Association. In this multidisciplinary environment, you can gain valuable academic and employability skills leading to a wide range of career outcomes. Supporting your personal employability aspirations is a key focus for all our postgraduate programmes. 

You can study for a PhD on campus or by Distance Learning .

Please see our website for full details of PhD opportunities  that are currently available.

Within the School there is a regular research seminar programme, in which expert speakers from other universities and institutions give talks on their own research. You also have opportunities to present your own research ideas and findings, and our postgraduates currently organise a seminar series to provide a forum for such presentations. You will also be encouraged to present your data at national and international conferences. In addition, each of our research groups runs internal seminars.

Like many others I was instantly sold on the University simply by the aesthetics of the campus. It just so happened that the course fit perfectly with what I wanted to learn, allowed me to gain work experience and has truly lived up to the reputation of the University. Jake Stanley

Why study this course?

The School is one of the leading research departments in the country, as reflected by the 2014 Research Excellence Framework, which ranked us in the UK top three for research.

We have a vibrant postgraduate community, with over 50 doctoral researchers currently registered. We provide a supportive environment, with plenty of opportunities for you to meet fellow researchers, both socially and to discuss and present your work.

As part of this, we aim to make ensure that you are as well prepared as possible from the start of your doctoral life. When you join us, you will attend an informal introduction to the School, which gives you the opportunity to meet our Director of Postgraduate Research and to learn your PhD. You will also elect your student representatives for the School consultative committee. Finally, welcome drinks will take place in the atrium; this starts with introductions to all members of the School and leads into the first social event of the year.

Support during your PhD

Training and skills development.

The School holds a number of introductory and welcome sessions for new doctoral researchers on School procedures, how to approach the PhD and teaching skills. As a doctoral researcher here you will have the opportunity to select from a wide range of skills training offered both within the School and by the University Graduate School. You participate in an annual development needs analysis and, as a result, have a structured training plan identifying which courses and activities will help you to meet these needs.

During your PhD you will have monthly review meetings with your supervisor as well as the opportunity to present you research plans and findings to other members of the school to receive feedback and advice.

Teaching Opportunities

Most postgraduate students will be invited to assist with undergraduate modules, by taking laboratory demonstrations, engaging in small group teaching (eg, seminars), and helping with assessment. Very occasionally, senior postgraduates may be invited to give a lecture. In all cases, you will be thoroughly prepared for the task.

Facilities and Equipment

The School in based in the largest custom-built Sport and Exercise facility in the UK, with state of the art research labs dedicated to exercise testing and sample analysis across the spectrum of sport and exercise sciences including: physiology, biochemistry, psychophysiology, biomechanics, sport psychology, motor skills, immunology, muscle mechanics and the neurophysiology of movement. In addition, the School uses a wide range of practical spaces for professional and vocational related research. View a full list of our laboratories .

The following list shows some of the equipment and techniques that we currently use in our research:

• State-of-the-art advanced statistical analyses suites
• 13-camera Vicon MX body motion analysis system  
• Multiple Kistler force platforms to measure ground reaction forces 
• Wired and telemetry electromyography systems 
• Mobile high speed eye tracker to monitor eye movements 
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation n Functional magnetic resonance imaging 
• Programmable motorised isokinetic dynamometer 
• Oxycon-Pro indirect calorimeters 
• Treadmills and large video screens for time trial simulation
• Cybex resistance exercise training 
• Environmental chamber to investigate fuel and fluid supply at non-ambient temperatures in relation to performance 
• Oscillometric and continuous arterial blood and venous pressure 
• Electrocardiography, 128-channel electroencephalography, impedance cardiography and limb blood flow 
• Full blood count, whole blood viscosity, colloid osmotic pressure, coagulation 
• Cell-separation and blood differential, immunochemical assessment, cell and tissue culturing, and sterilisation 
• Cardiac, vascular and transcranial Doppler ultrasound circulation imaging 
• Laser Doppler flowmetry for skin perfusion and strain gauge plethysmography for limb blood flow 
• Respiratory function using mechanical hyperventilation 
• Lode cycle ergometers

Standard fees apply - This course is in Fee Band 2a  for International Students

Fees for 2024/25

Code 575A: UK students: £4,778 FT Code 577A: UK students: £2,389 PT Code 575A: International students: £22,380 FT

Code 613B: UK students: £4,712 FT MSc Code 613B: International students: £22,380 FT MSc

Learn more about  fees and funding .   

Are you an international applicant?

Find out more about the deposit >> .

Scholarships and studentships

Scholarships may be available. International students can often gain funding through overseas research scholarships, Commonwealth scholarships or their home government. 

Find out about scholarships for intenational students.

Exercise as Medicine studenships Please note that the deadline for applying for these studentships has now passed.

How To Apply

• How to apply

To apply for a postgraduate research programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online. We have put together some helpful information on the research programme application process and supporting documents on our how to apply page . Please read this information carefully before completing your application.

Our Standard Requirements

Entrance to the PhD requires at least an upper-second class degree, while MPhil registration requires a relevant first degree and evidence of ability to undertake research.

Find our more about postgraduate entry requirements.

International Requirements

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 14/20 from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Argentinian university, with a promedio of at least 7.5, may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent

Applicants who hold a Masters degree will be considered for admission to PhD study.

Holders of a good four-year Diplomstudium/Magister or a Masters degree from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5 will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a good 5-year Specialist Diploma or 4-year Bachelor degree from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan, with a minimum GPA of 4/5 or 80% will be considered for entry to postgraduate taught programmes at the University of Birmingham.

For postgraduate research programmes applicants should have a good 5-year Specialist Diploma (completed after 1991), with a minimum grade point average of 4/5 or 80%, from a recognised higher education institution or a Masters or “Magistr Diplomu” or “Kandidat Nauk” from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 75% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a CGPA of 3.0-3.3/4.0 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students who hold a Masters degree from the University of Botswana with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (70%/B/'very good') will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Please note 4-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a Diploma of Higher Education. 5-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a British Bachelor (Ordinary) degree.

Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

A Licenciatura or Bacharelado degree from a recognised Brazilian university:

• A grade of 7.5/10 for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement
• A grade of 6.5/10for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement

Holders of a good Bachelors degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good post-2001 Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a minimum average of 14 out of 20 (or 70%) on a 4-year Licence, Bachelor degree or Diplôme d'Etudes Superieures de Commerce (DESC) or Diplôme d'Ingénieur or a Maîtrise will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Holders of a bachelor degree with honours from a recognised Canadian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A GPA of 3.0/4, 7.0/9 or 75% is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1.

Holders of the Licenciado or equivalent Professional Title from a recognised Chilean university will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD study will preferably hold a Magister degree or equivalent.

Students with a bachelor’s degree (4 years minimum) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. However please note that we will only consider students who meet the entry guidance below.  Please note: for the subject areas below we use the Shanghai Ranking 2022 (full table)  ,  Shanghai Ranking 2023 (full table) , and Shanghai Ranking of Chinese Art Universities 2023 .

需要具备学士学位（4年制）的申请人可申请研究生课程。请根据所申请的课程查看相应的入学要求。 请注意，中国院校名单参考 软科中国大学排名2022（总榜） ，  软科中国大学排名2023（总榜） ，以及 软科中国艺术类高校名单2023 。  

Business School    - MSc programmes (excluding MBA)  

商学院硕士课程（MBA除外）入学要求

School of Computer Science – all MSc programmes 计算机学院硕士课程入学要求

College of Social Sciences – courses listed below 社会科学 学院部分硕士课程入学要求 MA Education  (including all pathways) MSc TESOL Education MSc Public Management MA Global Public Policy MA Social Policy MA Sociology Department of Political Science and International Studies  全部硕士课程 International Development Department  全部硕士课程

  All other programmes (including MBA)   所有其他 硕士课程（包括 MBA）入学要求

Please note:

• Borderline cases: We may consider students with lower average score (within 5%) on a case-by-case basis if you have a relevant degree and very excellent grades in relevant subjects and/or relevant work experience. 如申请人均分低于相应录取要求（5%以内），但具有出色学术背景，优异的专业成绩，以及（或）相关的工作经验，部分课程将有可能单独酌情考虑。
• Please contact the China Recruitment Team for any questions on the above entry requirements. 如果您对录取要求有疑问，请联系伯明翰大学中国办公室   [email protected]

Holders of the Licenciado/Professional Title from a recognised Colombian university will be considered for our Postgraduate Diploma and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent.

Holders of a good bachelor degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Bacclaureus (Bachelors) from a recognised Croatian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 out of 5.0, vrlo dobar ‘very good’, or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree(from the University of the West Indies or the University of Technology) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A Class II Upper Division degree is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1. For further details on particular institutions please refer to the list below.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Masters degree or Mphil from the University of the West Indies.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10, or a GPA of 3 out of 4, and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bakalár from a recognised Czech Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, velmi dobre ‘very good’ (post-2004) or 2, velmi dobre ‘good’ (pre-2004), or a good post-2002 Magistr (Masters), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum overall grade of 7-10 out of 12 (or 8 out of 13) or higher for 2:1 equivalence and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters/ Magisterkonfereus/Magister Artium degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Ecuadorian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 70% or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Magister/Masterado or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Licenciado with excellent grades can be considered.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 75% from a recognised institution. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bakalaurusekraad from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 4/5 or B, or a good one- or two-year Magistrikraad from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with very good grades (grade B, 3.5/4 GPA or 85%) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

Holders of a good Kandidaatti / Kandidat (old system), a professional title such as Ekonomi, Diplomi-insinööri, Arkkitehti, Lisensiaatti (in Medicine, Dentistry and Vetinary Medicine), or a Maisteri / Magister (new system), Lisensiaatti / Licenciat, Oikeustieteen Kandidaatti / Juris Kandidat (new system) or Proviisori / Provisor from a recognised Finnish Higher Education institution, with a minimum overall grade of 2/3 or 4/5, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters/Maîtrise with a minimum overall grade of 13 out of 20, or a Magistère / Diplôme d'Etudes Approfondies / Diplôme d'Etudes Supérieures Specialisées / Mastère Specialis, from a recognised French university or Grande École to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Magister Artium, a Diplom or an Erstes Staatsexamen from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5, or a good two-year Lizentiat / Aufbaustudium / Zweites Staatsexamen or a Masters degree from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good four-year Ptychio (Bachelor degree) with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10, from a recognised Greek university (AEI), and will usually be required to have completed a good Metaptychiako Diploma Eidikefsis (Masters degree) from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

4-year Licenciado is deemed equivalent to a UK bachelors degree. A score of 75 or higher from Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala (USAC) can be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 60 is comparable to a UK 2.2.  Private universities have a higher pass mark, so 80 or higher should be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 70 is comparable to a UK 2.2

The Hong Kong Bachelor degree is considered comparable to British Bachelor degree standard. Students with bachelor degrees awarded by universities in Hong Kong may be considered for entry to one of our postgraduate degree programmes.

Students with Masters degrees may be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Alapfokozat / Alapképzés or Egyetemi Oklevel from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 3.5, or a good Mesterfokozat (Masters degree) or Egyetemi Doktor (university doctorate), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a 60% or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the 4 year Sarjana (S1) from a recognised Indonesian institution will be considered for postgraduate study. Entry requirements vary with a minimum requirement of a GPA of 2.8.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a score of 14/20 or 70% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution, with 100 out of 110 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students who hold the Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies, Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Students with a Bachelor degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for entry to a postgraduate Masters degree provided they achieve a sufficiently high overall score in their first (Bachelor) degree. A GPA of 3.0/4.0 or a B average from a good Japanese university is usually considered equivalent to a UK 2:1.

Students with a Masters degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for PhD study. A high overall grade will be necessary to be considered.

Students who have completed their Specialist Diploma Мамаң дипломы/Диплом специалиста) or "Magistr" (Магистр дипломы/Диплом магистра) degree (completed after 1991) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of 2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate Masters degrees and, occasionally, directly for PhD degrees.  Holders of a Bachelor "Bakalavr" degree (Бакалавр дипломы/Диплом бакалавра) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of  2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, may also be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/50

Holders of a good Postgraduate Diploma (professional programme) from a recognised university or institution of Higher Education, with a minimum overall grade of 7.5 out of 10, or a post-2000 Magistrs, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a score of 16/20 or 80% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Libya will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 70% for 2:1 equivalency or 65% for 2:2 equivalency. Alternatively students will require a minimum of 3.0/4.0 or BB to be considered.

Holders of a good pre-2001 Magistras from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10, or a good post-2001 Magistras, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, or a Diplôme d'Études Supérieures Spécialisées (comparable to a UK PGDip) or Masters degree from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (70-74% or A or Marginal Distinction from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 60-69% or B or Bare Distinction/Credit is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Malaysian institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum of 3.0) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from the University of Malta with a minimum grade of 2:1 (Hons), and/or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (Honours) from a recognised institution (including the University of Mauritius) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2:1).

Students who hold the Licenciado/Professional Titulo from a recognised Mexican university with a promedio of at least 8 will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Students who have completed a Maestria from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree, licence or Maîtrise and a Masters degree, with a score of 14/20 or 70% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students with a good four year honours degree from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. PhD applications will be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 60-74% or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Doctoraal from a recognised Dutch university with a minimum overall grade of 7 out of 10, and/or a good Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (minimum 4 years and/or level 400) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of B/Very Good or 1.6-2.5 for a 2.1 equivalency, and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters, Mastergrad, Magister. Artium, Sivilingeniør, Candidatus realium or Candidatus philologiae degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a CGPA of 3.0/4 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in the Palestinian Territories will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3/4 or 80% for 2:1 equivalency or a GPA of 2.5/4 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.    

Holders of the Título de Licenciado /Título de (4-6 years) or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Paraguayan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 4/5 or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  The Título Intermedio is a 2-3 year degree and is equivalent to a HNC, it is not suitable for postgraduate entry but holders of this award could be considered for second year undergraduate entry or pre-Masters.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría / Magister or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Título/Grado de Licenciado/a with excellent grades can be considered.

Holders of the Licenciado, with at least 13/20 may be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent. The Grado de Bachiller is equivalent to an ordinary degree, so grades of 15+/20 are required.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría or equivalent qualification.

Holders of a good pre-2001 Magister from a recognised Polish university with a minimum overall grade of 4 out of 5, dobry ‘good’, and/or a good Swiadectwo Ukonczenia Studiów Podyplomowych (Certificate of Postgraduate Study) or post-2001 Magister from a recognised Polish university with a minimum overall grade of 4.5/4+ out of 5, dobry plus 'better than good', will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Licenciado from a recognised university, or a Diploma de Estudos Superiores Especializados (DESE) from a recognised Polytechnic Institution, with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, and/or a good Mestrado / Mestre (Masters) from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Romanian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10, and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree/Diploma de Master/Diploma de Studii Academice Postuniversitare (Postgraduate Diploma - Academic Studies) or Diploma de Studii Postuniversitare de Specializare (Postgraduate Diploma - Specialised Studies) to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Диплом Специалиста (Specialist Diploma) or Диплом Магистра (Magistr) degree from recognised universities in Russia (minimum GPA of 4.0) will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes/PhD study.

Students who hold a 4-year Bachelor degree with at least 16/20 or 70% will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Students who hold a Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies,Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. A score of 14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2

Students who hold a Bachelor (Honours) degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (or a score of 60-69% or B+) from a well ranked institution will be considered for most our Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees with a 2:1 requirement.

Students holding a good Bachelors Honours degree will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good three-year Bakalár or pre-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, Vel’mi dobrý ‘very good’, and/or a good Inžinier or a post-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Diploma o pridobljeni univerzitetni izobrazbi (Bachelors degree), Diplomant (Professionally oriented first degree), Univerzitetni diplomant (Academically oriented first degree) or Visoko Obrazovanja (until 1999) from a recognised Slovenian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8.0 out of 10, and/or a good Diploma specializacija (Postgraduate Diploma) or Magister (Masters) will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor Honours degree (also known as Baccalaureus Honores / Baccalaureus Cum Honoribus) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (70%) or a distinction (75%).

Holders of a Masters degree will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelor degree from a recognised South Korean institution (usually with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average 3.0/4.0 or 3.2/4.5) will be considered for Masters programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 7 out of 10 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 60-74% or a CGPA 3.30/4.0 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Kandidatexamen (Bachelors degree) or Yrkesexamen (Professional Bachelors degree) from a recognised Swedish Higher Education institution with the majority of subjects with a grade of VG (Val godkänd), and/or a good Magisterexamen (Masters degree), International Masters degree or Licentiatexamen (comparable to a UK Mphil), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good "PostGraduate Certificate" or "PostGraduate Diploma" or a Masters degree from a recognised Swiss higher education institution (with a minimum GPA of 5/6 or 8/10 or 2/5 (gut-bien-bene/good) for a 2.1 equivalence) may be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0, 3.5/5 or 75% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bachelor degree (from 75% to 85% depending upon the university in Taiwan) from a recognised institution will be considered for postgraduate Masters study. Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for entry to our postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree or Mphil from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a Bachelors degree from the following universities may be considered for entry to postgraduate programmes:

• Ateneo de Manila University - Quezon City
• De La Salle University - Manila
• University of Santo Tomas
• University of the Philippines - Diliman

Students from all other institutions with a Bachelors and a Masters degree or relevant work experience may be considered for postgraduate programmes.

Grading Schemes

1-5 where 1 is the highest 2.1 = 1.75 2.2 = 2.25 

Out of 4.0 where 4 is the highest 2.1 = 3.0 2.2 = 2.5

Letter grades and percentages 2.1 = B / 3.00 / 83% 2.2 = C+ / 2.5 / 77%

Holders of a postdoctoral qualification from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.  Students may be considered for PhD study if they have a Masters from one of the above listed universities.

Holders of a Lisans Diplomasi with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0/4.0 from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a Yuksek Diplomasi from a recognised university will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (2.1) or GPA of 3.5/5.0

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree / Диплом бакалавра (Dyplom Bakalavra), Диплом спеціаліста (Specialist Diploma) or a Dyplom Magistra from a recognised Ukrainian higher education institution with a minimum GPA of 4.0/5.0, 3.5/4, 8/12 or 80% or higher for 2:1 equivalence and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

The University will consider students who hold an Honours degree from a recognised institution in the USA with a GPA of:

• 2.8 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement 
• 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement 

Please note that some subjects which are studied at postgraduate level in the USA, eg. Medicine and Law, are traditionally studied at undergraduate level in the UK.

Holders of the Magistr Diplomi (Master's degree) or Diplomi (Specialist Diploma), awarded by prestigious universities, who have attained high grades in their studies will be considered for postgraduate study.  Holders of the Fanlari Nomzodi (Candidate of Science), where appropriate, will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of the Licenciatura/Título or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Venezuelan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Scales of 1-5, 1-10 and 1-20 are used, an overall score of 70% or equivalent can be considered equivalent to a UK 2.1.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Maestria or equivalent qualification

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Vietnamese institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum GPA of 7.0 and above) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.  Holders of a Masters degree (thac si) will be considered for entry to PhD programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5/5.0 or a mark of 2.0/2.5 (A) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Students who hold a good Bachelor Honours degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

International Students

English language requirements You can satisfy our English language requirements in two ways: by holding an English language qualification to the right level by taking and successfully completing one of our English courses for international students

Standard English language requirements  apply (IELTS: 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in any band).

The School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences conducts world leading research in the sciences of sport, exercise, health and rehabilitation. The mission of the School is to address one of society’s most pressing needs: increasing the quantity and quality of engagement in physical activity to enhance health and wellbeing. The School was ranked joint first in the UK for its research quality in the last research assessment exercise (RAE 2008).

The work of the School is driven by outstanding research in its core disciplines spanning the natural and social sciences. Examples include: exercise physiology, sport and exercise psychology, sport pedagogy (coaching and teaching), motor control, sport policy and management; behavioural medicine, and areas relating to sport performance. In addition, collaboration across disciplines allows the School to develop multi-disciplinary and interdisciplinary research around five major research themes: 

• Active Lifestyles 
• Effective Learning 
• Maximal Performance 
• Movement Rehabilitation 
• Healthy Ageing

More information on these research themes can be found on our website. 

Your time as a postgraduate student should be challenging, stimulating and enjoyable. It is a time for developing your capacity for independent research, for making new friends, and for attaining the research achievements upon which to build a successful career. To achieve that you will work within research group and take part in research and learning activities.

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Ph.D. in Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Science Concentration in Exercise Science

The Ph.D. in Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Science with a Concentration in Exercise Science is focused on training students to prepare for research and teaching careers related to exercise and sports sciences. During the training period students are encouraged to be engaged in academic and professional activities including teaching undergraduate classes, assisting with and conducting research projects, publishing in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at both regional and national conferences. All PhD students complete dissertation projects, which are developed in consultation with knowledgeable faculty sponsors and are expected to yield publishable results.

Exercise Science Home

Faculty & staff.

• Exercise Physiology Laboratory

Office of Graduate Studies

What can you do with a The Ph.D. in Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Science with a Concentration in Exercise Science ?

• Faculty appointment - students are prepared to teach, conduct research, run a laboratory, and serve as a university professor in Exercise Science
• Research appointment - students will gain experience and skills for research-focused jobs in applied and basic science (i.e., research fellows or postdoctoral positions)

You should also know...

• This program has a 100% placement rate for graduates seeking a junior faculty appointment
• The Exercise Science Program is equipped with a wide range of research tools which includes an underwater weighing tank, a hyper/hypobaric altitude chamber, a heat chamber, biochemistry laboratory, cell culture equipment and much more.

What it's like being a The Ph.D. in Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Science with a Concentration in Exercise Science student

"The UNM Ph.D. in Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Science with a Concentration in Exercise Science  program at UNM provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the professional setting as well as advanced academics. The professors are extremely welcoming and awesome mentors who truly care for each student’s wellbeing and success." Desmond Millender

“The UNM Exercise Science PhD program has allowed me to gain a deep appreciation for how exercise improves virtually every system in the human body. The program creates a balance between exercise biochemistry, practical/field research, environmental physiology, and more; allowing students to choose which drives their passion in Exercise Science most. This program encourages collaboration, teamwork, and growth intellectually and as a person.” Gabriella Bellissimo

“The exercise science program at UNM has helped me grow into a well-rounded academic. Specifically, the faculty have helped me hone my abilities to ask clear and meaningful research questions. In addition, the facilities and faculty expertise have given me the necessary tools to answer my research questions. Finally, the wide variety of experiences I’ve had in the program have enabled me to teach a wide variety of courses in the field of exercise science.” Zachary McKenna

Program and Application Information

• UNM Graduate School Application.
• Letter of Intent.
• Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate level coursework.
• Satisfactory grades (C or better) in all prerequisite undergraduate coursework.
• Three letters of recommendation.
• Current professional resume or vita.

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Sport and exercise science PhD

• Sport and leisure cultures PhD
• Tourism and hospitality PhD

We welcome students to the University of Brighton to study Sport and exercise science PhD based in specialist laboratories with expert supervision and a supportive research community.

We offer PhD study in both full and part-time modes and welcome students with significant professional experience, who are able to use and share the career skills they have developed, as well as those who have recently completed first degrees and wish to take advantage of their academic momentum.

Our specialist laboratories provide facilities where supervision by experienced experts will structure and develop your project in one of our specialist areas: Environmental Extremes, Exercise for Health and Well-being, Expertise and Cognitive Neuroscience, Fatigue and Exercise, Genomics. 

Our international level of research excellence influences policy and engages communities. We hope that through our research and innovation, communities are inspired and supported to engage in safe and effective exercise for better health, wellbeing and performance.

Much of our work has real-world application and staff are well-connected to a variety of sporting and health organisations such as the Great Britain Paralympic team (Dr Gary Brickley and Professor Nick Webborn), GB swimming and the English Institute of Sport (Dr Jeanne Dekerle), World Anti-Doping Association (WADA; Professor Yannis Pitsiladis and Professor Nick Webborn), International Olympic Committee (IOC; Professor Yannis Pitsiladis), the International Sports Medicine Federation (FIMS; Professor Yannis Pitsiladis), the fire service (Dr Alan Richardson), fall prevention and cardiac rehabilitation programmes (Dr Louisa Beale), and industrial partners such as Bodychillz Ltd and Crossbridge Scientific Ltd (Dr Neil Maxwell).

Many of our graduates continue in academia, becoming lecturers or post-doctoral researchers. Other jobs include physiologist at the English Institute of Sport (EIS) and clinical physiologists.

Apply to 'sport, service Management & tourism' in the portal

Key information

Our sport and exercise laboratories are all accredited by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) and include:

• A molecular genetics laboratory with biobanking;
• Two human physiology laboratories (immunology, endocrinology, haematology, biochemistry);
• A biomechanics laboratory with motion analysis equipment, various EMG systems and an immersive screen;
• Two exercise physiology laboratories where aerobic/anaerobic endurance, power and strength assessments as well as body composition, cardiac and pulmonary screening can be carried out;
• An environmental laboratory with purpose-built environment chamber where we can simulate different climates by controlling the temperature (-20 to +50°C) and relative humidity (20 to 95 per cent), and a 1.13m x 1.13m x 1.5m water immersion tank;
• A research-based laboratory with an hypoxic chamber measuring 35.84 m3 (3.2m x 4m x 2.8 m) can decrease the fractional concentration of inspired oxygen from 20.93% (normoxic) to 11% enabling the simulation of altitudes up to an equivalent of ~5000m.

As a Sport and Exercise Science PhD student at Brighton you will benefit from:

• a supervisory team comprising two or sometimes three members of academic staff. Depending on your research specialism you may also have an additional supervisor from another School, another research institution, or an external partner from government or industry.  
• desk space and access to a computer in a space specifically designed for research students. There are a range of facilities on the Eastbourne campus including various catering options.
• access to a range of electronic resources via the university’s Online Library, as well as to the physical book and journal collections housed within the Queenwood Library and other campus libraries.

Academic environment

It is today well accepted that exercise is beneficial to physical health, mental health, and well-being. The fitness industry is booming in the UK and exercise-based programmes such as cardiac rehabilitation or fall prevention programmes are spreading across the Nation. Olympic Games every four years inspire all generations to engage in sport, with more and more sport scientists involved with athlete’s or team’s preparation.

In this context, if you join our research team as a postgraduate research student, you will join us to address the challenge of happier, healthier and fitter living, using exercise as a critical vehicle. As a Sport and Exercise Science PhD student you will be based in the School of Sport and Health Sciences, the sports department of which operates from our Eastbourne campus. You are likely to be a member of one of our Research and Enterprise Groups:

Sport and Leisure Cultures Research and Enterprise Group

Sport and Exercise Science and Sports Medicine Research and Enterprise Group .

Our school has a dynamic and vibrant research community of around 20 part-time and full-time PhD students in Sport and Exercise Science. PhD students form an integral part of our school and take an active role in a range of intellectual and social activities.

Our postgraduate research students value what may be seen as a small-size PhD provision: each student receives personal attention and guidance throughout their doctoral study. The close mentorship process forms the foundations of a successful research degree, and subsequent career. Our PhD students rapidly become members of our academic team with various opportunities to contribute to the life of our department: consultancy projects, world-leading collaborative research, seminars, journal clubs, engagement within our community, teaching, etc.

Our community of PhD students also has a vibrant social life through which our postgraduate research students build life-long relationships. The Brighton Doctoral College offers a training programme for postgraduate researchers, covering research methods and transferable (including employability) skills. Academic and technical staff also provide more subject-specific training.

Our specialist sport and exercise science laboratories:

Environmental Extremes Laboratory (Lead: Dr Neil Maxwell)

Our internationally renowned research addresses the challenges of environmental extremes on human health and function. We develop and evaluate interventions using basic and applied scientific methodologies to influence health, occupational activity and human performance practice and policy. Individuals with and without disease (e.g. elderly, breast cancer survivors, type 2 diabetics) engaging with physical activity are informed from our research how to embark in safe and effective exercise in environmental extremes and reduce the risk of illness. Occupationally, we work with fire instructors and have conducted product testing to support industry. We investigate how to optimise sporting performance in environmental extremes.

Exercise for Health and Well-being Laboratory (Lead: Associate Professor Peter Watt)

The research within this lab encompasses a range of methods and applications, from cell and molecular approaches to whole body measures and application. At the cellular level we are particularly interested in stem cell responses to exercise and application to health and injury recovery. The group has also experience and opportunities for research into lifestyle modifications such as exercise and nutritional interventions in special populations (e.g. elderly; sedentary; physically disabled, heart conditions or overweight).

Aim of interventions may be either to reduce health risks in these populations or to optimise health and assist performance and recovery, with some work conducted with paralympians more specifically.

Some recent work has focussed on tendinopathies; cardiac damage and marathon running; mindfulness eating, eating disorders and exercise; acute and chronic effects of exercise on metabolism and health.

Expertise and Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory (ExCeL) (Lead: Dr Nick Smeeton)

Researchers within ExCeL examine human performance and learning, motor behaviour and its sub-areas of skill acquisition and expert performance, cognitive and behavioural neuroscience, and psychophysiology. Current research projects investigate cognition in gait and locomotion; sensory processing in exercise, the development and improvement of expert performance; and practice, training and acquisition/learning. They conduct this work across a range of domains, including sport and exercise; education; and medical.

Fatigue and Exercise Laboratory (Lead: Dr Jeanne Dekerle)

We are specifically interested in the mechanisms of fatigue during exercise and want to understand better the physiological and behavioural limitations to exercise. Our findings give exercise scientists, clinicians or other practitioners evidence for the development of robust science-based interventions such as effective training programmes or ergogenic aids. These may be to enhance human exercise tolerance or more broadly to improve overall physical fitness.

Our group also seeks to explore the relationship between physical exercise, psychophysiological stress and well-being. We see physical exercise as a potent stressor to human homeostasis for long-lasting beneficial effects on human health. More specifically, we want to understand better how exercise can treat chronic physiological dysfunctions in some populations (chronic fatigue, mental health, musculoskeletal conditions).

Our work finds impact in the areas of health, sport and wellbeing.

Genomics laboratory (Lead: Professor Yannis Pitsiladis)

Our laboratory is set up to apply systems biology approaches to anti-doping research (with particular reference to the detection of recombinant human erythropoietin, blood doping and testosterone) and to the field of sport and exercise science and medicine in general. Other active projects include the Sub2 marathon project and the Athlome Project , with the aim to promote clean, high performance marathon running, and to characterise the genomic/transcriptomic/proteomic landscape of human performance in both health and disease. Our recent research is funded by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Some of our supervisors

Dr louisa beale.

I have supervised/am supervising PhDs in the following areas:-

• Exercise cardiology
• Detraining and muscle function
• Heat sensitivity in breast cancer survivors
• High intensity interval training
• Women’s decisions to exercise in pregnancy

Dr Jeanne Dekerle

I have supervised five PhD students to completion, and I am currently supervising another five PhD students. I have also been looking after the wider community of PhD students for four years (2017-21) when I was the ‘Postgraduate Research Coordinator’ for my school. I therefore understand very well PhD processes, the main milestones of a PhD journey, and the specific professional and personal development needs PhD students have. I offer strong support to my students and love working with them. Students joining the Fatigue and Exercise research lab benefit from peer support with regular meetings to discuss science, bespoke research projects, or recent publications in our field, in addition to the entitled PhD supervision support.

If you are interested in the following areas, do not hesitate to contact me:

• Exercise intensity domains, anaerobic capacity, and neuromuscular fatigue
• Perceptions (particularly fatigue and effort) and exercise tolerance / behaviour
• The interaction between physical training and both perceptual and neuromuscular fatigue
• Multiple sclerosis, long-covid, myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)

Dr Anastasiya Khomutova

My research and supervisory interests cover Sport and Exercise Psychology, with particular focus on cultural sport psychology (immigrated athletes and coaches, culturally diverse sport teams, acculturation and adaptation in a new environment), as well as athletes' well-being (safeguarding, coach-athlete relationship). I currently lead an international research project on behalf of FEPSAC, which investigates career trajectories of sport psychology graduates in Europe.

Dr Neil Maxwell

Dr Neil Maxwell has a strong history of supporting PhD students in the Environmental Extremes Lab and he sees the research students as integral to the lab's vision and success moving forward. 

His priority is for new PhD students to align to the existing research themes, but he is open to new ideas and lines of research enquiry. For information from the Doctoral College on the PhD programme, details of our graduates and supervisors and the application process itself, please follow the link here.

Within the Environmental Extremes Lab, Neil helps to ensure the research students have the opportunity to:

• work within dynamic and supportive research teams, often that includes collaboration with external partners
• present and participate in seminars (NB. One of our more experienced PhD students leads the seminar programme)
• receive funding to cover the cost of presenting at one national and one international conference during their PhD registration
• contribute to the environmental extremes taught modules within the undergraduate and postgraduate degrees
• take part in meetings, activities and events that link to the public, communities and, or industry
• join research funding bid teams to develop skills on sourcing external grants
• be part of a vibrant research student community that is very supportive, works hard, but has fun as well!

Look at the career map that shows our PhD students' career destinations, many of whom Neil supervised.

Dr Alan Richardson

At present i am currently looking to help supervise students interested in the following projects:

• Remote monitoring of recovery from critical illness rehabilitation.
• Exercise and physical activity for prehabilitation
• Real time health and performance evaluation of athletes during mass participation endurance activities. 
• Evaluating the consequence of exposure loads for occupational and health based applications.

Dr Nicholas Smeeton

Nick supervises PhD students in the area of motor control, experimental psychology and cognitive and motor neuroscience. He is happy to be contacted to discuss potential projects on clinical exercise science, rehabilitation and sports and expert performance. There would be particular benefit to potential PhD students if their proposed programme of research fitted Dr Smeeton’s research interests.

For further supervisory staff including cross-disciplinary options, please visit research staff on our research website.

Making an application

You will apply to the University of Brighton through our online application portal. When you do, you will require a research proposal, references, a personal statement and a record of your education.

You will be asked whether you have discussed your research proposal and your suitability for doctoral study with a member of the University of Brighton staff. We recommend that all applications are made with the collaboration of at least one potential supervisor. Approaches to potential supervisors can be made directly through the details available online. If you are unsure, please do contact the Doctoral College for advice.

Please visit our How to apply for a PhD page for detailed information.

Sign in to our online application portal to begin.

Fees and funding

 Funding

Undertaking research study will require university fees as well as support for your research activities and plans for subsistence during full or part-time study.

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Tuition fees academic year 2024–25

Standard fees are listed below, but may vary depending on subject area. Some subject areas may charge bench fees/consumables; this will be decided as part of any offer made. Fees for UK and international/EU students on full-time and part-time courses are likely to incur a small inflation rise each year of a research programme.

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Researchers at Stanford Medicine and their colleagues conducted nearly 10,000 measurements in nearly 20 types of tissues, learning about the effects of exercise on the immune system, stress response, energy production and metabolism. Alan Poulson Photography/Shutterstock.com

Exercise. It’s associated with increased muscle strength, improved heart health, lower blood sugar and just about every other physical improvement you can name. But how does regularly puffing away on a treadmill, biking up a steep hill or going for a brisk lunchtime walk confer such a dizzying array of health benefits?

We’re now closer to finding out, thanks to a vast new study led by Stanford Medicine. Researchers conducted nearly 10,000 measurements in nearly 20 types of tissues to uncover the effect of eight weeks of endurance exercise in laboratory rats trained to run on rodent-sized treadmills.

Their results highlight striking effects of exercise on the immune system, stress response, energy production and metabolism. They uncovered significant links between exercise, molecules and genes already known to be involved in myriad human diseases and tissue recovery.

The study is one of a series of papers published May 1 by members of a multicenter research group meant to lay the groundwork for understanding — on a bodywide, molecular level — exactly how our tissues and cells react when we push them to perform.

“We all know exercise is beneficial for us,” said professor of pathology Stephen Montgomery , PhD. “But we don’t know much about the molecular signals that manifest across the body when people exercise, or how they may change when people train. Our study is the first to take a holistic, bodywide look at molecular changes, from proteins to genes to metabolites to fats and energy production. It’s the broadest profiling yet of the effects of exercise, and it creates an essential map to how it changes the body.”

Montgomery, who is also a professor of genetics and of biomedical data science, is a senior author of the  paper , which published on May 1 in  Nature . Other senior authors are  Michael Snyder , PhD, the Stanford W. Ascherman, MD, FACS Professor in Genetics, and associate professor of medicine  Matthew Wheeler , MD. First authors are former genetics PhD student Nicole Gay, PhD; former postdoctoral scholar David Amar, PhD; and Pierre Jean Beltran, PhD, a former postdoctoral scholar at the Broad Institute.

Additional papers by Stanford Medicine researchers include a related published report in  Nature Communications  investigating the effect of exercise-induced changes in genes and tissues known to be involved in disease risk as well as a  paper published on May 2 in  Cell Metabolism , which focuses on the effects of exercise on the cellular energy factors called mitochondria in various tissues. Montgomery is the senior author of the  Nature Communications paper and postdoctoral scholar  Nikolai Vetr , PhD, is its lead author. Instructor of cardiovascular medicine  Malene Lindholm , PhD, is the senior author of the  Cell Metabolism paper, and Amar is the lead author.

Stephen Montgomery

“These papers further highlight the multiple impacts exercise training has on metabolism and health,” Montgomery said.

A coordinated look at exercise

The researchers involved in the study and the other simultaneous publications are part of a national group called the Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity Consortium, or MoTrPAC, organized by the National Institutes of Health. The effort was launched in 2015 to investigate in detail exactly how physical exercise improves health and prevents disease.

The Stanford Medicine team took on a lot of the heavy lifting, studying the effects of eight weeks of endurance training on gene expression (the transcriptome), proteins (the proteome), fats (the lipidome), metabolites (the metabolome), the pattern of chemical tags placed on DNA (the epigenome), the immune system (the…you get the idea).

Let’s just call it the sweat-ome.

They performed 9,466 analyses on multiple tissues in rats as the animals were trained to run increasing distances and compared the results with those of rats that loafed about in their cages. They paid special attention to the muscles of the leg, the heart, the liver, the kidney and a type of fat called white adipose tissue (the kind of fat that accumulates as pounds pile on); other tissues included the lungs, brain and brown adipose tissue (a more metabolically active type of fat that helps burn calories). The combination of multiple assays — think of all those -omes! — and tissue types pumped out results numbering in the hundreds of thousands for non-epigenetic changes to more than 2 million distinct changes in the epigenome. The results will keep scientists hopping for years.

Although this study served primarily to create a database for future analysis, some interesting nuggets vaulted to the top. First, they noted that the expression of 22 genes changed with exercise in all six of the tissues they focused on. Many of these genes were involved in what are known as heat shock pathways, which stabilize the structure of proteins when cells undergo stress including changes in temperature (feel that burn?), infection or tissue remodeling (hello new muscle fibers!). Others have been implicated in pathways that reduce blood pressure and increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin, which lowers blood sugar levels.

The researchers also noted that the expression of several genes involved in Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obesity and kidney disease was reduced in exercising rats as compared with their sedentary counterparts — a clear link between their studies and human health.

Sex differences

Finally, they identified sex differences in how multiple tissues in male and female rats responded to exercise. Male rats lost about 5% of their body fat after eight weeks of exercise while female rats didn’t lose a significant amount. (They did, however, maintain their starting fat percentage while the sedentary females packed on an additional 4% of body fat during the study period.) But the largest difference was observed in gene expression in the rats’ adrenal glands. After one week, genes associated with the generation of steroid hormones like adrenaline and with energy production increased in male rats but decreased in female rats.

Despite these early, tantalizing associations, the researchers caution that exercise science is nowhere near the finish line. It’s more like the starting gun has just fired. But the future is exciting.

“In the long term, it’s unlikely we will find any one magic intervention that reproduces what exercise can do for a person,” Montgomery said. “But we might get closer to the idea of precision exercise — tailoring recommendations based on a person’s genetics, sex, age or other health conditions to generate beneficial whole-body responses.”

A full list of researchers and institutions involved in the study can be found online.

The MoTrPAC study is supported by the National Institutes of Health (grants U24OD026629, U24DK112349, U24DK112342, U24DK112340, U24DK112341, U24DK112326, 612 U24DK112331, U24DK112348, U01AR071133, U01AR071130, 613 U01AR071124, U01AR071128, U01AR071150, U01AR071160, U01AR071158, U24AR071113, U01AG055133, U01AG055137, 615 U01AG055135, 5T32HG000044, P30AG044271 and P30AG003319), the National Science Foundation, and the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation.

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• Krista Conger Tel 650-725-5371 [email protected]

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What it Takes to Excel in Exercise and Sport Science

Dec 7, 2021

Choose an Accredited and Reputable Sports Science Program

Getting a bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science is a great start, but the foundation you build during that degree is only as good as the program itself. Choose a program that is holistic and will cover a range of knowledge and skills to prepare you for a diversity of careers.

WPU student tests Exercise and Sport Science equipment.

At William Peace University, our far-reaching and holistic program prepares students for work or graduate study in everything from exercise physiology and kinesiology to sports medicine and physical therapy to becoming an athletic trainer for professional sports teams. In fact, students at WPU can switch up their career aims halfway through their major and still be on track to graduate with everything they need.

Know Whether or Not You’ll Need or Want Further Schooling and Prepare Accordingly

For many careers in exercise and sport science, more than a bachelor of science or bachelor of arts is required. Whether it’s Physical Therapy school, Occupational Therapy school, or getting a Master’s Degree in order to become an exercise physiologist, students entering into an undergraduate sport and exercise science program need to know about — and prepare for — any further schooling that may await them. 

At WPU, we not only prepare our students for further schooling, but we also guide them in choosing which graduate schools and programs will meet their specific needs. ESS students receive instruction in biology, and the coursework for the degree is some of the most challenging in the entire university system. Whether you want to go to medical school, work in APTA oncology, become a personal trainer, or research and advance the field of cardiac rehab, our Exercise and Sport Science program will get you ready. 

A Solid and Committed Work Ethic Will Serve You Well

Whether it’s in your Human Anatomy class, your Biomechanics class, or your internship with a local and highly regarded personal trainer, working hard in school and on the job is an essential component of excelling in a sport science career. 

Exercise and sport science aren’t just for students who are interested in athletics . It can inform and prepare bright and hard-working individuals who are interested in other aspects of human performance, too. Be it sports marketing, coaching high school, nutrition, or health care, working hard in a high-ranking and well-known sport science program will prepare you for exciting and fulfilling work. 

Be Sure You Get Experience Before You Head Out Into the Field

Not all schools with an undergraduate degree in sport science or exercise science offer students the experience they need to compete for spots in PT, OT, or med school. We do.

At WPU, part of our holistic approach is to make sure students are on the right track. Freshman ESS majors take an introductory class that demonstrates some of the many career options they’ll be prepared for, including what it takes to get into physical therapy school, athletic training, personal training, strength conditioning, medicinal exercise, cardiac rehab, and more. 

William Peace University also has a new lab, and it’s top of the line. Undergraduate students get to do exercise- and sports-related research, practicing the very work of sports scientists that many of them will likely be doing after they graduate. Even if students are not planning to do research later, working in the WPU lab will hone skills that make students more marketable and competitive when job hunting or applying to graduate school.

Practice What You Preach

You know the goals of wellness, regular and appropriate exercise, and overall health that students in ESS programs will work to pass on to those they assist and guide later? Those goals and practices must also form the backbone of ESS students’ and graduates’ own lives. Be sure to attend a school and enter a sport science program that transforms and improves your own relationship to physical activity — in a positive way.

You should also be mindful of choosing a school that has easily accessed fitness offerings as well as a fitness center , campus health care options , and on-campus help with any mental health needs . At WPU, we have these and so much more to help ensure your time learning and growing with us is productive and balanced, and that you’ll have what you need to be a healthy person.

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• MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Science
• Sport and physical activity

Applied Sport and Exercise Science

Prepare for a career in the sport and exercise industries on this multidisciplinary, evidence-based course.

Everything you need to know...

What is the fee.

Home: £10,620 for the course International/EU: £17,725 for the course

How long will I study?

Where will i study.

Collegiate Campus

When do I start?

September 2025

Course summary

• Gain an understanding of science and how to apply theory to practice in sport and exercise
• Work towards British Association of Sport and Exercise Science (BASES) accreditation.
• Conduct independent research and seek experience as a sport or exercise science practitioner.

On this course you’ll develop your professional skills in sport and exercise – alongside specialist skills in biomechanics, performance analysis, physiology, nutrition, strength and conditioning. We offer a first-class suite of research and teaching laboratories, as well as the excellent facilities offered by our partnership venue at the English Institute of Sport.

Come to an open day

Find out more at our postgraduate open days. Book now for your place.

How you learn

Your lecturer's view.

All our courses are designed around a set of key principles based on engaging you with the world, collaborating with others, challenging you to think in new ways, and providing you with a supportive environment in which you can thrive.

The course is delivered by our expert staff, who often support elite athletes and carry out cutting-edge research as part of their day-to-day work. Many of our staff members are accredited by professional bodies such as BASES, and we work collaboratively with our Sport and Physical Activity Research Centre to consult, research, and teach. 

Our experience helps us to keep our course content advanced and contemporary – based on our knowledge and experience of research and delivery.

You learn through

• practical classes
• project supervision
• external speakers

Course leaders and tutors

Mohsen Shafizadeh

Mohsen Shafizadeh teaches motor control and movement analysis on the sport and exercise science related degrees and cover both sport and clinical settings

Applied learning

Work placements

One of the main features of this course is providing practical opportunities for you to enhance your vocational skills – with both work-based learning and short or long-term internships. The Academy of Sport and Physical Activity is in close contact with many local and national partners who are interested in working with our students to support their professional development. 

You’ll also have access to an employability adviser. They provide support in lectures and 1 to 1 sessions on writing applications, preparing for interviews and developing your CV – as well as offering tailored career guidance to help you progress.

Future careers

This course prepares you for a career in

• Sport and exercise science practitioner
• Exercise instructor in the health and fitness industry
• Strength and conditioning coach
• Sport and exercise nutritionist
• Performance analyst
• Sport and exercise biomechanist

You study at Collegiate Campus through a structured mix of lectures, seminars and practical sessions as well as access to digital and online resources to support your learning.

Collegiate campus

Collegiate Campus can be found just off Ecclesall Road, a bustling student district.

Collegiate Campus map | Campus facilities  

Collegiate Crescent Sheffield S10 2BP

Collegiate library

Collegiate Library can be found just off Ecclesall Road. It's open 24 hours a day, every day.

Learn more about your department

Find out about the Sports and Physical Activity subject area at Sheffield Hallam University.

Equipment and facilities

On this course you work with

• industry-leading physiology and biomechanics laboratories
• a performance analysis suite which houses specialist analytical software
• an environmental chamber for simulating extreme environments
• a strength and conditioning suite with the latest specialist equipment

Entry requirements

All students, additional information for eu/international students.

We designed this course to continue specialist studies at masters level for students who already possess a relevant first degree. You may also have an appropriate combination of other subject specific qualifications and relevant practical experience.

Normally you need one of the following

• a good first or upper second honours degree in sport or exercise science

• a good honours degree in a relevant science discipline with suitable content

• an alternative qualification with a suitable concentration of relevant science (at the discretion of the course leader)

• a qualification in science or sport or exercise science at a level lower than first degree coupled with relevant practical experience

The course leader interviews applicants with non-standard qualifications. You may also be able to claim credit points which can reduce the amount of time it takes to complete your qualification at Sheffield Hallam. Find out more

If English is not your first language you will need an IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in all skills, or a recognised equivalent . If your level of English language is currently below IELTS 6.0 we recommend you consider an appropriate Sheffield Hallam University Pre-sessional English course which will enable you to achieve the required level of English.

If you are an International or non-UK European student, you can find out more about the country specific qualifications we accept on our international qualifications page.

For details of English language entry requirements (IELTS), please see the information for 'All students'.

Important notice: The structure of this course is periodically reviewed and enhanced to provide the best possible learning experience for our students and ensure ongoing compliance with any professional, statutory and regulatory body standards. Module structure, content, delivery and assessment may change, but we expect the focus of the course and the learning outcomes to remain as described above. Following any changes, updated module information will be published on this page.

Compulsory modules

Advanced assessment and evaluation in sport and exercise science, applied interventions in sport and exercise science, applied project in sport and physical activity, professional practice in sport and exercise science, research methods in sport and physical activity, fees and funding, home students, international students.

Our tuition fee for UK students starting full-time study in 2025/26 is £10,620 for the course. The tuition fee displayed above is for the full course. If the full course is more than one year in duration, the fee will be divided into annual payments which will then be rounded. This may mean the total fee you pay is slightly higher than the fee stated above. If you take a break in study or have to re-take part of the course, you may also be charged an additional fee and will be notified of this at the time.

If you are studying an undergraduate course, postgraduate pre-registration course or postgraduate research course over more than one academic year then your tuition fees may increase in subsequent years in line with Government regulations or UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) published fees. More information can be found in our terms and conditions  under student fees regulations.

Our tuition fee for International/EU students starting full-time study in 2025/26 is £17,725 for the course. The tuition fee displayed above is for the full course. If the full course is more than one year in duration, the fee will be divided into annual payments which will then be rounded. This may mean the total fee you pay is slightly higher than the fee stated above. If you take a break in study or have to re-take part of the course, you may also be charged an additional fee and will be notified of this at the time.

Postgraduate student loans

Up to £11,222 available for Home students on most masters courses.

Additional course costs

This link allows you to view estimated costs associated with the main activities on specific courses. These are estimates and, as such, are only an indication of additional course costs. Actual costs can vary greatly depending on the choices you make during your course.

Legal information

Any offer of a place to study is subject to your acceptance of the University’s Terms and Conditions and Student Regulations .

How do I apply?

You apply for this course via our online application form.

You can also use the application form above to apply for future years of entry.

Not ready to apply just yet?

Why not come to our next open day? Open days are the perfect place to talk to staff and students, visit our campuses and get all the information you need. Alternatively, feel free to ask us a question.

Why choose us?

We are Gold rated in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) for the outstanding quality of our teaching and student outcomes

Join more than 1,500 students at our nationally-renowned Academy of Sport and Physical Activity

Learn in cutting-edge sports facilities, including our £6m sports park and a satellite campus at the English Institute of Sport

Where next?

Find out more about Sheffield Hallam's postgraduate opportunities and community.

You can chat to teaching and admissions staff, view our facilities and learn more about your funding options.

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Information for international students

Information for international students including entry requirements by country and funding.

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