University of Michigan

What you'll study

The PhD emphasises advanced, original research in human movement and physical activity. Students take a combination of core and elective modules that build deep expertise in theory, measurement and experimental design, and then focus on a sustained doctoral research project under faculty supervision.

• Core coursework: advanced research methods, statistics for behavioural and physiological science, and seminar work in contemporary issues in kinesiology.
• Specialist areas: biomechanics (motion analysis, musculoskeletal modelling), motor control and motor learning (neurophysiology, sensorimotor integration), exercise physiology and metabolism, physical activity epidemiology and public health, sport psychology and coaching science, and sport management or policy depending on elective choices.
• Research methods and analysis: experimental design, longitudinal and multilevel modelling, signal processing, biomechanics data capture and analysis, and increasingly, machine learning and computational modelling applied to movement data.
• Practical training: laboratory rotations or practicum in human performance labs, supervised teaching experience, and opportunities to work on interdisciplinary projects with units such as the Medical School, School of Public Health or engineering departments.
• Doctoral milestones: typically include completion of coursework, passing a qualifying or comprehensive examination, proposal/advancement to candidacy, and completion and defence of a doctoral dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree in kinesiology, exercise science, biomechanics, physiology, neuroscience, public health, engineering or a closely related field. Strong applicants demonstrate a clear research focus and relevant preparation.

• Academic record: evidence of strong undergraduate and/or postgraduate performance in relevant coursework.
• Research experience: prior laboratory or field research, publications, presentations, or substantial research projects are highly valued.
• Application materials: statement of purpose outlining research interests, curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation from academic or research supervisors.
• Other requirements: some applicants may be asked for writing samples or a research proposal; international applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Standardised test requirements vary by programme and may not be required.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a broad range of careers in academia, clinical practice, industry and policy. Doctoral training from the University of Michigan equips students with methods and communication skills valued across sectors.

• Academic careers: faculty positions in kinesiology, exercise science, rehabilitation sciences, public health or allied health programmes.
• Research roles: principal investigators or research scientists in university labs, hospitals, government agencies and independent research institutes.
• Clinical and applied settings: leadership roles in sports medicine, physical therapy research, performance optimisation, concussion and brain health programmes, and community physical-activity initiatives.
• Industry and technology: research and development for wearables, biomechanics and motion-capture companies, clinical device developers, and data analytics firms focused on health and performance.
• Policy and leadership: positions in public health agencies, non-profits and sports governing bodies shaping policy on physical activity, injury prevention and population health.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers a well-established School of Kinesiology with access to extensive interdisciplinary resources across campus. Students benefit from collaborations with the Medical School, School of Public Health, engineering and computer science departments, and specialised research centres that support translational and applied projects.

• Research facilities: access to human performance and biomechanics laboratories, physiology suites, neurophysiology and motion-capture resources, and clinical research infrastructure.
• Faculty expertise: faculty conduct internationally recognised research across biomechanics, motor control, exercise physiology, epidemiology of physical activity and sport science, offering a wide range of supervisory matches.
• Funding and training: doctoral students are typically supported through research and teaching assistantships, fellowships, and grant-funded projects, with structured professional development and teaching opportunities.
• Interdisciplinary environment: strong emphasis on cross-department collaboration, translational research and industry partnerships that expand career pathways beyond academia.