Florida State University

What you'll study

The PhD is built around advanced coursework, mentored research, and a dissertation that contributes original knowledge to the field of kinesiology. Core study areas include biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor control and learning, sport and exercise psychology, measurement and evaluation, and adapted physical activity. Students engage in rigorous research methods and statistics training and choose elective coursework to develop depth in a chosen specialism.

• Core coursework: advanced research methods, multivariate statistics, measurement and assessment in kinesiology.
• Specialist modules (typical examples): advanced biomechanics, exercise physiology of training, motor control and learning, sport and exercise psychology, pedagogy of physical education, clinical and rehabilitation kinesiology.
• Laboratory and practicum experiences: hands-on work in motion-analysis and biomechanics labs, metabolic and cardiopulmonary testing, neuromuscular assessment, and applied projects with community or clinical partners.
• Research and dissertation: qualifying examinations or proposal defence followed by an original doctoral dissertation under the supervision of a faculty advisor; emphasis on peer-reviewed publication and conference dissemination.
• Teaching and professional development: opportunities to gain experience as a teaching assistant, lead undergraduate seminars or workshops in pedagogy, grant-writing, and research communication.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a relevant master's degree in kinesiology, exercise science, physical education or a closely related field; applicants with an excellent bachelor's degree and strong research experience may be considered. Successful applicants typically demonstrate a solid academic record, previous research experience, and clear alignment with departmental research interests.

• Academic transcripts showing strong performance in undergraduate and graduate coursework.
• A research statement outlining proposed areas of study and identification of potential faculty supervisors.
• Curriculum vitae detailing research experience, publications or presentations, and relevant professional experience.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to research potential.
• Evidence of English language proficiency for international applicants (such as recognised English tests) where applicable.

Standardised tests and exact GPA thresholds vary; admission decisions emphasise research fit with faculty, prior research accomplishments, and the applicant's potential to complete an independent programme of scholarly work.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue a range of careers across academia, research and applied practice. Common career paths include:

• University faculty positions in kinesiology, exercise science, sport science or physical education, involving teaching, research and service.
• Research scientists in government or private research institutes focusing on human performance, rehabilitation, public health or ergonomics.
• Clinical or applied roles in rehabilitation, performance enhancement, strength and conditioning, or adapted physical activity in healthcare and community settings.
• Positions in industry such as wearable technology, sports analytics, or corporate wellness programme leadership.
• Consultancy roles for sport organisations, public health agencies or non-profit programmes where expertise in measurement, evaluation and evidence-based practice is required.

Why study at Florida State University

Florida State University's College of Human Sciences offers a research-intensive environment with diverse expertise across kinesiology subdisciplines. The department provides access to well-equipped facilities—such as biomechanics and motion-analysis laboratories, metabolic testing suites and neuromuscular assessment equipment—that support advanced experimental work.

Students benefit from close mentorship by faculty active in peer-reviewed research, opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across health sciences and public health units, and competitive assistantship and funding opportunities that support research and teaching development. The programme's location also affords community and applied research partnerships with local health and sport organisations, providing a strong platform for translational research and professional networking.