University of Ljubljana

What you'll study

The doctoral programme combines advanced coursework, specialised seminars and an independent research project leading to a written and defended doctoral thesis. Core intellectual themes covered include exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control and learning, sports psychology, measurement and evaluation, epidemiology of physical activity, and applied aspects of physical activity for health and performance.

Typical taught elements emphasise research design and methods (quantitative and qualitative), advanced statistics, scientific communication and ethics. Students also participate in specialist modules or seminars tailored to their research focus such as advanced biomechanics techniques, metabolic and cardiorespiratory assessment, neuromuscular function, rehabilitation science, or talent development and coaching sciences.

The primary activity is supervised research: designing and implementing experiments or observational studies, analysing data, publishing in peer‑reviewed journals and presenting at conferences. Many students complement their thesis work with teaching or laboratory assistant duties and collaborative projects with clinical, sporting or public‑health partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant Master's degree (or equivalent) in kinesiology, sport science, physical education, physiotherapy, medicine, biomechanics, exercise physiology or a closely related field. Other applicants with substantial relevant professional or research experience may also be considered.

Application materials typically include a CV, academic transcripts, a research proposal or statement of research interests, names of academic referees, and evidence of language proficiency where required. Candidates should identify potential supervisors and demonstrate how their proposed research aligns with the expertise of the Faculty or associated research groups.

Selection is based on academic and research potential, the feasibility and originality of the proposed project, and the availability of supervision and resources. Prior experience with laboratory methods, statistical analysis or publications is an advantage.

Career prospects

Graduates with a PhD in Kinesiology pursue careers across academia, research institutions, healthcare, elite sport and the private sector. Common roles include university lecturer or researcher, principal investigator in public‑health or clinical research, performance scientist or technical lead within professional sport organisations, and senior specialist roles in rehabilitation centres and hospitals.

Other pathways include policy development and programme design for public‑health agencies, consultancy for sport and fitness industry, research and development positions with technology and wearable companies, and leadership roles in non‑profit organisations promoting physical activity.

The programme’s emphasis on transferable research skills also supports careers in science communication, grant writing and project management.

Why study at University of Ljubljana

The University of Ljubljana offers the PhD in Kinesiology through its specialised faculty with a long tradition in sport and movement sciences. Students benefit from multidisciplinary collaboration across medicine, psychology, pedagogy and engineering, and from access to well‑equipped laboratories for biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor control and measurement.

Research-active academic staff supervise projects across basic and applied domains, and the faculty maintains active links with national sports federations, clinical partners and international research networks, supporting applied studies and knowledge transfer. Doctoral candidates are encouraged to publish, present at conferences and participate in international exchanges.

Overall, the environment is structured to develop independent researchers capable of contributing to scientific knowledge and translating findings into practice across sport, health and rehabilitation contexts.