PhD in Kinesiology (Exercise Psychology)

1. Three- to four-year program for those who have completed a master's degree
2. Kinesiology doctoral program ranked in top 10 by the National Academy of Kinesiology
3. Access to well-equipped research laboratories
4. Engage in research throughout the course of the program

Through this specialization, you will undertake advanced scholarly study and research into exercise physiology.

Through a minimum of 30 hours of coursework, plus research and a dissertation, you will build in-depth knowledge in your area of specialization as well as proficiency in designing and conducting research. You will also engage in active research throughout the course of the program in our well-equipped research laboratories.

You will work with an advisory committee to design a course of study based on your background, interests, and career goals. All students, however, must complete the following:

• Four hours of a research seminar, including a one-hour seminar for new doctoral students
• Two courses in statistics
• A minimum of three hours of doctoral dissertation work
• You may use courses taken as part of your master's degree to fulfill requirements

Coursework commonly includes:

• Advanced exercise psychology
• Grant writing
• Research design
• Statistical analysis

At the culmination of the program, you will demonstrate proficiency in research, scholarship, and knowledge in your field to your major professor and advisory committee through the successful completion of a dissertation.

Our faculty have expertise in a range of subjects, with four faculty members who serve as advisors to students in the exercise psychology emphasis:

• Janet Buckworth
• Rod Dishman
• Patrick O'Connor
• Phil Tomporowski

Meet The Faculty

Part 1: Apply to the University of Georgia

The Graduate School handles admission for all graduate programs at the University of Georgia, including those in the College of Education. The Graduate School website contains important details about the application process, orientation, and many other useful links to guide you through the process of attending UGA at the graduate level.

Start A Graduate School Application

Part 2: Apply to the PhD in Kinesiology (Exercise Psychology)

In most cases, you should already have completed a master's degree and thesis in exercise science or a related field. In some cases, we admit candidates with only a bachelor's degree if they meet the following formula: undergraduate GPA x 1000 x GRE verbal + GRE quantitative = 4300. You should also have a background in behavioral and biological sciences including biopsychology, chemistry, biology, and physiology.

Admission to the program is competitive and considers a number of factors. We give preference to students with strong backgrounds in biopsychology and exercise science who have interests compatible with our ongoing research. At a minimum, you must have:

• A GRE score of 1000
• An undergraduate GPA of 3.0
• A graduate GPA of 3.5

International students must score at least 213 on the Internet Based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam.

January 10

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