PhD in Kinesiology (Sport Pedagogy)
Mission Statement
We create and disseminate new knowledge related to physical activity, sports, and physical education. We prepare scholars and researchers, physical education teachers, and sports specialists to deliver education, sport, and rehabilitative services for all segments of society. This includes special populations such as children, the elderly, athletes, and persons with disabilities, injuries, and diseases. The Department of Kinesiology is a member of the American Kinesiology Association.Program Description
The Sport Pedagogy Ph.D. emphasis at the University of Georgia is designed to prepare future researchers and scholars within a broad array of sport pedagogical contexts including PreK-12 physical education, coach education, motivation related to physical activity engagement, physical activity interventions, and adapted physical education, activity, and sport. Throughout the Ph.D. program of study, students will participate in research, scholarship, teaching, and service and outreach opportunities within UGA and beyond. In particular, our degree program emphasizes the acquisition of theoretical knowledge and experiences in planning, funding, conducting, and publishing sport pedagogy and physical activity research. Along with required coursework, you will also take part in supervised practical experiences pertinent to your future role as a teacher, coach, public health professional, or university professor.Program Expectations
Teaching
Doctoral students may serve in a variety of teaching roles including acting as instructors of record for the university’s basic PE undergraduate program, the Early Childhood Methods course, and as supervisors of student teachers and practicum students.
Scholarship
Doctoral students will have the opportunity for mentor-guided scholarship, including assisting with research activities, developing research manuscripts for publication, and disseminating research findings in professional meetings and conferences. Students will also complete a publishable dissertation as part of the requirements for the Ph.D. program.
Service
Students will engage in service as members of the university community and as emerging scholars through membership in professional organizations related to their academic discipline.
Core Courses
The Ph.D. in Kinesiology typically requires a minimum of 30 semester hours of coursework. Your total number of hours will vary depending on the number of hours needed to achieve necessary proficiency in research, sufficient breadth and soundness of scholarship, and a thorough acquaintance with a specific field of knowledge as determined by your major professor and advisory committee. As a student in the sport pedagogy specialization, you will take coursework in:
- Instructional strategies
- Issues and trends in sport pedagogical research
- Coaching education
- Motivation in physical activity contexts
- Adapted physical education, activity, and sport
- Research methods
Beyond the core coursework, sport pedagogy doctoral students are encouraged to seek out courses of interest to them in related content areas such as specific research methods, disability studies, educational psychology, health education, and more.
Curriculum
We also offer ample opportunities for fieldwork and research experience.
The M.S. in Kinesiology program typically requires a minimum of 30 hours for the thesis program and 36 hours for the non-thesis program. Neither option guarantees initial teacher certification.
Our 12 15 hours of required coursework includes:
- Approaches to sport pedagogy
- Motivation in physical activity, exercise, and sport
- Adapted physical education, activity, and sport
- Research methods
- Applied statistical methods and qualitative research traditions
We also offer many electives that cover a variety of sport and physical education, and physical activity topics and areas.
Our faculty is internationally recognized for its expertise in sport pedagogy. As a student in our program, you will work with your major professor to determine a program of study based on your goals.
Over 150 graduate students from across the globe enroll in our department programs each year. Our size and diversity provide a range of perspectives and ample networking opportunities both within and outside the department.
Additional information and disclosures regarding state licensure for professional practice in this field can be found at the UGA Licensure Disclosure Portal .
Our faculty have expertise in a range of subjects, with faculty members who serve as advisors to students in the exercise physiology emphasis:
How to Apply
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
Preferred/Minimum Requirements:
- Resumé or Curriculum Vitae
- GPA (Master’s Degree >3.0)
- Three Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
These are preferred requirements but exceptions can be made on an individual basis
Deadline To Apply
January 10
Financial Aid and Employment
Students may qualify for a variety of assistantships, scholarships, and other financial awards to help offset the cost of tuition, housing, and other expenses. Links to additional information:
Assistantships
We provide assistantship opportunities to qualified students, offering financial support and experience in a professional, teaching, or research role. Assistants work 13 to 20 hours a week and receive a stipend, full tuition waiver, and one-third remission of our university health insurance.
- GTAs available – 100% funding rate as of March 5, 2019
- Graduate Assistantships
- Assistantship Application
Additional Resources
Please use our online form if you have any questions for the department. Please be as specific as possible so that we may quickly assist you.
The College’s programs are taught by dedicated faculty who are experts in a range of areas and are passionate about helping students succeed both in their programs and professionally.
Most graduate students at UGA are not assigned to a faculty advisor until after admittance. A close working relationship with your advisor is paramount to progressing through your program of study.
Almost all in-state students begin their studies at UGA paying limited tuition or fees. Please note that these amounts are subject to change and are meant to give prospective students an idea of the costs associated with a degree at the University of Georgia College of Education.
Students may qualify for a variety of assistantships, scholarships, and other financial awards to help offset the cost of tuition, housing, and other expenses.
Located in the Ramsey Student Center for Physical Activities, the nation’s largest on-campus facility for recreation and fitness. Our department’s facilities include 10 laboratories, offices, conference rooms, and classrooms.
We provide assistantship opportunities to qualified students, offering financial support and experience in a professional, teaching, or research role. Assistants work 13 to 20 hours a week and receive a stipend, full tuition waiver, and one-third remission of our university health insurance.
Grants from the U.S. & Georgia Department of Education, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Australian Research Council, Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA), Professional Golfers Association (PGA), Singapore Ministry of Education, Club Corporation, United States Professional Tennis Registry (USPTR), and a variety of other eminent organizations support our departmental research.
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