Study the effect of movement on the body
In Oregon State University’s kinesiology doctoral program, you’ll focus on the theoretical and practical study of human movement for the promotion of optimal health and disease prevention.
You’ll work alongside knowledgeable, welcoming and nationally recognized faculty who are contributing exciting discoveries to the field, while improving the quality of life for individuals, families and communities in Oregon and beyond.
Choose your area of concentration options within the PhD in kinesiology
Although your chosen concentration determines the focus of your studies, we value the benefits of interdisciplinary learning and provide ample opportunity for you to collaborate with faculty and peers.
You can select one of the following concentrations:
Biophysical kinesiology
Includes subdisciplines such as biomechanics, exercise physiology and/or motor control.
Students in this concentration generally conduct their research in one the following laboratories: Biomechanics, Human Performance, Physical Activity and Public Health, Translational Metabolism Research Laboratory, or Sports Injury Prevention Research Group.
Psychosocial kinesiology
Includes subdisciplines such as motor development, sport and exercise psychology and/or sociology of sport.
Students in this concentration generally conduct their research in one the following laboratories: Children and Youth with Disabilities, Physical Activity and Public Health, Psychosocial Physical Activity (2PLAY), Social Mobility, or Sport and Exercise Psychology.
Graduate student handbook
Detailed information about degree requirements and coursework
Estimated costs
The Kinesiology PhD program is a 108-credit program that can be completed within 4-5 years on a full-time credit load (except for summer).
The estimated costs for the program are broken down as follows:
Resident costs for years 1-3
$15,795 per year
Resident Tuition ($13,446)
+ Fees ($2,349)
Each additional year after 3
$6,832 per year
Resident Tuition ($4,482)
+ Fees ($2,349)
Non-resident costs for years 1-3
$31,698 per year
Non-resident Tuition ($29,349)
+ Fees ($2,349)
Each additional year after 3
$12,132 per year
Non-resident Tuition ($9,783)
+ Fees ($2,349)
Tuition and fees estimates were calculated using the 23-24 academic year tuition and fees tables in combination with the tuition calculator. Please note, tuition and fees can change for the 24-25 academic year.
Kinesiology research
As a kinesiology doctoral student, you will apply the specific skills and knowledge you gain in coursework to projects conducted under the direction of faculty members with whom you share research interests.
Faculty study a broad range of kinesiology research areas, including:
- Molecular and cellular basis of metabolic disease and lifestyle interventions
- Movement in children with disability
- Improving access to play, sport and physical activity in children and adolescents
- Exercise energy metabolism, athletic performance and body composition
- Biomechanics and motor control
- Bone health and reducing fractures
- Sports injury prevention
Faculty contact information and a detailed description of the kinesiology research being conducted at Oregon State may be found on each laboratory’s webpage.
Kyle DeRosia, MS, CSCS
Kinesiology PhD student
Kyle is pursuing a PhD in kinesiology and is studying the effects of preparation time and strength on agility performance. He received a Challenge Scholarship from the National Strength and Conditioning Association Foundation.
Tuition and funding
Graduate assistantships are available in teaching and research to highly qualified candidates.
Annual support ranges from $9,595-$22,176 based on assignment (and also includes a waiver of graduate tuition).
More information about how to apply for funding and deadlines:
Add the adapted physical activity option
By pursing the adapted physical activity option you’ll learn to respond to the motor and physical fitness needs of people with disabilities. This option is available to students in the kinesiology major and will appear on your transcript. Learn more.
Careers in kinesiology
After completing the kinesiology PhD program, you will be able to synthesize and communicate knowledge in your field of study; identify central issues, problems and research priorities in your field of study; and design, conduct, interpret and communicate original research.
Many of our graduates seek employment at public and private universities known for research and teaching, while others seek a career path in federal and state agencies or the private sector.
Marc Norcross, PhD, ATC
Professor
“Our students work alongside faculty with a range of expertise and use social, psychological, physical and biological approaches to address physical activity-related public health issues in diverse populations.”
We’re here to help
For questions about the application process and requirements, contact COH graduate admissions.
For academic or professional information specific to the kinesiology doctoral program, please contact the program director John Schuna, PhD