The Ph.D. includes two tracks—health & rehabilitation sciences and human performance. Information on the human performance track can be found below, while the health & rehabilitation sciences track can be found under the Department of Health Sciences.
Study plan for Ph.D. in Human Performance and Rehabilitation Sciences (Human Performance track)
Required classes (15 credits)
This course explores the foundations of health and human sciences through examination of the basis for and basics of scientific and critical thinking, theory building, and assessment in applied disciplines, evolution of disability, rehabilitation populations, intervention development, function assessment, evidence-based practice, and practice-based evidence.
This course introduces graduate students to the foundations of research in health and human sciences, emphasizing quantitative and qualitative methods, critical evaluation, and the development of skills for reading, conducting, and understanding research as a basis for advanced study and knowledge generation.
An applied approach to the collection, organization, analyses and interpretation of data pertinent to public health and vital statistics is outlined. The application of statistical and biostatistical methods to public health is explained.
This course will focus on scientific writing. The goal is to provide a broad writing foundation that students will be able to use towards future research in exercise science. An emphasis will be on writing for manuscript publications and grants, as well as preparing scientific proceedings and presentations.
An introduction to both the theory and practice of research ethics. The course also covers key ethical principles and concepts.
SHHS research seminar
KINE-K 602 is delivered in a seminar series format for students to practice and refine their professional skills such as scholarly presentation, research dissemination, communication, and career development.
Human Performance track courses (15 credits)
This graduate seminar examines contemporary theoretical frameworks that explain and enhance high-level human performance across sport, exercise, and performance environments.
Newtonian mechanics applied to human movement. Analysis of sports techniques.
An overview of neural mechanisms underlying motor control. Includes applications of neurophysiological principles to human motor performance.
Advanced principles of cardiovascular physiology with an emphasis on the regulatory mechanisms controlling cardiovascular function at rest and during physical stress.
Students can choose one 3 credit hour elective which is aimed at deepening their knowledge in their specialized domain such as biostatistics, informatics, exercise physiology, or another relevant subject.
Qualifying exam preparation/lab research (6 credits)
This course will focus on the design and writing of the student's qualifying examination. Additionally, by the end of the course session, each student will have established a qualifying examination date along with collaborating with their advisory committee to identify a specific topic area.
Dissertation (18–45 credits)
This course will focus on the design and conduct of research to complete the aims identified in the student's research proposal. Successful completion of these aims are expected to lead to a written dissertation and a public presentation and defense.
Original scholarly dissertation that makes a significant contribution to the field of health and rehabilitation sciences. Topic to be selected by the student and their research committee.
Minor (9 credits)
Students must select a minor area outside their primary track (e.g., Psychology, Informatics, Biostatistics, Education, Public Health) or seek approval for an individualized minor.
All minor and related courses must be approved by the advisory committee as well as by the Graduate School in instances of individualized minors.