Program Overview
The University of North Alabama’s Doctor of Philosophy in Exercise Science and Health Promotion program prepares scholars, researchers, and practitioners to advance knowledge in human performance, health promotion, and related disciplines. Through advanced coursework, research experiences, and faculty mentorship, doctoral students explore complex health and exercise science issues while preparing to contribute to academia, research, healthcare, and industry leadership.
Why Choose This Program?
- Conduct advanced research that contributes to the evolving fields of exercise science and health promotion
- Collaborate with experienced faculty mentors who support scholarly and professional growth
- Prepare for leadership roles in higher education, research, healthcare, and human performance settings
Curriculum & Coursework
PhD students engage in a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes research methods, statistical analysis, exercise science, and health promotion. Through scholarly inquiry and applied research experiences, students strengthen their expertise while preparing to address complex challenges in health, wellness, and human performance.
Sample Courses:
- ES 710 Research Methods in Exercise Science
- ES 720 Advanced Statistics
- ES 760 Health Promotion Theory and Practice
- ES 799 Dissertation Research
Career Paths & Outcomes
A PhD in Exercise Science and Health Promotion prepares graduates to lead research initiatives, influence health outcomes, and advance knowledge within their field. Graduates are equipped to contribute as educators, researchers, consultants, and leaders across academic, healthcare, and performance-focused organizations.
Common Career Paths:
- University Professor
- Research Scientist
- Exercise Science Researcher
- Health Promotion Specialist
- Healthcare Administrator
- Wellness Consultant
- Human Performance Director
- Academic Program Leader
Student Experience
At UNA, doctoral students immerse themselves in a research-focused environment that encourages innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. Through faculty mentorship, scholarly research, and leadership opportunities, students gain meaningful experiences that prepare them to contribute to the future of exercise science and health promotion.
Opportunities include:
- Internship opportunities
- Faculty-guided research and scholarly collaboration
- Engagement with the Sport Leadership Summit
- Collaboration with researchers, practitioners, and industry professionals
Meet the Faculty
Ms. Jackie Allen
Senior Lecturer/Director, Wellness & Health Promotion
jaallen@una.edu
Mr. Jon Allen
Lecturer
jallen11@una.edu
Dr. Kyle Conkle
Assistant Professor
rconkle@una.edu
Ms. Jennifer Edwards
Senior Administrative Assistant, Kinesiology
jedwards14@una.edu
Dr. Chanho Kang
Associate Professor
ckang@una.edu
Dr. Lauren Killen
Associate Professor
lkillen1@una.edu
Mr. Mark Linder
Lecturer
mdlinder@una.edu
Dr. Scott Lyons
Professor
slyons1@una.edu
Dr. Lee Renfroe
Professor
lrenfroe@una.edu
Mr. Patrick Shremshock
Senior Lecturer
pshremshock@una.edu
Dr. Hunter Waldman
Associate Professor
hswaldman@una.edu
