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Ph.D. in Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Science Concentration in Exercise Science

The Ph.D. in Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Science with a Concentration in Exercise Science is focused on training students to prepare for research and teaching careers related to exercise and sports sciences. During the training period students are encouraged to be engaged in academic and professional activities including teaching undergraduate classes, assisting with and conducting research projects, publishing in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at both regional and national conferences. All PhD students complete dissertation projects, which are developed in consultation with knowledgeable faculty sponsors and are expected to yield publishable results.

What can you do with a The Ph.D. in Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Science with a Concentration in Exercise Science?

  • Faculty appointment - students are prepared to teach, conduct research, run a laboratory, and serve as a university professor in Exercise Science
  • Research appointment - students will gain experience and skills for research-focused jobs in applied and basic science (i.e., research fellows or postdoctoral positions)

You should also know...

  • This program has a 100% placement rate for graduates seeking a junior faculty appointment
  • The Exercise Science Program is equipped with a wide range of research tools which includes an underwater weighing tank, a hyper/hypobaric altitude chamber, a heat chamber, biochemistry laboratory, cell culture equipment and much more.

What it's like being a The Ph.D. in Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Science with a Concentration in Exercise Science student

Desmond Millender

"The UNM Ph.D. in Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Science with a Concentration in Exercise Science  program at UNM provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the professional setting as well as advanced academics. The professors are extremely welcoming and awesome mentors who truly care for each student’s wellbeing and success."

Desmond Millender


“The UNM Exercise Science PhD program has allowed me to gain a deep appreciation for how exercise improves virtually every system in the human body. The program creates a balance between exercise biochemistry, practical/field research, environmental physiology, and more; allowing students to choose which drives their passion in Exercise Science most. This program encourages collaboration, teamwork, and growth intellectually and as a person.”

Gabriella Bellissimo

Gabriella Bellissimo

 Zachary

“The exercise science program at UNM has helped me grow into a well-rounded academic. Specifically, the faculty have helped me hone my abilities to ask clear and meaningful research questions. In addition, the facilities and faculty expertise have given me the necessary tools to answer my research questions. Finally, the wide variety of experiences I’ve had in the program have enabled me to teach a wide variety of courses in the field of exercise science.”

Zachary McKenna

Program and Application Information

  • UNM Graduate School Application.
  • Letter of Intent.
  • Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate level coursework.
  • Satisfactory grades (C or better) in all prerequisite undergraduate coursework.
  • Three letters of recommendation.
  • Current professional resume or vita.

Office of Graduate Studies