University of Kentucky®
Doctorate Degree (Ph.D.) in
Education Sciences - Physical Education Option
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PROGRAM DETAILS
FORMAT
TOTAL CREDITS 38
CREDENTIALS Ph.D. Degree
COST PER CREDIT
$753.00
- UK Online
- All Programs
- Doctorate Degrees
- Education Sciences - Physical Education Option (Ph.D.)
About this Program
Dive into research and gain more insight into physical education. Go beyond physical activity promotion and dive into research topics and courses that address epidemiology, sociology, behavior science, and public health. This online doctoral program suits physical education instructors, higher education researchers and athletic directors.
Enrolling in the University of Kentucky's online PhD program in Physical Education offers students an exceptional opportunity to acquire advanced knowledge and research skills crucial for leadership roles in the field. The program’s flexible online format allows students to balance their studies with professional commitments, while its focus on cutting-edge research and curriculum development equips them with the tools to drive innovation and enhance practices in physical education. Graduates will emerge with a robust expertise in pedagogy and administration, enhanced career prospects, and a network of professional connections, positioning them to make significant contributions to academia, policy, and educational settings.
Designed For
This program is appropriate for individuals with a strong background in physical education, exercise science, or related fields who seek to advance their knowledge through advanced research and scholarly inquiry. It is also suitable for educators, coaches, and professionals interested in leadership roles within academia, sports organizations, or public health sectors focused on physical activity and wellness.
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What You’ll Learn
Students are admitted into our program through a mentor-based admission process, under the direct supervision of a specific faculty member. We encourage you to identify the faculty member with whom you wish to work with prior to applying to the program. For a brief introduction and contact information, you may view the bios of:
In addition to getting acquainted with our faculty, you will have the opportunity to discuss research interests and potential dissertation areas. Our program typically takes between 3-5 years, including your dissertation.
Course Examples
- KHP 601 Teaching Effectiveness and Leadership in KHP
- KHP 602 Promoting Physical Activity for Youth
- KHP 579 Adapted Physical Education
- KHP 644 Research Techniques Applied to Kinesiology and Health Promotion KHP 674 – Foundations of Health Promotion
- KHP 675 Health Assessments
- EDC 610 Discipline & Classroom Management
- EDP 613 Social Psychological Issues in Education
- EDP 614 Motivation and Learning
- EDS 580 Special Education
- EPE 617 Introduction to Higher Education
- EPE 672 College Teaching and Learning
- EPE 684 Higher Education and Athletics
- EPE 653 History of Higher Education
- EPE 703 Preparing Research Proposals
- EDC 712 The Elementary School (Curriculum Theory)
GOT QUESTIONS?
Schedule time to meet with a representative from UK Online to discuss your online learning options.
How to Apply
Admissions Criteria
- A master’s degree or 30 semester hours of approved graduate course work with a 3.0 GPA from a fully accredited U.S. institution of higher learning or from a recognized foreign institution. See Graduate School admissions for specifics.
- International applicants whose native language is not English must submit either a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score. See Graduate School admissions for specifics.
Application Requirements
- Official transcripts
- A sample of scholarly writing
- Three (3) letters of recommendation
Program Contact
Deadlines
Fall 2025
Why UK Online
Once you become a student, you will have access to a wide variety of academic support services to maximize your success.
No test scores required.
Save money by paying for only 9 standard credit hours per semester, even if you take more.
Fit learning into your busy schedule with no prescribed class times.
Access supporting services and success coaches to help you succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
About
How long does it take to complete this program?
Completion times vary from student to student. The minimum amount of time is three years (fall, spring, summer semesters) with at least two courses per semester with the final academic year being devoted to dissertation only. Many of our students are working full time, so enrollment varies from one to three courses per semester.
What is the program structure?
The curriculum includes courses that are offered both synchronously and asynchronously, depending on the instructor. This is determined semester by semester.
Admissions
What is the admission criteria?
Please view the Admission Criteria section, located under "How to Apply" on this page.
Tuition
How much does the online program cost?
The tuition rate for this program is listed at the top of this page. If you still have questions, please reach out to the program representative.
Is there a tuition cap?
Yes! For graduate students who enroll full-time (9+ credit hours) exclusively in a distance education program, will receive a capped tuition rate. To see the current term’s capped tuition rate, please visit https://www.uky.edu/studentaccount/tuition and look for “Graduate Students Enrolled Exclusively in Distance Education Courses -- full-time.” This is the per semester rate you will pay when enrolled for 9 or more credit hours. Please note, this rate only applies to programs using the standard graduate tuition rate.
What tuition assistance is available for graduate students?
Graduate students should review the Student Funding information available through the Graduate School. Specific programs may offer additional funding that is unique to that program. Contact the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) in the department in which you wish to enroll with questions about the availability of assistantships and the application process.
I'm not in Kentucky. What's my tuition rate?
For our fully online programs, state of residence does not affect tuition rate. Tuition is the same no matter where you live.
Online Learning
What should I expect in online classes?
It's important to know how to approach learning in an online program. Online classes are not harder nor easier than in-person classes, but they are different due to their asynchronous modality. This means students should expect to:
Develop a routine: Login to your online class routinely (we recommend at least once daily) to receive updates and contribute meaningfully to any ongoing discussions.
Be good time managers: Determine when you have time to work on coursework throughout the week so you don't fall behind or put off assignments until the last minute.
Communicate: If you are having any trouble, message your peers and/or your instructor right away to ask for help or clarification. Never be afraid to reach out to your instructors or Student Affairs if you need assistance--we have many resources to help you, but we need to know your situation to act accordingly on your behalf.
If you need additional support in navigating the online classroom, Canvas (our learning management system) has a number of helpful tools, including a module for new students that walks through everything you need to know about navigating information in your online class.
Will my degree say “online”?
No, you are awarded the same diploma from UK as students who take classes in-person. There is no denotation of “online” on your diploma or your transcripts.
Can I meet with faculty even though the program is online?
Yes. Our faculty are happy to meet with our students by phone call, email, or an online meeting. You are also welcome to set up an in-person appointment if you ever find yourself in Lexington.
Are there any on-campus requirements?
No, there is no on-campus requirement.
Ready to Take Your Next Step?
Our team is here to help you with the next stage of your journey. Reach out to us today!
Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure
Where you live matters when completing distance education activities. If you will live outside of Kentucky while completing your program, please check the Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure page to confirm that the program can be offered in your state or country, and if relevant, that it meets professional licensure requirements in your state. Please note: Admission and enrollment in a fully-online program can NOT lead to the issuance of a J-1 or F-1 student visa.
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