PhD in exercise and nutritional sciences
A doctorate in exercise and nutritional sciences from ASU’s College of Health Solutions prepares you for a career in research-intensive universities, government agencies and health-related research positions in private industry. Students can tailor their course of study and research in three areas:
• Behavioral and community health sciences.
• Biomechanics and motor control.
• Translational metabolism and physiology.
The program cultivates researchers who conduct high-quality, use-inspired research intended to reduce the physical, social and economic costs of unhealthy living through the promotion of physically active lifestyles and sound nutrition.
You will learn to conduct high-impact, translational and precision-based exercise and nutrition sciences research. Students are strongly encouraged to pursue post-doctoral research opportunities upon graduation.
Advance cutting-edge research in exercise and nutritional science.
The College of Health Solutions at Arizona State University translates scientific health research and discovery into practice. Its programs prepare students to address the challenges facing our populations to stay healthy, improve their health, and manage chronic disease — all toward improving health outcomes.
PhD in exercise and nutritional sciences
As a doctoral student, you will be actively engaged in research throughout every stage of your studies and fully integrated into the program’s professional research culture, allowing you to strengthen your knowledge and build strong academic credentials.
Research core, 34 credit hours
• Eighteen required credit hours include courses on advanced statistics and research methods, grant writing and two research practicums.
• Elective research finishes the 12 remaining core credit hours.
Professional development, 5 credit hours
• Three professional seminars prepare you to become a faculty member, researcher or professional in the nutrition, exercise or health promotion fields.
• A teaching internship increases your competency and awareness of the best practices in higher education teaching.
Area of focus, 9 credit hours
Tailor your course of study within a thematic area. There are three options to choose from:
• Biomechanics and motor control.
• Translational metabolism and physiology.
• Behavioral and community health sciences.
Dissertation, 12 credit hours
After advancing to candidacy, you can apply up to 12 credit hours of dissertation research to your doctoral degree.
Electives, 24 credit hours
Select electives that would effectively prepare you for your desired field. Contact your program director for guidance on finding the best electives for you.
Finding your mentor
Your mentor is the key to your success as a PhD candidate. You will work with your mentor from the beginning to the end of the doctoral program. Multiple faculty members conduct research within each focus area—explore your options with the faculty listings on chs.asu.edu and email potential mentors to gauge compatibility. Opt for a mentor based on mutual research interests who has the availability and expertise to support your plan of study.
Funding your PhD
You may be eligible to receive funding, training and mentorship through a competitive T32 Training Grant. Spots are limited and eligibility requirements include field of study, mentor affiliation, and residency status. Interested applicants should contact the program directors to learn more about the fellowship and eligibility criteria. Program directors can be located on the degree program webpage from the QR code below. Funding can also be sought through awards, fellowships, or becoming a teaching or research assistant. For more information on funding resources, visit graduate.asu.edu
