PhD Kinesiology

How does human movement fundamentally shape our physiological, psychological, and social well-being? The Kinesiology Ph.D. at the University of Idaho addresses this core question by bridging the gap between theoretical inquiry and practical application in human performance and health.

This research-intensive, interdisciplinary program is tailored for scholars aiming to redefine best practices in sport, physical activity, and wellness. You will operate at the intersection of diverse fields, including biomechanics, exercise physiology, sport psychology, and physical activity pedagogy, to tackle real-world challenges such as injury prevention, chronic disease management, and elite athletic performance.

Research-Driven Mentorship

The curriculum emphasizes deep immersion in scientific methodology, enabling you to design, execute, and analyze complex studies. Students benefit from:

• Close collaboration with faculty experts on high-impact research projects.
• Direct access to specialized facilities, including the Exercise Physiology and Biomechanics laboratories featuring advanced metabolic, cardiorespiratory, and force-plate technologies.
• Opportunities to refine pedagogical skills through teaching and mentorship.
• A customizable research trajectory that aligns with specific career objectives in higher education, public health, or elite sports organizations.

In Moscow, students study on an ivy-covered campus within a supportive and welcoming community. Campus life includes clubs, sports, housing, dining, lectures, performances and showcases. The university also offers online classes through Campus 360 and in-person study locations in Boise, Coeur d’Alene and Idaho Falls, giving students options beyond the Moscow campus.

The University of Idaho is Idaho’s first and only Carnegie R1 research university. Its academic offerings cover more than 200 areas of study, including agriculture, anatomy, fine arts and business administration. Learning is connected to hands-on experience, internships and career pathways, with research activity that includes using artificial intelligence to track wildfire spread and work related to nuclear energy law.

International students are among the applicant groups served through the university’s admissions process, alongside first-year, transfer and graduate students. Financial support includes scholarships, financial aid and low tuition, while housing and dining options are available on campus. Students can build connections with fellow Vandals through campus activities, explore opportunities across Idaho and take part in the university’s statewide footprint.