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    Columbia Campus
   
 
  Dec 12, 2025
 
2013-2014 Graduate Studies Bulletin 
  
2013-2014 Graduate Studies Bulletin [Archived Catalog]

Physical Education, Ph.D.


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Admission Requirements Department of Physical Education 
Degree Requirements College of Education 
Learning Outcomes   

The doctoral program in physical education is designed to prepare individuals for academic positions in departments of physical education and/or kinesiology at universities and colleges. Concentrations are offered in physical education pedagogy and developmental foundations. Individuals who complete the doctoral program should be prepared to assume leadership roles in physical education teacher education or motor behavior. This document provides information about the expectations for doctoral study, sample programs of study, and other required experiences for doctoral degree in Physical Education.


Admission Requirements

In addition to completing The Graduate School’s application, individuals applying for admission for the doctoral program in physical education must submit the following information:

  • a sample of expository writing to include future goals and specific research interests
  • a current curriculum vitae.

Applicants recently accepted for admission scored a minimum of 900 on the GRE (combined verbal and quantitative score), had acceptable undergraduate and graduate grade point averages, had positive letters of recommendation, and demonstrated competence in English. Most applicants had prior professional experience and visited with faculty on the Columbia campus prior to admission and/or enrollment.


Degree Requirements (60 Post Masters Hours)


1. Total hours required:


Minimum of 60 hours beyond the master’s degree; the degree must be completed in six years.

2. Qualifying examination:


Written and oral examination that must be successfully completed prior to the completion of 12 hours of 700- and 800-level course work.

3. Required course work:


Students are expected to complete a minimum of 60 credits beyond the masters degree. The program of study committee may decide that more than 60 credits are necessary for an individual student to meet minimal expectations based on prior experiences and future professional goals. There are at least four categories within which students will complete courses to successfully receive a Ph.D.

These four areas include the following:

(l) courses in the Department ofPhysical Education (including dissertation credit);
(2) Research Methods;
(3) Cognate;
(4) Electives. At least 9 hours must be taken within the College ofEducation but outside the Department of Physical Education (may be satisfied under courses in research, cognate, or electives).

All doctoral students follow a similar template for selection of required course work. This template is presented below. More specific programs of study are determined by the program of study committee.

4. Foreign language:


Students are required to meet competency in a foreign language or in computer and/or technology skills.

5. Comprehensive exam:


Students are required to successfully complete a 12-hour written comprehensive examination and a 2-hour oral examination.

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