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Exercise Science, Ph.D.

Arnold School of Public Health

Join our mentor-based doctoral program that's ranked No. 1 in the nation and committed to advancing an increasingly valued discipline within public health, the medical community and even high-performance environments.

Prepare for a position in higher education, research institutes, clinical settings and more within the exercise science discipline of public health. Our department promotes an environment of excellence and achievement in human health and performance, emphasizing the translation and integration of research into practice and application.

Program Highlights

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    Top Ranking

    Be a part of the department’s Ph.D. program, ranked No. 1 in the United States by the National Academy of Kinesiology.

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    Mentor-Based

    Benefit from the supportive faculty and staff members who work endlessly to maintain and improve a collaborative program.

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    Design Your Program

    Create an individual plan of study that's tailored to your unique research interests and career goals.

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    Awards and Opportunities

    The program supports students with stipends and tuition assistance. Join exciting opportunities with an outstanding faculty.

What You’ll Study

Coursework in exercise science, statistics and research design provides a solid foundation in advanced research methods. The department's research labs further enhance training within the areas of specialization. Students will demonstrate a mastery of research within their specialization and be able to communicate their findings effectively.

Program WebsiteDegree DetailsAdmissions Info

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

  • Research

    Gathering and analyzing information to increase knowledge or solve problems

    Leadership

    Inspiring and guiding others to achieve common goals and reach their full potential

    Teaching

    Foster learning by conveying knowledge, skills and concepts to students

  • Scientific Writing

    Communicating scientific research and findings in a clear, accurate and compelling manner

    Human Health

    Fostering well-being, preventing diseases and optimizing physical, mental and social aspects of individuals' well-being

    Physical Activity

    Participating in exercises, sports or movement to promote fitness, health and overall well-being

Using your degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

Potential Careers

  • Researcher
  • Faculty

Workplace Settings

  • Education
  • Exercise Science Industry

While I had been familiar with the prestige and history of the exercise science department and Arnold School of Public Health, it was the compassion, dedication and openness of the faculty that truly impacted my decision to attend USC.

Courtney Meyer
Portrait of Courtney Meyer

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