The PhD program is a research-focused program that is designed to produce independent scholars capable of enhancing knowledge and effectively communicating that knowledge. Traditional areas of doctoral study include: athletic training, biomechanics, motor control and development, exercise physiology, and exercise psychology.<br><br>Like the MS program, the PhD is flexible and designed by the student in collaboration with an advisory committee. Students entering this program have research interests that tightly match with those of a graduate faculty member, and generally seek to pursue an academic/research career. The degree requires a minimum of 34 credit hours beyond the master's degree or 52 credit hours beyond the baccalaureate. Course requirements are flexible, are developed by the student in consultation with the student's advisory committee, and are evaluated and endorsed following a brief student presentation to the graduate faculty. Requirements also include participating in an HK Doctoral Seminar series in the first academic year, passing a written and oral preliminary exam after completing primary coursework, submitting a paper for publication or grant for funding consideration, and successfully completing and defending a dissertation.