Pursuing an advanced education in kinesiology undoubtedly enhances coaching capabilities and career prospects. Thankfully, CSP Global’s online Doctorate in Kinesiology program, led by Dr. Matthew Buns, offers a robust pathway for professionals looking to elevate their impact on the strength and conditioning industry.
Dr. Matthew Buns serves as the Director of the online Doctorate in Kinesiology program. He also teaches as a Professor of Kinesiology and Professor of Health Science. Additionally, he is the Program Chair of the graduate Exercise Science program and has been the Assistant Cross Country and Track & Field Coach.
“My role is to focus on connecting with the industry to ensure our topics are relevant and can enhance students’ professional practice in a valuable way,” Dr. Buns says. “We also try to look for ways to ensure our students aren’t jumping through hoops, just because that’s the way it’s always been done. We want to ensure that items make sense, and the journey for our students is efficient and sensible.”
The online Doctorate in Kinesiology program at CSP Global, is meticulously designed to advance knowledge and skills in human movement, sport, and exercise science. Whether you aspire to excel in academia, research, or professional practice, students receive resources to support their individual career goals. The program offers additional individualization by providing students with options to pursue either a PhD or an EdD. Quantitative and qualitative research courses are integral parts of the PhD track, while the EdD track focuses more on practical, action-oriented research to solve real-world problems.
Tailored Learning for Diverse Specializations
Students can expect to delve deeply into the science of human movement, sport, and exercise. Core courses cover essential topics such as biomechanics, exercise physiology, sport and exercise psychology, and mechanisms of skilled neuromuscular behavior. Additionally, students will explore medical aspects of disease prevention and health behavior change, equipping them with a holistic understanding of kinesiology.
“We have no comprehensive exam. We think that’s kind of a euro-centric approach that doesn’t serve any value for the students,” says Dr. Buns. “So they’re taking courses in a program that emphasizes expertise and mastery, and then they’re also working on their dissertation during the same time.”
The online Doctorate in Kinesiology program offers specialized courses tailored to four different emphases: Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Sports and Exercise Nutrition, and Strength and Conditioning. Throughout their studies, students engage in rigorous academic work and practical applications, preparing them for advanced roles in academia, research, and professional practice.
“The Strength and Conditioning emphasis has Strength and Conditioning programming, assessment, prescription and design,” says Dr. Buns. “But with a real focus on applying evidence based skills and tools to Strength and Conditioning in diverse and special populations.”
Program Flexibility
Prospective students require a master’s degree in any field, a minimum GPA of 3.0 within that master’s degree, two letters of recommendation, a purpose statement essay, and a resume. The program is flexible with accepting transfer credits from both master’s and doctoral programs, further simplifying the path to earning a doctorate. According to Dr. Buns, most students receive at least 12 credits right off the bat by having a relevant degree.
“A lot of students are attracted to our program and transfer into the program because of our strong curriculum, but also because of the support of our faculty, especially when it comes to the dissertation process,” notes Dr. Buns. “We provide students with a full dissertation committee early in the program rather than waiting until the end.”
Understanding the demands on working professionals, the program offers a flexible structure with online courses and asynchronous learning options. The typical timeline for completing the program includes 2-3 years of coursework, followed by up to one year for the dissertation. However, many students transfer credits, reducing their time to graduation significantly.
Support from Industry Leaders
CSP Global’s online Doctorate in Kinesiology program boasts a diverse and experienced faculty, including leaders in clinical research, professional sports, and academic settings. Faculty members bring a wealth of real-world experience and academic expertise, providing invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities for students. The strong support system for students includes networking and ongoing mentoring to ensure students receive the guidance needed to succeed.
“Our faculty is probably the biggest strength of our program,” says Dr. Buns. “They have a wealth of experience and academic expertise that they bring to the program. They’re dedicated to mentoring students and providing guidance, and we have a really strong mentoring model that promotes strong, close working relationships with instructors and our students. That’s a real benefit of the online program, it allows us to amass that type of talent, and allows students to pick the brains of all these major players in the industry across the US.”
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the program have secured prestigious positions in academia and professional sports. Recent graduates have obtained tenure-track positions at universities and roles as Strength and Conditioning Coaches at Division I institutions. The broad applicability of the degree opens up numerous professional opportunities, allowing graduates to make significant contributions to their desired field.
“To all the Strength and Conditioning Coaches out there, just know that you’re appreciated,” Dr. Buns says. “I know how much work you put into your craft. And how much sleep you lose over the work that you’re doing, spending all the time with your athletes, at some times wild hours of the day. So, props to you for living out your vocation.”
The online Doctorate in Kinesiology program at CSP Global offers a unique opportunity to advance your career in Strength and Conditioning. Under the guidance of experts like Dr. Matthew Buns, the program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in a variety of professional settings. With its comprehensive curriculum, experienced faculty, and flexible structure, the program is designed to help you achieve your professional and academic goals.
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