Graduate Programs
Path to Kinesiology
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Sociocultural Studies (PhD)
In all its forms, physical activity has the power to take people to new heights and bring people together from around the world.
The Sociocultural Studies in Kinesiology field fosters the examination of the social, cultural and global/political impacts of physical activity, exercise and sport, and helps develop a broader understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of these influences.
About the Program
Working alongside a world-class researcher who is a leader in their field, PhD students in Western’s School of Kinesiology develop a program of research that pushes the boundaries of discovery and contributes to the knowledge base of their area of expertise. Typically taking four years to complete, students finish the program with the skill set required to be independent researchers and are prepared to make significant contributions both inside academia and in industry/government/private sector.
Duration
Students typically take four years to complete this program. Students are active and enrolled during the Fall, Winter and Summer academic terms.
Course Load
2.0 credits
- 2.0 credits selected by the student and supervisor suitable for the student’s area of research.
- Kinesiology Graduate Research Seminar (2 years at the doctoral level or equivalent i.e., 4 terms)
Candidacy Examination
The Candidacy Examination represents a “Milestone” within the program. All Doctoral students are required to successfully complete program specialization-specific Candidacy Examinations within the first two years of being admitted into the graduate program. The Candidacy Examination in Kinesiology consists of both written and oral components.
Thesis and Public Lecture
Every candidate for the Doctoral degree must complete a thesis. The thesis must indicate in what respects the investigation has increased knowledge of the subject. A candidate may not submit a thesis that has been previously accepted for a degree, but may, with the permission of the Graduate Program, incorporate material included in a previous thesis.
Doctoral candidates must present a Public Lecture on their thesis research. The Public Lecture allows the candidate to present his/her research projects to a Western University community of scholars in an open forum. Learn more.
