Graduate Education and Life at West Virginia University

Ph.D. in Kinesiology – Sport and Exercise Psychology Major
College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences



The American Academy of Kinesiology and Physical Education has ranked the graduate program in Kinesiology 22nd out of 32 institutions that chose to participate in ranking by the AAKPE. Such rankings are based on faculty scholarly productivity and funding and student academic quality, among others, and the national rankings reflect well on the scholarly rigor of the program. The program additionally cites 100% job placement as evidence of success of graduates in career advancement or continuing pursuit of higher education reflecting the outstanding preparation of the students and the high regard with which the program is held within the profession.

“Changing attitudes and outcomes one person, one team, one organization at a time.”

The WVU Sport & Exercise Psychology Program will work to further enhance its status as one of the premier training programs in the US, attracting accomplished students nationally and internationally. WVU SEP will promote continued innovation, scholarship, practice and ethical behavior, and will be based upon a model of support and inclusion.

The mission of the SEP program is to develop strong teachers, researchers, and consultants under the scientist-practitioner model. Through collaborative relationships that build upon the shared expertise of faculty and graduate students, we help prepare students for careers in academia and private practice. Faculty and students aspire to lead by example by modeling the skills and principles we teach to our students and clients including ethical behavior, teamwork, grace under pressure, emotional composure, rational thinking, confidence, and humility. Visit the On-Campus PhD in Kinesiology website.