UMass Boston's doctoral Exercise and Health Sciences program is a firmly research-based, interdisciplinary program. A student's primary area of research will align closely with the research of a specific faculty advisor in the Department.
The faculty's broad expertise ranges from the cellular level (molecular mechanisms) to the society at large (community and population studies), with many collaborative research efforts focused on exercise physiology, behavior science, and physical activity and health promotion in diverse populations across the lifespan.
While a primary faculty advisor guides a student's dissertation research, degree candidates will have the opportunity to explore other areas of interest in the form of directed research and elective courses, preparing them to be well-rounded researchers.
Built on our Master of Science curriculum, our doctoral program offers advanced study in Applied Exercise Physiology and Physical Activity and Health Promotion. See our PhD program fact sheet for more detailed information. Applications are due by July 1 for a fall start.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate a deep understanding of fundamental concepts of exercise science and/or health promotion.
- Conduct systemic inquiry and apply critical thinking to evaluate scientific literature relevant to the specialization area in exercise science and health promotion.
- Use an appropriate theoretical framework and quantitative and/or qualitative methods to acquire, analyze and interpret data.
- Disseminate scientific findings at local, national, and global levels through publications and presentations.
- Demonstrate leadership as a researcher and educator to promote physical activity and improve health in diverse populations.
Application Deadlines
- Priority deadline is March 1*
- Final deadline is June 1
*Graduate assistantships may be available and preference will be given to those applicants who meet the March 1 deadline

