Take your learning and research to exciting new depths. Work with renowned scholars who are leaders in their fields. Join a vibrant community committed to creating, shaping, and sharing new knowledge of physical activity, exercise, sport and health. Discover your future in Kinesiology.
The Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education at the University of Toronto offers a unique learning environment where cutting-edge research takes place. Located in Canada’s most vibrant and culturally diverse city, the University of Toronto is consistently ranked among the world’s best research universities. Our location, size and diversity provide unique opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
The PhD program can be taken on a full-time or flexible-time basis.
Areas of Research
Our Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program is immersed within a flourishing research culture encompassing the major disciplines of knowledge: life and physical sciences, social sciences and humanities. Our researchers are internationally recognized for important contributions to knowledge about physical activity, health and their interactions.
Areas of research cover the spectrum of physical activity, including exercise, play, sport, dance and physical inactivity.
BEHAVIOURAL STUDIES
Areas include:
- Exercise and sport psychology
- Motor behaviour/motor learning
- Physical activity and mental health
Explore the psychosocial determinants and consequences of physical activity, sport performance, injury and disability.
Researchers in this field also study sedentary behavior and the implications for mental health and well-being.
BIOPHYSICAL STUDIES
Areas include:
- Exercise physiology/biochemistry
- Exercise and sport nutrition
- Exercise and sport biomechanics
Investigate the impact of physical activity and exercise on physical health, performance, injury and adaptation in healthy and clinical populations, across a spectrum of ages.
PHYSICAL CULTURAL STUDIES
Areas include:
- Social sciences in health and sport (community and international development)
- Cultural studies in physical activity (gender, media, violence)
- Ethics in health and physical activity
Investigate the social construction, institutional structuring, and mass mediation of sport, leisure, health, physical activity and exercise.
Researchers in this area also propose concrete policy amendments and cultural adaptations to foster more equitable, enjoyable and ethical physical activity environments for all.
Funding
The Graduate Department of Kinesiology at the University of Toronto provides doctoral graduate students with a base funding package equivalent to $40,000 which includes tuition and incidental fees for years 1 - 4 of the full-time PhD program and for years 1 - 5 for the full-time Direct-Entry PhD program.
The funding package may include funds from a variety of sources, including University of Toronto Fellowship (UTF) Stipend Award, Teaching Assistantship Hours, Research Assistantship Stipend, Departmental Awards, Teaching Assistant positions and/or Research Assistant positions, internal and external awards.
Learn more about tuition, fees and funding for the Doctor of Philosophy in Kinesiology program
Explore the Graduate Programs Viewbook
Application and Admission Requirements
Learn more about the admission requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy in Kinesiology program and the steps required to submit an application.
