Continuing on to the PhD
Students admitted to the MS Kinesiology program who wish to pursue a PhD in Kinesiology at UW–Madison must formally request approval from the department.
This request should be made by the end of the second year of study or at the time final MS paperwork is submitted, whichever comes first. The materials should be submitted to the Graduate Program Manager (GPM), who will forward them to the Graduate Studies Committee and relevant faculty for review.
Required Materials:
- Personal Statement from the Student
A written statement describing your academic interests, proposed research area, and reasons for pursuing a PhD in Kinesiology. -
Letter of Recommendation from a Faculty Member
This letter must come from a faculty member who is committed to supporting your PhD study in their lab. It should speak to your qualifications, research potential, and alignment with ongoing work in the faculty member’s research program. -
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Include an up-to-date CV highlighting your academic background, research experience, presentations, publications (if applicable), and relevant professional or teaching activities.
The Graduate Studies Committee will review your request and notify you of their decision. Admission to the PhD program is not automatic and is based on factors such as academic performance, research potential, faculty availability, and alignment with program goals.
Note: Students who were initially admitted to the PhD program and have completed the MS in Kinesiology as part of their progress toward the PhD do not need to reapply or submit a formal request to continue. Their continuation in the PhD program is already approved as part of their original admission.