The University of Michigan School of Kinesiology’s doctoral program is ranked number one nationally by the National Academy of Kinesiology (NAK) following the release of its 2020 Review and Evaluation of Doctoral Programs.

The University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill, Pennsylvania State University, University of South Carolina, and University of Delaware rounded out the 2020 top five.

The NAK ranks schools every five years, with the first review completed in 2000. The results represent data collected on program faculty (productivity, funding, and visibility) and students (admissions, support, publications, and employment) from 2015-2019. The University of Michigan ranked third nationally in the 2015 report.

"Kinesiology as a discipline is rapidly growing, increasingly recognized for its variety of unique sub-disciplines. I am honored and excited about this ranking. It is a testimonial to the hard work of all our students, faculty, staff, and leadership over the past five years." said Lori Ploutz-Snyder, professor and dean of the School of Kinesiology. "This is a very exciting time for Michigan Kinesiology as we prepare to move to the new building, add academic programs, and expand our research capabilities. We are well poised to challenge the idle state and uphold the honor of being the leaders and best."

The School of Kinesiology offers two doctoral programs in Movement Science and Sport Management.

Students pursuing a PhD in Movement Science develop scholarly and research competence, culminating in an original doctoral dissertation contributing to the body of knowledge in kinesiology. The program is designed for students who intend to make their careers as scholars, teachers, researchers, and professionals in exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control, and allied fields.

Students pursuing a PhD in Sport Management develop scholarly and research competence, culminating in an original doctoral dissertation contributing to the body of knowledge in sport business. The program is designed for students who intend to make their careers as scholars, teachers, researchers, and professionals in economics, marketing, philanthropy, and urban development, as they pertain to sport business.

The National Academy of Kinesiology, now in its 90th year, is an honorary organization comprised of active, emeritus, and international fellows who have made significant contributions to the fields of kinesiology and physical education. The doctoral review is led by members of the NAK doctoral program evaluation committee.