Program Overview
The Kinesiology: Biomechanics Ph.D. program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison equips students with engineering analysis skills for biological systems. The program offers specialized areas of study in biomechanics, including tissue mechanics, human performance, and injury rehabilitation. Graduates typically pursue post-doctoral training and careers in academia or industry.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Kinesiology: Biomechanics, Ph.D.
is a named option in the Kinesiology Ph.D. program. The program equips students to apply the tools of engineering analysis to biological systems, with career objectives in academia, health care, and sports science. Within the broad field of biomechanics, the University of Wisconsin-Madison offers specialized areas of study including tissue mechanics, neuro-muscular control, human performance, sports performance, injury, rehabilitation, and limb dynamics. Elective coursework allows students to pursue individual interests, such as physiological adaptations to mechanical stimuli or computer modeling.
Objective:
The Ph.D. degree in Kinesiology: Biomechanics prepares students for independent research and teaching.
Outline:
The program's curriculum includes formal training in:
- Math
- Statistics
- Physiology
- Mechanics
- Biomechanics
- Motor control
- Injury biomechanics
- Injury epidemiology Students also conduct independent research throughout their training, which is summarized in their dissertation. Presentations at national scientific meetings and in peer-reviewed journals are expected.
Assessment:
- Preliminary exams administered by a three-member faculty committee
- Successful proposal and defense of a dissertation before a five-member committee
Teaching:
- Students generally have the opportunity to teach during their training.
- Faculty mentors in Biomechanics include:
- David Bell
- Scott Crawford
- Kreg Gruben
- Kristen Pickett
Careers:
Graduates of the program typically pursue additional training (post-doctoral training) and establish careers in academia or industrial settings.
