Graduate Programs

The Health and Sport Studies Graduate Program is known for its multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary curricula and its distinguished faculty scholars in sport and physical activity. The department offers both the Masters of Arts (MA) and the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) with specializations in either Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity or Sport Studies. The Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity program integrates an examination of the psychosocial aspects of participation in sport and physical activity with an analysis of the health consequences of a sedentary lifestyle. The Sport Studies graduate program offers a critical cultural studies approach to an understanding of sport in its historical and contemporary contexts.

Master's Students

The master's degree is awarded on completion of at least 36 semester hours of graduate course work including thesis, or 36 semester hours without thesis. All master's students must complete a group of foundation courses supplemented with work in their specialization areas.

Doctoral Students

The Ph.D. entails 60 semester hours of coursework beyond the master's. All doctoral students must complete a total of at least 72 semester hours of graduate work, including general requirements for the master's degree and credit for the dissertation. They also must satisfy the residency requirement by completing at least two semesters (minimum of 9 semester hours each) in residence at The University of Iowa.

Further Information

Students from diverse undergraduate backgrounds are encouraged to apply. A number of teaching and research assistantships are available. Applications should be made directly to the Director of Graduate Studies. E-mail: catriona-parratt@uiowa.edu

Departmental Scholarship Application Form (.doc)

HSS Graduate Handbook (.pdf)