A student of sports and exercise physiology may take courses in biochemistry, nutrition and conditioning. Studies may include a variety of coursework from hands on experimentation to lectures and reports. Assignments may include studying the response of an athlete’s body to stress or an individual unaccustomed to exercise.

A PhD, or Doctorate of Philosophy, is the highest degree awarded in many academic fields. Generally requiring a research project and dissertation, as well as several years of study, a doctorate degree qualifies the holder as an expert in a chosen field.