Ph.D PROGRAMS

Level and Duration of Department: PhD, 8 Semesters, 21 ISTU Credits and 240 ECTS

Mission
Our mission is to promote excellence in scientific research, education, and application to support individuals and communities in enhancing athletic performance and overall health. As a Department of Sports Health Sciences, we teach students to embrace an interdisciplinary approach and specialize in areas such as athletic performance, exercise physiology, nutrition, kinanthropometry, and sports medicine. Our department aims to provide students with a strong scientific foundation, ethical values, leadership skills, and the ability to serve their communities. Additionally, through research projects and applied studies, we aspire to address significant issues in sports and health sciences, making a positive impact on our communities and the world.

Vision
Our vision is to be a global leader in advancing the frontiers of knowledge in sports health sciences, shaping the future of athletic performance, and contributing to the well-being of individuals and societies worldwide. We aspire to foster a dynamic academic environment that encourages innovation, collaboration, and excellence in research. Our graduates will be recognized as thought leaders and change-makers, making substantial contributions to the fields of sports science and health. Through cutting-edge research, transformative education, and impactful community engagement, we aim to influence the evolution of sports and health practices, inspiring healthier, more resilient communities on a global scale.

Purpose of the Department
The aim of Department of Sports Health Sciences is generally to provide students with in-depth knowledge and expertise, enhance their research skills, and encourage them to take on leadership roles in complex issues related to sports health. The department's overarching goals include the following:
1. Knowledge and Expertise: Providing students with a broad spectrum of knowledge in areas such as sports health, exercise physiology, nutrition, kinanthropometry, sports medicine, enabling them to specialize in these fields.
2. Research Skills: Developing strong research foundations for students by enhancing their methodology, data analysis, and effective reporting skills.
3. Leadership and Innovation: Equipping students with the necessary skills to take on leadership roles in the field of sports health sciences and encouraging innovation.
4. Social Contribution: Empowering students to contribute to their communities and society at large by applying their knowledge and expertise.
5. Interdisciplinary Approach: Enhancing students' ability to interact with other disciplines while working in the field of sports health sciences and promoting an interdisciplinary perspective.
6. Ethical Values: Instilling in students a commitment to ethical values and a strong understanding of scientific integrity.
7. Continuous Development: Encouraging students to continuously improve their knowledge and skills, ensuring they stay current in their respective fields.

These objectives aim to provide students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and perspectives to start or advance their careers in the field of health sciences.

Department Achievements
The achievements of Department of Sports Health Sciences generally encompass the knowledge, skills, and experiences provided to students. Graduates of the program may acquire the following outcomes:
1. In-Depth Knowledge and Expertise: Students gain a broad spectrum of knowledge in areas such as sports health, exercise physiology, nutrition, kinanthropometry, and sports medicine, leading to specialization.
2. Enhanced Research Skills: The department provides students with a strong research foundation, including methodology, data analysis, and scientific research skills.
3. Leadership Abilities: Graduates possess the skills necessary to take on leadership roles in the field of sports health sciences. This may include leadership capacities in academic, clinical, or industrial settings.
4. Innovation and Creativity: The department fosters an innovative perspective by enabling students to stay abreast of developments in the field, find creative solutions to problems, and cultivate innovative thinking.
5. Community Contribution Skills: Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to contribute to their communities and society at large.
6. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The department encourages students to interact with other disciplines while working in the field of sports health sciences, promoting an interdisciplinary approach.
7. Commitment to Ethical Values: Graduates demonstrate commitment to ethical values and a strong understanding of scientific integrity.
8. Continuous Development Ability: The department encourages students to continuously update and improve their knowledge and skills.

These achievements are designed to prepare students for a successful career in the field of health sciences.

Employment Areas of the Department
The employment opportunities for graduates of Department of Sports Health Sciences can span a wide range of fields. With their in-depth knowledge and expertise, graduates may find employment in various sectors and positions. Here are some potential employment areas for graduates of this program:
1. Universities and Research Institutions: Graduates can continue their academic careers by working as faculty members and researchers at universities or research institutions.
2. Sports and Health Sector: Graduates may find employment in the private sector, offering consultancy on topics such as enhancing athlete performance, preventing sports injuries, or advising on athlete nutrition.
3. Healthcare Organizations and Hospitals: Specializing in sports health, especially in sports medicine or rehabilitation units, graduates can work in hospitals or healthcare organizations.
4. Sports Teams and Clubs: Graduates may take on roles such as performance analysts, health specialists, or coaches in professional sports teams, sports clubs, or federations.
5. Fitness and Wellness Industry: Sports health sciences doctoral graduates can work in fitness centers, health and wellness centers, or the wellness industry.
6. Research and Development: Graduates can contribute to research and development projects in areas such as sports equipment, exercise programs, or nutritional supplements.
7. Government and Public Health Agencies: Sports health specialists can work in government agencies, contributing to setting sports policies, providing consultancy on overall health and mobility issues.
8. Media and Communication: Graduates may find roles in the media and communication sectors, working in editorial positions, editing, or providing expert commentary on sports health topics.

These areas represent just a few examples for graduates of Department of Sports Health Sciences. The department provides students with a broad range of career opportunities and employment areas, allowing them to specialize in various sectors.

How the Lessons are Conducted
Department of Sports Health Sciences, conducted through an internet-based Learning Management System (LMS), offers students learning opportunities using a distance education model. This allows students to participate in classes online and complete the program. Here is more information about the functioning of such an LMS-based program:
1. Online Course Material: The course material of the department is accessible on the LMS platform. Students can access lecture notes, slides, videos, reading materials, and other resources from this platform.
2. Video Lectures: Instruction is supplemented with recorded video lectures. Students can watch these videos online, providing them with an opportunity to understand the course content.
3. Live Classes and Webinars: Some programs organize live classes or webinars. Students can participate in these live sessions, interacting with instructors.
4. Interactive Discussions and Forums: The LMS provides interactive discussion boards and forums. These platforms allow students to ask questions related to the course and engage in discussions with fellow students.
5. Student Assessments: Online quizzes, assignments, and project submissions are used to measure students' achievements. These assessments evaluate students' understanding and application skills.
6. Customized Course Programs: The LMS offers customized course programs for students. They can choose courses that align with specific areas of interest or career goals.
7. Online Communication: Students can communicate with instructors and classmates through the LMS. Email, messaging, and video conferencing tools can be utilized.
8. Research and Project Collaboration: Students can collaborate on research projects through the LMS. This provides students with the opportunity to form online study groups.
9. Exams and Diplomas: Students who successfully complete the program receive a PhD degree diploma. Programs conducted using an Internet-based LMS offer students the opportunity to receive education independent of geographical and time constraints. However, it requires students to be disciplined, have a reliable internet connection, and learn to effectively use digital learning platforms.

Bölüm Müfredati / Department Curriculum