Master of Science Program

The master of science (M.S.) degree in kinesiology and health offers advanced study in the science of human physical activity, particularly as movement, exercise, and sport apply to health promotion and disease prevention.

This degree is ideal for:

  • Students who wish to continue their education in a doctoral program
  • Students who wish to continue their education in a professional school such as medicine or physical therapy
  • Students who simply want to learn more about the scientific process

Options

The M.S. is offered with a choice between a thesis and a non-thesis option.

  • Thesis: The M.S. with a thesis is for those who wish to engage in research and are considering or planning on pursuing a Ph.D.
  • Non-thesis: This option prepares people for professional jobs by equipping them with knowledge of, and providing them with an appreciation for, the research process so they can be a consumer of research. Students are required to complete a capstone project called a creative component.

You should specify your choice between the thesis and non-thesis options when you apply. You may change options during your graduate work, but only with the approval of your major professor.

Areas of Emphasis

Students may choose from several areas of emphasis:

  • Exercise physiology (including metabolic, cardiovascular, and immunology)
  • Exercise psychology
  • Biomechanics
  • Motor control
  • Physical activity and public health (including physical activity epidemiology)

Program Requirements

Research Core


30 credits minimum for the thesis option
33 credits minimum for a non-thesis option

Kinesiology and Health Specialization

  • 9 credits minimum
  • Courses in focused primary area with a secondary area of emphasis for breadth

Electives

  • Thesis option: 8 credits of electives
  • Non-thesis option: 15 credits of electives
  • At least 3 credits outside Kinesiology and Health

Statistics/Research Methods

  • 7 credits minimum
  • KIN 5010 (3 credits)
  • STAT 5101 (4 credits)

Research

  • Thesis option: 6 credits minimum of KIN 6990. The thesis requires a research project culminating in a written document that includes a well-supported rationale, review of literature, results, and a discussion of results.
  • Creative component option: 2 credits minimum of KIN 5990. The creative component requires a written document in which research is incorporated and applied to a professional setting.
  • Presentation: Both the thesis and creative component must be orally defended in a public presentation before the Academic Plan Committee.

Course Descriptions

Check out our catalog of courses for options to take during your M.S. studies.