Kinesiology, M.S. Program
Program Description
The Department of Kinesiology offers programs focusing on fundamental analysis of sport, exercise and physical activity phenomena. The purpose of the Master of Science degree program is to give students a cross-disciplinary knowledge of kinesiology, develop their scholarly skills, and hone their professional application. The program serves as a terminal degree for professionals as well as preparation for those intending to complete a doctorate in Kinesiology or in one of the Allied Health Professions. The program offers two concentrations: a Human Movement and Sport Science Concentration and a Physical Activity and Exercise: An International Perspective on Programming for Health and Wellness Concentration.
Program Learning Outcomes
Students who graduate with an M.S. in Kinesiology will be able to:
- Synthesize and apply multiple cognate disciplinary perspectives.
- Design and implement professional applications.
- Make decisions using critical analysis of issues, theories, methods, ideas, and artifacts.
- Communicate persuasively using a contextually-grounded approach.
- Systematically reflect on the practice of social justice.
Career Opportunities
Athletic Director • Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist • Community College Teacher • Corporate Fitness Director • Intercollegiate and Interscholastic Coach • Exercise Physiologist • Personal Trainer • Physical Education Administrator • Physical Education Teacher • Sport Psychology Consultant • University Instructor • Wellness Counselor/Educator • Executive Position in Sports Federations • Leadership Position in Sports Clubs •
Features
Upon acceptance into the program, students are immediately directed to a faculty member who will assist them in developing a course of study.
The department offers a complete range of laboratory facilities and technologies for graduate students. These resources enable comprehensive research opportunities in all areas of study. Motion analysis software, ventilatory gas analysis, biofeedback, coincidence timing, nutritional analysis, bone scanner, body composition analysis and computer statistical packages are examples of available tools.
Other features include the potential for individualized programs of study to meet specific interests and needs, extensive library resources, and an instructional format which stimulates high interaction among students and promotes independent scholarship.
Admission to the Program
Eligibility for admission to the M.S. degree program requires a student to have a baccalaureate degree or equivalent. Students must have attained at least a 3.00 grade point average in their major, and must submit a) 2-3 letters of recommendation from former professors, and b) a statement of purpose to the graduate coordinator. This statement should include, especially for those without an undergraduate degree in the area, what background they have that demonstrates an understanding of and commitment to physical activity and exercise.
The department encourages students to meet university prescribed deadlines for admission into the program beginning in the fall semester, although the department is willing to accept graduate students into the program during spring semester.
Advancement to Candidacy
Students are eligible for Advancement to Candidacy based on the criteria given below:
- Maintain a 3.00 grade point average in all graduate work completed.
- Submit to the graduate coordinator an approved program of study developed in conjunction with their faculty advisor.
Kinesiology Degree Requirements (32 units)
The M.S. in Kinesiology program consists of at least 32 semester units of approved upper division and graduate work. The university requirement for the minimum number of 600-level units applies. All work applied toward the 32 units must be at an average grade of “B” (3.0) or higher. No graduate-level required course may be at a grade below “B-.”
Prerequisites or Foundation Requirements
A degree in Kinesiology or a health field is helpful, but not a requirement. It is highly recommended that students have either practical or professional experience in physical activity and exercise.
Core Courses
The following 16 units are required:
Capstone Requirement
A capstone experience for 4 units is required:
Other Graduate & Post-Baccalaureate Degree Requirements
In addition to departmental requirements, every student must also satisfy the University requirements for graduation as described throughout this catalog. These include the 70% unit residence requirement; the five-year rule on currency of subject matter; the minimum number of units in 600-level courses; the “C” minimum grade for each graduate course; and the 3.00 cumulative grade point average.
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