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Master of Science in Kinesiology

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Discover the intricacies of human movement with our Master in Kinesiology graduate program. Our comprehensive curriculum embraces a cross-disciplinary approach and equips students with essential research skills for impactful scientific inquiry and delves into various subdisciplines of kinesiology.

Students tailor their experience by selecting an emphasis and collaborating closely with faculty for intensive research opportunities.

Explore our Master of Kinesiology emphasis areas:

Our Master of Science in Kinesiology with an exercise physiology emphasis seeks to study the science, research and practical aspects of human movement physiology and is designed to ready students for advanced studies, research positions and careers related to exercise and health.

The coursework offers a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied physiology, along with research methods exploring various topics such as:

  • Effects of strength and skill training on the neuromuscular function of the trained and untrained limbs. 
  • The influence of strength training on skeletal muscle hypertrophy and atrophy. 
  • Effects of community-based behavior change programs on metabolic and physiological markers associated with chronic disease risk. 
  • Influence of acute and chronic exercise on immunological function/response in various populations (athletes, elderly persons, etc.).
  • Use of exercise, particularly resistance exercise, as a means of reducing the risk of diseases associated with inactivity (cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, etc.) through the study of cellular and molecular mechanisms.

Physiology Faculty

Joshua Carr, Ph.D.

Ryan Porter, Ph.D.

Exercise Physiology Research 

Applied Metabolic and Physiology Lab

Neuromuscular Physiology Lab

Our Master of Science in kinesiology with an exercise psychology emphasis is for students who want to learn about the psychological aspects of participating in physical activities, especially in recreation, exercise and physical education. The coursework offers a strong foundation in exercise psychology, research methods and their practical applications. Graduates can apply these principles in schools and with the active general population through advanced studies, employment in schools and careers related to exercise and health.

This degree involves researching the following topics in depth:

  • Effects of physical activity in the school setting on academic performance and character development.
  • Use of increased recess and the restructuring of the school day as interventions to improve the development and physical well-being of children.
  • Exploring how to make exercise more enjoyable by targeting cognitive and emotional factors through attentional interventions.

Exercise Psychology Faculty 

Debbie Rhea, Ph.D.

Robyn Trocchio, Ph.D.

Exercise Psychology Research  

LiiNK Center for Healthy Play

Sport & Exercise Psychology Lab

Our Master of Science in kinesiology with an emphasis on motor control explores how movements are coordinated, controlled and learned. This field draws from academic disciplines like neuroscience, biomechanics and experimental psychology and applies this knowledge to areas such as physical education, kinesiology, rehabilitation and human factors engineering. Graduates can pursue careers in movement-related fields or continue to doctoral studies.

This degree involves researching the following topics in depth:

  • Effects of support surface angle and balance training on postural control in upright standing.
  • Role of movement variability during functional tasks in healthy and injured populations.

Motor Control Faculty  

Phil Esposito, Ph.D.

Adam King, Ph.D

Peter Weyand, Ph.D

Motor Control Research  

Motor Behavior Lab

Physical Activity & Developmental Disability Lab

Locomotor Performance Lab

Our Master of Science in kinesiology with an emphasis on sport psychology delves into the psychology of athlete performance, exploring the link between physical and psychological well-being. Following the scientist-practitioner model, it covers theoretical and applied aspects of sport psychology, along with interdisciplinary research methods. Graduates are equipped for careers in performance-related fields or further doctoral studies.

Sport Psychology Faculty 

Robyn Trocchio, Ph.D.

 Sport Psychology Research  

Sport & Exercise Psychology Lab

Upon completion of the master’s degree, students gain the ability to devise solutions for practical challenges and research inquiries across kinesiology disciplines. They learn to seamlessly integrate movement-based principles into diverse settings including laboratories, educational, clinical and athletic environments.

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