College of Education and Human Development

School of Kinesiology

Kinesiology MS

The master of science in kinesiology program combines theoretical instruction and practical experience. The curriculum reflects a broad study of physical activity including topics such as:

  • Exercise science
  • Exercise physiology
  • Movement science
  • Human performance
  • Social and behavioral science

Much of the research conducted in the School is interdisciplinary in nature and involves collaborative partnerships with life science disciplines. Collaborations include medicine, neuroscience, and epidemiology with links to business, education, and social sciences.

Students pursue an individualized program with an emphasis in one of areas listed below.

Apply Funding opportunities Curriculum
87% MS/MA STUDENTS RECEIVE FULL OR PARTIAL FUNDING
2-2.5 years AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE THEIR DEGREE
15 STUDENTS CURRENTLY ENROLLED IN THE MS OR MA PROGRAM

Emphasis areas

All students pursuing an MS in kinesiology will need to select their emphasis area and faculty advisor prior to applying. Students should review the following emphasis area options and the associated faculty and labs. They should choose an emphasis area that aligns with their future career goals and research interests.

Emphasis: Biomechanics and neuromotor control Emphasis: Biomechanics and neuromotor control

Provides advanced knowledge for understanding how the human nervous system controls movement and how the neurological disease affects motor function. Students will focus on the application of the laws of physics to the motion of biological systems

Emphasis: Sport and exercise psychology Emphasis: Sport and exercise psychology

Explores the thoughts, feelings, and actions of people in physical activity contexts. Research focuses on participants of competitive sport, exercise and fitness, sports medicine and rehabilitation, physical education, and health and wellness

Emphasis: Sport sociology Emphasis: Sport sociology

Focuses on the scientific study of human behavior and social organization in the sport context. The primary objective is to attempt to identify, describe, and explain the role and relationship of sport in society

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Which degree is right for me? MS/MA vs MEd Program

The School of Kinesiology offers different types of master’s degree programs: The master of science/master of art (research based) and the master of education (professional based). Don’t know which program best fits you? Review our MS/MA vs MEd program information to help choose the program that's right for you.

How to apply

Before you apply

Before you apply

Before you apply review the MS/MA vs MEd information. All master's programs are designed to educate students in their chosen degree path and prepare them for professional or academic work. Read through the MS/MA versus MEd comparison page to decide which program is the best fit for you.

It is highly recommended that applicants contact the professor they are interested in working with before applying online. It helps facilitate the application process and familiarizes the professor with applicants and their interests.

Questions?

We’re here to help. Get in touch with our Graduate Studies Office through the request information form or contact one of our staff.

Juergen Konczak Juergen Konczak

  • Professor, Biomechanics and Neuromotor Control; Director of Graduate Studies (DGS)
  • 612-624-4370
  • jkonczak@umn.edu

Director, Human Sensorimotor Control Laboratory Director, Center for Clinical Movement Science Faculty, Center for Cognitive Sciences Faculty, Graduate Program in Neuroscience Adjunct Professor of Neurology Director, Human Sensorimotor Control…

Juergen Konczak
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