Program Overview

Master's in Biomechanics Degree

The Master's in Biomechanics degree is designed to prepare students for doctoral work or a career in clinical, industrial, or academic settings. This program focuses on understanding the mechanics of human movement, making it an essential field of study in today's fast-paced world.

Quick Facts

• Credits: 33
• Delivery: On-Campus

Program Overview

Our master of science (MS) in exercise science with a concentration in biomechanics will equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in diverse clinical, research, and educational settings. The program combines dynamic coursework with hands-on experiential learning, guided by expert faculty. Students will have access to our state-of-the-art biomechanics laboratory and a collaborative environment that fosters innovation and lifelong professional connections.

What You Will Learn

Ball State's master's program in biomechanics covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Human movement analysis
• Foundational mechanical principles for movement and biological tissue properties
• Biomechanical and musculoskeletal modeling
• Instrumentation and data analysis
• Application of principles to health, sport, and performance

Program Requirements

The program offers both thesis and non-thesis master's degree options, allowing students to tailor their studies to their career goals. Required courses provide a strong foundation for research and laboratory work in exercise science and biomechanics, covering essential lab techniques and statistical methods critical to the field. Students will further their education through courses in clinical and advanced biomechanics, exercise science and physiology, and resistance training.

Research and Facilities

The Biomechanics Laboratory features advanced biomechanical tools, including:

• 28 high-speed cameras to conduct 3-D motion analysis
• Hard-wired, telemetry, and indwelling electromyography
• A split-belt force instrumented treadmill to measure forces during locomotion
• Computer simulation and modeling of movements

Research focuses on dynamic posture and balance assessments, walking and running analyses, whole body vibration, and muscular reflex responsiveness. Clinical-based biomechanics research includes gait and posture analysis in various populations, while sports biomechanics research focuses on the effects of fatigue on performance across a wide number of movement skills.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will:

• Have a broad understanding of the scope of biomechanics and its applications
• Demonstrate proficiency in the use and application of biomechanical research tools and techniques
• Have the ability to synthesize research findings in the field of biomechanics and apply the research process to effectively test hypotheses
• Be able to clearly summarize and communicate findings from research literature in both an oral and written fashion

Career Opportunities

A master's degree in biomechanics will prepare students for doctoral study or a career in clinical, industrial, or academic settings. Potential job titles include:

• Gait Lab Manager
• Athletic Shoe Designer
• Motion Analysis Technician
• Ergonomist
• Orthotist/Prosthetist (may require additional education)
• Instructor of Biomechanics/Kinesiology, Postsecondary

Funding Your Graduate Studies

Information on tuition and fees, financial aid, and scholarships is available to help students fund their graduate studies.