Kinesiology, MS

Program Overview

The MS in Kinesiology program at George Mason University provides students with an advanced understanding of applied kinesiology, focusing on scientific evidence and research methods. Graduates become data scientists specializing in human movement and are prepared for careers in clinical, athletic, and military settings. The program offers core coursework in exercise physiology, biomechanics, and data science, as well as electives in various areas of kinesiology.

Program Outline

Kinesiology, MS Program Extraction:

Degree Overview:

The MS in Kinesiology program at George Mason University aims to produce graduates who are movement and exercise specialists. The program emphasizes an evidence-based approach, providing students with an advanced understanding of scientific evidence and research methods related to physical activity, general well-being, chronic disease, and human performance. The program offers hands-on experience using state-of-the-art technology in the SMART Lab.

Outline:

Core Coursework (24 Credits):

• KINE 600: Scientific Foundation of Applied Kinesiology (3 Credits): This course explores the scientific principles underlying applied kinesiology, providing a foundation for understanding the application of kinesiological knowledge in various settings.
• KINE 601: Advanced Exercise Physiology (3 Credits): This course delves into advanced concepts in exercise physiology, examining the physiological responses to exercise and the adaptations that occur with training.
• KINE 602: Movement and Fitness Assessment (3 Credits): This course focuses on the assessment of human movement and fitness, covering various assessment tools and techniques used in kinesiology.
• KINE 603: Applied Biomechanics (3 Credits): This course applies biomechanical principles to human movement, analyzing the forces and mechanics involved in various activities.
• KINE 605: Research Methods in Kinesiology (3 Credits): This course introduces students to research methodologies used in kinesiology, covering research design, data analysis, and interpretation.
• KINE 608: Data Science in Kinesiology (3 Credits): This course focuses on the application of data science techniques in kinesiology, enabling students to analyze and interpret large datasets related to human movement.
• KINE 615: Advanced Technology to Measure Human Movement (3 Credits): This course explores advanced technologies used to measure human movement, providing hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment.
• KINE 798: Directed Inquiry (3 Credits) or KINE 799: Thesis (3 Credits): Students can choose between a directed inquiry project or a thesis for their culminating experience.

Electives (12 Credits):

Students select 12 credits from the following:

• KINE 500: Special Topics
• KINE 501: Independent Study
• KINE 506: Exercise Psychology
• KINE 604: Motor Control and Learning
• KINE 606: Applied Sport and Exercise Nutrition
• KINE 607: Exercise Programming: Movement Selection and Progression
• KINE 609: Applied Strength and Conditioning Programming
• KINE 610: Corrective and Preventative Exercise Techniques

Accelerated Master's Program:

• Highly-qualified undergraduates can be admitted to the bachelor's/accelerated master's program, earning a BS or BA in any degree area and an MS in Kinesiology in an accelerated timeframe.
• Students must complete a minimum of 144 credits.
• Students must fulfill all university requirements for the master's degree.
• Students are considered for admission into the BAM Pathway after completing a minimum of 60 credits and meeting additional unit-specific criteria.
• Students accepted into the BAM Pathway can register for graduate-level courses after completing a minimum of 75 undergraduate credits and course-specific prerequisites.

Careers:

Graduates of the MS in Kinesiology program are prepared for careers in various settings, including:

• Clinical: Clinical exercise physiologists, rehabilitation specialists, and health and wellness professionals.
• Athletic: Strength and conditioning coaches, sport scientists, and athletic trainers.
• Military: Tactical athlete strength and conditioning specialists, and injury prevention professionals.

Other:

• Students may earn lower than a B- in only one course within the first 9 credits taken toward the degree to continue in the program.
• Students may take up to six credits of coursework offered by other programs with permission.
• The program is housed within the School of Kinesiology, College of Education and Human Development at George Mason University.