Program Overview

Maîtrise čs sciences Sciences de l'activité physique (M.Sc.A.P.)

Description du programme

The Maîtrise čs sciences Sciences de l'activité physique (M.Sc.A.P.) program explores human movement, from the mechanical aspects of movement to the neural, physiological, and psychological processes underlying it. Professionals in the field rely on interdisciplinary approaches to better understand how and why we move, and to apply this knowledge in various contexts, such as sports performance, injury prevention, and movement analysis.

Duration and Location

• Duration: 6 trimesters full-time, equivalent to 24 consecutive months
• Location: On campus

Language

• Language of instruction: French and English

Why Choose to Study Sciences de l'activité physique

Advancement of Knowledge on Human Movement

The sciences of physical activity investigate human movement, encompassing the mechanical aspects of movement and the underlying neural, physiological, and psychological processes. Professionals in the field utilize interdisciplinary approaches to comprehend how and why we move, and to apply this understanding in diverse contexts, including sports performance, injury prevention, and movement analysis.

Distinguish Yourself in Movement Science

The M.Sc.A.P. program at the University of Ottawa is designed for individuals seeking to deepen their expertise in human movement. The rigorous and flexible curriculum combines theory with practice, preparing students for influential careers in research or specialized fields such as biomechanics, motor control, and exercise physiology.

What to Expect

• Comprehensive Program: Discover biomechanics, exercise physiology, and motor control through an integrated program.
• Research Opportunities: Work directly with the faculty on relevant research projects addressing concrete questions related to human movement.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Benefit from modern laboratories equipped with sophisticated equipment.
• Specialized Mentorship by Faculty: Learn and work alongside world-renowned experts in the field.

Choose Your Path

Exercise Physiology

• Critical Analysis: Participate in discussions on current research, including works on extreme environments, nutrition, and metabolism, and stay updated on the latest discoveries in human performance science and the body's response to extreme stress.
• Physiological Responses: Examine how the body adapts to activity in extreme conditions, such as sweltering heat and freezing cold. Students will study the adaptation of cardiovascular, respiratory, and muscular systems to stress, training, and recovery periods.
• Implications for Health: Discover how exercise and nutrition influence health and disease prevention to design effective interventions promoting long-term well-being and combating chronic diseases.

Biomechanics

• Movement Analysis: Critically examine current research on human movement and performance. Students will learn how to study and refine movement patterns using advanced biomechanical techniques and tools.
• Mechanical Principles: Understand the forces and mechanical elements behind human movement. These foundations support innovation in rehabilitation, sports performance, and injury prevention.
• Performance Enhancement: Apply biomechanical principles to optimize performance and prevent injuries. Through laboratory and field experiments, students will acquire skills translating into practical solutions for athletes and other clinical populations.

Motor Learning and Control

• Conceptual Understanding: Study the key concepts of motor learning and control, including how we acquire, improve, and retain motor skills over time.
• Influencing Factors: Analyze the sensory, cognitive, neural, and environmental factors affecting human movement. Students will learn how these elements interact to influence motor behavior in high-performance and rehabilitation contexts.
• Tools and Techniques: Utilize behavioral and neurophysiological tools to study movement in medical and varied population contexts. Students will employ technologies like electromyography (EMG) and motion capture to examine the role of the nervous system in motor control.

Career Prospects

The M.Sc.A.P. program prepares students to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in health, sports, and human movement across a wide range of careers. With a solid foundation in research, critical thinking, and scientific methodology, graduates can pursue various avenues:

• Research: Conduct research assistance, laboratory coordination, or project supervision in academic or hospital settings.
• Health Promotion and Wellness: Design, implement, and evaluate physical activity and lifestyle programs for diverse populations.
• Rehabilitation: Collaborate with paramedical professionals to design physical activity interventions for clients recovering from injuries.
• Sports Science: Apply scientific principles in strength and conditioning, individual monitoring, or performance analysis.
• Policy, Consulting, and Public Sector: Use expertise to influence health and sports policies or evaluate community interventions.
• Education and Awareness: Design and lead knowledge-sharing initiatives in the context of training, workshops, or community education programs.