Kinesiology, M.S.

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(30 UNITS)

The Master of Science in Kinesiology prepares students to enter doctoral programs in Kinesiology or related fields, or professional careers in such areas as corporate/commercial fitness, older adult fitness and wellness, advanced pedagogy, sport, exercise and performance psychology, and athletic coaching. With a strong foundation in the natural and social sciences, graduates gain knowledge and skills needed to provide scientifically grounded, community-focused and ethically principled expertise to a diverse clientele, from children to older adults. Students work with faculty advisers to gain research and professional experience, completing one of three culminating experiences for graduation: thesis, project or comprehensive exam.

Admission Requirements

Students must meet the CSU requirements for admission to a master’s degree program. Please consult the Graduate Admissions section in this catalog for complete information. In addition, applicants to the graduate program in Kinesiology, must submit to the Kinesiology graduate program:

Transcripts showing completion of an undergraduate degree in Kinesiology (or equivalent field) with a grade-point average of at least 3.2 in upper-division major coursework.
Graduate Record Exam general test results with recommended minimum scores at or above the 50th percentile for Verbal and Quantitative and 3.5 for Analytical Writing.
A 500-word essay describing the applicant’s academic/professional interests, which also identifies a focus study area of interest and, where possible, specific faculty with whom they wish to work.
Two letters of recommendation, preferably from former faculty who can address their academic ability and potential for success in graduate school.

Any student without an undergraduate degree in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Physical Education, or a related field must complete a prescribed set of undergraduate coursework (usually about 12 units) with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Any student with a grade-point average deficiency must complete additional undergraduate coursework as specified by the Kinesiology graduate program adviser.

Advancement to Candidacy

Advancement to candidacy is attained by requesting a graduation check in the semester prior to graduation (see class schedule for deadlines) and receiving subsequent approval from the graduate studies adviser.

Degree Requirements

A minimum 18 units must be 500-level courses. Courses may not satisfy more than one area.

Core Requirements (6 units)

Advanced Study Requirements (6 units)

Electives (15-18 units)

Select courses in consultation with faculty members from sub-disciplinary focus area. Other courses may be selected with graduate adviser approval.