Master of Science in Kinesiology

M.S. in Kinesiology

This will be a generalist masters in kinesiology.  Students may choose to specialize in athletic training, biomechanics, exercise physiology or physical activity. The projected enrollment of this program is 30 full-time students. This program requires a minimum of 33 graduate credits, including at least 6 thesis credits.

This program will educate the best-prepared leaders who have rigorous training in emerging research areas such as athletic training, biomechanics and physical activity. The kinesiology master of science is a popular degree as either a terminal degree or together with a doctoral degree in biology, neuroscience, exercise physiology or physical education.

Employment opportunities

The need for trained kinesiology professionals is continuing to grow. For example, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of exercise physiologist is expected to grow by 13% from 2016 to 2026, faster than average for other fields. Individuals trained as athletic trainers are expected to have a 23% increase in positions from 2016 to 2026, which is much faster than average for many professions. There is a demand for well-trained individuals in all fields of kinesiology. This is especially true with the aging of the current workforce in this area and the aging of the baby boomers.

Admission to the Kinesiology Master of Science program

The School of Community Health Sciences welcomes students with diverse academic backgrounds to apply for the Kinesiology MS program. To be successful in the program, applicants should have completed the following undergraduate courses/contents.

Basic courses/contents

• Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and/or other science-related courses (at least 6 credit hours)
• Anatomy, Physiology, Applied Kinesiology, Health & Wellness (at least 6 credit hours)

Priority consideration will be given to the applicants who have completed the following advanced Kinesiology-related courses

• Human Biology, Exercise Physiology, Human Biomechanics, Physical Training and Conditioning

Spring admission

• November 9: deadline for priority consideration for graduate assistantships, fellowships and merit graduate student awards
• November 23: final deadline

Fall admission

• February 1: deadline for priority consideration for graduate assistantships, fellowships and merit graduate student awards
• June 2: final deadline

There are two cohorts admitted each year. If you miss the deadline and would like to discuss enrolling in graduate special coursework that could be applied to the program or have any questions about the program, please contact Nora L. Constantino, Ph.D., FACSM, at nlc@unr.edu.

How to apply

Applicants to the M.S. in Kinesiology should apply via the Graduate School. 

Your application should include:

1. Transcripts of your undergraduate degree
2. GRE scores (recommended)
3. TOEFL exam score if English is your second language 
4. A curriculum vitae 
5. A statement of purpose which includes:
   • Why you wish you attend the program
   • What skillsets you can bring to the program
   • Which faculty member you would prefer to work with and why
6. Letters of recommendation (a minimum of two but three is preferred)