Movement and Leisure Science

The Master of Science of Movement and Leisure Sciences concentration provides graduate students with a core set of knowledge and skills in Exercise Physiology, Sport Psychology and Physical Activity, Health and Disease.  Our graduates are prepared for entering doctoral degree programs and careers in fitness, wellness, coaching, biomechanics, sport and exercise psychology, cardiac rehabilitation and research. 

Master of Science of Movement and Leisure Science includes three different Emphasis.
Emphasis include:
Exercise Science and Health
Recreation
Physical Activity Pedagogy

 The University of Idaho has a multitude of diverse recreational opportunities for both graduate and undergraduate students. Pristine lakes, white-water rivers, high mountains and ski slopes offer unlimited opportunities for hands-on field research.

Prepare for Success

Preference for admission is given to prospective students with educational backgrounds in health, physical education, recreation, exercise science and other related fields. A 3.0 grade point average (GPA) is required.

Your First Year

Below is a list of some of the courses you will take:

• Research Methods in Movement Sciences
• Management of Leisure Services and Facilities
• Ethical Communication in Physical Activity
• Contemporary Issues in Health and Activity
• Health and Community Development

What You Can Do

Graduates plan, organize and direct physical activities in recreation areas, parks, community centers, religious organizations, camps, theme parks, community and clinical-based wellness programs, or tourist attractions. Several also work for outfitters or own their own businesses offering recreation or tourism activities. Increasingly, physical activity professionals are employed by businesses to organize and direct leisure activities for employees.

Activities

Recreation Student Organization

Facilities

In addition to excellent outdoor recreational opportunities, the University of Idaho has a number of facilities that enhance fitness and fitness education, including a new Student Recreation Center.

Faculty Involvement

A small student-to-faculty ratio provides a unique opportunity for students to interact closely with faculty.

Damon Burton, Ph.D.
Professor, Sport Psychology
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Grace Goc Karp
Program Coordinator, Physical Education
Research Interests: Physical Education Teacher Education, Assessment in Physical Education; School to Community Physical Activity Enrichment
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Alan Nasypany, Ed.D., LAT, ATC
Athletic Training Education Program Director
Research interests: Back pain; Chronic pain; Psychology of injury; Injury pathomechanics; Clinical education
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David Paul, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Research interests: Investigating the relationships between physical activity, food intake, and chronic disease; Studying the relationship between the built environment and obesity in children and adults; Developing methodologies to improve the measurement of physical activity and food intake.
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Jeff Seegmiller, Ed.D., LAT, ATC
Assistant Professor
Research interests: Musculoskeletal injury mechanisms and injury prevention. Focus areas: Landing mechanics; Ankle inversion and fibularis latency; ski equipment and its effects on the lower extremity biomechanics; models and quality in professional and post professional education programs.
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Chantal Vella, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Director Exercise Physiology Laboratory
Research Interests: Cardiovascular disease prevention in young adults;Obesity and cardiac function
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