Kinesiology
Master of Science
Fitting into an active career
As we work to become a healthier, more active society, the demand for health and fitness professionals will continue to grow in health organizations, fitness centers, corporations, community recreation programs and other wellness settings.
This program focuses on the effects of exercise on physical and mental health. You will examine topics in exercise physiology, sport psychology, physical activity, health and disease to help you analyze wellness through a holistic perspective. Through practical experiences, students learn to apply this knowledge to help people manage weight, promote heart and lung health, improve athletic performance, prevent and fight disease and much more.
You may also have opportunities to conduct research in the Exercise Physiology Lab and the Biomechanics Lab, where you could study metabolic rates, body composition, cardiac health, body mechanics, motor skills and other related areas.
The kinesiology degree has three specializations:
- Exercise, sport and health sciences (face-to-face specialization with some online course options).
- Recreation, sport and tourism management (available as either an online or hybrid specialization).
- Physical activity and dance pedagogy (face-to-face specialization with some online course options).
Overview
Related Topics
Fitting into an active career
Degree fit
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Have a background in health, physical education, recreation, exercise science or another related field
- Lead an active lifestyle and value movement
- Enjoy helping others
- Want to conduct research in the field
- Excel in the sciences
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,218 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Fitness Trainers and Aerobics Instructors
$47,464 - Biostatisticians
$98,724 - Fitness and Wellness Coordinators
$32,460 - Athletic Trainers
$59,242 - Exercise Physiologists
$60,680
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
For information on FAFSA deadlines, financial aid types and eligibility requirements, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Graduate funding opportunities
Movement Sciences (MVSC) Scholarships:
- Application and Application and descriptions (PDF)
- MVSC assistantship page
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
Exercise Physiology Laboratory — Equipped to conduct metabolic, cardiorespiratory, cardiac and body composition research, the Exercise Physiology Lab has technologically advanced equipment for a wide array of performance and physiological testing.
Biomechanics Laboratory — Equipped to conduct biomechanical and motor control research, the laboratory houses force plate technology and infrared camera testing.
Application information
To ensure you meet the requirements for admission, review the following criteria:
- Education level: Bachelor's
- GPA: 3.0
- GRE: No
- TOEFL/IELTS: 79/6.5
- Number of references: 3
- Other requirements: No
Visit Graduate Admissions to learn more and start your application.
Program contact:
Philip W. Scruggs
Email: pwscruggs@uidaho.edu
Phone: 208-885-7921