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Kinesiology, MS
Master of Science in Kinesiology
* Tuition:
$15,120 | 30 Credit Hours | Finish in as little as 18-24 months
Begin as soon as: January 11, 2027 or August 16, 2027
Why Choose UCM for Your Kinesiology MS?
The Master of Science in Kinesiology at the University of Central Missouri delivers specialized graduate training with a strong focus on sport performance. Designed for students who hold an undergraduate degree in kinesiology or a related field, this two-year program builds advanced expertise in movement analysis, exercise metabolism and biomechanics. UCM offers complete learning flexibility: you can earn your degree fully online, in person on our Warrensburg campus or through a hybrid combination of both formats. Guided by doctoral-level faculty in small classes, you’ll gain practical knowledge through cutting-edge physiological equipment, virtual or on-campus performance labs and applied research. Whether you choose a thesis or an internship track, UCM prepares you for roles in strength and conditioning, sports science research, clinical exercise physiology or doctoral study.
Kinesiology, MS at a Glance
Degree Type: Master of Science | Credit Hours: 30 Hours
Degree Can be Taken: Warrensburg | Online | Hybrid
- Named a Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Program by Online Master's College (2026)
- Cutting-edge labs and equipment dedicated to human performance, biomechanics and physiology
- Available 100% online, in person or through a hybrid format
- Small class sizes offering personalized instruction and mentoring
ContactDr. Matthew Garver Questions after hours? Call/Text Mo, our AI Graduate Recruiter: 660-628-5025
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Explore admissions requirements, learning outcomes, degree requirements, course options and more.
What will you learn in UCM's Kinesiology MS program?
Our curriculum combines exercise physiology and biomechanics to analyze human movement, metabolic response and physical recovery. You’ll gain technical competency operating advanced diagnostic tools in laboratory and field settings.
Technical Skills & Laboratory Equipment:
- Motion Capture & Kinematics: Evaluate body movement patterns using original motion capture systems.
- Kinetics & Force Measurement: Measure strength and power output using force plates, handheld dynamometers and isokinetic dynamometers.
- Neuromuscular & Physiological Tools: Assess cardiovascular and muscular responses using electromyography (EMG), metabolic carts, electrocardiograms (ECG) and pulse oximeters.
- Body Composition & Recovery Analysis: Measure bone density and tissue distribution using DEXA/DXA scanners, the BodPod and bioelectrical impedance analysis.
- Capstone Options: Tailor your degree culmination by selecting an applied internship to enter the workforce or a research thesis to prepare for doctoral education.
Unique learning opportunities in UCM's Kinesiology MS
- UCM Athletics Partnership: Work directly with NCAA student-athletes to analyze movement, design conditioning plans and enhance sports performance.
- Clinical & Corporate Internships: Gain professional experience through placements in top hospitals and fitness facilities across Warrensburg and the Kansas City metro area.
- Advanced Performance Laboratories: Train in specialized UCM research facilities dedicated to human performance, biomechanics and clinical exercise physiology.
- Academic Research Conferences: Present original research findings and network with industry professionals at regional and national kinesiology conferences.
- Personalized Faculty Mentoring: Study in small classes under faculty who hold doctorates in exercise physiology, biomechanics, rehabilitation science and physical therapy.
Fast facts about the Kinesiology MS
- Flexible Delivery Formats: Available 100% online, fully in person at our Warrensburg campus or through a hybrid format
- Program Length: Designed for completion in two years for students with a bachelor's degree in kinesiology or a related field
- Program Focus: Strong curricular emphasis on sport performance, exercise metabolism and biomechanical analysis
- Recognized Quality: Named a Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Program by Online Master's College (2026)
- Doctoral Preparation: Established track record of placing graduates into prominent doctoral and allied health programs nationwide
- Career Support: One-on-one resume development and interview preparation provided by the UCM Career and Life Design Center
Talk to an Admissions Representative
Financial Aid and Scholarships for Kinesiology MS Students
As a UCM student, you’ll have a financial aid advisor as part of your six-person student support team to help you find the best way to finance your college education. UCM provides competitive tuition rates alongside multiple funding avenues for graduate study.
Financial Assistance Options:
- Kinesiology Scholarship Fund
- General UCM Graduate Scholarships
- Student Loans and Federal Grants
- On-Campus Employment Opportunities
Review criteria through the UCM Scholarship Finder, then connect with your financial aid advisor to structure your graduate financial plan.
The next steps to your Kinesiology MS at UCM:
① Request information about the Kinesiology MS at UCM.
② Schedule a visit or Connect virtually with a UCM admissions rep.
Career opportunities and outcomes for UCM's Kinesiology MS graduates
A Master of Science in Kinesiology from UCM opens pathways to advanced positions in athletic performance, healthcare and sports science research. Graduates apply their analytical and physiological training across gyms, hospitals, corporate wellness facilities and academic institutions.
Potential Career Roles:
- Strength and Conditioning Coach / Specialist
- Clinical Exercise Physiologist
- Sports Development Trainer
- Sports Science Research Assistant
- Allied Health Professional
- Wellness Professional
- Research Scientist (requires PhD)
Apply to UCM's Kinesiology MS program
The UCM Career and Life Design Center
The UCM Career and Life Design Center is here for undergraduate students, graduate students and alumni from all majors, identities and interests. We are a hub for career exploration and career readiness. We offer resources and support for:
- exploring career options
- life design (explore and build career and life journeys, designing next steps)
- job and internship searching
- document reviews (resumes, cover letters, personal statements, etc.)
- interviews (coaching and mock interviewing)
- Professional Clothing Studio
- preparation for graduate school (application materials, exploring programs)
- and more!
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Explore programs related to kinesiology.
If you have an interest in completing your master’s degree in Kinesiology, you may want to also explore these UCM graduate programs: |
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll learn advanced techniques in exercise physiology, biomechanics, motion analysis and exercise metabolism. You will also build practical skills operating equipment like DEXA scanners, metabolic carts, force plates, EMG units and motion capture systems.
Yes. UCM offers the MS in Kinesiology fully online, fully in person at the Warrensburg campus or as a hybrid combination of both options to fit your lifestyle and career schedule.
You can choose between a research thesis or an applied internship, allowing you to align your final project with your individual goals for employment or doctoral study.
Yes. Graduate students can apply for university-wide funding and program-specific options, including the Kinesiology Scholarship Fund, using the UCM Scholarship Finder.
