What you will study
Following your achievement of an undergraduate degree in Kinesiology or a related
field of study, expect to complete your UCM Master of Science in Kinesiology degree
in two years. During this time, you’ll gain expertise in movement analyses, exercise
metabolism and body composition through integrated exercise physiology and biomechanics.
Kinesiology professors who care about your success
In small classes, you’ll interact with UCM faculty who hold doctoral degrees in areas
including biomechanics, exercise physiology, rehabilitation science and physical therapy.
Our diverse expertise translates to opportunities to learn from professionals in your
field of interest. At UCM, we get to know our students well, which allows us to best
assist you in academic advising and mentoring.
With the help of attentive professors, in-depth coursework and various hands-on experiences,
you’ll be prepared for your capstone project. Choose a thesis or an internship for
flexibility in completing a graduate degree in Kinesiology that helps you fulfill
your academic and career goals.
Excellence in Kinesiology
- A master’s degree in Kinesiology from the University of Central Missouri offers significant
value over other Missouri kinesiology programs. Consider our state-of-the-art facilities
and technologies, our commitment to education and research and our personal attention
— all provided at more affordable tuition rates — as you explore your options.
- Named: Best Value Master’s Degree College for Exercise Science and Kinesiology (College Factual,
2022)
- Top 15%: Most Focused Master’s Degree Colleges for Exercise Science and Kinesiology (College
Factual, 2022)
- Top 5.5%: Most Popular Master’s Degree Colleges for Exercise Science and Kinesiology (College
Factual, 2022)
Unique learning opportunities in kinesiology
Your career in kinesiology requires a hands-on approach, so the University of Central
Missouri ensures our graduate degree in Kinesiology is hands-on, too. Prepare for
the future, including career advancement opportunities, with lab- and field-based
experiences and supportive resources:
- Strategic partnerships: Take advantage of the Kinesiology department’s partnership with UCM Athletics for
real-world experience as you work with NCAA athletes to enhance their performance
in sports.
- Internships: Get an inside look at your future career with an internship. UCM has placed Kinesiology
degree students in respected hospitals, gyms, companies and other facilities in Warrensburg
and throughout the Kansas City metro area.
- State-of-the-art facilities: Learn to use the same modern equipment you’ll use on the job in UCM’s labs for human
performance, biomechanics and clinical exercise physiology. Measure bone density with
a DEXA scan or use a motion capture system to analyze body movement, for example.
- Kinesiology Club: Meet students completing their degree in Kinesiology, both undergrad and graduate,
when you join the UCM Kinesiology Club. Get career advice from guest speakers, participate
in community service events or raise funds to attend conferences.
- Academic conferences: Participate in national and regional research conferences for education and networking.
You may even present your own research to gain traction in the field.
What can you do with a master's degree in Kinesiology from UCM?
Your Master of Science in Kinesiology degree from the University of Central Missouri
opens the door to many opportunities. Following graduation, you may pursue a career
as a:
- Clinical exercise physiologist
- Strength and conditioning specialist
- Research scientist (requires a Ph.D.)
- Allied health professional
- Wellness professional
You may also choose to use your graduate-level Kinesiology degree for original research
or to continue your education. UCM faculty have helped students gain acceptance to
many prominent doctoral programs across the country.
UCM resources to help you jumpstart your kinesiology career
As you apply for exciting positions, UCM’s Career Services Center is available to
help develop your resume and prepare you for interviews. Get excited for your future
when you use the interactive tool below to explore what’s ahead in your kinesiology
career.
Financial assistance options for your Kinesiology master’s degree
A master’s degree in Kinesiology can boost your career opportunities and even your
salary potential. The University of Central Missouri aims to help you enhance your
future by offering high-quality education and research at tuition rates lower than
most Missouri colleges and universities.
We also provide various resources to help you fund your Kinesiology degree. These include:
- Loans
- Grants
- Employment opportunities
- Scholarships
Scholarships for master’s degree in Kinesiology students
UCM makes available scholarships for students of any degree program. You may also
qualify for scholarships specific to your Kinesiology degree, including the Kinesiology
Scholarship fund.
You can learn more about available scholarships at the UCM Scholarship Finder.
Meet Dustin D.
BS Kinesiology, ’15 and MS Kinesiology ’19 - Reid Hemphill Outstanding Graduate Student
Scholarship Awardee
"I feel a profound appreciation for higher education and those committed to helping
UCM students thrive. It is the guidance of UCM faculty and staff that have enabled
me to succeed thus far. I will use the skills I developed at UCM to continue my education
at UNLV."
Hear from Dustin
Conduct Graduate-level Research
Make discoveries at UCM
UCM faculty put a high priority on research and support your interests and goals.
Use your time under their guidance to dig into what excites you. For example, UCM
Kinesiology graduate student, Dustin D., was recognized for his work in assessing
body composition to deliver personalized training protocols and to diagnose possible
life-threatening medical conditions.
Watch Dustin’s Presentation
Meet Kinesiology Faculty
Professors with Ph.D.s committed to your success
Our UCM faculty bring the highest levels of expertise in all areas of kinesiology
and for all age groups. This ensures you have access to the support you need for the
career you desire. When our faculty aren’t helping you achieve academic success, they
can often be found conducting their own research for publication.
Read Faculty Bios
Realize Your Goals
Make your mark at UCM
After enrolling at UCM from Germany, Nico P. completed original research that led
to a competitive grant award. He invested the funds into new technology — a timing
gate — and worked with UCM athletes to evaluate their sprint performance. His initiative
not only serves to benefit Nico’s career but also benefits future UCM students through
use of this technology.
Learn About Nico’s Work
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