Kent State University

What you'll study

The programme covers core areas of kinesiology and sport science alongside specialised study in physical education and applied practice. Typical modules include:

• Exercise Physiology — energy systems, physiological responses to exercise, testing and prescription for health and performance.
• Biomechanics — movement analysis, gait and sport technique, motion-capture methods and biomechanical modelling.
• Motor Learning and Control — skill acquisition, feedback, stages of learning and practice design for athletes and students.
• Sports Psychology — motivation, arousal regulation, mental skills training and team dynamics.
• Physical Education Pedagogy — curriculum design, assessment strategies, inclusive practice and classroom management for K–12 settings.
• Research Methods and Statistics — experimental design, qualitative methods, data analysis and interpretation for applied research.
• Assessment and Measurement — fitness testing, functional movement screening, and performance evaluation tools.
• Adapted Physical Activity — strategies for working with diverse learners and athletes with disabilities.
• Practicum or Internship — applied placements in schools, clinics, community programmes or with athletic teams to develop professional skills.
• Thesis or Capstone Project — research thesis option for students aiming for doctoral study or a non-thesis capstone/project option focused on applied practice.

Students typically combine coursework with hands-on laboratory work in areas such as biomechanics and exercise physiology, and may have opportunities to work with university athletic programmes or local school districts. The programme offers flexibility with full-time and part-time pathways and thesis and non-thesis tracks to match academic and professional goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree, preferably in kinesiology, physical education, exercise science, sport management or a related field. Typical application components include:

• Official transcripts demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate performance.
• A current CV or résumé outlining relevant academic, coaching or professional experience.
• A personal statement describing academic interests, professional goals and reasons for selecting the programme.
• Letters of recommendation, usually two, from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s preparation and potential for graduate study.
• International applicants must provide evidence of English proficiency through accepted tests unless otherwise exempt.

Some applicants may be required to attend an interview. Prior practical experience in sport, coaching or teaching strengthens an application. Specific GPA expectations, GRE requirements and other admission details are provided by the university and can vary by track.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme pursue a wide range of careers across education, sport and health sectors. Common career pathways include:

• Secondary school physical education teacher (note: additional state certification may be required for licensure).
• Strength and conditioning coach or sport performance specialist working with amateur and professional teams or private clients.
• Exercise physiologist or fitness director in clinical, corporate wellness or community settings.
• Coach at youth, collegiate or elite levels, with roles in skill development, programme design and athlete monitoring.
• Rehabilitation support roles and adapted physical activity practitioner working with special populations.
• Research assistant or coordinator in academic, clinical or industry research projects; a thesis route also prepares students for doctoral study and careers in higher education.

Graduates often find employment with school districts, universities, sports clubs, fitness and rehabilitation centres, public health organisations and private coaching businesses.

Why study at Kent State University

Kent State offers this programme within a college that brings together expertise in education, health and human services, providing an interdisciplinary environment for sport and movement studies. Key advantages include:

• Experienced faculty — teaching and research staff with practical backgrounds in exercise science, coaching and physical education pedagogy.
• Applied facilities — access to biomechanics and exercise physiology laboratories, testing equipment and performance analysis technology to support hands-on learning.
• Local partnerships — connections with regional schools, healthcare providers and sports organisations that support practicum placements and community engagement.
• Flexible pathways — options for thesis or non-thesis study, part-time enrolment and applied practicum to suit professional students and career changers.
• Career support — university career services and subject-specific advising help with certification guidance, internships and job placement.

Together, these elements create a programme that balances scientific rigour, pedagogical training and practical experience to prepare graduates for diverse roles in sport, education and health.