University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

This master's programme combines core scientific foundations of human movement with practical and pedagogical training. Typical areas of study include exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control and learning, sport and exercise psychology, assessment and measurement, research methods and statistics, and curriculum and instruction for physical education.

Courses are organised to support both applied practice and research competence. Common modules and topics you can expect are:

• Exercise Physiology: energy systems, metabolic responses to exercise, testing and prescription for health and performance.
• Biomechanics: kinematic and kinetic analysis of movement, motion capture techniques and injury-reduction strategies.
• Motor Control and Learning: neural control of movement, skill acquisition, feedback and practice design.
• Sport and Exercise Psychology: motivation, attention, arousal regulation and interventions to enhance performance and adherence.
• Measurement and Evaluation: reliability and validity of tests, test selection for different populations and statistical interpretation.
• Curriculum and Pedagogy for Physical Education: lesson planning, inclusive practices, curriculum design and assessment for school and community settings.
• Research Methods and Statistics: quantitative and qualitative methods, experimental design, data analysis using common statistical packages.
• Practicum/Internship: supervised placements in schools, clinics, community programmes or sport organisations to apply skills in real settings.

The programme typically offers thesis and non-thesis routes. The thesis route emphasises original research and is suited to those intending to pursue doctoral study or research careers; the non-thesis route usually substitutes a capstone project or extended practicum for the thesis to develop applied competencies.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, preferably in kinesiology, exercise science, physical education, sport studies, biology, or a closely related discipline. Typical academic requirements include a competitive undergraduate GPA.

Additional application components commonly include:

• A statement of purpose outlining academic and career goals;
• Curriculum vitae or résumé summarising relevant experience;
• Academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended;
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three) from academic or professional referees;
• Evidence of relevant practical experience, such as coaching, teaching, clinical experience or internships, is highly desirable.

Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores where required by the department, though many cohorts admit students without GRE submission. For placements involving work with minors or clinical populations, background checks and up-to-date immunisations or health clearances may be required prior to practicum. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university's English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of this master's programme move into a wide range of professional roles across sport, health, education and research sectors. Common career paths include:

• Physical education teacher in primary or secondary schools (may require state teaching licensure or additional certification depending on location);
• Exercise physiologist or clinician in hospital, rehabilitation or community health settings;
• Strength and conditioning coach in collegiate, professional or private-sector fitness environments;
• Sport scientist or performance analyst supporting teams and athletes;
• Program coordinator for community physical activity, health promotion or adapted physical activity services;
• Research assistant or coordinator in academic or industry research projects, or progression to doctoral study leading to academic careers.

The programme's emphasis on applied practicum and research methods helps graduates be workplace-ready for positions that require both evidence-informed practice and the ability to evaluate programme outcomes.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers this programme within a research-active environment that balances applied learning with scholarly training. Students benefit from experienced faculty who combine teaching with research in areas such as performance science, motor learning and inclusive physical education.

Being located in a major urban area, the university provides access to diverse practicum and placement opportunities across schools, healthcare providers and sport organisations. On-campus resources often include movement analysis labs, exercise testing facilities and collaborations with clinical and community partners that support hands-on learning and research.

The department typically supports flexible study routes, including thesis and non-thesis options, and encourages interdisciplinary work with allied areas such as public health, education and allied health professions, preparing graduates for a variety of career trajectories.