Auburn University at Montgomery

What you'll study

This programme combines theoretical foundations and applied practice across exercise science, motor behaviour and physical education pedagogy. Core topics typically include advanced exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor learning and control, sport and exercise psychology, and research methods and statistics specific to kinesiology. Students also study curriculum development and assessment for physical education, adapted physical education, and contemporary issues in sport and wellness.

Programme structure commonly offers a choice between a thesis and a non-thesis (professional) track. Both tracks include supervised practicum or internship placements in community, clinical or school settings, and a capstone experience such as a research project, comprehensive exam or practicum portfolio.

• Advanced Exercise Physiology
• Biomechanics of Human Movement
• Motor Learning and Control
• Sport and Exercise Psychology
• Research Design and Applied Statistics in Kinesiology
• Curriculum & Assessment in Physical Education
• Adapted Physical Education and Inclusive Practice
• Practicum / Internship and Capstone or Thesis

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, preferably in kinesiology, exercise science, physical education, sport science or a closely related field. Typical admissions requirements include a satisfactory undergraduate GPA, a current résumé or CV, a personal statement outlining academic and professional goals, and one or more academic or professional letters of recommendation.

Some applicants may be asked to provide transcripts showing prerequisite coursework (for example in anatomy/physiology, kinesiology, or statistics) if their prior degree is in a different discipline. GRE scores may be considered where required by admission committees, but requirements can vary; international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency as required by university policy. Professional experience in coaching, teaching or allied health can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles across education, sport, health and research. Typical career paths include secondary school physical education teacher (often combined with meeting state certification requirements), strength and conditioning coach, clinical exercise physiologist, wellness and fitness director, adaptive physical education specialist, and sport performance consultant. The degree also prepares students for doctoral study (PhD or EdD) and roles in academic or applied research, as well as for positions in community health programmes, rehabilitation settings and corporate wellness.

Practicum and internship elements help build professional networks with local schools, clinics and sports organisations, supporting transition to employment or advanced training.

Why study at Auburn University at Montgomery

Auburn University at Montgomery offers a student-centred environment with relatively small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, which benefits practical learning and research supervision. The department typically emphasises applied learning through labs, practicum placements and community partnerships with schools, fitness centres and healthcare providers in the Montgomery region.

Students can expect access to laboratory facilities and equipment used in biomechanics and exercise physiology, opportunities for collaborative research with faculty, and flexible scheduling options that accommodate working professionals. The programme’s combination of applied experience and research training aims to prepare graduates for both professional practice and further academic study.