Online Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science

Q: What is the duration of a Master's in Kinesiology?

The duration of a Master's in Kinesiology program can vary depending on the university and the specific program structure. Typically, it takes about 1.5 to 2 years of full-time study to complete a Master's in Kinesiology. Part-time options may extend the duration.

Q: Is a Master’s in Kinesiology worth it?

From jobs in Schools to Fitness Centers and careers in Athletic Training and Physical Therapy, Master’s in Kinesiology students are easily employed and earn quite well. Moreover, those predisposed to sports, fitness, and wellness and with active lifestyles will find this graduate program rich and rewarding.

Q: What can I do with a Master's in Exercise Science?

With a Master’s in Exercise Science, graduates can typically become personal trainers, physical education teachers, coaches, and gym instructors. This degree also enables professionals to design exercise plans that suit people's varying or specific needs.

Q: Who can study Kinesiology?

First, students who want to study Kinesiology should have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, preferably in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or any other related field. Being of an athletic and sporty disposition helps make this degree enjoyable and easy to pursue.

Q: Where to study Kinesiology?

Many Universities offer Kinesiology and Exercise Science programs at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels. A comprehensive list of some of the best ones is highlighted in this article.

Q: Can I do a Master's in Exercise Science degree online?

Many universities offer Master's in Exercise Science programs online, providing flexibility for students to pursue advanced studies while accommodating personal and professional commitments. Verify specific program details and accreditation to ensure the quality of the online degree.

Optimize physical potential with a Master’s in Kinesiology Online or Online Master’s in Exercise Science. Lead in fitness, rehabilitation, and sports performance.

Introduction
Best Programs
Program Details
Accelerated Programs
Admission Requirements
No GRE
Free Courses
How to Pay?
Careers & Salaries
Licensing
Additional Resources
FAQ

Edited By Gabriel D.

Review & Contribution By Dr. Florence Beck

For those individuals who have always been active and continue to have active lifestyles, a career in sports, fitness, health, or one of many related subjects can be an excellent choice. A Master’s in Kinesiology online program or a Master of Exercise Science provides sports and fitness enthusiasts with a wide range of careers to choose from. These degrees generally cover various topics, such as sports, fitness, movement, and overall wellness. At its heart, kinesiology is the study of human motion, which is the foundation for all human physical activity. It applies to various fields of study and professions, including medicine, athletics, and general health. Graduates of an online Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science can prepare professionals to work as Physical Therapists, Kinesiology Academic Researchers, Sports Coaches, Fitness Instructors, and more. Students also typically demonstrate the knowledge and expertise required to help athletes improve their performance, prevent inactivity-related disorders, and devise unique approaches to solving problems in the sports management industry.

Featured Online Master’s Programs

Best Master’s in Kinesiology Online Programs

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The best colleges for Exercise Science have experienced and well-trained faculty, offer a variety of coursework, and provide faculty or advisor support, all at a decent cost. Another important factor in this field is the student-to-faculty ratio to ensure more personalized attention. With all these in mind, the teams at OMC have ranked the best Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science Programs. Here is a list of the best Kinesiology programs:

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College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 Texas A&M University JKW Administration Building, Suite 200, College Station, Texas 77843	$6,775	82%
#2 California Baptist University 8432 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, California 92504	$13,410	63%
#3 University of Wyoming Corner of Ninth and Ivinson, Laramie, Wyoming 82071	$5,076	60%
#4 University of South Dakota 414 E Clark St, Vermillion, South Dakota 57069	$6,062	59%
#5 Sam Houston State University 1806 Ave J, Huntsville, Texas 77340	$5,765	54%
#6 Georgia Southern University 1332 Southern Drive, Statesboro, Georgia 30460	$4,986	50%
#7 University of Central Missouri 108 W South Street, Warrensburg, Missouri 64093	$7,608	51%
#8 Florida Atlantic University 777 Glades Rd, Administration Bldg., Room 339, Boca Raton, Florida 33431	$5,467	50%
#9 Concordia University, Saint Paul 1282 Concordia Ave, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55104	$8,550	51%
#10 McNeese State University 4205 Ryan St, Lake Charles, Louisiana 70605	$5,703	47%
#11 Liberty University 1971 University Blvd, Lynchburg, Virginia 24515	$7,935	47%
#12 University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley 1201 W University Dr, Edinburg, Texas 78539	$6,458	46%
#13 Concordia University 7400 Augusta, River Forest, Illinois 60305	$9,090	47%
#14 Southern Arkansas University 100 E. University, Magnolia, Arkansas 71753	$5,112	44%
#15 Texas Woman’s University 304 Administration Dr, Denton, Texas 76204	$5,053	43%
#16 University of Texas, Permian Basin 4901 E University, Odessa, Texas 79762	$2,384	40%
#17 The University of Texas at Tyler 3900 University Blvd, Tyler, Texas 75799	$6,048	42%
#18 American Public University System 111 W Congress St, Charles Town, West Virginia 25414	$6,660	40%
#19 University of North Georgia 82 College Circle, Dahlonega, Georgia 30597	$4,140	38%
#20 University of the Southwest 6610 North Lovington Hwy, Hobbs, New Mexico 88240	$22,500	32%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Understanding Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science Programs

A Master’s in Kinesiology online program is generally designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and proficiency in functional anatomy, biomechanics, exercise physiology and kinesiology, functional assessment, behavioral changes, and even the ability to design exercise routines or programs. Online Kinesiology degrees are broad in scope, and graduates will have a highly marketable toolset of expertise and skills that will enable them to choose a career path of their choice. These degrees would also allow students to balance their work or personal schedules with their career aspirations and simultaneously meet their educational needs and professional goals.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science Online Programs

A Master’s in Kinesiology and a Master’s in Exercise Science tend to have common courses. However, these courses and subjects can vary by a large degree, based on the college and program one is applying to. It is highly recommended that students check the program guidelines of each program and make their own comparative study to determine which courses suit their interests the best while meeting their professional goals. Course-based Master’s Kinesiology and Master’s Exercise Science often cover areas such as:

Leadership in Kinesiology
This course focuses on developing strategic leadership skills within the context of sports and exercise. Students explore management principles, communication strategies, and ethical decision-making, preparing them to lead effectively in the dynamic field of kinesiology and exercise science.
Statistics in Kinesiology
This course is critical to the Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science curriculum. It equips students with the analytical tools necessary to interpret and apply statistical methods in research within the field. Topics include data analysis, experimental design, and the integration of statistical findings to enhance evidence-based practices in kinesiology.
Sports Biomechanics
This course explores the mechanics of human movement in sports. Students delve into anatomy, physics, and motion analysis principles to understand how biomechanics influences athletic performance. The course emphasizes applying biomechanical concepts to enhance sports techniques, prevent injuries, and optimize training strategies.
Sports Administration
This course focuses on the organizational and managerial aspects of sports. Students learn about leadership, strategic planning, budgeting, and policy development within the sports industry. The course prepares individuals for administrative roles, emphasizing effective management in the dynamic world of sports.
Nutrition in Exercise & Sports
This course explores the intersection of nutrition, physical activity, and sports performance. Students study macronutrients, micronutrients, hydration, and dietary strategies to optimize athletic training, recovery, and overall health. The course emphasizes evidence-based approaches to enhance performance and prevent injuries in the context of exercise and sports.

Some other standard courses in a Master’s in Kinesiology and Excercise Science program may include:

Advanced Kinesiology
Psychology of Athletic Coaching
Advanced Exercise Physiology
Workshop in Kinesiology
Exercise Science
Statistical Analysis in Exercise Science
Fitness Assessment and Programming
Laboratory Techniques in Exercise Physiology
Mechanics of Motor Learning
Applied Physiology of Exercise
Functional Biomechanics
Functional Anatomy
Exercise and Sport-Related Nutrition
Health Promotions
Physiology of Exercise
Fitness and Wellness
Critical Thinking in the Sports and Health Industries
Statistics for Sports and Health Sciences
Advanced Methods of Strength and Conditioning
Advanced Methods of Teaching Physical Education
Psychology of Sport
Issues in Kinesiology
Physical Activity Promotion
Behavior Modification
Instructional Practices and Special Populations
Neurological Basis for Motor Learning and Control
Diagnostic Tests & Measurements in Exercise Science
Health and Human Behavior
Personal and Community Health
Evaluation of Health Promotion
Needs Assessment and Program Planning
Science and Theory in Strength and Conditioning
Biomechanical Analysis
Current Topics in Strength & Conditioning
Adapted Physical Education, Sports, and Activity
Analysis of Teaching and Supervision in Physical Education
Advanced Motor Development
Exercise Physiology and Testing
Applied Exercise Prescription
Nutrition and Metabolism
Principles of Human Movement Science
Program Design in Corrective Exercise Training
Evidence-Based Practice & Research Methods
Research Design
Biometric Methods (Statistics)
Motor Learning
Motor Control

In some instances, students may also be required to take up an internship or complete a thesis.

As for skills gained, Kinesiology and Exercise Science graduates will demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to help people improve their general health and fitness. Apart from a host of other skills, they will be able to:

conduct fitness assessments;
evaluate different kinds of injuries;
carry out injury-prevention programs;
develop rehabilitation programs;
evaluate a person’s physical fitness and tailor exercise regimens accordingly;
create custom exercise programs to improve athleticism in individuals;
help athletes to train for specific events (for example, marathons);
aid in recovery from sports injuries and
develop fitness programs that promote or maintain health.

Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science Degree Types

There are broadly two types of degrees students could take up – a Master of Science or MS in Kinesiology and a Master of Science or MS in Exercise Science. While both these graduate programs have broad similarities, they are, in essence, distinctly different from each other. This distinction between Kinesiology and Exercise Science is particularly important for students deciding which of the two to study to suit a specific job profile.

MS Kinesiology

A Master of Science or MS Kinesiology program studies human movement through the principles of mechanics and anatomy. It deals with studying movement, function, and performance and how movement impacts overall health. This MS program is from a pool of several others based on STEM education. In general, MS Kinesiology can lead to jobs in orthopedics and rehabilitation and take up careers as sports instructors, occupational therapists, wellness consultants, etc.

MS Exercise Science

In pure terms, applied Exercise Science is a sub-field of Kinesiology. A Master of Science or MS in Exercise Sciences can be considered a branch of Kinesiology that focuses on the underlying mechanisms that affect exercise and the human response and adaptation to exercise. An MS in Exercise Science can lead to specializations in athletic training, sports management, physical education teacher training, and sports medicine, leading to lucrative jobs as personal trainers, physical education teachers, coaches, etc. The MS Exercise Science program is also based on STEM education.

Specializations in Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science Programs

There are several specializations and concentrations to choose from in a Master’s in Kinesiology online program. However, the options vary by college and program. Therefore, checking with the college admissions office or reading the program guide for specific offerings and details is always advisable. With almost all Master’s in Kinesiology programs, students can opt to study a particular track in the field of Kinesiology based on their unique interests and aptitudes. These specialized tracks are:

Area of Focus	Description	Careers This Concentration Prepares For
Adaptive Sports Track	The Adaptive Sports track is designed to give allied health and fitness professionals the expertise, skills, and abilities they need to function successfully in the adaptive sports industry, including coaching, health care services, program management, strength and conditioning, and advocacy.	• Adaptive Sports Coordinators • Adaptive Physical Education Teachers • Inclusive Fitness Trainers
Corrective Exercise & Orthopedic Rehabilitation Track	The Corrective Exercise & Orthopedic Rehabilitation track is designed to give allied health care and fitness professionals the expertise, skills, and abilities to develop and execute exercise programs for people with movement and musculoskeletal disorders.	• Orthopedic Rehabilitation Specialists • Corrective Exercise Specialists • Physical Therapists
Exercise and Sport Psychology Track	The Exercise & Sports Psychology track incorporates the science and experience of exercise, mental health, and performance psychology to teach students how to design programs that motivate people to change or improve their behavior and performance in the long term.	• Sports Psychologists • Performance Enhancement Consultants • Mental Skills Coaches
Geriatric Exercise Science Track	The Geriatric Exercise Science track offers health practitioners the opportunity to learn about the physical and psychological concepts of exercise and movement science in older adults.	• Geriatric Exercise Specialists • Senior Fitness Program Coordinators • Aging Wellness Consultants
Sports Conditioning Track	The Sports Conditioning track enables professionals to combine current knowledge and practice in sports conditioning to develop and tailor advanced training programs for sportspersons.	• Strength and Conditioning Coaches • Sports Performance Specialists • Athletic Trainers

Some colleges offer students the option of a dual-track program, allowing students to enroll in two specialty tracks simultaneously. Others offer concentrations such as Athletic Training (AT), Integrative Exercise Physiology (IEP), and more.

Difference between Kinesiology and Exercise Science

Many students mix the terms “Kinesiology” and “Exercise Science.” Since they are both related to the broader field of Sports Management, it is easy to get confused and interchange one term with the other. However, in reality, while similar, Kinesiology and Exercise Science are distinct in their own right.

Kinesiology	Exercise Science
Kinesiology is a broad area that studies movement, function, and performance and how these factors influence and impact overall health. It deals with movement mechanics, mainly through understanding anatomy, physiology, and mechanics.	Exercise science is a theory-based, research-led branch of Kinesiology that studies the human response and adaptation to exercise and movement and the underlying mechanisms that influence them. In other words, Exercise Science looks at how exercise causes changes in our bodies. This discipline also aims to promote individual well-being by applying solutions to health problems related to physical inactivity.

Kinesiology

Exercise Science

Kinesiology is a broad area that studies movement, function, and performance and how these factors influence and impact overall health. It deals with movement mechanics, mainly through understanding anatomy, physiology, and mechanics.

Exercise science is a theory-based, research-led branch of Kinesiology that studies the human response and adaptation to exercise and movement and the underlying mechanisms that influence them. In other words, Exercise Science looks at how exercise causes changes in our bodies. This discipline also aims to promote individual well-being by applying solutions to health problems related to physical inactivity.

Timeline for graduation from Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science Online Programs

Students of a Master’s in Kinesiology online program are usually required to put in about 30 semester hours of study and roughly take about two years to complete their degree. This, of course, varies by college and program. In general, those with an Exercise Science background can complete the program slightly earlier, but it all depends on the courses opted for, and the number of practical sessions or research one is expected to do. The same timeline applies to an online Master’s in Exercise Science.

Accelerated Kinesiology and Exercise Science Online Programs

An accelerated Exercise Science degree is a popular choice with many students, as it allows them to cut short their studies and seek employment faster than usual. It is possible to find accelerated Master’s in Kinesiology Online programs, but they typically couple a Bachelor’s with a Master’s degree, leading to a shorter duration of five years instead of six. Universities that offer such accelerated programs are the University of North Dakota¹, Michigan Tech², George Mason University³, California Baptist University⁴, and Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU)⁵.

Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science Online Programs Admission Requirements

A Master’s in Kinesiology requirements are quite the same as a Master’s in Exercise Science prerequisites. In both cases, an accredited Bachelor’s degree is required, along with other standard stipulations, such as:

Completed Application form and fee
Academic Transcripts
A Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 and above (on a 4.0 scale)
A Résumé
An Essay
GRE scores (may be required)
Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose

It is important to note that many colleges may require at least two years of work experience or credentials relevant to the field of Kinesiology. In some instances, prospective Exercise Science students must be wellness, sport, fitness, or health professionals. This, of course, varies by college.

Online Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science No GRE Programs

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test required for admission to graduate programs. Some colleges now offer GRE waivers, often considering applicants’ work experience, academic achievements, or other advanced degrees. This shift reflects a growing recognition that a holistic approach to admissions can better assess a candidate’s potential beyond standardized test scores, promoting inclusivity and diversity in graduate education. Here are some colleges below that do not need the GRE for admission to a Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science:

Louisiana State University (LSU)⁶
Avila University⁷
The University at Alabama at Birmingham⁸

Accreditation for Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science Online Programs

Accreditation is a declaration that a program has met and meets educational guidelines and quality recommended by the accreditation authority. Students who want a career in Kinesiology or Exercise Science should always ensure that the college or program they are applying to is accredited by at least one industry-recognized body. Exercise Science degrees are usually programmatically endorsed/accredited by an agency such as the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)⁹, with its Education Recognition Program (ERP)¹⁰.

Institutionally, universities are typically accredited by one of six regional accrediting bodies:

Free Online Kinesiology & Exercise Science Courses

Free online courses provide accessible education, enabling students worldwide to learn new skills or enhance existing ones. These courses offer flexibility and convenience but may lack formal accreditation. While they don’t replace traditional degrees, they serve as valuable resources for self-directed learners seeking knowledge, career development, or personal enrichment. Here are some free online courses that students pursuing a Master’s in Kinesiology or Exercise Science can explore:

Course	Sports and Exercise Psychology¹³
Provided by	Alison
Description	The course includes fundamental concepts and classifications of common sports injuries. It involves examining the impact of psychological factors on sports, performance, exercise, and physical activity. The potential for internal organ damage and appropriate treatment methods are explored. The significance of first aid, different sports injuries affecting cartilage, and the role of a sports therapist in aiding individuals are also covered.

Course	Hormone Health for Fitness and Exercise¹⁴
Provided by	Alison
Description	This health and fitness course demonstrates the application of science-based strategies to enhance testosterone levels via appropriate workout routines and dietary plans. Various foods and supplements sustaining testosterone levels in humans are explored. Factors contributing to maintaining crucial hormones for fitness and muscle growth are detailed. Discover methods for naturally balancing and improving hormones in this pragmatic course.

Course	Hacking Exercise For Health. The surprising new science of fitness.¹⁵
Provided by	Class Central
Description	This course offers hacks to achieve fitness efficiently, addressing questions on the right exercise mix, intensity, and weights. Marty and Stu, leading scholars in fitness, make complex science entertaining, providing practical workouts and tools for creating time-efficient exercise routines anywhere.

How to Pay for Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science Online Programs

Each year, educational costs continue to rise, necessitating the search for alternative funding sources. Although the cost of a Master’s in Kinesiology online program largely depends on the State and College one enrolls in, it is by no means an inexpensive pursuit. Here are a few ways students can fund their graduate studies in Kinesiology or Exercise Science:

Scholarships

Typically, scholarships do not require students to repay the award amount. They are relatively simple to obtain and are one of the most popular methods of financing advanced education. (Students should exercise caution and not become easy targets for Scholarship Scams)

Assistantships

Assistantships allow a student to teach, work, or research at the college while studying simultaneously. In the case of a Master’s in Kinesiology or Exercise Science, it is not uncommon for colleges to offer Athletic Training Assistantships that allow students to work in a discipline of sports management and study simultaneously.

Grants

Grants are funds typically provided by the federal, state, or private sectors that cover tuition costs or other associated student expenses, such as study materials, transport, equipment, etc.

Working on Campus

Some colleges ‘employ’ students against a nominal salary. The job need not have anything to do with the graduate program, unlike Assistantships, and can help offset the cost of tuition to some extent.

Federal Loans

Students can avail of Federal Loans and Private Loans if they meet eligibility criteria. However, Loans are funds borrowed on interest and will add to the program’s cost.

FAFSA

FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a crucial form for students seeking financial assistance for higher education. Completing FAFSA determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs.

The best Financial Guide provides more information on higher education funding.

Scholarships for Master’s in Kinesiology & Exercise Science Students

As graduate program costs rise yearly, enrolling in a Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science becomes financially challenging. Scholarships are crucial in reducing this burden, offering financial support to deserving students. These awards, like those from organizations such as SHAPE America, empower aspiring scholars to pursue their academic goals by providing necessary funds for tuition and related expenses, fostering accessibility to higher education.

Scholarship	American Kinesiology Association (AKA) Scholarships¹⁶
Description	The yearly Scholar Awards offer a chosen group of students nominated by department faculty in member departments. These students exhibit exceptional academic and leadership achievements. The awards aim to acknowledge and encourage academic excellence, enhance the professional competence of accomplished students, and foster the advancement of kinesiology and its affiliated disciplines.
Award/Amount	Varies
Application Deadline	Varies

Scholarship	Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship¹⁷
Description	The Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship, established by former SHAPE America presidents to commend deserving students, is bestowed upon three undergraduates and two graduates annually in January. Awards are conferred during the SHAPE America National Convention & Expo each spring.
Award/Amount	$1,250 to undergraduates and $1750 to graduates
Application Deadline	Varies

Careers and Salary Outlook for Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science Graduates

With a Master’s in Kinesiology online degree, students can work in a wide range of Kinesiology-related fields, some of which include but are not limited to:

Training and Coaching
Athletic Performance
Strength and Conditioning
Obesity Prevention
Fitness Industry
Physical Education
Wellness Consultancy

Master’s in Exercise Science jobs are relatively easy to find, depending on the sector one wishes to build a career. With this graduate degree, work is available in some of the following sectors, such as:

Schools and Colleges
Fitness Centers
Athletic Training Institutions
Sports Performance Centers
Hospitals
Wellness Centers

Touching upon the topic of salaries, it is rather evident that a Master’s in Kinesiology or Exercise Science can be well-paying, depending on the career chosen. Here is a small list of occupations and settings, along with the median annual salary reported by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

Occupation	Chiropractors¹⁸
Median Annual Salary	$75,380
Job Growth (up to 2032)	9% (much faster than average)
Job Description	Chiropractors assess and treat the neuromusculoskeletal system of patients, encompassing nerves, bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Through techniques like spinal adjustments and manipulation, along with various clinical interventions, they address health issues such as back and neck pain.

Occupation	Exercise Physiologists¹⁹
Median Annual Salary	$51,350
Job Growth (up to 2032)	10% (much faster than average)
Job Description	Exercise physiologists develop exercise programs to enhance individuals’ fitness components, including cardiovascular function, muscular strength, and flexibility.

Occupation	Fitness Trainers and Instructors²⁰
Median Annual Salary	$45,380
Job Growth (up to 2032)	14% (much faster than average)
Job Description	Fitness trainers and instructors in fitness guide, teach, and encourage individuals or groups through exercise routines, encompassing cardiovascular workouts (for heart and blood circulation), strength training, and stretching. They cater to people of various ages and proficiency levels.

Occupation	Athletic Trainers²¹
Median Annual Salary	$53,840
Job Growth (up to 2032)	14% (much faster than average)
Job Description	Athletic trainers interact with individuals of diverse ages and skill sets, ranging from young children to soldiers and professional athletes. They are among the first healthcare professionals present when injuries happen on the field.

Certifications and Licensing for Kinesiology and Exercise Science Graduates

For students who are looking to branch out from a Master’s in Kinesiology online and specialize in a specific sub-field of Kinesiology, several colleges offer Graduate Certificate programs in sub-fields. Some sub-fields are Graduate Certificate in Rehabilitation, Graduate Certificate in Leadership Education, Graduate Certificate in Sports Neurology and Concussion, Graduate Certificate in Exercise Science, etc.

Students who prefer to work in a specific segment of human movement and body mechanics would do well to take up an exercise science certificate online to increase their understanding of those segments in particular. There are a variety of certifications available for graduates of either degree who want to progress in their careers. The following are some examples of such certifications:

American College of Sports Medicine Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP)²²
The American College of Sports Medicine Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP) is ideal for practitioners who want to create fitness routines for people who are in good health or who have a medically managed illness.
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)²³
The National Strength and Conditioning Association offers a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) program designed for professionals who apply scientific knowledge to train athletes to improve their athletic performance.
National Strength and Conditioning Association Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT)²⁴
The National Strength and Conditioning Association also offers a Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT) certification to health and fitness professionals who assess, motivate, educate, and train their clients regarding their personal health and fitness using an individualized approach.
EXOS Performance Specialist (XPS)²⁵
The EXOS Performance Specialist (XPS) certification integrates mindset, nutrition, movement, and recovery to develop advanced training programs and motivate clients to achieve their fitness goals.

In addition to some of these Certifications, the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) also offers the Certified Special Population Specialist (CSPS)²⁶ certification and the Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator (TSAC-F)²⁷certification.

As for licensing, most sectors do not require any special licensure. However, working with children – in schools and colleges – may sometimes require certain additional certification/s at most, while some Government settings may also ask for additional training.

Additional Resources for Kinesiology and Exercise Science Professionals

Quite naturally, sports and physical activity require people to connect and sometimes work as teams. Networking with people in the industry and advancing one’s knowledge and skillset is central to pushing one’s career northwards. A Master’s in Kinesiology online can work wonders, but tapping into readily available resources will do much more! Here are some resources to look at:

Drexel University Libraries
Drexel University Libraries offers loads of information, databases, e-journals, and guides on a wide range of topics related to Kinesiology and Exercise Science.
Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE)
In addition to providing scholarships and grant opportunities, the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America) holds events and conferences, highlights standards and guidelines, and has many resources and publications.
Gatorade Sports Science Institute
The Gatorade Sports Science Institute hosts research papers and guides on several sports nutrition topics. One can also attend regular meetings and sports medicine publications to explore.
North American Society for the Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity (NASPSPA)
The North American Society for the Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity (NASPSPA) is ideal for students and Kinesiology professionals who have taken psychology-related courses. Besides workshops and seminars, the site is also home to several Journals.

FAQs About Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science Online Programs

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What is a Master’s in Kinesiology?

A Master’s in Kinesiology equips students with the knowledge and skills required to learn, understand, and research how the body responds to human movement and how such movement influences and impacts overall health.