Effective February 15, 2023, the Master of Science in Kinesiology program is put on hiatus in order to reevaluate the program’s design and future prospects. This means that we are not accepting new students to the program for summer 2023 and future terms until further notice.
During the next two years, the Department of Kinesiology is going to work on adjusting various aspects of the curriculum in order to address the professional needs of a broader audience of students in the field of exercise science.
You are welcome to join our mailing list to receive updates when the program resumes accepting applications for admission.
Master of Science in Kinesiology
Ranked by Niche as the top Kinesiology department in Washington state and the Pacific Northwest, the Kinesiology program at PLU brings a tradition of excellence into the Master of Science degree.
The program combines a rigorous academic experience with real-world, relevant and impactful applications designed to intentionally address critical gaps in Kinesiology training and practice.
Unique features of the program include a commitment to diversity and inclusion, along with intentional mentorship and leadership development opportunities.
Through coursework, mentoring support, and an applied project, M.S. candidates develop the knowledge and skills they need to become effective evidence-based practitioners who can enhance their own career while positively impacting those they serve.
Program Goals
Highlights of our program include:
- Flexible Program – This is a two-year low residency program over the course of 26 months, but has an option to be completed in as few as 14 months. Classes occur in the evenings and are a mix of traditional and hybrid in design.
- Theory to Practice Focus – coursework focuses on building an evidence-based practice through rigorous coursework applied to real world situations. All students complete an applied project as part of the program.
- Mentorship – all students are assigned a faculty mentor who also serves as lead advisor for the applied project.
- Inclusive – two required courses examine issues of diversity, justice and inclusion in order to inform how we do our work and how we can best serve a diverse population.
- Career Enhancing – designed to serve high growth professions and to enhance the skill set of novice and experienced practitioners in exercise, sport, performance and health related careers.
What Can You Do with a Master’s in Kinesiology
A master’s degree in kinesiology functions as an entry point to a whole range of industries and careers. Here are some types of kinesiology careers you can pursue and what responsibilities and job outlook are projected to be.
| Exercise Physiologist | Sport Psychologist |
| Athletic Trainer | Strength and Conditioning Coach |
| Exercise Trainers | Kinesiology Research Lab Assistant |
| Group Fitness Instructors | Professor of Kinesiology |
| Mental Performance Consultant | Occupational Therapist |
| Physical Education Instructor | Recreational Therapist |
Read the blog on the types of careers you can pursue with a master’s degree in kinesiology.
