Master of Science in Kinesiology
The main objective of the Master of Science (MSc) in Kinesiology program is to provide graduate students with a highly integrated and multidisciplinary approach to the examination of the relationships among physical activity, health, and disease in various populations. The course of study will allow some specialization in a kinesiology sub-discipline of the student's research interest (e.g., biomechanics, health, exercise physiology, motor control, sport psychology, ethics, sport governance, sport history). The emphasis of the thesis will be based on the student's own interests and the advisor's research interests within this broad framework.
To be admitted to the Master of Science (MSc) in Kinesiology program, a student must meet the general admission requirements of the university, and must possess an honours undergraduate degree in kinesiology, health, physical education or a related field. For admission consideration, a minimum average of B is required in the last two years of study. Possession of minimum qualifications does not necessarily guarantee admission. At the discretion of the graduate co-ordinator and the prospective supervisor, students with minor background deficiencies may be required to include specific undergraduate courses in their program.
It is expected that the Master of Science (MSc) in Kinesiology program will be completed in 6 consecutive terms beginning in the fall term. To graduate, students must obtain a minimum grade of B- in all graduate courses, with an overall minimum average of B.
All students will complete a minimum of 3.5 credits, including KP699* - Master's Thesis. All students are required to take KP601 - Seminar in Kinesiology I and KP622 - Research Design in Kinesiology in the first year of the program. KP611 - Seminar in Kinesiology II is required in the second year of the program. Furthermore, students are required to take one additional methods/analysis course that is relevant to their research area. Finally, students will take at least one elective course depending on their interests and the focus of their research.
Required courses:
KP601 - Seminar in Kinesiology I
KP611 - Seminar in Kinesiology II
KP622 - Research Design in Kinesiology
KP699* - Master's Thesis
0.5 credit course with a methodological/analytical focus. Include one of the following:
- KP620 - Statistical Analyses in Kinesiology
- KP621 - Qualitative Research Design and Analysis
- A relevant course from another department deemed appropriate by supervisor and graduate coordinator
- A methodological/analytical-based directed studies course deemed appropriate by supervisor and graduate coordinator
Elective courses:
KP620 - Statistical Analyses in Kinesiology
KP621 - Qualitative Research Design and Analysis
KP623 - Biophysical Instrumentation and Measurement
KP630 - Epidemiology of Physical Activity and Health
KP631 - Health and Illness Across the Age Continuum
KP650 - Biophysical Foundations of Kinesiology
KP651 - Neurocognition of Movement
KP670 - Social-Cultural Foundations of Kinesiology
KP697 - Directed Research in Kinesiology
KP698 - Directed Readings in Kinesiology
A thesis based on original research is required of all students in the program. A thesis advisory committee will be set up for each student consisting of their supervisor and two other faculty members (at least one of whom is from the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education). Students will present a thesis proposal to their committee usually before the end of their 3rd term and will defend their completed thesis usually before the end of their 6th term. The thesis defense will be evaluated by a thesis examining committee consisting of the advisory committee plus one external faculty member (from either another university or another department within Wilfrid Laurier University).
