Master of Professional Studies in Applied Kinesiology

Program Overview

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This program focuses on applying research to improve the health and performance of individuals and communities. It offers three streams: Thesis-based Applied Research, Non-thesis, course-based Coaching, and Non-thesis, course-based Exercise. Graduates are equipped for diverse careers in health, fitness, and sports industries, with opportunities for research, coaching, and exercise practice.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Objectives:

• Advance your knowledge, skills, and abilities in preparation for successful professional careers.
• Focus on collaborative learning within a dynamic learning environment.
• Combine intensive study with practical, community-engaged learning.

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Description:

This program focuses on applying research to improve the health and performance of individuals and communities.

• The program offers three different streams to choose from:
• Thesis-based Applied Research Stream:
This stream aims to develop your research skills and abilities by conducting intensive research. You will work in research laboratories and gain experience with community-based programming.
• Non-thesis, course-based Coaching Stream: This stream aims to develop your coaching and leadership skills in sports by immersing you in a learning environment with other coaches and coaching experts.
• Non-thesis, course-based Exercise Stream: This stream aims to develop your knowledge and skills to succeed in professional exercise practice in various environments such as general health, performance in sport, occupation, and clinical settings across the lifespan.

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Other:

• The program combines rigorous academic coursework with real-world experience to prepare graduates for diverse career opportunities across health, fitness, and sports industries.
• The program offers an interdisciplinary approach that combines knowledge from different fields such as kinesiology, health sciences, education, and psychology.
• Graduates of the program are equipped to make meaningful contributions to the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

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Outline:

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Thesis-based Applied Research Stream

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Year One:

• Fall Term: Professional Development Seminar, Directed Reading
• Spring Term: Advanced Research Methods in Kinesiology, Advanced Directed Reading, Elective in Research methods

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Year Two:

• Fall Term: Thesis
• Spring Term: Thesis

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Other:

• The research will be conducted within a faculty member's laboratory and/or within a community-based organization.
• Topics include: health & performance; physical activity & health; exercise prescription & program design; motor development; sport psychology; biomechanics; adapted physical activity; health promotion & behavior change; nutrition & metabolism; and athletic therapy & rehabilitation.

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Non-thesis, course-based Coaching Stream

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Year One:

• Fall Term: Professional Development Seminar, Leadership, Elective from any Faculty
• Spring Term: Advanced Research Methods in Kinesiology, Directed Reading, Coaching Readiness and Effectiveness
• Summer Term: Coaching Practicum

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Year Two:

• Fall Term: Elective from any Faculty, Coaching Practicum
• Spring Term: Elective from any Faculty, Capping Project

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Other:

• The program includes various core courses:
• Professional Development Seminar
• Advanced Research Methods in Kinesiology
• Coaching Readiness and Effectiveness
• Leadership in Coaching
• Psychology of Coaching
• Biomechanics of Human Movement
• Motor Learning and Control
• Exercise Physiology
• Sport Nutrition
• Sport Psychology

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Assessment:

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Thesis-based Applied Research Stream:

• Your academic performance will be assessed in the following ways:
• Participation in seminars and tutorials
• Completion of assignments and presentations
• Performance in written examinations
• Thesis proposal defense
• Thesis defense

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Non-thesis, course-based Coaching Stream:

• Your academic performance will be assessed in the following ways:
• Assignments and projects
• Participation in group discussions
• Case studies
• Midterm and final examinations
• Coaching practicum evaluations
• Capping project presentation

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Non-thesis, course-based Exercise Stream:

• Your academic performance will be assessed in the following ways:
• Participation in classes and labs
• Assignments and projects
• Midterm and final examinations
• Professional placement evaluations

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Teaching:

• The program utilizes various teaching methods such as lectures, seminars, tutorials, laboratory sessions, and field trips.
• The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are active researchers and experts in their respective fields.
• The program fosters a collaborative learning environment where students are encouraged to engage in active discussion and problem-solving.

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Careers:

• The program prepares graduates for a wide range of career opportunities within the health and fitness industry.
• Potential career paths include:
• Research scientist
• Exercise physiologist
• Strength and conditioning coach
• Sport psychologist
• Athletic therapist
• Adapted physical activity specialist
• Health promotion officer
• Fitness consultant
• Personal trainer
• Teacher/educator
• The program also provides graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue further graduate studies.

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Other:

• The program offers students the opportunity to participate in various research projects within the KPE department or in partnership with community organizations.
• The program also provides students with the opportunity to volunteer or gain work experience in a variety of settings relevant to their area of interest.
• The program has strong industry connections which provide students with networking opportunities and potential job placements.