Kinesiology MS at University of Wisconsin Madison

The Department of Kinesiology's mission is to create, interpret, transmit, and apply knowledge related to movement, exercise, and human occupation with the ultimate goal of enhancing human health, productivity, and quality of life.

The M.S. in Kinesiology is available with research specialization in biomechanics, exercise physiology, exercise psychology, motor control and behavior, physical activity epidemiology, and occupational science. The M.S. in Kinesiology with the nonthesis option provides courses that cover the breadth of the kinesiology field and electives, and it may include a final project. This degree supports an interest in coaching/teaching (team or individual), personal training or fitness instruction, or it may supplement the practice of physical therapy, athletic training, or other allied health professions, or any individual purpose a student may have.

The M.S. in Kinesiology combines advanced courses with the option of an intensive research experience. Department research facilities are well equipped, and faculty and graduate students have access to other specialized research facilities across campus. Faculty and graduate student research is currently supported by funding from the state and federal government, research foundations, and private industry. Faculty are affiliated with the Institute on Aging; Cardiovascular Research Center; Center for Neuroscience/Neuroscience Training Program; departments of Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Medicine, Neurology, Population Health Science, and Psychology; McPherson Eye Research Institute; Harlow Center for Biological Psychology; interdepartmental graduate program in Nutritional Sciences; Trace Research and Development Center; VA Geriatric Research and Education Center; Waisman Center; and Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute.

1. Master fundamental knowledge in at least one of the broad areas of specialization represented in the Department of Kinesiology. (Thesis-based tracks)
2. Demonstrate understanding of major current and past theories, research findings, methodologies, and techniques in their areas of specialization.
3. Identify sources and assemble evidence pertaining to questions or challenges in their area of specialization.
4. Complete an original research project in one of the broad areas of specialization represented in the Department of Kinesiology. (Thesis-based tracks)
5. Select and utilize appropriate methodologies to conduct research, analyze, and interpret resulting data.
6. Prepare a thesis or research report describing their research project.
7. Communicate clearly in ways appropriate to their area of specialization.
8. Demonstrate fundamental knowledge in the broad areas of specialization represented in the Department of Kinesiology. (Non-Thesis based track)
9. Demonstrate an understanding of the major current and past theories, research findings, methodologies and techniques in each of the broad areas of inquiry represented within the Department of Kinesiology.
10. Retrieve and examine scientific literature, evaluate evidence for and against hypotheses, and be able to discuss strengths and weaknesses in existing literature.
11. Recognize and apply principles of professional and ethical conduct. (Thesis-based tracks)
12. Use scientific rigor when designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, interpreting and reporting results.
13. Recognize and apply principles of professional and ethical conduct. (Non-Thesis based track)