Kinesiology, Strength and Conditioning

Learning, networking, and career opportunities

The Master of Science in Kinesiology is designed to provide graduate level instruction in the field of exercise science. The 33-hour program is designed to meet the needs of coaches, physical educators, physical therapists, athletic trainers and others interested in the fitness profession.

The Kinesiology, Strength and Conditioning Studies (MS/KSC) degree focuses on the theory and science of strength and conditioning and is delivered primarily face-to-face to allow individuals to develop coaching skills as they work through the program.

The Sport Science option (MS/KSCS) option is new beginning in the fall of 2023. It is fully online and is designed with working individuals in mind. The Sport Science option focuses more on providing a scientific foundation for the field. Students may go on to pursue the National Strength and Conditioning Association's (NSCA) Certified Performance and Sport Scientist credential.

Upon completion of this degree, students may pursue certifications such as Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) by the NSCA, Strength & Conditioning Coach Certified (SCCC) by the Collegiate Strength Coaches Association (CSCCa), or USA Weightlifting Level I or Level II certifications by the USA Weightlifting Association (USAW). Students may be ready to pursue other certifications, such as the Certified Sports Nutritionist (CISSN) by the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN).

HANDS-ON LEARNING opportunities

  • Applied activities in core classes
  • Semester long internship

SKILLS YOU WILL LEARN

  • Collaborative skills - teamwork
  • Designing and developing strength and conditioning programs for various ages and sports.

Flexible Capstone Experience

The capstone experience can be completed in one of three ways:

  1. An internship - this is the most popular option for current students in the program as it allows them to gain hands-on experience while developing their own network of professional connections.
  2. A research project - this option is a frequent choice among students who do not have the ability to relocate for an internship.
  3. A creative project - this option allows students to develop a unique project that will aid them in pursuing their personal career goals.

Additionally, students who think they may want to pursue doctoral level education in the future have the freedom to complete a thesis.

Students living in states bordering Arkansas receive in-state tuition.
Financial Aid is available for those who qualify. The Arkansas Tech University school code to use on the FAFSA is 001089.

Payment Options:

  • Financial Aid
  • Payment Plan
  • Graduate Assistantships
CALCULATE TUITION

You could work as a(n):

  •     Public School Strength and Conditioning Coach
  •     Private Sector Sport Performance Coach
  •     University Instructor
  •     University Strength and Conditioning Coach

Alumni of our program work at:

  • Elon University, Elon, North Carolina
  • Baylor University, Waco, TX
  • Bentonville Public Schools, Bentonville, AR
  • Florida International University, Miami, FL
  • University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit, MI
  • Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia

View the links below to better understand the courses, the course timeline, and who your faculty will be when you enroll as an ATU student.

Credentials that stack with this degree are:

  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
  • Certified Performance and Sport Scientist (CPSS) through the NSCA
  • Strength & Conditioning Coach Certified (SCCC) through the Collegiate Strength Coaches Association (CSCCa)
  • USA Weightlifting Level I or Level II certifications by the USA Weightlifting Association (USAW)
  • Certified Sports Nutritionist (CISSN) by the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN)
  • Terminal Degree in Exercise Science

Weightlifting Set
Point of Pride

Our program is a National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) recognized Education Recognition Program (ERP).

IT'S TIME TO STEP UP

Find out how we will empower you to meet every challenge head-on.

 

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