Note, this story has been updated with the new name of the degree, Master of Science in Kinesiology. Also, check out "Get Up and Move for Kinesiology," Oct. 1-7.
Beginning in Fall 2020, Seattle University will offer a new graduate degree, the Master of Science in Kinesiology. The Kinesiology Department, housed in the College of Arts and Sciences, will accept applications as early as September 2019.
“Seattle U’s Kinesiology Department trains tomorrow’s leaders in sport, exercise, and health,” said Department Chair Sarah Shultz, PhD. “Our graduate program will focus on evidence-based practice: students completing the research-based thesis will use cutting edge technology to translate research to real world practice while our clinically applied track will allow them to critically consider current research in their practicum experiences. Through the combination of inquiry and application, we can holistically approach health and wellbeing. Our learning experience moves beyond the classroom, with diverse opportunities to better understand the needs of the community.”
The Master of Science in Kinesiology program focuses on an integrated study of movement encompassing the physiological, mechanical, and behavioral aspects of physical activity. The curriculum includes lectures and laboratory courses, seminars, independent study, and mentored research. Students choose between research based thesis and clinically applied tracks.
Graduates of the thesis track can pursue further graduate training such as advanced study at the doctoral level, admission to health professional programs, or medical school. Students who complete a thesis are also prepared for employment in research, educational, or industrial settings.
Those graduating in the clinically applied track will be prepared sit for the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Clinical Exercise Physiology certification exam. ACSM certification is the gold standard in professional development within the field, and these graduates will be qualified to consult on exercise-related research, public health and policymaking, and other clinical and non-clinical services. They will also be able to work in medical and allied health settings to manage cardiac and pulmonary risks, training, and rehabilitation.
“This new graduate program is consistent with the University’s mission of professional formation and developing leaders for a just and humane world,” said Seattle University Provost Shane P. Martin, PhD. “With a strong focus on professional development, graduates from this program will typically enter service-related fields in the areas of health and human performance.” He added, “The new graduate Kinesiology program spans the health sciences and STEM fields, consistent with Seattle University’s goal to grow in these two areas.”
“Our new graduate program also strives to have a positive influence on scholarly activity,” said David V. Powers, PhD, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “The Kinesiology department is already engaged in providing clinical and performance services to the broader community and the graduate program will enhance our ability to expand these services.”
Faculty will conduct research within focused areas of core exercise science disciplines, including exercise psychology, human physiology, and applied biomechanics, with research often done in community and clinical populations. Plans are underway to develop a mobile laboratory to complement the Kinesiology Department’s existing Human Performance Lab.
Those interested in the Master of Science in Kinesiology may contact the department by email. The Kinesiology website can be found here.