Are you ready to take the next step in pursuing your passion for sports, exercise, or health and wellness? If so, why not consider studying kinesiology?
Kinesiology is the study of movement or physical activity, encompassing areas such as exercise for health improvement, skill acquisition, and participation in daily activities, work, sport, dance, and play. A rapidly growing field, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects careers for kinesiology majors (such as fitness trainers and instructors and physical therapists) to grow by 14% by 2033: much faster than the average for all occupations.
Why Choose Kinesiology?
A degree in kinesiology combines the study of movement and physical activity with knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and psychology. This is invaluable if your goal is to work in health promotion, sport science, medicine, or wellness. The University of Texas Permian Basin offers an online Master of Science in Kinesiology featuring three distinct tracks, allowing students to tailor their studies to align with specific career goals.
UTPB Kinesiology Tracks
Here’s an overview of our available tracks to help you decide which one aligns best with your goals.
Teaching, Coaching, and Administration
If you envision yourself leading or mentoring others in exercise, fitness, or sports environments, this is the track for you. You’ll focus on developing the expertise necessary for roles such as physical educator, coach, and sports administrator.
Psychology of Sport
Delve into how an individual’s mindset and the involvement of teammates, coaches, and others influence performance and well-being. This track is ideal for those interested in the mental aspects of sports and exercise, and it paves the way for careers such as performance or wellness coach.
Exercise Physiology
This track broadens your understanding of how exercise and training affect the body’s health and functioning. As a student pursuing this track, you’ll choose between a research project, a research thesis, or non-research option. This is an ideal choice for those interested in clinical rehabilitation or scientific careers.
How to Choose the Right Track for You
When choosing your track, consider the following factors:
- Professional Goals
Where do you see yourself professionally after graduation? If you aim to work in rehabilitation or clinical exercise physiology, our exercise physiology track will prove invaluable. However, if you’re more inclined to become a coach or sports administrator, our teaching, coaching, and administration track may be a better fit. If you’re interested in the mental aspect of sports, consider our psychology of sport track.
- Program Flexibility
UTPB’s entirely online MS in kinesiology program is designed to accommodate working professionals, allowing you to customize your studies to meet your needs while balancing other commitments. Classes can be accessed on your schedule from anywhere in the world, and you can finish your degree in less than two years. There’s no GRE requirement.
- Long-Term Opportunities
Reflect on how your chosen track will support lifelong learning and growth. For instance, if you aspire to earn professional certifications, like the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), or pursue a doctorate in kinesiology, ensure your track provides a solid foundation in relevant subjects.
Take the First Step Toward Your Future Career
Selecting the right kinesiology track involves understanding your career goals and leveraging your program’s flexibility to build expertise. Whether your focus is on clinical practice, athletic performance, or academic research, UTPB offers a path to success in the growing field of your choice.
So what’s next for you? Take time to explore the curriculum, seek advice from one of our program advisors and align your choices with your ambitions. We take applications year-round, so whether you’re a continuing student or changing careers, you can join the Falcon Family on your own terms. See you in the virtual classroom!