Kinesiology & Nutrition MS Project: Requirements and Procedures
Introduction
Project Scope and Innovation: While a thesis is always based on original research, a master’s project may take various forms. Regardless of the format, the project must demonstrate originality and independent thought, supported by a clear rationale and organized structure. It should offer novel insights, creatively apply existing knowledge, or propose an innovative solution.
Examples of Eligible Projects:
• Original scholarship
• Participation in an ongoing research project
• Analysis of data obtained from previous research projects
• Writing a scientific review article
Project requirements
A MS project requires the following three components:
1. A three-member faculty committee
2. A written report
3. An oral presentation
Committee Composition: A three-member committee is required.
• At least one member must be a tenure-track faculty.
• At least one member must be in the clinical faculty.
Written Report: A comprehensive written report must summarize the project’s significance, objectives, methodology, and conclusions or recommendations. The format may vary depending on the nature of the project and may include a draft manuscript or a long-format abstract.
Oral Presentation: Students must present and defend their project findings to their committee. The specific format and process of the oral defense are determined by the committee.
Master’s Project Procedures
Initial Registration:
Students planning to complete a master’s project may register for up to 3 credit hours of KN/HN 597 during their first or second semester. This initial enrollment is intended to provide time to form a committee, identify a project topic, and begin planning.
Committee Formation / Project Proposal:
Students should establish their committee and propose their project—typically through a presentation—by the second semester of enrollment, following the timeline and format set by their committee.
Continued KN/HN 597 enrollment:
Enrollment in KN/HN 597 beyond 3 credit hours, students must finalize their project topic and committee membership by submitting the MS Project: Kinesiology and Nutrition Committee Recommendation Form contact Li Goelz, PhD (lchin1@uic.edu) for the form and details.
Project Completion:
Upon completion of the project, students must submit the Graduate College Certificate of Approval: Master’s Project form (available here: https://uofi.app.box.com/s/2uos0pjfimqeol4ziv4smyr758jg3bgw), signed by all committee members, the Advisor, and the Director of Graduate Studies, to Li Goelz, PhD for final submission to the Graduate College.
Note: Students must complete at least 9 credit hours at the 500-level, including a minimum of 5 credit hours of KN/HN 597. Only 500-level courses with A–F grading count toward the 9-credit minimum (courses graded S/U such as KN 596, 597, 598 do not count).