Research Track
Prepare for doctoral study through hands-on research
The research track of the UIC Master of Science in Kinesiology prepares students for doctoral study and research-focused careers through faculty mentorship, advanced coursework and hands-on research. Working closely with a faculty advisor, you'll develop an individualized program of study while building expertise in research methods, scientific communication, data analysis and critical evaluation of scientific literature. Students complete either a master's thesis or research project while contributing to research that advances the science of human movement, health and performance.
Where can this track take you?
Graduates pursue:
- PhD and other doctoral programs
- Academic research
- Clinical and health care research
- Government and public health research
- Human performance and sports science research
- Industry research and development
Choose your faculty mentor
The research track follows a faculty mentoring model. Before applying, we encourage you to explore our faculty’s research interests and identify one or more potential mentors whose work aligns with your academic interests and career goals.
Connecting with faculty before applying is strongly encouraged. These conversations can help you learn about current research opportunities and determine whether the program is the right fit.
Explore faculty research
Build your research foundation
All students in the research track complete core coursework that develops the research, statistical and ethical foundations needed for graduate study.
- KN 500: Evidence-Based Practice in Kinesiology and Nutrition
- AHS 511: Biostatistics I
- GC 501: Scientific Integrity and Responsible ResearchÂ
Complete original research
Students complete 36 graduate credit hours and work closely with their faculty mentor to complete one of two culminating experiences:
- Master’s project: Complete a minimum of five credit hours of KN 597: Master’s Project Research while conducting an applied research project.Â
- Master’s thesis: Complete a minimum of five credit hours of KN 598: Master’s Thesis Research while conducting original research that culminates in a master’s thesis. See the thesis guidelines below. Students completing a thesis must also meet Graduate College requirements for master’s thesis preparation and defense.Â
Guidelines
Additional degree requirements
Only 500-level courses with A–F grading count toward the required minimum in graduate credit. Courses graded Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory (e.g., KN 596, KN 597, and KN 598) do not count toward this minimum. Additionally, only 400- and 500-level courses apply toward the MS degree. 100-, 200-, and 300-level courses (including prerequisite coursework) do not count toward degree requirements or graduate GPA calculations.
Contact
Questions?
Have questions about the research track, faculty mentorship or the application process? We’re here to help!
You can contact Noreen Chap at:
Email chap@uic.edu
Phone 312.996.4600
Address 901 W. Roosevelt Rd.
337 PEB, MC 194
Chicago, IL 60608