MS in Kinesiology
Training master practitioners in human movement
UIC's Master of Science in Kinesiology program prepares you to understand, measure and enhance human movement, for everyone from high-performance athletes to individuals living with disabilities or diseases. Whether your goal is clinical practice, applied performance or research, you’ll gain the skills and experience to help others move better and live healthier lives.
As a student in one of the nation’s leading public research universities, you’ll learn from experts in exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control and sport psychology. You’ll also have opportunities to engage in hands-on research and professional experiences throughout Chicago’s vibrant health and wellness community.
Why UIC for kinesiology?
Cutting-edge labs
Train and conduct research in modern laboratories, including the Applied Sports Performance and Injury Research (ASPIRE) Lab where eligible students who conduct research in the lab earn hours that count towards course credit.
Flexible paths
Choose the track that fits your goals. Our research and practice tracks allow you to tailor your studies toward scientific inquiry or applied professional work.
Chicago advantage
Gain access to internships, clinical placements and community partnerships across one of the most dynamic cities for health care, athletics and research.
Customize your path
Choose from research- or practice-focused concentrations that align with your interests and career objectives. Research tracks prepare you for doctoral studies, while practice tracks meet certification requirements, equipping you for clinical or wellness careers and supporting further graduate studies.
Practice track
Designed for students who want to apply movement science in professional and clinical settings.
Choose from Clinical Exercise Physiology or Sport and Exercise Psychology concentrations.
You’ll gain practical skills for advanced certification, such as the American College of Sports Medicine’s Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) or the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) credential.
Graduates are prepared for roles in hospitals, wellness programs, corporate health and athletic performance.
Research track
Ideal if you plan to pursue doctoral study or a research career.
Focus your coursework and lab experiences on Biomechanics, Exercise Physiology or Psychology of Exercise.
You’ll collaborate with faculty researchers, present at conferences and contribute to the field through original studies.
Graduates of the research track are well prepared for Ph.D. programs and research positions in academia, health care and industry.
Research concentrations
For those pursuing scientific research, with opportunities to advance to Ph.D. programs.
Research concentrations
Practice concentrations
For those pursuing careers in clinical or wellness settings or advancing to further studies.
Practice concentrations
Where this degree can take you
With advanced training in human movement, you’ll be ready to make an impact across fields that promote health, performance and rehabilitation.
Graduates work as:
- Clinical exercise physiologists
- Sports performance specialists
- Rehabilitation and wellness professionals
- Research scientists
- Doctoral students and faculty members
Our alumni work in hospitals, university labs, sports programs and community health organizations across Chicago and beyond.
Meet our faculty
Admissions and program details
Application deadline
Applications are due on December 15. View our applying page for more details.
Prerequisites
Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, exercise science or a related field. For more information, please visit “Before You Apply.”
Funding and assistantships
A limited number of graduate assistantships and research opportunities are available.
Questions?
Questions?
Still wondering what an MS in Kinesiology can do for you? We’re here to answer your questions.
You can contact Lisa (Li) Chin Goelz at:
Email lchin1@uic.edu
Phone 312.413.8525
Address 901 W. Roosevelt Rd.
349 PEB, MC 194
Chicago, IL 60608