Biomechanics concentration

The perfect springboard for doctoral studies and research careers

Biomechanics is the science of how people move. Our biomechanics concentration focuses on developing an understanding of human motion, with additional recommended coursework in human locomotion, tissue mechanics, motor control and motor learning.

Concentration details

Although there are no specific perquisites required for the biomechanics concentration, the ideal candidate has some experience in a research laboratory and has successfully completed course work in biomechanics, statistics, physiology, anatomy and experimental design during their undergraduate studies.

Our concentration is aimed primarily at students interested in scientific research.

Advanced degree paths include:

  • Ph.D.
  • Allied health clinical fields such as physical therapy
  • Physician’s assistant

Career paths  include the following:

  • Research coordinator/lab manager
  • Biomechanics or gait lab scientist/research assistant
  • Industry (ergonomics consultant, scientific instrumentation development)

Required courses

KN 500 Evidence-Based Practice in Kinesiology and Nutrition
KN 472 Movement Neuroscience
KN 561Biomechanics of Human Locomotion
KN/PT 571Biomechanics of Normal and Abnormal Movement

Completion of the KN MS degree requires 36 credits at the graduate level:

  • Coursework only. All students are automatically admitted into the coursework-only track. Switching to the project or thesis track requires approval from the student’s advisor.
  • Project track. Students who complete the project track are required to take at least 5 hours of KN597 Master’s Project Research.
  • Thesis track. Students who complete the thesis track are required to take  at least 5 hours of KN598 Master’s Thesis Research.

*Only 500-level classes with A-F grading are counted towards this required minimum (thus KN596, KN597, KN598 and any other class with satisfactory/unsatisfactory grading do not count). Moreover, only 400- and 500-level classes count towards the MS. Any 100-, 200- or 300-level class (for example classes taken to fulfill prerequisites) will not count towards the required total credits or GPA calculation.

Questions?

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