Curriculum

Core Courses

Students will enroll in the following courses, regardless of concentration:

An introductory graduate seminar focused on the breadth of kinesiology research. Students develop critical thinking skills through journal article reviews, peer feedback, and scholarly dialogue across the sub-disciplines of biomechanics, motor control, and physical activity. 

An advanced seminar for second-year students that pairs research dissemination with professional development. Students deliver formal research presentations while gaining practical skills in grant writing, CV development, and networking strategies for academic and industry careers.

A foundational research course designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical scientific application. This course focuses on advanced literature search strategies, robust data organization, and the statistical proficiency required to conduct independent research in Exercise Physiology and Nutritional Sciences.

A graduate-level discussion course designed to equip students with the tools to rigorously evaluate scientific research. The curriculum moves beyond simple reading to deep analysis, focusing on the "Anatomy of a Paper" (A.O.P.), the ethics of scientific publishing, and the statistical foundations used in the field.

A dynamic, graduate-level course focused on the "art of the narrative" in science. This course goes beyond technical writing to teach students how to translate complex kinesiology research for diverse audiences - from academic peers and grant panels to clinicians, policymakers, and the general public.

Directed, faculty-supervised research designed to provide students with advanced experiential learning in their specific area of interest. This course serves as a critical preparatory step for students as they transition from classroom theory to their culminating master’s project or thesis.

ENS 790: The final capstone experience for students in the Master’s program. This course focuses on the execution and completion of a directed research project under the guidance of a faculty advisor. It is designed for students to demonstrate their ability to synthesize theoretical knowledge and practical research skills into a final scholarly work.

ENS 799A: The definitive capstone for students on the Plan A (Thesis) track. This course involves the formal preparation, defense, and submission of a master’s thesis. It represents the pinnacle of the graduate experience, demonstrating a student's ability to conduct independent, rigorous research.

Biomechanics & Motor Control Concentration

This foundational laboratory course focuses on the precise quantification of human movement using advanced diagnostic tools. Students gain intensive, hands-on experience in the three pillars of biomechanics - Kinematics, Kinetics, and Electromyography (EMG) - to evaluate movement patterns in both healthy and clinical populations.

This advanced technical course bridges the gap between raw human movement data and meaningful biomechanical insights. Students develop proficiency in MATLAB to automate the processing, filtering, and visualization of time-series data, specifically focusing on applications in Biomechanics and Motor Control.

Physical Activity Concentration

An in-depth exploration of the psychological and social factors influencing physical activity across the lifespan. This course bridges theory and practice, examining how individual characteristics, mental health, and environmental factors interact to shape exercise behavior.

A comprehensive examination of physical activity measurement through a blend of lectures and hands-on application. This course equips students with the technical and critical skills to select, implement, and interpret appropriate assessment tools (accelerometers, heart rate monitors, self-report measures) across diverse research and practice settings.

Example Biomechanics and Motor Control Course Map
Year 1 Year 2
Semester Course Credits Semester Course Credits
Fall ENS 601 3 Fall ENS 609 3
Fall ENS 610 3 Fall ENS 797 3
Fall ENS 600A Seminar 1 Fall ENS 600B Seminar 2
Fall Total Credits: 7 Fall Total Credits: 8
Spring ENS 602 3 Spring ENS 799 A or ENS 790 3
Spring ENS 611 3 Spring Elective 3
Spring Elective 3      
Total Credits: 9 Total Credits: 6
Example Physical Activity Course Map
Year 1 Year 2
Semester Course Credits Semester Course Credits
Fall ENS 601 3 Fall ENS 609 3
Fall ENS 640 3 Fall ENS 797 3
Fall ENS 600A Seminar 1 Fall ENS 600B Seminar 2
Fall Total Credits: 7 Fall Total Credits: 8
Spring ENS 602 3 Spring ENS 799 A or ENS 790 3
Spring ENS 641 3 Spring Elective 3
Spring Elective 3      
Spring Total Credits: 9 Spring Total Credits: 6
Year 1 Total Credits: 16 Year 2 Total Credits: 14