Master of Science in

Kinesiology

ACU’s Master of Science in Kinesiology offers a flexible, experience-rich curriculum that prepares you for a wide range of health and human performance careers or advanced study in fields other fields. This program is built to help you gain a solid foundation in kinesiology while tailored to your career goals. Your internship experiences will give you the real-world insight and connections you need to succeed.

With small cohorts, faculty mentorship, and Christ-centered values woven into every step, you’ll graduate equipped to serve, lead, and thrive in a purpose-driven career.

ACU’s Master of Science in Kinesiology offers a flexible, experience-rich curriculum that prepares you for a wide range of health and human performance careers or advanced study in fields other fields. This program is built to help you gain a solid foundation in kinesiology while tailored to your career goals. Your internship experiences will give you the real-world insight and connections you need to succeed.

With small cohorts, faculty mentorship, and Christ-centered values woven into every step, you’ll graduate equipped to serve, lead, and thrive in a purpose-driven career.

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KEY DATES

Apply Now

Application Deadline (spring)

December 15

Application Deadline (summer)

May 1

Application Deadline (fall)

August 15

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M.S. in Kinesiology

Complete this short form to learn more about our M.S. in Kinesiology program. ACU’s Office of Graduate Programs will reach out shortly to discuss your interests and answer your questions.

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Mission

The Master of Science in Kinesiology aligns with ACU’s mission to prepare students for Christian service and leadership. Careers in kinesiology are rooted in service—whether guiding others toward physical health, mental wellness, or peak performance. Graduates enter fields like exercise physiology, therapy, coaching, and administration equipped to help others thrive. Through hands-on experience and values-driven learning, students leave ACU ready to make a lasting impact.

Program Structure

What To Expect

These are the important details you will need to keep in mind as you prepare your application and degree plan.

Upon graduation, be prepared to step into an influential career as a hands-on mentor, guide and coach for athletes, students and people seeking lifestyle changes through movement.

Required Hours

Program Length: 24 months
Credit Hours: 30
2026/2027 Tuition/Credit Hour: $1,156

Example Coursework

Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries
Strength & Conditioning in Rehabilitation
Ethics in Sport
Seminar in Strength & Conditioning

Department

Kinesiology and Nutrition

Application Deadlines

Summer start: May 1 
Fall start: August 15
Spring start: December 15

Career Paths

Graduates of ACU’s M.S. in Kinesiology are prepared for a wide range of in-demand roles in the health, wellness, and performance fields. Whether you’re heading straight into the workforce or planning for advanced study, this program opens the door to meaningful, service-driven careers.

Potential career paths include:

  • Exercise Physiologist
  • Strength and Conditioning Coach
  • Human Performance Specialist
  • Athletic or Educational Administrator
  • Health and Wellness Coach
  • Pre-Physical or Occupational Therapy Professional

The job market in these fields is growing, with strong demand for professionals who can guide others toward healthier, more active lives.

Degree Process & Admission Requirements

The M.S. in Kinesiology is a 30-hour, on-campus degree with flexible start dates in the fall, spring, or summer. You’ll complete two semesters of internships in the field that best aligns with your goals—whether that’s performance, therapy, coaching, or administration. At ACU, you’ll have the flexibility to take courses in-person, online, or in a hybrid format, with summer options available to keep you on track.

In order to gain admission to the Master’s of Kinesiology applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Bachelor’s Degree– Completion of a bachelor’s degree at an accredited college or university. Applicants must submit official transcripts for review. Admissions are made on the assumption that applicants will have the bachelor’s degree by the time of matriculation, and if not, the program admission is void. The GRE is not required.
  • Prerequisite Coursework- All prerequisite courses must be completed prior to matriculation. Prerequisite courses include:
    • Communication and/or English-  6 hours
    • Biology and/or Anatomy/Physiology- 6 hours
    • Kinesiology or Biomechanics- 3 hours
    • Math (College Algebra or higher)- 3 hours
  • GPA – An overall GPA of 3.0 is suggested to apply.
  • Resume
  • Letters of Recommendation– Each applicant must obtain 2 letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation should be completed by individuals such as: (a) supervisors of volunteer or paid internships; (b) previous or present instructors and/or advisors; and/or (c) previous or present employers. Letters of recommendation should include elements demonstrating the applicant’s: (a) willingness to learn; (b) integrity; (c) perseverance; and (d) ability to interact with patients/clients. Letters of recommendation are submitted online through the ACU application.
  • Personal Statement– A written statement (600-800 words) describing professional goals, interests, and how your personal journey led you to apply to the Masters of Kinesiology Program. 

Our program director works with you to find an internship that suits your interests and moves you toward achieving your career goals. Here are some of the internship opportunities readily available to you on or near campus:

  • NCAA DI
  • NCAA D3
  • University Student Gyms
  • High Schools
  • Privately Owned Gyms

 

The program prepares its graduates to:

  • Apply knowledge and skills in assessment and analysis of client needs.
  • Design and initiate interventions for the purpose of optimizing strength, conditioning and human performance.
  • Demonstrate competency in evaluating, designing and conducting research.

Required Courses

  • KINE 501- Legal Aspects of Sports & Recreation
  • KINE 603- Seminar in Human Performance
  • KINE 604- Internship 1 (@)
  • KINE 605- Internship 2 (@)
  • MATP 621- Research Methods
  • NUTR 635- Nutrition-Exercise & Sport (@)

PSYC Selection– Select 1 class  from the following:

  • PSYC 542- Applied Sports Psychology, 
  • PSYC 624- Social and Cultural Basis of Behavior
  • PSYC 636- Abnormal Behaviors
  • PSYC 640- Positive Psychology
  • PSYC 641- Behavioral Medicine
  • PSYC 646- Lifespan Development
  • PSYC 668- Advanced Behavioral Neuroscience

KINE/MATP Selection– Choose 3 classes (9 hours) from following:

  • KINE 503- Ethics in Sport
  • KINE 580- Training Program Design
  • KINE 601- Essentials of Human Performance
  • MATP 613- Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries (@)
  • MATP 651- Strength Training in Rehabilitation
  • MATP 662- Psychology of Rehabilitation