The answer may surprise you. A Master’s in Kinesiology can help you take the next step in your career by combining advanced knowledge of human movement with practical skills that can be applied in healthcare, education, sports, fitness, and wellness.
What Is a Master's in Kinesiology?
Kinesiology is the study of human movement.
"A Master's in Kinesiology from UTPB gives students a broader understanding of human movement and allows them to study areas such as exercise physiology, coaching, sport psychology, research, and athletic administration, " said Assistant Professor and Graduate Program Coordinator, Dr. Omer Kaya.
Through the program, students build the knowledge and skills needed to succeed both in the classroom and in their careers. To align their studies with their professional goals, students can choose from one of three specialized tracks:
- Teaching, Coaching, and Administration Track
- Psychology of Sport Track
- Exercise Physiology Track
UTPB regularly reviews its curriculum to ensure students are learning the skills and knowledge that are most relevant in today's workforce. Coursework includes:
- Biomechanics – Examines how forces act on the body and how movement is produced.
- Exercise Physiology – Explores how the cardiovascular, respiratory, muscular, metabolic, and nervous systems respond to exercise and training.
- Motor Learning and Control –Focuses on how people learn, improve, and retain movement skills.
- Rehabilitation Methods – Examines the relationship between movement, exercise, health, and recovery, including how injuries, diseases, and physical limitations affect physical activity.
- Research – Being able to understand, evaluate, and apply scientific studies and research
Why Study Kinesiology in Texas?
Although UTPB's Master’s in Kinesiology is fully online, students can still connect with faculty, attend office hours, and access university resources virtually or in-person. The program attracts a mix of working professionals looking to advance their careers and recent graduates continuing their education.
Studying kinesiology in Texas offers unique advantages, whether you plan to work in athletics, education, healthcare, fitness, or recreation.
"Texas has a strong interest in athletics, physical education, health, fitness, and community recreation," Dr. Kaya said. "Texas is also a large and diverse state. Students may work with people from many different cultural, occupational, and health backgrounds. That experience can be valuable because Kinesiology professionals need to understand that every population has different needs."
What Skills Do You Need Earning a Master's in Kinesiology?
Students interested in pursuing a Master’s in Kinesiology should possess strong attention to detail, critical thinking abilities, professional communication skills, and the ability to analyze and interpret information. Because the program is fully online, time management and self-discipline are also important for meeting deadlines and participating in coursework.
As students progress through the program, they develop skills in research, statistics, exercise physiology, Biomechanics, motor learning and control, rehabilitation, and coaching, depending on their chosen track. Four core courses provide the foundation for advanced study:
- Advanced Exercise Physiology (KINE 6360)
- Statistics (KINE 6310)
- Research Methods (KINE 6312)
- Advanced Psych of Exercise (KINE 6323)
What Kind of Job Can I Get with a Master's in Kinesiology?
A Master’s in Kinesiology can open the door to a variety of career opportunities. Graduates may pursue careers in coaching, fitness, healthcare, rehabilitation, and sports performance.
Some professions require additional certifications or licenses. For example, athletic trainers and occupational therapists must meet state licensure requirements established by their respective licensing boards.
According to the American Kinesiology Association, the field offers a growing range of career opportunities for graduates with advanced education in kinesiology.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, projects growth of 4% to 15% across many kinesiology-related careers over the next decade. Salary ranges vary by profession, with opportunities including:
- Fitness Trainers and Instructors - $46, 180
- Coaches - $45,920
- Exercise Physiologist - $58,160
- Occupational Therapist - $100,330
- Physical Therapist - $102,760
Why UTPB?
UTPB's online Master’s in Kinesiology is designed to help students move closer to their professional goals. The flexible online format allows students to continue their education while balancing work, internships, observation hours, graduate assistantships, and other responsibilities.
"Our primary goal is to help students develop a deeper understanding of human movement, exercise, sport, and performance. We also want students to become better at applying research and scientific information in real-life settings," Dr. Kaya said.
"Depending on their career goals, students may use the degree to improve their knowledge as coaches, teachers, fitness professionals, administrators, or exercise specialists. It can also help prepare students for doctoral programs or other advanced professional education."
Online students have access to the same support resources available across UTPB, including:
- Faculty Advising: Graduate students work with faculty advisors to select the track that best aligns with their career goals.
- Career services: Career coaches can help students update resumes, prepare for interviews, explore licensing requirements, and identify career opportunities.
- Experienced Faculty: UTPB professors bring diverse professional experience in kinesiology-related fields and are committed to helping students succeed.
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