M.S. degree. The program of study is developed by the student and major professor based on the student’s background, interest and career goals. Requirements for the degree include completion of at least 24 hours of course work and a thesis. Course work must include at least 12 hours, exclusive of thesis credit, in the Exercise Science Department, including a course in research methods (KINS 7150) and at least two courses in biomechanics. Courses in descriptive and inferential statistics (ERSH 6300 and ERSH 8310) are also required. Completion of the program typically requires two years.

Ph.D. degree. The program of study is developed by the student and a four-person advisory committee based on the student’s background, interests and career goals. No minimum number of hours is required. The program is designed to provide in-depth knowledge in the area of specialization and proficiency in designing and conducting research. Students are expected to be involved in research throughout their Ph.D. program. The program requires approximately three to four years for those who have previously completed a master’s degree.

Course work required of all Ph.D. candidates in the Exercise Science Department includes: 4 hours of research seminar (KINS 8990), statistics (ERSH 8320, ERSH 8350), and a minimum of 3 hours of doctoral dissertation (KINS 9300).

Courses taken as part of the master’s degree can be used to fulfill requirements.

Courses commonly taken include:

KINS 6000 Problems in Exercise Science (for applying math, computer science or engineering topics to biomechanical problems)
KINS 7210 Motor Learning and Control
KINS 7350 Biomechanics of Human Movement
KINS 8350 Methods in Biomechanics
KINS 8990 Research Seminar in Exercise Science
KINS 9000 Doctoral Research
KINS 9300 Doctoral Dissertation

CSCI 7010 Computer Programming

ENGR 6210 Linear Systems
ENGR 6760 Biomechanics

MATH 6780 Mathematical Biology

The student should also have a background in other cognate areas, e.g., biological engineering, mathematics, computer science, exercise physiology, etc.

Descriptions of these courses may be found in the Graduate School Bulletin.