The master's programme in Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education at Troy University develops advanced knowledge and practical skills in human movement, sport performance, and physical education pedagogy. It suits graduates seeking careers in teaching, coaching, strength and conditioning, clinical exercise settings, or further research in kinesiology.
What you'll study
The programme combines advanced coursework in kinesiology and sport science with pedagogy and applied practicum experiences. Students follow a curriculum that balances theory, research methods and hands-on practice to prepare for roles in education, coaching and allied health.
- Core topics: advanced exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control and motor learning, sport psychology, and research methods in kinesiology.
- Pedagogy and curriculum: curriculum development and assessment in physical education, instructional strategies for K–12 settings, and adapted physical education for diverse learners.
- Applied practice: practicum and internship placements with school systems, community fitness providers or university athletic programmes; supervised field experiences develop teaching, coaching and assessment skills.
- Specialist electives: strength and conditioning, athletic training principles, injury prevention and rehabilitation, youth sport development, and wellness programming.
- Research and capstone options: students typically complete a research project, thesis or comprehensive capstone that synthesises applied work and scholarly inquiry.
Entry requirements
Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Those with undergraduate preparation in kinesiology, physical education, exercise science, sport studies or a closely related field are especially well suited, though applicants from other backgrounds with relevant experience are considered.
- Academic transcript: official transcripts from all post‑secondary institutions attended.
- References: at least two professional or academic references that speak to the applicant’s readiness for graduate study.
- Personal statement: a statement of purpose outlining career goals, research or applied interests, and reasons for pursuing the degree.
- CV or résumé: documenting relevant experience in teaching, coaching, fitness or research.
- Additional requirements: some specialisms or practicum placements may require background checks, proof of immunisations, or a valid teaching certificate if seeking a licensure pathway. Standardised tests may be optional or required depending on the applicant profile and programme track.
Career prospects
Graduates move into a diverse set of professional roles across education, sport, fitness and health sectors. The programme equips students with pedagogical skills, applied practicum experience and research literacy valued by employers.
- Secondary school physical education teacher or coordinator (with appropriate certification where required)
- Strength and conditioning coach or athletic performance specialist
- Community fitness director, corporate wellness coordinator or clinical exercise professional
- Sport coach, youth development coordinator or athletic programme manager
- Research assistant or doctoral study candidate in kinesiology, movement science or education
- Rehabilitation support roles and allied health technician positions working alongside clinicians
Why study at Troy University
Troy University offers a personalised learning environment with faculty who combine teaching, applied practice and research in kinesiology and physical education. Small‑group instruction and supervised practicum placements give students regular access to experienced mentors and real‑world settings.
- Hands‑on opportunities: practicum ties with local schools, community organisations and university athletics allow students to apply classroom learning in diverse contexts.
- Flexible delivery: options for on-campus, blended or distance learning pathways accommodate working professionals and those pursuing part‑time study.
- Applied research support: students can work with faculty on applied research projects in exercise science, sport performance and pedagogy to build publishable scholarship or practical interventions.
- Pathways to certification and advancement: the programme supports students preparing for teaching certification, strength and conditioning credentialing, or further graduate study.
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