University of Vermont

What you'll study

The programme covers the scientific foundations of human movement alongside applied and pedagogical approaches to sport and physical education. Core topics typically include exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control and learning, sport and exercise psychology, and research methods. Students also study assessment and programme design, strength and conditioning, injury prevention and rehabilitation principles, and inclusive/adapted physical education.

• Research methods and statistics for kinesiology
• Advanced exercise physiology and metabolic responses to exercise
• Biomechanics of human movement
• Motor control, learning and skill acquisition
• Sport and exercise psychology
• Physical education pedagogy and curriculum development
• Strength and conditioning programming and monitoring
• Adaptive physical activity and inclusive practice
• Practicum or internship in community, clinical or school settings
• Thesis or capstone project focused on applied research or programme evaluation

Programme pathways often offer a thesis or non-thesis option; the non-thesis route emphasises applied projects and a supervised practicum, while the thesis route focuses on original research and prepares students for doctoral study. Students can usually tailor electives to specialise in areas such as clinical exercise physiology, performance analysis, school-based physical education, or community health.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree in kinesiology, exercise science, physical education, biology or another related discipline. Admissions committees typically look for evidence of academic competence in foundational subjects such as human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics or motor learning. Practical experience in coaching, teaching, fitness instruction or rehabilitation is advantageous.

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution (or equivalent)
• Transcripts demonstrating relevant undergraduate coursework
• One or more references, including at least one academic referee
• A personal statement describing academic interests, career goals and relevant experience
• A CV or résumé outlining practical experience in sport, exercise or education

Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores where required, and international applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Applicants without a strong background in kinesiology may be admitted conditionally and asked to complete prerequisite courses.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of professional roles across education, sport and health sectors. Typical careers include schools and youth programmes as physical education teachers (often combined with regional/state certification), strength and conditioning coach for collegiate or club teams, exercise physiologist in clinical or wellness settings, and performance analyst or sport scientist within high-performance environments.

• Secondary school physical education teacher (may require additional teacher certification)
• Strength and conditioning coach or performance specialist
• Exercise physiologist in clinical, cardiac rehab or occupational health settings
• Rehabilitation assistant or allied health support roles
• Community health and fitness programme manager
• Research assistant or doctoral study in kinesiology, biomechanics or sport science

Graduates also find roles in coaching, sport administration, youth development organisations and corporate wellness. The combination of research skills and applied experience supports progression to doctoral programmes or specialist professional certifications (for example in strength and conditioning or clinical exercise testing).

Why study at University of Vermont

The University of Vermont offers an environment that blends rigorous academic training with hands-on learning. Students benefit from access to human performance and biomechanics laboratories, exercise physiology equipment and close links with campus athletics, local schools and health care providers. Small cohort sizes encourage close mentorship from faculty who are active researchers and practitioners in sport science and education.

Located in a city known for outdoor recreation, the university supports interdisciplinary collaboration across public health, nutrition and education, providing opportunities for community-engaged projects. Practical placements, research projects and partnerships with regional health organisations and athletic programmes help students build applied skills and professional networks relevant to careers in kinesiology, sport performance and physical education.