University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

This Master’s programme blends core courses in exercise science and motor behaviour with applied training in physical education pedagogy and practicum experience. Students commonly cover subjects such as exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control and learning, sport and exercise psychology, measurement and evaluation in kinesiology, and research methods and statistics.

Programme pathways typically include a thesis option for students focused on research, and a non‑thesis or practicum option for those preparing for applied work. Typical modules and learning activities include:

• Exercise Physiology: metabolic responses to exercise, testing protocols and laboratory assessment of fitness and performance.
• Biomechanics: analysis of human movement, kinetics and kinematics, and applications to injury prevention and performance enhancement.
• Motor Control & Learning: theories of skill acquisition, motor development across the lifespan and instructional strategies.
• Sport & Exercise Psychology: motivation, mental skills training, team dynamics and psychological factors affecting performance.
• Measurement & Evaluation: assessment design, reliability and validity, and use of statistics in programme evaluation.
• Research Methods & Statistics: research design, data analysis, and preparation of a thesis or applied research project.
• Physical Education Pedagogy & Curriculum: curriculum development, inclusive/adaptive physical education and classroom management for K–12 settings.
• Practicum/Internship: supervised placements in schools, community sport programmes, fitness/wellness settings or high‑performance environments.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Preferred undergraduate backgrounds include kinesiology, exercise science, sport studies, physical education, biology or related health sciences. Typical application components include academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining study and career goals, and letters of recommendation.

Additional requirements often include a current curriculum vitae or resume and evidence of relevant practical experience (for example coaching, teaching or fitness work). Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores where required by the department; international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent evidence.

Candidates seeking preparation for K–12 teaching should check the separate certification or licensure requirements for Hawaii if they intend to pursue state teaching credentials in conjunction with or after the master’s programme.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a variety of applied and academic roles. Common career paths include strength and conditioning coach, exercise physiologist, performance analyst, sport scientist, community and corporate wellness specialist, and physical education teacher (often requiring additional certification). Others move into coaching, youth development programmes, adaptive physical education or rehabilitation support roles.

The programme also prepares students for doctoral study and research careers in kinesiology, public health or related fields. Practical placements and local partnerships often lead to employment opportunities within school districts, sports clubs, health centres and fitness organisations across the Pacific region.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a distinct Pacific and island environment that shapes research and applied practice in sport and human performance. Students benefit from multidisciplinary faculty expertise, opportunities for fieldwork in diverse community and athletic settings, and access to outdoor and aquatic environments that are integral to many applied projects.

The College’s links with local schools, sports organisations and public health initiatives provide strong practicum and partnership possibilities. The campus’ multicultural context supports work with diverse populations and research addressing regional health and activity challenges, making the programme particularly well suited to students interested in community‑oriented and contextually relevant kinesiology practice.