Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

The programme covers the scientific foundations of human movement alongside applied skills for teaching and coaching. Core topics typically include exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control and learning, research methods and statistics, and assessment in physical education. Students choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks; the thesis track emphasises original research and advanced data analysis, while the non-thesis track focuses on applied coursework and a practicum or capstone project.

Common modules and subject areas you can expect:

• Exercise Physiology: energy systems, metabolic responses to exercise and testing methods.
• Biomechanics: movement analysis, kinetics and kinematics, and practical motion-capture applications.
• Motor Control and Motor Learning: skill acquisition, feedback, and neurophysiological underpinnings.
• Research Methods and Statistics: experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication.
• Pedagogy and Curriculum in Physical Education: lesson design, assessment, inclusive practice and classroom management.
• Adapted Physical Education and Inclusive Practices: strategies for learners with diverse needs.
• Practicum/Internship: supervised applied experience in school, community or clinical settings.

Elective options often allow specialisation in areas such as strength and conditioning, sports psychology, athletic training collaboration, or community health promotion. Hands-on experience is supported by departmental labs and performance facilities, and many students prepare for professional credentials such as ACSM, NASM or sport-specific certifications during the programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, preferably in kinesiology, physical education, exercise science, health promotion or a closely related field. A competitive undergraduate academic record is required, and programmes typically consider previous coursework in anatomy, physiology and statistics helpful.

Typical application materials include:

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• A personal statement outlining academic and professional goals and reasons for choosing the programme.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three) from academic or professional referees who can speak to your suitability for graduate study.
• A current CV or résumé summarising relevant experience in teaching, coaching, research or clinical practice.
• International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency through recognised tests or institutional equivalents.

Some applicants may be invited for an interview. Admission may offer different tracks for those without a strong undergraduate foundation in kinesiology, including prerequisite coursework or foundational modules to ensure readiness for graduate-level study.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of careers across education, sport, health and research. Common career paths include:

• Physical education teacher or curriculum coordinator in schools.
• Strength and conditioning or performance coach for schools, clubs and private organisations.
• Clinical or community exercise physiologist working in rehabilitation, cardiac rehab or fitness settings.
• Wellness and corporate health programme coordinator or manager.
• Sport development, coaching education and youth programme leadership.
• Research assistant or continuing to doctoral study in kinesiology, sport science or related fields.

The programme’s practicum and industry links help with placements and networking, and many graduates use the degree as preparation for professional certification or teacher licensure where applicable.

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University offers a department with a practical, student-centred approach and faculty active in scholarship and community engagement. The university provides access to dedicated human performance and biomechanics labs, gymnasium and training facilities, and opportunities to work with local schools, sports organisations and health partners in the region.

Graduate students benefit from small class sizes, one-to-one mentorship with faculty, and flexibility in choosing a research-focused or applied professional pathway. Eastern Michigan’s location near a major metropolitan area also supports internship and employment connections in education, sports performance and healthcare settings. The programme is designed to develop both the scientific knowledge and the practical competencies employers and certification bodies seek.