Kinesiology Department

Sarah Shultz, PhD, ATC, Chair
Web: http://www.seattleu.edu/artsci/departments/kinesiology/

The graduate program in Kinesiology is an integrated study of movement encompassing the physiological, mechanical, and behavioral aspects of physical activity. The curriculum includes hybrid lectures and laboratory courses, seminars, independent study, and mentored research. Students have the option of completing a thesis or a culminating final project.

The thesis option is designed to provide the fundamental framework for understanding and conducting research in Kinesiology. In addition to course work, students complete a research project as part of the thesis requirement under the supervision of a faculty mentor. Graduates within the thesis track often pursue further graduate training such as advanced study at the doctoral level, admission to allied health professional programs, or medical school. Those students not continuing on with further graduate studies typically pursue careers in research, educational, or industrial settings.

The clinically applied option is designed to provide the necessary coursework and practical experience that is required to sit for the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Clinical Exercise Physiology certification exam. Students will take advanced coursework in each of the traditional disciplines within the field and focus on the required advanced physiology components as electives. Instead of a research thesis, students in the clinically applied track will complete 600 practical hours, which will be documented in a final, capstone project. ACSM certification is the gold standard in professional development within our field, and students in the clinically applied track will be qualified to consult on exercise-related research, public health and policy making, and other clinical and non-clinical services. Students will also be able to work in medical and allied health settings to manage cardiac and pulmonary

Program Learning Outcomes:

Synthesize advanced knowledge in the field of Kinesiology
Critically evaluate and integrate current research in the field of Kinesiology
Establish evidence-based practice to develop, assess, and prescribe health/exercise/sports interventions for research and general community.
Effectively communicate scientific principles and findings from the field of Kinesiology to both peer and non-peer audiences
Demonstrate professional behavior consistent with discipline, including a) an understanding of the societal and individual importance of a healthy, active lifestyle, b) adherence to professional ethics, c) service to others, d) shared responsibility and successful collaboration with peers, and e) commitment to lifelong learning risks, training, and rehabilitation

Admission Requirements

Applicants are required to send the following documents for consideration:

Completed Application for Graduate Admission and a non-refundable $55 application fee (waived for Seattle University alumni)
Evidence of a four-year equivalent baccalaureate degree in kinesiology or a related discipline from a regionally accredited institution. Coursework completed must include Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, and Psychology (Sport or Excercise Psychology preferred). Exercise Prescription is required if pursuing the clinically applied track.
Minimum GPA of 3.00 as calculated from official transcripts of all post-secondary institutions attended in the last 90 quarter/60 semester credits of the bachelor’s degree, including any transfer credits earned during this time, and any post-baccalaureate course work.
A letter of application describing background, academic interests, career goals, how this degree will assist them in achieving those goals, and identify a potential faculty mentor.
Professional résumé or curriculum vita. Submit names and contact information for three professional references
If English is not the applicant’s native language, official English proficiency scores meeting the university’s entrance requirements must be submitted. See policy 2008-01 in Admissions Policies for details.

Programs

Master of Science in Kinesiology