M.S. in Kinesiology - Exercise Science concentration

Montclair, New Jersey

 

INTAKE: Jan & Sept

Program Overview

The M.S. in Kinesiology with an Exercise Science concentration at Montclair State University is a 33-credit-hour program. It is typically completed in two years, and classes are held in the evening, with many offered in a hybrid format to accommodate working professionals. The curriculum is structured to provide a strong foundation in exercise science, allowing students to refine their studies through elective offerings in areas like exercise programming, cardiac rehabilitation, neuromotor physiology, coaching techniques, and sport psychology. As a culminating experience, students choose between an internship or a research project, offering either practical application or in-depth scholarly investigation. The department features a state-of-the-art Human Performance Laboratory that serves as a key resource for both learning activities and research.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the Exercise Science concentration is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of human movement, physiological responses to exercise, and advanced assessment techniques. While specific course titles can vary, the program includes core courses in research methods. Concentration-specific courses delve into specialized and applied areas of exercise physiology and biomechanics. Electives allow students to explore topics such as advanced exercise programming, clinical exercise physiology (e.g., cardiac rehabilitation), neuromotor physiology (how the nervous system controls movement), coaching techniques, and sport psychology. The program's emphasis on hands-on learning often involves utilizing the Human Performance Laboratory for practical application of theoretical concepts.

Research Focus: The research focus within the M.S. in Kinesiology - Exercise Science concentration is heavily geared towards empirical investigation and applied science. The Department of Kinesiology has a state-of-the-art Human Performance Laboratory that facilitates research in exercise physiology, biomechanics, and motor learning. Faculty research interests often span areas such as cardiovascular responses to exercise, exercise testing and prescription, muscle physiology, neuromuscular control, sports performance, and the effects of exercise on various populations. Students have the opportunity to engage in independent research projects, especially if they choose the thesis option for their culminating experience, allowing them to contribute to the body of knowledge in exercise science.

Industry Engagement: Montclair State University's Exercise Science concentration is specifically designed to prepare graduates for professional careers in various health and fitness-related settings. These include strength and conditioning roles with college and professional athletes, positions in clinical exercise physiology within rehabilitative and hospital settings, and roles in corporate, commercial, community, and private health clubs. The program's emphasis on practical proficiency in areas like exercise programming and cardiac rehabilitation, along with the option for an internship as a capstone experience, indicates strong connections with industry partners. Graduates are well-positioned for certifications (e.g., ACSM, NSCA) that are highly valued in the industry.

Global Perspective: The M.S. in Kinesiology - Exercise Science concentration inherently incorporates a global perspective through the universal application of human physiology, biomechanics, and exercise principles. The understanding of exercise and its impact on health and performance is relevant across diverse populations and cultures worldwide. While the program may not feature specific courses on global health or international sport science, the foundational knowledge gained is applicable to a global context. The diverse student body at Montclair State University also contributes to a multicultural learning environment, allowing students to interact with peers from various backgrounds and consider the broader implications of exercise science in an interconnected world.

Pollster Education

Location

Montclair, New Jersey

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

USD 19916

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.

English Language Proficiency:

  • IELTS: Overall band score of  6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
  • TOEFL: Overall score of 83 or higher.
  • PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
  • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.

Montclair State University offers a range of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students in achieving their academic goals while easing the financial burden of studying in the United States. 

Presidential Scholarships: The university’s prestigious Presidential Scholarships are awarded to top-performing international students demonstrating exceptional academic records and leadership skills. These scholarships provide substantial financial support and are highly competitive.

Graduate Scholarships and Assistantships: Graduate international students have access to departmental scholarships and graduate assistantships. Assistantships may include tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for research or teaching responsibilities, offering both financial aid and valuable professional experience.

A Master of Science (M.S.) in Kinesiology with a concentration in Exercise Science from Montclair State University provides graduates with advanced scientific knowledge and practical skills in various biological disciplines. This program emphasizes rigorous research, critical thinking, and hands-on laboratory and field experience, preparing individuals for a diverse range of careers in science, healthcare, environmental sectors, and academia.

Clinical Exercise Physiologist: Working in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or clinics, designing and implementing exercise programs for individuals with chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity) or special populations, often for rehabilitation or disease management.

Strength and Conditioning Coach: Designing and implementing training programs to enhance athletic performance, prevent injuries, and improve physical fitness for athletes at collegiate, professional, or elite amateur levels.

Exercise Program Manager/Director: Overseeing fitness programs and facilities in corporate wellness centers, community recreation centers, commercial health clubs, or university recreation departments, including staff supervision, budgeting, and program development.

Health and Wellness Coach/Specialist: Guiding individuals and groups toward healthier lifestyles through exercise, nutrition, and behavior change strategies in corporate wellness programs, public health initiatives, or private practice.

Biomechanist (Applied): Analyzing human movement to improve performance, prevent injuries, or design ergonomic solutions in sports, clinical settings (e.g., gait analysis), or product development for sports equipment or rehabilitation devices.

Research Assistant/Associate (Exercise Science/Physiology): Supporting scientific studies in university labs, hospitals, or research institutions by collecting and analyzing data, assisting with experimental design, and contributing to scholarly publications. This is often a stepping stone to doctoral studies.

Sports Performance Scientist: Working with sports teams or organizations to integrate scientific principles into training, recovery, and performance analysis, using data from physiological assessments, wearable technology, and biomechanical analyses.

Fitness Industry Professional/Consultant: Providing specialized expertise to individuals or organizations in the fitness industry, which could include personal training, group fitness instruction, or consulting on exercise science principles for product development or training methodologies.

Higher Education Instructor/Lecturer (Community College): Teaching undergraduate courses in exercise science, kinesiology, anatomy, or physiology at community colleges, or serving as a lab instructor at larger universities, often requiring an M.S. for these roles.

Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist: Specializing in supervised exercise programs for patients recovering from cardiac events or living with heart disease, monitoring their physiological responses, educating them on healthy lifestyles, and promoting long-term cardiovascular health.


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