M.S.H. in Kinesiology and Lifestyle Medicine

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $31

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 79 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.

Standardized Test Requirements

• GRE (Graduate Record Examinations): Minimum score of 290 required.

The University of North Florida (UNF) offers a variety of scholarships specifically designed to support international students in achieving their academic goals while easing the financial burden of studying in the United States. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and community involvement.

Merit-Based Scholarships: UNF provides merit scholarships to international students based on their academic performance, standardized test scores, and extracurricular accomplishments. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are awarded automatically to eligible applicants during the admissions process.

International Student Scholarships: Special scholarships are reserved exclusively for international students. Examples include the International Freshman Scholarship and the International Transfer Scholarship, which reward high-achieving students with financial aid packages that may cover partial to full tuition fees.

Need-Based Financial Aid: While limited for international students, some need-based financial aid options may be available through private organizations or partnerships coordinated by UNF’s financial aid office. International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship databases for additional funding opportunities.

Departmental Scholarships: Certain academic departments and colleges at UNF offer scholarships targeted to students enrolled in specific fields of study. International students can apply for these scholarships based on their major, research interests, or academic achievements within their discipline.

A Master of Science in Health (M.S.H.) in Kinesiology and Lifestyle Medicine (KALM) from the University of North Florida (UNF) is an incredibly valuable asset for professionals aiming to make a significant impact on health and well-being. The program's unique blend of advanced kinesiology and a strong emphasis on lifestyle medicine, coupled with its CAAHEP accreditation and practical experience opportunities, positions graduates for diverse and impactful careers focused on prevention, rehabilitation, and health optimization.

Clinical Exercise Physiologist: These professionals work in hospitals, cardiac/pulmonary rehabilitation centers, and clinics, designing and implementing exercise programs for individuals with chronic diseases (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, obesity) or those recovering from medical events. They assess patient health, monitor responses to exercise, and provide guidance for long-term health management.

Lifestyle Medicine Practitioner/Coach: With the growing emphasis on preventive health, these specialists work directly with individuals to develop comprehensive lifestyle plans encompassing exercise, nutrition, stress management, and sleep. They help clients manage chronic conditions, prevent disease, and optimize overall well-being, often in clinical settings or private practice.

Wellness Coordinator/Director (Corporate/Community): These roles involve designing, implementing, and managing health and wellness programs for employees within corporations or for members of a community. They promote healthy behaviors, organize fitness challenges, provide health screenings, and oversee initiatives aimed at improving population health.

Strength and Conditioning Coach: While many in this field have a bachelor's, an MSH in KALM provides a strong scientific foundation for advanced roles. These coaches work with athletes of all levels (from high school to professional) to enhance physical performance, prevent injuries, and optimize training regimens through scientifically based strength and conditioning programs.

Rehabilitation Specialist: Graduates can work in rehabilitation centers, helping individuals recover from injuries, surgeries, or disabilities through prescribed exercise and movement therapies. This role often involves collaborating with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals.

Applied Kinesiologist/Human Movement Specialist: These professionals use their in-depth knowledge of human movement to assess and improve physical function. They might work in sports performance, ergonomic consulting (improving workplace movement), or clinical settings to address movement dysfunctions and optimize performance.

Public Health Specialist (Physical Activity/Obesity Prevention): Within public health departments or non-profit organizations, these individuals develop and implement community-wide initiatives to promote physical activity and combat obesity. They might work on policy development, community outreach, or program evaluation.

Health and Fitness Manager: In commercial gyms, university recreation centers, or corporate wellness facilities, an MSH in KALM prepares graduates to manage operations, supervise staff, develop new programs, and ensure the delivery of high-quality fitness services.

Research Assistant/Coordinator (Clinical/Public Health): For those interested in advancing the scientific understanding of health and movement, this role involves assisting with or coordinating research studies in academic institutions, hospitals, or pharmaceutical companies. They may collect data, manage study protocols, and contribute to scientific publications.

Pre-Professional Pathway (Medical, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy): While not a direct career, the MSH in KALM can serve as an excellent pathway for students aiming for further doctoral-level education in fields like Medicine (MD), Physical Therapy (DPT), or Occupational Therapy (OTD). The rigorous scientific curriculum and research experience provide a strong foundation for competitive admissions to these advanced programs.