Kinesiology (M.S.)

Degree Requirements

The Master of Science, Kinesiology requires 36 credits/units, providing a scientific foundation and updates in the content of kinesiology (study of human movement), technology for teachers of physical education, and physical education pedagogy. The program of study prepare teachers with the tools needed to become mentors of future teachers, undertake advanced or doctoral studies in teaching, instructional technology, and curriculum design, and addresses critical issues facing PK-12 physical education in a global, diverse, and technological society. Consistent with other Towson University Education and College of Health Professions graduate programs, candidates will be required to:

• Maintain a 3.0 GPA (no more than two courses of C grade are allowed).
• Complete no more than three 500-level courses, including transfer courses.
• Complete the program of study within 7 years, including transfer courses.
• Complete the capstone course or thesis with a grade of A or B (the course may be repeated only once).
• Satisfactorily pass a comprehensive examination after completion of coursework, and prior to beginning the Internship & Capstone Folio in Physical Education course.

Note: Candidates may transfer up to 6 units from another accredited master’s program, provided they are deemed equivalent to required or elective courses at TU, subject to the review of the program director. 

Elective Courses (6 units)

In addition, candidates select two courses (6 units) with their advisor and the Kinesiology Graduate Program Director approval. One of the courses may be KNES 781—thesis (3 credits).  Other electives may be in areas such as: educational administration, special education, exercise science, sport management, educational technology, or and area of interest to the candidate.

     *           The technology and computer applications course should be taken within the first                    6 credits of the program.
     **          The capstone folio (and the thesis, if elected) must be taken during the student’s                    final semester in the program.
     ***        The thesis is recommended for graduate students desiring to pursue doctoral                    studies in P.E. Pedagogy, or a related field.  Students must earn a grade of A or B                    in each of these courses. They may be repeated once for grade change.

An individualized plan of study must be approved by the director of the kinesiology graduate program no later than the semester in which the student completes 12 units towards the degree. The plan of study should be developed in consultation with the program director and the faculty advisor, but must include the Kinesiology and Physical Education Teacher Education core courses listed below. [Subsequent changes in a student’s individualized plan of study require the approval of the program director, prior to registration for the courses to be substituted.]

Kinesiology CORE Courses the M.S. (15 units)

• Applying Research in the Teaching of Physical Education (3)
• Technology and Computer Applications in Kinesiology* (3)
• Analysis of Movement in Sport and Physical Activity (3)
• Psycho-Social and Cultural Determinants of Physical Activity Behaviors (3)
• Concepts in Nutrition, Exercise and Lifelong Physical Activity for PK-12 Learners (3)

Physical Education Teacher Education Core (15 units)

• Assessment in Physical Activity and Education (3)
• Curriculum & Program Development in Physical Education (3)
• Adapting Physical Education for All Learners (3)
• Improving Teaching Effectiveness in Physical Education. (3)
• Internship & Capstone Folio in P.E. (3)**