Study human movement and advance health through kinesiology
If you thrive on sharing your enthusiasm for health and physical activity with others, consider focusing that energy on a Master of Science in Kinesiology from Oregon State University.
This research-informed program explores how movement affects the body and mind through the lens of anatomy, physiology, psychology and sociology.
Whether you're interested in exercise science, sport performance, rehabilitation, or human movement studies, Oregon State’s kinesiology master’s degree equips you with the advanced knowledge and skills to make a lasting impact.
Your experience in the MS in kinesiology program
Prepare for your career in exercise science, sport and human performance with Oregon State’s Master of Science (MS) in kinesiology — a program designed to deepen your understanding of human movement, physiology and biomechanics.
You’ll gain advanced skills to explore the theoretical and practical study of physical activity, preparing you for research, clinical, or leadership roles in the growing field of kinesiology.
In the MS in kinesiology program, you will:
- Study kinesiology at OSU, a leader in health and human sciences
- Be matched with a dedicated faculty advisor to guide your academic and professional growth
- Join a collaborative graduate cohort and explore interdisciplinary research opportunities
- Specialize in areas like biomechanics and motor control, exercise physiology or physical activity promotion
- Build your expertise in anatomy, physiology and psychology to understand the effects of movement on the body
- Learn from world-class faculty who are advancing research and practice in sport, health and wellness
Estimated costs
The Kinesiology MS program is a 45-credit program that can be completed within 2 years on a full-time credit load (except for summer). Estimated costs for the whole program:
Resident
$33,125
Resident Tuition ($27,972)
+ Fees ($5,153)
Non-resident
$70,169
Non-resident Tuition ($65,016)
+ Fees ($5,153)
Tuition and fees estimates were calculated using the 25-26 academic year tuition and fees tables in combination with the tuition calculator. Please note, tuition and fees can change for the 26-27 academic year.
Please Note Cost of Attendance figures are used for budgeting purposes only and represent an estimate of projected costs for the academic year before any financial aid. Actual costs may vary based on personal circumstances.
Choose a concentration that matches your goals
Customize your MS in kinesiology by focusing on one of two concentrations — each offering hands-on research in state-of-the-art labs and access to world-class faculty.
Biophysical kinesiology
Explore biomechanics, exercise physiology or motor control. Conduct research in labs such as Biomechanics, Human Performance or Translational Metabolism.
Psychosocial kinesiology
Focus on motor development, sport and exercise psychology, or the sociology of sport. Research opportunities include the 2PLAY, Social Mobility and Sport and Exercise Psychology labs.
Interdisciplinary collaboration is encouraged across both tracks, helping you build a well-rounded foundation in human movement science.
Detailed information about degree requirements and coursework.
Add the adapted physical activity option
By pursuing the adapted physical activity option you’ll learn to respond to the motor and physical fitness needs of people with disabilities. This option is available to students in the kinesiology major and will appear on your transcript.
What can you do with a master’s in kinesiology?
Our graduates work in a variety of settings. You could land employment in settings such as hospitals, health departments, schools, or other entities with a passion for health and wellness.
Sample careers with an MS in kinesiology:
- Clinical exercise physiologist
- Clinical manager
- Research laboratory technician
- Strength and conditioning specialist
- Wellness coach
Megan MacDonald, PhD
“Kinesiology master’s degree students work closely with faculty and other MS and PhD students on research projects and coursework. In addition, KIN MS students work closely with their mentor to tailor their program of study, beyond KIN required courses, to exceed their unique graduate school goals.”
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you want to deepen your expertise in exercise science or launch a research career, Oregon State’s kinesiology is a great place to start.
We’re here to help
For questions about the application process and requirements, contact COH graduate admissions.
For academic or professional information specific to the master’s degree in kinesiology program, please contact the program director John Schuna, PhD.