Kinesiology, MS

TAMU-CC’s Kinesiology, MS equips graduates to successfully pursue careers across strength and conditioning, sport performance, exercise science, healthcare, and tactical human performance environments. The program prepares professionals to translate evidence-based principles into measurable results — whether developing athletes, improving clinical outcomes, or enhancing performance and readiness in military and high-performance settings.

Career pathways include:

• Strength and conditioning coach
• Performance specialist
• Exercise physiologist
• Sport performance analyst
• Tactical strength and conditioning professional
• Wellness and rehabilitation specialist
• Secondary or collegiate sport coach

Graduates pursuing strength and conditioning careers often seek professional credentials such as the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), a widely recognized standard within collegiate and professional performance environments.

Many students also continue into advanced academic and professional study, including Ph.D. programs in kinesiology or exercise science, Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs, Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) programs, medical school, physician assistant programs, and related health professions.

Typically, graduates of the MS in Kinesiology/Sport and Exercise Science at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi pursue career paths that include the following:

• Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists® (CSCS®) are professionals who apply scientific knowledge to train athletes for the primary goal of improving athletic performance at professional, college, high school, and private performance facilities.
• Certified Performance and Sport Scientists® (CPSS®) specializes in the application of scientific processes to improve individual and team athletic performance and decrease injury risk at professional, college, high school, and private performance facilities.
• Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitators® (TSAC-F®) apply scientific knowledge to physically train military, fire and rescue, law enforcement, protective services, and other emergency personnel to improve performance, promote wellness, and decrease injury
  risk.
• NSCA-Certified Personal Trainers (NSCA-CPT®) and ACSM Certified Personal Trainers® (ACSM-CPT®) are health/fitness professionals who, using an individualized approach, assess, motivate, educate and train clients regarding their personal health
  and fitness needs.
• ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist® (ACSM-EP) has a bachelor’s degree or higher in exercise science and works with healthy clients and those with medically controlled conditions to establish safe, healthy and effective exercise and lifestyle behaviors.
• Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist® (ACSM-CEP) holds a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in exercise science with 1,200 hours of hands-on experience or a master’s degree in clinical exercise physiology and 600 hours of clinical experience. ACSM-CEPs use prescribed exercise and basic health behavior interventions to assist
  clients with chronic diseases or conditions.
• Sport coaches at professional, college, high school, and private institutions.
• Doctoral programs in kinesiology (PH.D.), physical therapy (DPT), occupational therapy (OTD), medicine (MD), osteopathic medicine (DO), chiropractic medicine (DC), and physician assistant (PA).

The M.S. in Kinesiology stands apart through its distinctive accreditation, flexible delivery, and national recognition.

At TAMU-CC, you’ll find:

• The Only Fully Online CASCE-Accredited Strength & Conditioning Specialization: Within the MS in Kinesiology, the Strength and Conditioning specialization is the world’s only CASCE-accredited program delivered in a fully online, asynchronous format. This distinction allows students to complete the Master of Science in Kinesiology while aligning with professional standards recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). The broader M.S. in Kinesiology program is internationally recognized by the NSCA, reflecting its strong foundation in exercise science, human performance, and applied sport science.
• A Fully Online, Fully Asynchronous Program — Without Isolation: Courses are delivered in a structured asynchronous format designed for working professionals, military members, and students across time zones. Faculty engagement, collaborative coursework, and applied projects ensure students remain supported throughout the program.
• National Recognition: The program has been included on multiple national rankings of top online kinesiology graduate programs, including lists published by Sports Management Degree Hub and other higher education review organizations.
• Accessibility for Diverse Academic Backgrounds: Students with undergraduate degrees in any field may enter the program, making it an excellent option for those transitioning into kinesiology or advancing within the profession.
• STEM-Designated Curriculum: The program’s STEM classification reflects its strong scientific and analytical foundation in exercise physiology, biomechanics, and data-driven performance analysis.
• A Program Designed for Career Advancement: Graduates are prepared for professional certifications, leadership roles, and advanced study across sport, health, and performance fields.

Want to learn more? Fill out our contact form and a graduate admissions counselor will connect with you soon.

Applying is much easier when you're supported—and at TAMU-CC, our graduate admissions counselors are here to help.

To get started, you’ll need a bachelor's degree in any subject from an accredited institution.

Application Deadlines

Applications are welcome year-round for the Kinesiology, M.S., and we review them as they’re received. To join us in the semester you’re aiming for, just make sure your completed application is in by the deadline below.

We’re Here to Help

Sometimes getting started is the hardest part. If you have any questions or need help with your application, we've got you covered. Just fill out the information request form or contact our program administrator directly for assistance.

Can I complete the MS in Kinesiology fully online?

Yes. The Master of Science in Kinesiology can be completed 100% online in a fully asynchronous format. No campus visits are required. Students can complete coursework from anywhere in the world, including while serving on active military deployment.

What is the difference between kinesiology and exercise science?

Kinesiology is the broader academic study of human movement. Exercise science is a discipline within kinesiology that focuses on physiology, biomechanics, and performance-related training. The MS in Kinesiology at TAMU-CC integrates advanced exercise science concepts within a comprehensive human performance curriculum.

Is the Strength and Conditioning specialization CASCE accredited?

Yes. TAMU-CC’s Strength and Conditioning track is fully accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education (CASCE) and recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). It is the only CASCE-accredited strength and conditioning pathway delivered in a fully online, fully asynchronous format.

Will this degree help me qualify for the CSCS credential?

Graduates pursuing strength and conditioning careers often seek professional credentials such as the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). Beginning in 2030, eligibility for the CSCS exam will require graduation from a CASCE-accredited program. TAMU-CC’s Strength & Conditioning specialization aligns with these professional standards.

Can I complete this degree while working full time?

Yes. Courses are delivered in an asynchronous format designed for working professionals. Many students balance full-time employment, coaching responsibilities, or military service while completing the program.

Is the program only available online?

No. The program can be completed fully online but is also available in a hybrid on-campus/online format.

How long does it take to complete the program?

The degree requires 36 credit hours. With accelerated seven-week fall and spring sessions and five-week summer terms, the program can be completed in as little as one year (three semesters). Students may also choose a more flexible pace.

Is the MS in Kinesiology a STEM-designated degree?

Yes. The program is classified under a STEM-designated CIP code, reflecting its strong foundation in exercise physiology, biomechanics, and data-driven human performance. Eligible international students may qualify for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension following graduation.

Are GRE scores required?

No. GRE scores are not required for admission to the MS in Kinesiology.

Do I need an undergraduate degree in kinesiology?

No. Students from a variety of academic backgrounds may apply. Foundational coursework may be recommended depending on prior preparation.

What is the difference between thesis and non-thesis options?

The non-thesis option involves a one-semester graduate research project (KINE 5397). The thesis option (KINE 5698) is a two-semester research project requiring a thesis committee and formal defense. The thesis pathway is often selected by students considering future doctoral study.

Are graduate assistant positions available?

Yes. Graduate assistant positions for teaching and research are available on a competitive basis. To apply, candidates must be fully admitted to the program and plan to attend classes on campus.

Course Rotation Schedule

To view the Course Rotation Schedule, please visit this page: https://www.tamucc.edu/education/departments/kinesiology/files/grad-course-rotation-schedule.pdf

Professionals with advanced training in kinesiology and human performance are in growing demand as organizations place greater emphasis on injury prevention, performance optimization, and evidence-based health practices. In Texas, employment in kinesiology-related fields is projected to grow approximately 22.9% between 2024 and 2034, outpacing overall statewide job growth.

While salaries vary based on role, experience, certifications, and work setting, typical ranges in Texas include:

• Exercise physiologists: approximately $50,000 to $85,000+ (with higher earnings in clinical, cardiac rehabilitation, and research settings)
• Fitness trainers and strength and conditioning professionals: approximately $45,000 to $90,000+ (with collegiate athletics, private performance centers, and tactical training programs trending higher)
• Sport coaches (secondary, collegiate, or elite training environments): approximately $45,000 to $95,000+ (with leadership roles, head coaching positions, or performance director roles exceeding this range)

Advanced credentials, certifications, and leadership responsibilities can further expand both career opportunities and earning potential over time.

Salary ranges are based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook and national compensation aggregators such as PayScale and Salary.com, reflecting typical earnings for credentialed professionals in the field.