Kinesiology & Sport Performance
Grow your career and advance your expertise
Whether you're a recent graduate looking to continue your education or a working professional ready to advance your career, the Master of Arts in Kinesiology and Sport Performance at the University of Northern Iowa can help you take the next step.
Designed for those pursuing careers in coaching, strength and conditioning, sport administration and related fields, this two-year master's degree program combines advanced coursework with applied research and hands-on learning. You'll work closely with faculty mentors, explore your research interests and gain practical experience that prepares you for professional opportunities or further education.
Program highlights include:
- Small classes of approximately 15 students
- Individualized faculty mentoring and applied research opportunities
- Access to specialized labs, equipment and technology
- Hands-on learning through internships and practicums
- Graduate assistantship and scholarship opportunities
Approval ratings
Among students applying for doctoral programs.
Funding
All who apply and were eligible for graduate assistantships or scholarships to this program have received at least partial funding.
One-on-one Mentoring
Doctorate-prepared faculty with you every step of the way.
Interested? Request Information
Tell us more and we'll send information on how you can succeed with a graduate degree in Kinesiology & Sport Performance from the University of Northern Iowa.
Fabio Fontana, Ph.D.
Kinesiology & Sports Performance Program Coordinator
Career Opportunities
Ready to take your career to the next level? UNI's Master of Arts in Kinesiology and Sport Performance can prepare you for professional opportunities in coaching, strength and conditioning, sport administration, fitness and wellness.
Graduates may pursue careers in:
- Coaching and athletic development
- Strength and conditioning
- Sport administration
- Fitness and wellness programming
- Sport performance
The program also provides a strong foundation for students interested in pursuing doctoral studies and careers in higher education or research.
Courses & Curriculum
Our full-time, two-year program combines advanced coursework with applied research and hands-on learning. You'll lead a research project exploring an area that interests you and gain practical experience through practicum opportunities in coaching, strength and conditioning, fitness and sport administration.
Courses include:
- Advanced Exercise Physiology
- Advanced Biomechanics
- Strength and Conditioning
- Sport Psychology
- Sport Administration
Next Steps
Apply Now
Our application process is smooth and easy. You can apply now and pay your fee later or even get it waived, if you qualify. Current or former UNI students will also have their app fee waived.
Requirements for Admission
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Most current resume or curriculum vitae
- Applicant statement addressing the motivations for seeking degree, research interests or expertise and professional goals
- Two letters of recommendation
- 2.75 is the minimum GPA to be accepted without provision; applicants with a GPA lower than 2.75 may still be admitted provisionally, at the discretion of the program and the Graduate College
- Application fee (this can be waived or deferred, see if you qualify).
Applications due on February 1st for full consideration for the following fall semester.
Requirements for International Applicants
Along with the basic application requirements, international applicants also need:
- Proof of English proficiency
- A copy of the personal data page of your passport
- A completed UNI Financial Statement and Certification form
- Non-refundable application fee.
Blending Research with Teaching
“I tell students to always believe in themselves, and when I see students think about this and realize that every person can exceed expectations and become what no one thought they could be is awesome to see. Helping guide a student to a great outcome is a special feeling.”
Taking The Next Step
“I am a teacher by trade, so I highly value education. I knew for a while that I wanted to go on and teach a science-related discipline in higher education, so my master’s degree has provided me with teaching experiences in higher education, as well as my first taste of research that would be expected of me as a university professor.”
Putting Skills Into Action
“Being able to coach the women’s tennis team in strength and conditioning has been my favorite experience at UNI. This group of ladies is nothing but disciplined and hardworking, and being able to make an impact on them has been very rewarding.”
Fund Your Degree
Get the opportunity to learn and fund your degree through hands-on experiences, earning monetary awards or a combination of both. Visit one of the following pages to learn about graduate funding and financial aid.