Master of Science
A student interested in an MS degree in Health & Kinesiology can either pursue a non-thesis or thesis track. The non-thesis track is focused on practice and application. It prepares students to be a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) as well as a certified Wellness Coach. The MS thesis track is research concentrated and suggested for those wishing to pursue a doctorate or a line of work that is laboratory or research-focused.
Our program generally takes two years to complete. Students have the option to refine coursework requirements in consult with their mentor and advisory committee. Students align their courses with one of the five tracks.
- Describe core concepts and theories in your field of study.
- Acquire, evaluate, and synthesize state-of-the-science techniques and procedures in your area of study.
- Communicate clearly and concisely to diverse audiences in oral and written forms.
- Participate in professional development opportunities.
- Demonstrate the acquisition of knowledge and understanding in your area of study through a culminating experience
Doctor of Philosophy
The PhD program in Health & Kinesiology is research-intensive and trains students interested in conducting translational research that will enhance health, quality of life, and human performance.
Our program is generally completed in four to five years. Students align their courses with one of the four PhD tracks.
- Describe core concepts and theories in your field of study.
- Acquire, evaluate, and synthesize state-of-the-science techniques and procedures in your area of study.
- Disseminate knowledge to diverse audiences through presentations and submission of peer-reviewed manuscripts.
- Demonstrate capability for independent research by creatively addressing research questions using new and/or established methods.
Graduate Resources
Graduate Program Manager
Co-Directors of Graduate Studies
MS Degree
December 1st
PhD Degree
December 1st
Students in the PhD program are responsible for payments based on the graduate school tuition schedule published by the University of Utah.
The Department of Health & Kinesiology offers financial assistance to most students through the award of Teaching (TA) and Research (RA) Assistantships. These positions provide financial assistance to graduate students in exchange for teaching or research related work for the department. A full assistantship provides a tuition waiver and a stipend paid throughout the academic year.
Before applying applicants must identify prospective mentors willing to guide them through their program of study and research endeavors.
Possible mentors in the program can be found on our program track pages under the "Our Team" section.
Contact Us
Health & Kinesiology Main Office
801-581-8114 | hkgradprogram@utah.edu
HPER North | 250 South 1850 East
Salt Lake City, UT 84112
Health & Kinesiology Links