Master of Science in Kinesiology and Leisure Sciences (M.S. KLS)

The M.S. KLS Program offers three distinct specializations:

• Exercise, Sport, and Health Sciences
• Recreation, Sport, and Tourism Management
• Physical Activity and Dance Pedagogy

Program Highlights:

• Fully Online: The program can be completed entirely online, offering flexibility for working professionals.
• Accelerated Completion: Students have the potential to finish the program in as little as one year, depending on their course load and study plan.
• 4+1 Accelerated Program: The M.S. KLS program has a 4+1 opportunity for University of Idaho students to earn a master’s degree in 1-year immediately following their undergraduate degree in Movement Sciences. Movement Sciences undergraduate students or undergraduate students in a related field of study that are Idaho residents are eligible for the 4+1 M.S. KLS Program as a non-thesis student.

Future Health and Fitness Professionals

Meet the growing demand for health and fitness experts through a comprehensive program that covers exercise physiology, sport psychology, physical activity, and the relationship between health and disease. Apply your knowledge through practical experiences and take advantage of opportunities to conduct research in the university's state-of-the-art Exercise Physiology and Biomechanics laboratories. With a small student-to-faculty ratio, you’ll benefit from close interaction and personalized mentorship from faculty members.

The university offers a variety of facilities to support fitness education, helping you gain hands-on experience and develop expertise in the fitness industry.

Why Choose the M.S. KLS Program?

This master’s degree is designed to develop advanced knowledge and skills in diverse KLS fields. Students can tailor their studies to their career goals through research opportunities or professional skill development. Both online and face-to-face learning formats are available.

The program prepares graduates to:

• Lead in promoting healthy, physically active lifestyles.
• Evaluate leadership, marketing, and ethical practices in health, sport, and physical activity settings.
• Apply current research in movement, exercise, fitness, sport, and health fields.

Flexible Study Plans

Students can choose between thesis and non-thesis options, with the possibility of completing the program in one year. The program is designed to align with your professional aspirations, offering pathways to leadership in a variety of KLS sectors.

Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP)

The M.S. KLS program is part of the WRGP, allowing out-of-state students from participating western states to qualify for in-state tuition rates. Learn more about WRGP.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted, applicants must secure a faculty advisor from the Movement Sciences (MVSC) department as their major professor prior to applying. Learn more about our admission process.