Graduate Programs in Abilene, TX

Do you want to explore the science behind human health, performance, and well-being? As exercise, preventative health and wellness become more important to individuals and organizations, demand for qualified training specialists will continue to grow. Whether you aim to enhance athletic performance, support rehabilitation, or promote lifelong fitness, ACU’s Master of Science in Kinesiology equips you with the advanced knowledge and hands-on experience to make a meaningful impact. Start your journey with ACU today. 

ACU’s Master of Science in Kinesiology blends comprehensive coursework with hands-on internship experiences, allowing you to build a strong foundation in key areas of kinesiology while personalizing your degree through experiential learning aligned with your career goals. With flexible on-campus, online, and hybrid formats—and three convenient start dates in fall, spring, and summer—this program equips you with the skills to help others stay healthy and perform at their best.

Coursework

Required Coursework:

• KINE 501- Legal Aspects of Sports & Recreation
• KINE 603- Seminar in Human Performance
• KINE 604- Internship 1
• KINE 605- Internship
• MATP 621- Research Methods
• NUTR 635- Nutrition-Exercise & Sport

PSYC Selection- Select 1 class from the following:

• PSYC 542- Applied Sports Psychology
• PSYC 624- Social and Cultural Basis of Behavior
• PSYC 636- Abnormal Behaviors
• PSYC 640- Positive Psychology
• PSYC 641- Behavioral Medicine
• PSYC 646- Lifespan Development
• PSYC 668- Advanced Behavioral Neuroscience
  

KINE/MATP Selection- Choose 3 classes (9 hours) from following:

• KINE 503- Ethics in Sport
• KINE 580- Training Program Design
• KINE 601- Essentials of Human Performance
• MATP 613- Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries (@)

• MATP 651- Strength Training in Rehabilitation

• MATP 662- Psychology of Rehabilitation

Common Job Titles

• Exercise Physiologist
• Physical Therapist
• Physical Trainer
• Human Performance Specialist
• Athletic Administrator 

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree- Completion of a bachelor’s degree at an accredited college or university. Applicants must submit official transcripts for review. Admissions are made on the assumption that applicants will have the bachelor’s degree by the time of matriculation, and if not, the program admission is void. The GRE is not required.

• GPA – An overall GPA of 3.0 is suggested to apply. 

• Resume 

• Letters of Recommendation- Each applicant must obtain 2 letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation should be completed by individuals such as: (a) supervisors of volunteer or paid internships; (b) previous or present instructors and/or advisors; and/or (c) previous or present employers. Letters of recommendation should include elements demonstrating the applicant’s: (a) willingness to learn; (b) integrity; (c) perseverance; and (d) ability to interact with patients/clients. Letters of recommendation are submitted online through the ACU application. 

• Personal Statement- A written statement (600-800 words) describing professional goals, interests, and how your personal journey led you to apply to the Masters of Kinesiology Program. 

Prerequisite Coursework- All prerequisite courses must be completed prior to matriculation.

Prerequisite courses include:

• Communication and/or English- 6 hours
• Biology and/or Anatomy/Physiology- 6 hours
• Kinesiology or Biomechanics- 3 hours
• Math (College Algebra or higher)- 3 hours 

Upon Completion of the Master of Science in Kinesiology, you will have the skills needed to pursue advanced roles in physical therapy, exercise physiology, health performance, and physical training. Whether you wish to help other perform to the best of their ability, or you want to lead a school or university athletic program, this degree equips you to make impactful and ethical contributions to individuals and teams, and their pursuit of excellence on and off the field. 

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Jumpstart your future with the financial support you need

At Abilene Christian University, we understand graduate programs are a big investment. That’s why we offer a variety of financial aid options designed to ease the cost and maximize your potential. Whether you're pursuing a scholarship, a graduate assistantship, or funding for professional travel, ACU provides unique and flexible solutions to support your academic journey. Here are some resources we have to help you achieve your goals.

Scholarships

When you’re accepted into an ACU graduate program, you’re considered for a scholarship tailored just for you—based on your skills, achievements, and the department you enter. Plus, additional scholarships may be available through external professional organizations and accrediting bodies.

Graduate Assistantships

Many ACU departments offer competitive graduate assistantships to enrich your learning experience while providing financial support. Assistantship requirements and expectations vary by department and can cover a generous portion of your tuition costs.

Academic Travel Reimbursement

ACU’s GSA Travel Reimbursement makes it easier for graduate students to attend national and international conferences, research presentations, and other academic travel needs. These funds help make travel more accessible, ensuring financial concerns won’t hold you back from gaining valuable experience in professional settings around the world. 

ACU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral degrees. Questions about the accreditation of ACU may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, by calling 404-679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (sacscoc.org).

SACSCOC is required by the federal government to monitor compliance with the substantive change policy and to approve any major changes. Substantive change is a federal term for any “significant modification of the nature and scope of an accredited institution.” ACU has adopted a Substantive Change Policy, which outlines its internal procedure related to ACU’s compliance with substantive change requirements. After reviewing the policy, please contact the ACU’s SACSCOC Liaison, Chris Riley, with any questions or for more information.

1600 Campus Court, Abilene, TX 79601

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