Kinesiology Online Master's: See & Compare Top Programs
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Explore this year’s best online master’s degrees in kinesiology that have the flexibility and quality you need to pursue advanced careers in sports and physical fitness.

If you’re employed in the exercise, sports training, or physical therapy fields and want to take the next step in your career, earning an online master’s degree in kinesiology can help you get there. Not only can this advanced degree expand your career options and increase your salary potential, the convenience and flexibility of online learning means you can keep working while you earn your master’s and complete coursework at times that best fit your schedule.
This guide takes a comprehensive look at the best master’s in kinesiology online programs available from top colleges and universities in the U.S. We’ve also included helpful information and advice on choosing the right program, financing your degree, and the jobs available to kinesiology master’s graduates. Keep reading to find out how to advance to the next level in your career by earning a quality master’s in kinesiology degree online.
In-Depth Profiles of Online Master’s in Kinesiology Programs
In most cases, courses in an online master’s degree in kinesiology program take place via distance learning technology. Course material is delivered and managed by learning management software such as Canvas. This can include handouts, tests, assignments, and lectures.
The exact online education process depends on the preferences of school administrators, professors, and the educational format. For example, with asynchronous learning, interactions among students and between students and the professor are not real-time. Instead, there will probably be message boards students can access when and where they choose. If a program contains synchronous learning, real-time interaction happens regularly. Let’s see how three of today’s more popular online kinesiology master’s programs work.
What You’ll Learn in an Online Kinesiology Master’s Degree Program
While every program varies somewhat in its academic approach, the fundamental goal of all online master’s in kinesiology degree programs is to prepare graduates for successful professional careers through effective education and training in all disciplines and areas of the kinesiology field. These include exercise physiology, biomechanics, psychology of physical activity, motor behavior, motor learning and development, sport management sports medicine, history of physical activity, and many others. All kinesiology degree programs provide a detailed list of learning outcomes similar to the following:
- Ability to articulate an advanced understanding of all aspects of the kinesiology field (i.e. the form and function of the human body and fundamental principles of human movement).
- Commitment to and modeling of practices that reflect principles of the kinesiology profession, including advocating for active, healthy lifestyles, adhering to applicable law and professional ethics, and dedication of service to others.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, essential theories and principles, practices, and ethical considerations related to kinesiology.
- Understanding of and ability to identify important issues related to kinesiology and the ability to apply advanced qualitative and quantitative methods to conduct research (i.e., modeling of research projects, collect and analyze data, etc.) to address those issues.
- Demonstrated awareness of appropriate levels of leadership and independent judgment in one’s professional employment and practices and in the application of ethical principles in a variety of populations and contexts.
Common Courses in Kinesiology Online Master’s Programs
Research Methods and Statistical Analysis
Introduces fundamental concepts and applications of evidence-based qualitative and quantitative research methods, study design, and statistical analysis associated with those designs. Specific topics include the selection of appropriate research methods, critical analysis and application of research literature, creation of research proposals, data collection and analysis, and more.
Exercise Physiology
Explores the basic physiological principles of exercise and the practical considerations in the development of conditioning and strength training programs. Topics covered include the cardiovascular function and response of the human body during physical exertion and the impact of exercise training on the human body’s performance and overall health.
Exercise and Sport Nutrition
Introduces the foundational nutritional principles and practices related to exercise and sports performance. Prepares students to provide sound advice and planning to clients concerning general health and nutritional requirements, loss of body fat and lean mass gain, dietary and nutritional supplementation, and aerobic and athletic performance improvement.
Exercise and Sport Psychology
Examines psychological theory and research and their application to exercise and sports performance. Emphasizes the cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial factors impacting exercise and sports behaviors. Specific topics include socialization, feedback and reinforcement, injury rehabilitation, and the psychology of coaching.
Thesis/Capstone Project
Some master’s in kinesiology online programs culminate in the completion of either a master’s thesis or capstone project, typically at the option of the student. Students completing a thesis or project create and carry out independent research after which they prepare a written report in the form of a manuscript (i.e., thesis) or other academic product (i.e., capstone project) such as a scholarly journal article, conference presentation, or developed program curriculum.
Popular Specializations for Online Kinesiology Master’s Degree Programs
Master’s in kinesiology programs usually offer two or more specialization or concentration options that allow students to tailor their studies to their unique academic and professional interests. Specialization titles vary among programs but commonly include one or more of the following options described below. Keep in mind, though, that schools with master’s in kinesiology programs may or may not offer all of their specialization tracks online.
Coaching
Coaching, particularly on the high school, postsecondary, and professional levels, is a popular career goal for many master’s in kinesiology students. Online programs offering this specialization include Southern Arkansas University, which features a curriculum preparing graduates to meet the competencies outlined by the National Standards for Sports Coaches.
Exercise Physiology
Exercise physiology is the study of the physiology of human exercise and is considered one of the allied health professions. Exercise physiologists analyze patients’ physical histories and conditions and develop exercise programs to help them fight disease and improve overall health. The MS in Exercise Science at Aurora University is one example of this specialization.
Geriatric Exercise Science
Geriatric exercise science concerns the physiological in psychological principles and practices related to exercise and movement science of elderly adults. It’s an important area of concern and practice within the larger kinesiology field given the ever-growing elderly population. Geriatric exercise science is offered as a specialization through the MS in Kinesiology program at A.T. Still University.
Sport Conditioning and Performance
Students opting for this specialization learn to identify and evaluate exercise practices and health-related behaviors of athletes to develop health regimens and advanced physical training programs for them. One example of this online offering specialization is Louisiana State University’s MS in Kinesiology with Health Promotion and Sport Performance specialization.
Sports Management
The sports management/sports administration specialization prepares leaders of sports programs for schools and professional organizations alike. Content includes sports programming, facilities management, finances and marketing, sports law and ethics, and more. Examples of online programs with this specialization include Houston Baptist University’s MS in Kinesiology – Sport Management and Hardin-Simmons University’s MS in Kinesiology, Sport, & Recreation with Recreation and Sport Administration Concentration.
FAQs About Earning Your Master’s in Kinesiology Online
What are the admissions requirements for an online master’s in kinesiology?
Specific admission requirements for master’s in kinesiology online programs vary among schools. However, you find many of those requirements to be similar to the following:
- Bachelor’s degree
All programs in this guide require U.S. applicants to have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Degree requirements vary for international students. Contact individual programs for details.
- GPA
Most programs set a minimum cumulative GPA for applicants’ bachelor’s degrees and/or previously completed graduate-level coursework. Specific GPA figures vary by program.
- Standardized test scores
GRE or MAT test scores may or may not be required. Many schools waive standardized test requirements for applicants meeting one or more qualifications, such as a particularly high undergrad GPA, or allow students the option of submitting test scores to bolster chances for admission.
- Professional experience
Some programs require applicants to possess some level of professional work experience in kinesiology or a closely related field. Two years minimum is not uncommon.
Other common application submittal requirements include official transcripts of previous postsecondary academic work, resume, letters of recommendation, and writing statement explaining the applicant’s academic and professional goals. Some programs also require a personal interview.
How long do kinesiology master’s degrees take to complete?
Degree completion time varies among programs. However, most online master’s in kinesiology students complete their programs in a year of full-time study or two years of part-time study. Programs with a thesis or capstone project often allow additional time beyond didactic coursework to complete the culminating activity. Keep in mind, however, that all programs designate a maximum time limit for degree completion, so be sure to confirm your program’s limit before enrolling.
How much do online master’s degrees in kinesiology cost?
Degree costs also vary from program to program, sometimes significantly. Factors most commonly impacting program costs include total program length and whether the program is offered by a public or private institution. Private colleges tend to charge more than public colleges. Also, public schools often charge a higher – sometimes much higher – tuition rate to out-of-state residents, though there is a strong trend among these schools to apply their lower in-state rate to all online students regardless of residence. Below are the current tuition rates for three master’s in kinesiology online programs to give you an idea of what your program might cost:

Southern Arkansas University
Total Credits: 33
$293/credit
(in-state);
$459/credit
(out-of-state)
Can I earn my master’s in kinesiology 100% online?
Most online master’s in kinesiology programs feature didactic coursework that is accessed and completed entirely online and with no on-campus or in-person requirements. Others, like the A.T. Still University program spotlighted above, include one or more short-term residencies typically attended on the school’s main campus. Some programs also include optional internships that require in-person participation.
Getting Financial Aid for Your Online Master’s in Kinesiology
Most college students need help funding their degree programs. Fortunately, there’s a variety of financial aid resources available, the most common of which are described below. Putting together your financial aid package takes time and effort, so start well before you intend to enter your kinesiology master’s program.
- Scholarships & Grants
Scholarships and grants are the most attractive types of financial aid because they’re essentially free money (i.e., you don’t pay them back). Scholarships are available from external sources like professional associations, public service groups, and even individual sponsors as well from colleges and universities themselves. Contact your school’s financial aid department to find out about scholarships and grants you may be eligible for, and be sure to visit EduMed’s scholarship guide to learn more.
- Student Loans
The most common type of financial aid, student loans are available from state and federal governments and private lenders. For detailed information on student loans and how to land one, check out EduMed’s 2022 Student Loan Handbook.
- Other Options
Other potential sources of financial aid include graduate internships, fellowships, and assistantships as well as work-study and employer tuition reimbursement programs. If you’re a military veteran, don’t forget your eligibility for education benefits under the GI Bill.
Accreditation for Online Master’s Degrees in Kinesiology
Accreditation is the process through which U.S. colleges and universities and the programs they offer are determined to meet certain minimum standards of academic quality. It’s crucial that you only consider degree programs that are properly accredited, and there are two common forms of postsecondary accreditation in the U.S. Institutional accreditation concerns the vetting of colleges and universities themselves. Institutional accreditation of U.S. schools is administered by several regional and national non-governmental accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Programmatic accreditation refers to the vetting of specific degree programs within the larger postsecondary institution. Currently, no professional organizations offer programmatic accreditation for master’s in kinesiology programs. However, some kinesiology master’s programs are recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) as providing the required strength and conditioning education and training to qualify students for NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer and/or NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning certifications.
Information on current institutional accreditation and NSCA recognition status is normally displayed on degree program websites. If not, check accreditation status by visiting the websites of the individual accrediting agencies and NSCA program recognition status using this ERP school list.
What Can You Do with an Online Master’s Degree in Kinesiology?
Ten of the most popular job titles open to kinesiology master’s graduates are listed below to give an idea of the range of career opportunities available. The specific jobs you’ll be eligible for depend to a great extent on your chosen specialization, concentration, or elective course focus. For example, students specializing in exercise science or a similar field often work in areas like health and wellness management or training and conditioning. Students opting for sports management specializations establish or advance careers in coaching or sports program administration in the education and professional sports fields.
- Athletic Director
- Athletic Trainer
- Exercise Physiologist
- Fitness Trainer/Instructor
- Health and Wellness Director
- Physical Education Teacher
- Physical Therapist
- Sports Coach/Scout
- Sports Manager/Administrator
- Sports Marketing Director
How much can you make with a master’s degree in kinesiology?
The chart below offers a look at current median salaries for several occupations common to master’s of kinesiology online graduates. In most cases, these figures are substantially higher than median salaries for all occupations combined. How much you’ll earn as a kinesiology master’s graduate, however, depends on factors like geographic location, specific employer, amount of professional experience, and specialization.
Career | Median National Annual Salary (2020) | 10th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
Athletic Trainer | $49,860 | $32,980 | $75,810 |
Coach/Scout | $36,330 | $19,340 | $81,940 |
Exercise Physiologist | $50,280 | $36,070 | $78,170 |
Fitness Trainer / Instructor | $40,510 | $21,640 | $76,550 |
Physical Therapist | $91,010 | $63,530 | $126,780 |
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Related Degrees to Consider
Online Exercise Science Master’s
Exercise science focuses on the human response to exercise and its underlying mechanisms. It is a subgroup of the larger field of kinesiology, which deals with the broad study of human movement and how that movement impacts overall health. Students interested in specific areas of exercise science or physiology may want to consider an exercise science master’s. Visit EduMed’s Online Exercise Science Degree Programs guide to learn more.
Online Master’s in Nutrition
Master’s in nutrition degree programs combine both the physical and biological sciences to prepare students for advanced careers as dieticians and nutritionists. Online nutrition master’s programs are plentiful, with many available 100% online. To find out more about these programs, check out EduMed’s 2022 Guide to the Online Master’s in Nutrition.
Online Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Online DPT programs combine online coursework with in-person practice components like clinical experiences, fieldwork, and labs to provide students with the advanced knowledge, training, and clinical competencies to be eligible for state physical therapist licensure. Find out more about online DPT programs by visiting EduMed’s Online Doctor of Physical Therapy Programs guide.
Best Online Master’s Degrees in Kinesiology
To help you get started on finding the right master’s in kinesiology online degree for you, we’ve spotlighted some of the best programs currently available. Our selections are based on accreditation, affordability, curriculum comprehensiveness, study flexibility, and access to quality student support services. Take the first step by checking out our list of premier programs for 2025.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- 65% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Ouachita Baptist University
- Ouachita Baptist University's Kinesiology – Master’s program offers accelerated, rigorous 36-hour completion designed specifically for working health professionals, enabling graduation in just one year.
- The program is uniquely grounded in the "Exercise is Medicine" initiative with gold status certification from the American College of Sports Medicine, linking evidence-based physical activity to clinical care.
- Ouachita’s program integrates a faith-based learning community that emphasizes exercise science as a form of ministry, impacting mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- 65% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 100% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Parker University
- The Master of Science in Strength and Human Performance program at Parker University offers CASCE accreditation, ensuring graduates meet evolving industry standards and are prepared for Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification requirements by 2030.
- The program features a small, selective enrollment allowing personalized attention from experienced faculty with extensive expertise in exercise science, sports medicine, nutrition, and healthcare fields.
- Students benefit from flexible 100% online courses with accelerated 7½-week terms, enabling them to balance education with professional and personal commitments effectively.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 100% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Wyoming
- The Kinesiology – Master's program offers a flexible distance education format allowing completion from anywhere in 3, 4, or 5 years, accommodating working professionals' schedules.
- Students can choose a culminating experiential learning option involving an internship or research experience, enhancing practical skills and career readiness.
- The program includes personalized mentorship with a graduate faculty advisor who guides thesis or case study development, ensuring tailored academic support.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- 52% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Southern Connecticut State University
- Southern Connecticut State University’s Kinesiology Master's program is uniquely attractive due to its three distinct, CAAHEP-accredited concentrations offering specialization in clinical exercise physiology, human performance, and sport psychology, ensuring focused, professional preparation.
- The sport psychology concentration prepares students specifically to sit for the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) certification, facilitating direct career relevance and professional credentialing in sport psychology.
- Students benefit from individualized advisement and opportunities to engage in faculty-led research, providing personalized education pathways and hands-on experience aligned with career goals.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- 52% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Cumberland University
- The University of the Cumberlands' Kinesiology Master's program offers an entirely online format that combines strong academic content with practical application to prepare students for effective coaching and leadership roles.
- Students gain specialized training in developing ethical leadership styles and guiding both individual and team athletic performance across amateur, collegiate, and professional levels.
- The program emphasizes versatility by integrating fitness expertise, exercise physiology, and coaching management strategies to equip graduates to inspire and lead athletes successfully.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Southern Nazarene University
- The Kinesiology – Master's program at SNU offers high clinical placement rates through dedicated partnerships with sports science and rehabilitation clinics, ensuring practical, hands-on student experience and job readiness.
- Students benefit from specialized career tracks in sports sciences and rehabilitation designed to align with industry standards and certifications, enhancing employability in competitive health and human performance fields.
- The program provides faculty expertise combined with personalized mentorship to support academic growth, research opportunities, and strong professional networking within the kinesiology and rehabilitation community.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- 68% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Ashland University
- Ashland University's Kinesiology Master's program offers a flexible hybrid format allowing completion in as few as three semesters (12 months) with mostly online coursework and just one in-person day, ideal for working adults.
- The program features a choice of capstone experiences (Thesis, Internship, or Practicum), enabling personalized, practical training aligned with career goals and enhancing professional readiness.
- Students benefit from instruction by experienced faculty with professional expertise in strength and conditioning, preparing them for certification as ACSM Exercise Physiologists or NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- 68% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- WSCUC Accreditation
- 73% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Point Loma Nazarene University
- The Kinesiology – Master's program at Point Loma Nazarene University offers an accelerated, fully online 12-month track in Sport Management, providing flexibility for working professionals and recent graduates to advance quickly.
- Students benefit from the program’s curriculum aligned with national industry standards, such as the North American Society for Sport Management, ensuring preparation for specialized certifications and professional excellence.
- The program emphasizes hands-on learning in advanced facilities like the Center for Human Performance and Biomechanics Laboratory, combined with internships and graduate assistantships to develop practical skills and improve career readiness.
Program Details
- WSCUC Accreditation
- 73% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- 62% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Illinois Chicago
- The program offers a specialized concentration in Performance, Sports and Exercise Psychology that qualifies graduates for certification by the Association of Applied Sports Psychology to become certified mental performance coaches.
- Students have the option to engage in independent research or supervised practicum experiences, allowing them to apply recent research findings in real-world laboratory or field settings.
- The faculty includes leaders passionate about research, enhancing student learning and preparing graduates for careers in allied health, fitness, wellness, rehabilitation, and entrepreneurship.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- 62% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Nebraska at Omaha
- The Kinesiology – Master's program at UNO offers a fully online, flexible 2-year format with concentrations in Public Health or Physical Activity in Health Promotion, ideal for working professionals balancing career and personal life.
- Students receive personalized mentorship from experienced faculty leaders in health promotion and public health, fostering deep engagement with advanced topics and applied research.
- The program fosters a vibrant online community for collaboration and innovation, providing hands-on learning opportunities and faculty support that prepare graduates for competitive careers in health and wellness.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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