Program Mission: The graduate program in kinesiology and sports studies offered by the Department of Kinesiology and Sports Studies provides advanced course work and training in the areas of exercise science, sports administration and pedagogy/coaching.  The course of study in exercise science prepares students for employment in clinical settings (e.g. cardiac rehabilitation), corporate fitness, YMCA, YWCA, and the commercial fitness industry.  The program aids students in preparation for American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and other professional certifications. The program in sports administration is designed to prepare students for leadership and supervisory positions within school, recreation, and commercial sport programs. Pedagogy/coaching students examine, analyze and apply content related to curriculum development, teaching methods, program administration, and behavior management in the school setting.

Admission Requirements: To be eligible for degree candidacy, applicants must meet all of the requirements for admission to the Graduate School (see “Admission to Graduate Degree and Certificate Programs”).  Additional requirements include an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 with a Kinesiology or related field focus, three letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose. KSS 4760, KSS 4764, and KSS 4765 or equivalents are required for admission into the sports administration field of study. 

KSS 4340, KSS 4440, and KSS 4450 or equivalents are required for the exercise science field of study.

KSS 2440, KSS 4340, and KSS 4470 or equivalents are required for the pedagogy/coaching field of study. Admission is competitive and meeting GPA requirements does not guarantee admission.

Degree Audit: The graduate plan of study is the EIU Degree Audit, which is generated automatically in the Degree Audit Reporting System (DARS) at the time of degree or certificate candidacy. Modifications of the standard EIU Degree Audit are submitted by the graduate coordinator to the certification officer in the Graduate School at the time modifications are approved. The Degree Audit serves as an unofficial summary of requirements for the program. Degree and certificate candidates are advised to review the comprehensive summary of the Degree Audit process specified on the “Requirements for All Degree and Certificate Candidates” section of the Graduate Catalog. Individual programs may require candidates to submit plans of study in addition to the Degree Audit, candidates should consult with the program coordinator.