The graduate program in kinesiology and applied physiology
is interdisciplinary in nature and emphasizes fundamental principles derived
from the basic sciences that have contributed to the development of the field.
Current faculty members provide expertise in physiology, nutrition, metabolism,
psychophysiology, and endocrinology. Existing ties to outstanding programs at
Rutgers (i.e., nutritional sciences, endocrinology and animal biosciences, psychology, and physiology and integrative biology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New
Jersey, and the medical schools) provide a strong foundation for the education
and training of the next generation of scientists in the area of kinesiology.
The programs emphasize training in both basic and applied science.
This program
focuses on in-depth training in either exercise physiology or exercise psychology. Students will be taught about hormonal, biochemical, metabolic,
cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and psychological responses to exercise,
exercise testing and prescription principles, and applications of physical
activity to an overall beneficial wellness profile. The strengths of the
department faculty and the affiliated faculty from the partnering disciplines
are conducive to implementing this model. Furthermore, due to supportive ties
to the recently established Institute for Food, Nutrition, and Health (IFNH) at
Rutgers, translational research at both a human health and performance level
will be a priority of this program. Within the IFNH, the Center for Health and Human Performance provides an outstanding potential training experience
for students in this program. Applicants are expected to have a bachelor's degree from an
accredited institution in kinesiology, exercise science, a biological science, psychology,
or a related field. The Graduate Record Examination must be taken.
Prerequisites for admission include one year of biology, one year of general
chemistry, exercise physiology, and 12 additional credits of coursework in
advanced physiology, chemistry, kinesiology/exercise science, physics,
calculus, or psychology.
The master of science (M.S.) degree
requires 36 credits of coursework and research, with at least 6 credits coming
from original thesis research. The doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) program requires 72 credits, including
at least 32 credits of coursework in advanced exercise physiology, statistics, research
methods, and elective courses; 24 credits of research; and an additional 16
credits distributed between coursework and research. Completion of qualifying
examinations and a doctoral dissertation are also required.
An additional
nonthesis graduate education option is the master of business and science
(M.B.S.) degree program in kinesiology and applied physiology. The objective of the M.B.S.
program is to educate students about the
systemic adaptations and responses to exercise, and the implications for
application of these principles to the health, fitness, biotechnological,
nutraceutical, supplement, and wellness industries. The M.B.S. is designed for
students with a background in science who also hold an interest in business as
it combines kinesiology coursework with business and finance coursework.
Additional information about the M.B.S. option can be found at http://psm.rutgers.edu/programs/kinesiology-and-applied-physiology.
