Kinesiology and exercise science is a growing field focused on human physiology and movement. Earning a master’s degree in exercise science and kinesiology online can give students the knowledge and skills needed to develop their professional career in areas like:
- fitness
- rehabilitation
- movement
- wellness
They can help athletes reach their full potential or help injured patients recover from illness or injury. Online kinesiology and exercise science programs are a great way for working students to get an advanced degree while maintaining a healthy balance. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for employees with these skill sets is expected to grow by 13% through 2030, faster than average.
We created this ranking of the top online masters of exercise science and kinesiology to showcase some of the best programs in the country. We used information we collected from the National Center for Education Statistics to find schools offering online degree kinesiology and exercise science programs. We researched these top online degree programs to find those that offer most of their course content online. We considered the best programs to be those with:
- experienced faculty
- a variety of course offerings
- faculty or advisor support
- 24/7 online assistance
We then applied our ranking criteria to find the top 20 online masters in exercise science and kinesiology.
We looked at a school’s student/faculty ratio and awarded more points to schools with a lower ratio. We believe a lower student to faculty ratio allows students to receive individualized attention and support throughout the program.
Related Resource: How Much Do Kinesiologists Make?
Student to Faculty Ratio
- 15:1 or less= 5 Points
- 16:1 to 20:1= 3 Points
- Greater than 20:1= 1 Point
Average Graduate Tuition
- Less than $10,000 per year= 5 Points
- $10,000 to $15,000 per year= 4 Points
- $15,001 to $20,000 per year= 3 Points
- $20,001 to $25,000 per year= 2 Points
- Greater than $25,001 per year= 1 Point
Concentration Areas:
- Yes- 2 points
Summary of the Top 10 Online Masters in Kinesiology Online Programs and Exercise Science Online Programs
- Concordia University Chicago
- University of North Georgia
- University of Wyoming
- University of South Dakota
- Liberty University
- California University of Pennsylvania
- Lenoir-Rhyne University
- Aurora University
- Fresno Pacific University
- Texas A&M University Corpus Christi
Related Resource: What is an Exercise Physiologist?
#20 – George Washington University – Washington, DC
MS in Exercise Science-Strength and Conditioning
For more information: George Washington University
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $31,770/year
Points: 6
The high-quality online MS in Exercise Science degree at the Milken Institute School of Public Health at George Washington University was created for students seeking graduate level training in strength and conditioning. Students will learn the science and theory of resistance training in order to help individuals improve athletic performance and prevent inactivity-related health disorders. Courses are taught online through asynchronous and synchronous modules. Students are required to come to campus for a three-day capstone course during the second year of the program. Graduates have the skills and knowledge required to sit for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist exam through the NSCA and the Level One Weightlifting Coaching Course offered through the USAW.
#19 – Louisiana State University – Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Online Master of Science in Kinesiology- Health Promotion and Sport Performance
For more information: Louisiana State University
Student to Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,132/year
Points: 6
Louisiana State University offers one of the top online kinesiology masters programs. The best-value, online Master of Science in Kinesiology with a specialization in health promotion and sport performance from LSU teaches best practices in areas like sport performance, healthy behaviors, and risk prevention. Students will learn how to plan, implement, and evaluate different health behavior programs and interventions that meet the needs of diverse populations. Online course offerings include:
- Changing Health Behavior
- Social-Ecological Influences on Physical Activity and Health
- Community Health Issues
The flexible online format allows students to join their online classroom from just about anywhere. Qualified applicants also benefit from a GRE/GMAT waiver.
#18 – Sam Houston State University – Huntsville, Texas
Master of Science in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Sport and Human Performance
For more information: Sam Houston State University
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $5,765/year in-state and $13,127/year out-of-state
Points: 6
Sam Houston State University features an innovative and affordable kinesiology online masters focused on sport and human performance. Courses are taught by talented and credentialed professors. Students will learn to apply exercise science concepts in athletic, commercial, and clinical settings. They will advance their understanding of the relationships between movement, exercise, and skills as they relate to development, rehab, and training. Unique elective online course offerings include:
- Advanced Studies in the Psychology of Sport
- Youth Fitness
- Managing Adult Fitness Programs
New students are admitted to the program for the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
#17 – A.T. Still University – Kirksville, Missouri
Master of Science in Kinesiology
For more information: A.T. Still University
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $36,336/year
Concentration Areas: Adaptive Sports Track; Corrective Exercise and Orthopedic Rehabilitation Track; Exercise and Sport Psychology Track; Geriatric Exercise Science Track; Sports Conditioning Track
Points: 8
The College of Graduate Health Studies at A.T. Still University features a high-value, masters in kinesiology online focused on evidence-based research that allows clinicians to immediately apply what they’ve learned. Students will gain advanced knowledge in areas like functional anatomy, exercise program design, exercise physiology, and kinesiology. Students benefit from specialized training in concentration areas. This master’s program is 42-credit hours. It includes online study and a week-long conference at the ATSU Human Movement Institute in Mesa, Arizona. A.T. Still University has earned accreditation through the National Strength and Conditioning Association Education Recognized Program.
#16 – University of Southern Mississippi – Hattiesburg, Mississippi
MS in Kinesiology-Sport Coaching Education Online
For more information: University of Southern Mississippi
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $8,786/year in-state and $10,786/year out-of-state
Points: 8
The University of Southern Mississippi features a low-cost, online master’s in kinesiology focused on sport coaching education and sport performance. Students will learn the most current coaching practices while developing their skills in:
- assessment
- evaluation
- training
Online course requirements include:
- Strength and Conditioning Training and Technology
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Kinesiology and Nutrition
- Motivation and Behavior in Kinesiology and Nutrition
Both thesis and non-thesis program options are available. The non-thesis option includes a practicum experience that is 150-clock hours. Graduates are prepared for advanced career opportunities in coaching at all levels.
Related Resource: What Does A Sports Nutritionist Do?
#15 – Concordia University – Saint Paul, Minnesota
MS in Exercise Science Online
For more information: Concordia University – St. Paul
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $8,550/year
Points: 8
The affordable, exercise science masters online from Concordia St. Paul is a 10 course program for current and future exercise science professionals. Online courses incorporate both synchronous and asynchronous coursework, allowing students to get to know their peers and faculty. Course offerings include:
- Nutrition and Metabolism
- Exercise Physiology
- Clinical Exercise Assessment
Students can choose to complete a graduate study abroad course or a course focused on the psychology of sport and exercise. Applicants should have a minimum undergraduate GPA of at least a 3.0. Students can earn their MS online in exercise science degree in just 5.5 semesters.
#14 – American Public University System – Charles Town, West Virginia
MS in Sports and Health Sciences Online
For more information: American Public University
Student to Faculty Ratio: 23:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $6,660/year
Concentration Areas: Exercise Science and Human Performance; General; Health and Wellness Management
Points: 8
The School of Health Sciences at American Public University offers a low-priced, online Master of Science in Sports and Health Sciences through the School of Health Sciences. Through a partnership with the National Academy of Sports Medicine, students have access to proprietary course content and can seek certification as a:
- Certified Professional Trainer
- Corrective Exercise Specialist
- Group Fitness Instructor
- Performance Enhancement Specialist
Courses start monthly and vary from eight to 16 weeks in length. Students can complete the generalist program or choose to focus on health and wellness management or exercise science and human performance. All students complete a culminating research project in their capstone course.
#13 – The University of Texas at Tyler – Tyler, Texas
Online MS Degree in Kinesiology
For more information: The University of Texas at Tyler
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $6,048/year in-state and $14,526/year out-of-state
Points: 8
The University of Texas at Tyler features a cheap, online masters of kinesiology degree program through the Department of Health and Kinesiology. Class size is small to promote personal attention from award-winning faculty. Required courses include:
- Motor Learning
- Biomechanics
- Biometric Methods
This online master’s degree program is a great choice for professionals preparing for a career in an exercise related field as well as clinicians like physical therapists or athletic trainers. Students must pass a comprehensive exam or complete a thesis to complete their degree.
#12 – Southern Arkansas University – Magnolia, Arkansas
Master of Science in Kinesiology-Coaching
For more information: Southern Arkansas University
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $5,112/year in-state and $8,028/year out-of-state
Points: 8
Southern Arkansas University offers one of the least expensive online kinesiology masters. This two-year program is focused on coaching and follows the National Standards for Sport Coaches. Working students will appreciate flexible online courses that cover areas like:
- safety and injury prevention
- organization and administration
- sport skills and tactics
There are no on-campus residency requirements. All students complete a coaching capstone portfolio, showcasing their knowledge and skills obtained throughout the program.
#11 – Texas Woman’s University – Denton, Texas
MS in Kinesiology
For more information: Texas Woman’s University
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $5,053/year in-state and $12,415/year out-of-state
Points: 8
The cheap online masters kinesiology from Texas Women’s University offers an online concentration in coaching. Flexible online courses allow students to apply their knowledge immediately to their job. Coaching courses include:
- Sport Conditioning and Nutrition
- Organization and Administration for Effective Team Management
- Theory of Coaching
The program gives students a unique perspective into the role coaches play in empowering women to become leaders. TWU believes this perspective is beneficial to all students whether they are coaching women or men. Full-time students can complete their degree in just 12-18 months of study.
#10 – Texas A&M University Corpus Christi – Corpus Christi, Texas
Master’s in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Sport and Exercise Science
For more information: Texas A&M University Corpus Christi
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $3,610/year in-state and $11,427/year out-of-state
Points: 8
The low-priced, online masters in kinesiology degree program at Texas A&M University Corpus Christi is a comprehensive program recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association as an Education Recognition Program. The program was created with an emphasis on sport science. Online courses cover areas like:
- strength and conditioning
- assessment of sport performance
- exercise physiology
Courses are taught by nationally and internationally recognized scholars who are dedicated to the professional development of their students. There are no on-campus residency requirements. Students can complete their degree by choosing from three capstone options including a:
#9 – Fresno Pacific University – Fresno, California
Online Master of Arts in Kinesiology-Physical Education
For more information: Fresno Pacific University
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $14,940/year
Points: 9
The affordable masters kinesiology online from Fresno Pacific University is the Master of Arts in Kinesiology with an emphasis in physical education. It gives students an understanding of the history and philosophy of the industry while focusing on up-to-date physical education practices. Online coursework allows students to work and earn their degree simultaneously. Course offerings include:
- Assessment in Physical Education
- Issues in Kinesiology
- Technology in Kinesiology
New students are admitted for the fall semester. All students must pass a comprehensive exam to complete their degree and there is no thesis requirement. Admission to the program is competitive and applicants should have an undergraduate GPA of at least a 2.75.
#8 – Aurora University – Aurora, Illinois
MA in Exercise Science Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $13,200/year
Concentration Area: Clinical Exercise Physiology
Points: 9
Aurora University offers a low-cost, online exercise science master’s degree recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Courses are taught by industry experts with extensive experience in the field. Core courses include:
- Sports Psychology
- Organization/Administration
- Sports Nutrition
Students with an interested in improving cardiovascular fitness and chronic illness management can complete an optional specialization in clinical exercise physiology. This concentration prepares students to sit for the American College of Sports Medicine’s Clinical Exercise Physiologist exam. Students can complete their degree in one to two years of study.
#7 – Lenoir-Rhyne University – Washington, DC
MS in Exercise Science
For more information: Lenoir-Rhyne University
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $11,700/year
Points: 9
Lenoir-Rhyne University is meeting the demand for advanced professionals in exercise and fitness through their budget-friendly online master’s in exercise science. Students will gain foundational knowledge in areas like human anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition. This exercise science master’s degree is 33 credit-hours. This online master’s degree program was designed for working adults, allowing students to complete the curriculum on a full-time or part-time schedule. Students can complete either a practicum final project or thesis depending on their professional goals. New students are accepted for the summer, fall, or spring term.
#6 – California University of Pennsylvania – California, Pennsylvania
Online Master’s in Exercise Science
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,288/year in-state and $13,932/year out-of-state
Concentration Areas: Applied Sport Science; Advanced Golf Performance Training; Group Fitness Leadership; Nutrition; Performance Enhancement and Injury Prevention; Wellness and Fitness; Rehabilitation Science; Sport Psychology; Tactical Strength and Conditioning; Wellness Coaching
Points: 10
The top-value, online exercise science master’s degree program at California University of Pennsylvania is an industry-focused program developed in partnership with the National Academy of Sports Medicine. Courses are taught by some of the top faculty experts and master trainers in the country. Students can choose a concentration (or two!) to advance their career. Many of these concentrations have embedded course content that prepares students for nationally recognized certifications. Students can complete their degree in just 12 to 18 months with no on-campus residency requirements. Graduates are industry leaders, working with professional sports leagues and teams, top fitness companies, and cutting edge hospitals and healthcare systems.
#5 – Liberty University – Lynchburg, Virginia
MS in Exercise Science and Wellness
For more information: Liberty University
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $7,935/year
Concentration Areas: Fitness and Performance; Nutrition and Wellness
Points: 10
The low-priced, online master’s in exercise science and wellness from Liberty University is a 33 credit-hour program that takes just 18 months to complete. Courses are delivered in eight-week sessions and there are no on-campus residency requirements. Students will increase their knowledge in areas like physiology, biomechanics, and sport nutrition. Specializations are available in fitness and performance or nutrition and wellness. There are no set login times, making this a great choice for students with busy schedules. Liberty is committed to providing quality education at affordable rates and has not raised tuition rates in the past six years.
#4 – University of South Dakota – Vermillion, South Dakota
Online Master of Arts in Kinesiology and Sport Management
For more information: University of South Dakota
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $6,062/year in-state and $11,656/year out-of-state
Points: 10
The top online master’s in kinesiology and sport science is offered by the University of South Dakota. This unique MS in Kinesiology features a concentration in sport management. The 30-credit hour, online curriculum is designed to accommodate adult learners and working professionals. Course offerings include:
- Sport Facility and Risk Management
- Legal Aspects of Sport
- New Media and Technology in Sport
There is no thesis requirement for this degree. Students complete a graduate research and design course and seminar. Full-time students can complete their degree in just 12 months.
#3 – University of Wyoming – Laramie, Wyoming
Master’s in Kinesiology and Health Online-Health and Physical Education Teaching Only
For more information: University of Wyoming
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $5,076/year in-state and $15,174/year out-of-state
Points: 10
The University of Wyoming offers a budget friendly online master’s in exercise and sports science focused on physical education teacher education. This online master’s program is a great fit for licensed physical education teachers who want an advanced degree to further their professional knowledge. Students are taught advanced teaching strategies from senior level faculty. Students can tailor the program to meet their professional goals by choosing undergraduate endorsement classes and graduate coursework from other areas of interest. Graduates can transition into higher education teaching roles or increase their professional status in a K-12 setting. They are also well prepared for doctoral study in physical education teacher education.
#2 – University of North Georgia – Dahlonega, Georgia
Master of Science with a Major in Kinesiology Online
For more information: University of North Georgia
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $4,140/year in-state and $16,488/year out-of-state
Concentration Areas: Exercise Science; Physical Education
Points: 10
The University of North Georgia features a cheap online master’s in kinesiology for students with an undergraduate background in health or physical education. Students can choose from a concentration in either exercise science or health and physical education. Course offerings include:
- Biomechanics
- Nutrition in Exercise and Sports
- Advanced Kinesiology
Students develop their research skills by completing a three-credit hour research project. All students complete a measurement/evaluation course that allows them to critically assess professional practices within the industry. New students are admitted for the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
#1 – Concordia University Chicago – River Forest, Illinois
MS Applied Exercise Science
For more information: Concordia University Chicago
Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,090/year
Concentration Areas: Human Movement Science; Sports Nutrition; Sports Performance Training; Strength and Conditioning
Points: 12
Our top online master’s in kinesiology and sports science is offered by Concordia University Chicago. This online exercise science program includes several different concentration areas for students to choose from. The Human Movement Science concentration prepares students to sit for the National Academy of Sports Medicine Corrective Exercise Specialist credential. Students with a passion for sports nutrition can prepare for the Certified Sports Nutrition exam from the ISSN. The Strength and Conditioning concentration area exceed the requirements set by the National Strength and Conditioning Association and prepares students for advanced certifications. Students can complete their degree in just 18 months!
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