Master of Science in Kinesiology and Leisure Sciences, Physical Activity and Dance Pedagogy
Promoting Healthier Lifestyles
Exercise and recreation improve quality of life across schools and communities, and the University of Idaho’s Master of Science in Movement and Leisure Science degree, with a specialization in Physical Activity and Dance Pedagogy, delivers the advanced, multidisciplinary training necessary for introducing and encouraging healthy lifestyle habits through scientific and practical perspectives. You’ll study the science and theory of movement and address issues related to inactivity, physical activity and health. You’ll prepare to address these factors through personal and institutional change via education, health promotion and introducing wellness programs and policies.
The Physical Activity and Dance Pedagogy specialization provides a unique perspective incorporating elements of exercise physiology, sport psychology, physical activity and the relationship between health and disease. As a student, you’ll delve into contemporary issues and advanced concepts and gain the skills necessary for teaching, evaluating and promoting healthy lifestyles in schools and community organizations. You’ll plan, develop and implement health-related programming, often with the goal of improving physical activity across demographics and fitness levels.
Fast Facts
- 30-credit program with thesis and non-thesis formats.
- Thesis candidates spearhead original research that illustrates their independence of thought and analysis skills and will publicly defend their work.
- Non-thesis candidates may take a comprehensive written exam and additional electives; complete a field-based internship; or develop a real-world culminating project and take additional elective credits.
- Flexibility lets you tailor the program. On-campus, online, and select evening courses are available. Students may attend full or part time, based on their schedule and availability. The typical candidate completes the program in one to two years.
- A small student-to-faculty ratio provides a unique opportunity for students to interact closely with their instructors.
- Prepare for a career as a program director or supervisor, coach or fitness trainer, tourism operator, health supervisor or a fitness and exercise science entrepreneur.
- Physical Activity and Dance Pedagogy is one of three specializations for the Master’s in Movement and Leisure Science degree. The other two include Recreation, Sport and Tourism Management and Exercise, Sport and Health Science.
Teaching Methodology and Impact
The Department of Movement Sciences strives to foster healthy and physically active lifestyles among our students and staff at personal and professional levels. Physical education has been integral to the University of Idaho’s degree offerings since 1909, and today, the department aims to graduate professionals ready to create, apply and evaluate current research in movement, physical activity, fitness, recreation, sport, exercise and health fields. Physical Activity and Dance Pedagogy students will have the chance to gain these specialized competencies outside of the classroom through practicum and internship requirements. Access to on-campus fitness facilities and Exercise Physiology and Biomechanics laboratories will perfectly position you to participate in or conduct original research involving metabolic rates, cardiorespiratory health, motor skills and body composition. As a student, you will:
- Learn the science and practical skills for helping individuals manage their weight, promoting heart and lung health, improving athletic performance and preventing disease while examining the effects of exercise on physical and mental wellbeing.
- Have access to several facilities that enhance fitness and fitness education, in addition to the state of Idaho’s landscape of mountains, rivers and lakes.
- Participate in research through the Exercise Physiology and Biomechanics laboratories. Utilize advanced technology for studying and examining performance and physiological issues in the Exercise Physiology laboratory or conduct biomechanical and motor control research with the Biomechanics laboratory’s force plate technology and infrared camera testing capabilities.
- All Master’s in Movement and Leisure Science students start with core requirements (9 credits) before taking courses related to their specialization (9 credits), selecting from electives (at least 6 credits) and completing a thesis, internship or real-world project (6 credits).
- Students complete a practicum and/or an internship. Gain hands-on experience essential for kickstarting your career in an immersive sport or health science setting. You’ll apply the knowledge you’ve gained in the classroom while cultivating valuable communication and leadership skills.
If you have a background in physical education, recreation or health, advance and specialize your skills further with the Master’s in Movement and Leisure Science. Review all requirements, and apply today.