The Master of Science in Kinesiology-Coaching is a fully online graduate program designed for coaches, educators, and athletic professionals seeking advanced knowledge and leadership skills in the field of coaching and sports performance.
The curriculum is built upon the seven Core Responsibilities of the National Standards for Sport Coaches and emphasizes athletic development, communication, safety, strategic planning, and professional growth. The program is designed to help working professionals apply what they learn in real-world athletic and educational settings.
Why Choose SAU for Your M.S. in Kinesiology?
- 100% Online Flexibility: Designed specifically for working educators and coaches who cannot attend traditional evening courses due to time or distance.
- National Standards: The program extends prior experience by aligning with the National Standards for Sport Coaches.
- Exceptional Faculty: Students consistently report that faculty are approachable, helpful, and willing to go “above and beyond” via phone and email.
- Affordability: SAU is ranked nationally for its quality and competitive tuition rates compared to regional peers.
Skills You Will Gain
Graduates of the program will demonstrate competencies in:
- Leadership and organizational development in sport settings.
- Ethical decision-making and sportsmanship
- Developing safe, positive, and inclusive sport environments.
- Sport safety and injury prevention.
- Strategic planning and program management.
- Critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making.
- Technology integration in kinesiology and coaching.
- Professional growth and reflective practice.
Faculty & Online Learning Environment
- The program is delivered via a robust online platform that facilitates excellent communication between students and instructors.
- Faculty bring both academic expertise and practical experience in coaching, education, leadership, and sport performance
- “Being a 100% online student, I found the communication excellent… I love, love, love the teachers in this program.” — Elena Villa Gomez, Alumna
Student Stories
“If you are considering a degree in coaching, I would strongly consider and look further into Southern Arkansas’s program… Being a 100% online student, I found the communication excellent.”
Curriculum
The 33-hour curriculum emphasizes the major responsibilities and competencies expected of effective coaches and athletic leaders:
- Vision & Standards: Goal setting and program leadership.
- Ethics: Principles of sportsmanship and integrity.
- Relationships: Building professional and interpersonal bonds.
- Safety: Creating and maintaining safe sport environments.
- Inclusivity: Fostering positive team cultures.
- Competition Prep: Conducting practices and tactical preparation.
- Continuous Improvement: Ongoing professional development.
Specific Degree Requirements (33 Hours)
- KINE 6243 – Advanced Exercise Physiology
- KINE 6323 – Sport Administration
- KINE 6363 – Workshop in Kinesiology
- KINE 6423 – Instructional Strategies and Techniques in Coaching
- KINE 6433 – Sport Safety and Injury Prevention
- KINE 6813 – Psychology of Athletics Coaching
- KINE 6823 – Scientific Analysis of Sports Skills and Motor Learning
- KINE 6833 – MS in Kinesiology – Coaching Capstone Portfolio
- KINE 6923 – Statistical Methods in Kinesiology
- KINE 6933 – Methods of Research in Kinesiology
- KINE 6943 – Legal Issues in Kinesiology
Admissions
- Prerequisites: Students from a variety of undergraduate backgrounds may apply. Applicants must meet the School of Graduate Studies admission requirements.
- Licensure Note: This is a non-licensure program.
Career Outcomes
An M.S. in Kinesiology-Coaching prepares students for leadership roles in:
- Athletic Coaching
- Athletic Administration
- Sport Program Leadership
- Athlete Development
- Recreation and Sport Management
- Collegiate Athletics Support Positions
- Professional Scouting or Player Development
By completing the degree in two years while working, students maximize their ROI through immediate application of skills and upward mobility in the education and sports industries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the program entirely online?
How long does it take to finish?
Is this a licensure program?
Can I work full-time while enrolled?
What background do I need to apply?
Accreditation
Southern Arkansas University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
