FAQs

What is the difference between Exercise Science and Health Promotion?

Health Promotion is intended to prepare an individual to enter the work place in the health and wellness field, such as in a hospital wellness or cardiac rehab program, a commercial fitness program or a corporate employee fitness program.  The capstone experience in Health Promotion is the internship, which may lead to employment opportunities.  Exercise Science is designed to prepare the student for additional preparation in one of the exercise sciences (biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor behavior) or in medicine, physical or occupational therapy.  The capstone experience in Exercise Science is the senior paper, designed to enhance preparation for further professional training.

How long does it take to get a Master's degree?

The Master's degree (non-thesis option) is a one-year program (30 hours coursework) for students who have an undergraduate degree in Kinesiology or a similar field.  Although, in many cases students who are completing an internship may take an additional semester to complete the degree.  Also, students whose undergraduate degree is in a field outside Kinesiology and are required to complete prerequesite courses, may take an additional semester.  The Master's degree (thesis option) typically takes two years to complete.  One year for coursework and one year to complete the thesis project.

How long does it take to get a Doctoral degree?

It is very difficult to predict the length of time for students to complete a Doctorate degree since there are many variables that are involved (i.e. master's coursework and the institution it was completed, student goals and objectives, mentorship individuality, student motivation, area of specialization, etc.).  The typical range of time to complete a doctorate degree is 3-5 years and is determined by the student's advisor an doctoral committee.

Are there prerequisite courses for the Kinesiology Master's program?

If you received your undergraduate degree in a field outside of Kinesiology, then prerequesite courses are required.  These include coursework in the following topics:  Biomechanics, Exercise Physiology, and Motor Learning.  Students can complete prerequisite courses while enrolled in the Master's program or take the courses prior to enrolling in the program.  These courses do no have to be taken prior to admission into the graduate program, however, it is important to note that students who need to complete the prerequiste courses during the Master's program may take an additional semester to complete the degree.

Do I have to take the GRE to get admitted into the Kinesiology graduate program?

Yes, you have to take the GRE to be admitted into the Kinesiology Graduate Program.  The GRE is offered daily at some test sites in the state and across the country.  You can learn more about the GRE and the test sites close to you by visiting www.gre.com.  The Montgomery, Alabama PT Test Center phone number is: 334-262-0043 and is located at 2640 Zelda Rd.

I have been admitted into the Kinesiology Graduate Program. When should I start looking for housing?

Graduate students who are looking for housing in Auburn should remember that most houses and apartments are rented in late spring.  Start looking for housing in late April or early May and make sure that you indicate that you are a graduate student and that you are looking for a quiet place to live.  There are apartments designated for graduate students.  There are a number of websites that provide rental listings.

Last Updated: May 04, 2011