Health Education & Psychology of Physical Activity (M.S.E.) Curriculum & Admission Requirements

PROGRAM STRUCTURE

Coursework

The academic coursework is designed to develop the knowledge base necessary for effective research and scholarship development.

Project/Thesis

Upon completion of 30 graduate credit hours, the student’s culminating activity is either the presentation/defense of a project/portfolio or the completion of a thesis. Students also have the option to complete a comprehensive exam in place of a project/thesis.

Comprehensive examination

Upon completion of 36 graduate credit hours of coursework, the student’s culminating activity is the comprehensive examination. The exam consists of both a written and oral part and tests the student's knowledge of the coursework; ability to reason, evaluate and draw supportable conclusions; and knowledge of current issues and trends within the field.

Program Curriculum

The master’s degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours for a thesis option or 36 credit hours for a non-thesis option. Regardless of which program track, students are able to select coursework in consultation with a faculty advisor to enhance the learning and fit the professional interests and educational needs.

  • EPSY 710/711: Basic Stats
  • EPSY 715: Understanding Research in Education

Select five of the following:

  • HSES 798: Special Topics Course
  • HSES 803: Health Behavior Theory
  • HSES 804: Sport Psychology
  • HSES 806: Stress Management
  • HSES 812: Current Issues in Health Education
  • HSES 814: Implementing Health Education Programs
  • HSES 823: Behavior Modification in Health & Exercise
  • HSES 826: Grant & Research Proposal Writing
  • HSES 890: Seminar in HSES
  • HSES 892: Exercise Psychology
  • HSES 824: Epidemiology
  • HSES 897: Independent Study

Note: This is only a potential plan of study. Consult with your academic advisor before enrolling.

Application Deadlines

Dec. 1, 2024
Spring semester deadline
Apr. 1, 2025
Summer semester deadline
July 1, 2025
Fall semester priority deadline
Aug. 1, 2025
Fall semester final deadline

Application Checklist

M.S.E. in Health Education & Psychology of Physical Activity

Applicants are required to submit the following materials and meet the following requirements before the application deadline:

List

  • Online application

    Complete through the KU Office of Graduate Admissions

  • Transcripts

    One official copy of academic transcripts from each college or university attended

  • English translation of transcripts

    Official transcripts from an international university must include an English translation

  • GRE exam scores

    Official copy of scores no older than five years

  • Resume or CV

  • Statement of purpose

    1-2 page statement outlining how the program relates to one’s career goals

  • Online letters of recommendation

    Names and email addresses of persons to be asked to complete letters of recommendation who can provide a thorough evaluation of one’s abilities at the graduate level

  • Proof of English proficiency

    Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English proficiency

  • Financial document (international students only)

    Required by U.S. government in order to issue the I-20 or DS-2019

  • Application fee

    $65 for U.S. residents; $85 for international applicants

Admission & Curriculum Resources

The online application is designed to give applicants the ability to submit all supporting documents in one form. We invite you to explore our graduate degree information, review our student resources, and learn more on our knowledgeable faculty and the vibrant community of Lawrence, Kansas.

Apply Online request info

Program Faculty

Andrew C Fry
Andrew C Fry
Professor, Director, Jayhawk Athletic Performance Laboratory
Philip Michael Gallagher
Philip Michael Gallagher
Professor, Director, Applied Physiology Laboratory
Ashley Herda
Ashley Ann Herda
Assistant Professor, Director, Exercise and Human Performance Laboratory, Edwards Campus.
Trent J Herda
Trent J Herda
Professor, Director - Neuromechanics Laboratory, Director - Well-Fit (Center for Youth Wellness and Fitness)
Quincy Johnson
Quincy Johnson
Assistant Professor, Assistant Director, Jayhawk Athletic Performance Laboratory, Program Coordinator, Jayhawk Performance
Dr. Yu Song
Yu Song
Assistant Professor, Director Biomechanics Laboratory
Joseph Weir
Joseph Weir
Professor
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