Exercise, Sport & Movement Sciences (MS)

The graduate program in Exercise, Sport & Movement Sciences (ESMS) is a 36-hour program with four six-hour capstone options: 1) applied project, 2) research lab residency, 3) thesis and 4) non-research. The program provides a research-centered program if you're interested in pursuing advanced graduate study (PhD) in exercise science (e.g., exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor learning, etc.) or a related discipline (e.g., nutrition science, vascular biology, bioenergetics).

The ESMS master's program provides a comprehensive overview of the exercise science field if you are not interested in pursuing PhD studies, but would like to obtain further knowledge and skills necessary to work or serve in a clinical, physical activity or research setting. It also provides a strong focus on research methods and statistics relevant to exercise science, promoting research understanding regardless of your career goal (12 of the 36 required credit hours).

Depending on your chosen path, you will gain experience in many aspects of animal and/or human subject research. This may include recruitment and screening of subjects, equipment operation, phlebotomy and blood processing, animal handling and surgery, biochemical analyses, biomechanical analyses, data collection and analysis, grant and manuscript preparation, and oral and written presentation of research findings.

Student Testimonials

"I completed both my Bachelor’s and Master’s within the College of Health Sciences. The six years I spent within the College were some of the most transformative years I have experienced thus far. From receiving a world-class education taught by renowned faculty in their respective disciplines, to working alongside faculty and gaining knowledge in conducting interdisciplinary research, the dedication of the College to educating future leaders in health sciences shaped my career and the person I am today. Because of the experiences I had during my time within the College, I continued my education, completed a doctoral degree, and pursued a career in academics to help develop the next round of health science professionals. I am forever grateful for my time spent within the College of Health Sciences at the University of Memphis. It has become a place that feels less like a university, and more like home, whenever I come back." - Shelby A. Peel, PhD

"The graduate program within the College of Health Sciences was vital in the development of my professional and personal skills, as I got to learn from, and collaborate with leading scientists and experts across numerous fields. Ultimately, my time at the University of Memphis provided me with an outstanding foundation for ensuing work as a researcher and sport scientist."  - Johnpaul Caia, PhD

"My time spent within the College of Health Sciences exceeded my expectations. I was surrounded by some of the most respected scientists within the exercise/sport science field, which allowed for great mentoring that helped me though my doctorate and now as a faculty member. I learned a tremendous amount about research, and was able to collaborate on many different projects that enriched my education while being at the University of Memphis. I know my time spent within the College of Health Sciences will only help me to excel as an educator and researcher." - Tyler M. Farney, PhD, CSCS, USAW

"Throughout my graduate studies within the College of Health Sciences, I was provided an education that is second to none. The skills acquired through this program allowed me to reach my academic goals in addition to providing me with the necessary tools to succeed as an educator and in the field of research. I had the opportunity to work in multiple labs alongside of some of the most respected scientists in their fields which allowed for a diverse educational experience.  The education provided by the College of Health Sciences fully prepared me to face the rigors of Ph.D. studies and beyond. Without question, much of the success I have earned, as well as my potential for future success, can be credited to the education acquired from the College of Health Sciences and their exceptional professors." - Damien C. Moore, MS

"As a former student and graduate from the College of Health Sciences, I was provided with a well-rounded foundation that prepared me for success stemming from my experience in the Cardiorespiratory/Metabolic and Neuromechanics laboratories. To date, this has allowed me to expand my training beyond the classroom setting and gain hands on experience conducting a variety health and performance related tests on human participants. The unique training allowed me to become a well prepared and collaborative researcher, as I am currently part of a research team that integrates areas of metabolism, biomechanics and motor control to improve aspects of physical health and performance. I would highly recommend the College of Health Sciences to anyone interested in pursuing a career in a health or performance related field." -Matt McAllister, MS

"Throughout my graduate studies within the College of Health Sciences, I was provided an education that is second to none. I learned the skills required to reach my academic goals as well as the skills needed succeed in the field as an educator and researcher. As a current doctoral student in Kinesiology, it is clear that my education within CHS fully prepared me to face the demands of PhD studies and beyond. Without question, much of the success I have had, as well as my potential for future success, is a credit to my graduate education in the College of Health Sciences." -John R. Harry, MS, CSCS

"The knowledge I acquired throughout my graduate career with the College of Health Sciences is invaluable. I had the opportunity to experience vast academic growth in the classroom, author/co-author several research publications, work daily in multiple labs, and achieve my ultimate goal of gaining admittance into medical school. I am forever grateful to the faculty of this department for truly inspiring me to reach my full potential and aiding in my future success as a physician." -Trint A. Gunnels, MS

"The graduate program in the College of Health Sciences helped prepare me for a career in biomedical research. Through the program I was further educated in an applied science while also taking courses in the basic sciences. The research focus of the program has equipped me with physical and analytical knowledge that will not only help in my career, but in life as well." -Rick Alleman Jr., MS