You’re ready to accelerate your life — your learning, your career, and your effect on others. At the heart of your interest in the study of human movement and well-being is a passion to serve others in body, mind, and spirit.
Earn your Master of Science in Kinesiology (MS-KIN) through PLNU’s accelerated program in just one year. The program offers a flexible course load suited to your professional and academic goals, giving you the tools you need to pursue your calling in the dynamic and growing fields of exercise science, sport performance, and sport management.
Relevant Experience
Take courses that pair a functional, applied learning approach with the latest industry research and trends, giving you the real-world experience today to fulfill your potential tomorrow.
PLNU Kinesiology Graduate Assistant and Teaching Assistant Positions
Each year, the program selects a number of highly motivated students for various graduate assistant and teaching assistant positions. The positions range from 5-20 hours per week and compensate students with a benefit comparable to 25% - 50% of their tuition.
Professional Preparedness
Foster relationships with industry leaders, gain exposure to internship and job opportunities, and learn from faculty and professional colleagues through a robust, flexible, and customizable curriculum.
Pursue Your Purpose
Develop a deeper understanding of how to faithfully apply your work to the wellness of the whole person — body, mind, and spirit — in the context of your particular concentration.
PLNU's MS-KIN program is designed to prepare knowledgeable and career-focused professionals for the dynamic and growing fields of exercise science, sport management, sport performance, and rehabilitation science. Through a robust curriculum, collaborative group work, and direct professional experiences, you’ll be equipped to integrate the current best research evidence with your professional practice to solve relevant problems for clients, patients, or businesses related to the healthcare, sport, and fitness industries.
The PLNU + San Diego Padres Biomechanics Lab
See how our state-of-the-art biomechanics lab will help equip PLNU graduate students for success in their careers as they work with athletes.
This accelerated 12-month program offers flexibility, speed, and quality, making it ideal for working professionals and recent graduates with a four-year baccalaureate degree looking to advance quickly in their career. Graduates of undergraduate kinesiology programs such as exercise science, strength and conditioning, athletic training, physical education, sport management, exercise physiology, and pre-allied health are well-situated to pursue this master’s program.
The curriculum of the MS-KIN includes 30 total units. All students in the program will complete 18 units of core courses. Upon completion, students are required to follow a 12-unit concentration in either exercise science, sport performance, or sport management.
Using Motion Capture for Baseball Biomechanics in Elite Athletes
The curriculum for each of the concentrations within the MS-KIN has been specifically aligned with the national guild standards of industry-leading organizations. The exercise science curriculum is aligned with the knowledge, skills, and abilities of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). The sport performance concentration is aligned with the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s standards and is an affiliated program of the National Academy of Sports Medicine. The sport management concentration is aligned with the standards of the North American Society for Sport Management.
Designed to equip professionals to improve health in the U.S. through interventions in behavior change, nutrition, and physical activity. This concentration will prepare you to:
Facilitate meaningful lifestyle changes and improved health outcomes for individuals.
Effectively provide an integrative and holistic approach to healthcare, health education, and health promotion.
Evaluate the influence of biopsychosocial factors on health, healing, and well-being to design lifestyle interventions to prevent and manage chronic diseases.
This program focuses on courses that pair an applied learning approach with the latest industry research and trends to give you the real-world experience today to be successful tomorrow.
Designed for careers in exercise physiology, cardiac rehabilitation, and fitness assessment and exercise prescription, this concentration will prepare you to:
Incorporate current best evidence and practices to make effective clinical decisions and advance scholarship in exercise science
Collaborate with colleagues to determine health, fitness, and disease states in clients and patients to enhance care
Create exercise interventions to prevent and treat chronic diseases
The program will prepare students as clinical exercise physiologists and cardiac rehabilitation specialists to receive the highest level of certification by the ACSM, which requires the completion of a master’s degree.
Designed for professionals in the fields of fitness, strength and conditioning, and athletic training, this concentration will prepare you to:
Master advanced concepts in biomechanics and neuromechanics to improve function, eliminate pain, and optimize human performance
Enhance your clinical skills through focused hands-on opportunities in sport performance and sport medicine
Integrate your clinical experiences with current best evidence and practices to make effective decisions for optimal client and patient care
Students will be instructed by industry-leading professionals in the San Diego region and have access to state-of-the-art health and athletic facilities to enhance their clinical experience. The program will prepare students to work with elite athletes at every level through a collaborative, interprofessional curriculum.
Designed for professionals in sport management, sport leadership, and sport education settings, this concentration will prepare you to:
Master key management and leadership principles to direct sports organizations and athletic programs effectively
Develop strategic decision-making skills while gaining at least 100 hours of relevant professional experience in the San Diego sports industry
Effectively serve the sport and sport-education industries through faith-based ethical management principles and practices
The curriculum will highlight key management, leadership, and entrepreneurial strategies, offering courses in kinesiology and PLNU’s MBA program. The program will allow for upward mobility to teachers, athletic directors, coaches, and sport managers in their various fields.
Take a tour of PLNU's Balboa Regional Center, which offers state-of-the-art classroom, research, and fitness spaces for PLNU graduate students.
Application Information
Program Start Date(s):
Fall 2025 — September 2, 2025
Application Deadline(s):
Fall 2025 — August 15, 2025
If you are interested in applying to any of our Graduate Assistant (GA) or Teaching Assistant (TA) positions, please scroll to the Financial Aid & Student Support section for more information.
The educational context at PLNU will challenge you to live a full life that integrates the pursuit of knowledge with beliefs, values, and actions. While honoring diverse perspectives and beliefs, Christian values and principles are woven into the educational experience. We understand your application is not only a reflection of you as a student; it reflects you as a person. At PLNU, we holistically evaluate your academic history, work and life experience, background, and circumstances to determine admission into a graduate program. Your undergraduate GPA is an important piece of your application, but if you do not meet the minimum GPA requirement of a 3.0, you may still be eligible for admission based on your application package as well as the exceptions policy per your particular program.* Therefore, we strongly encourage you to contact your enrollment counselor, who will advise you regarding your qualifications and provide specific information about the admission-under-exceptions process.
To be admitted into PLNU's MS-KIN, you must have a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution, as evidenced by an official transcript from that institution indicating the completion of an undergraduate degree.
If you have any questions about your qualifications or the program in general, we encourage you to contact your enrollment counselor.
*Exceptions Policy: If you have a GPA below 3.0 in your baccalaureate degree, you will need to speak with your enrollment counselor for more information on the exceptions materials needed for your particular program.
Program Prerequisites
Please refer to the program prerequisite course descriptions below for any concentration within the MS-KIN program you may be interested in.
Exercise Science Concentration
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Examines the human body from an integrated perspective. Topics include an introduction to chemistry and cell function, tissue types, skeletal system, muscular system, and nervous system.
*Students looking to fulfill their anatomy prerequisite have the option to complete it through PLNU's Anatomy Learning Institute.
Exercise Physiology
A study of the effects of vigorous physical activity upon the systems of the body; development of an understanding of factors which constitute training of the human body for high levels of health and physical performance.
Sport Performance Concentration
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Examines the human body from an integrated perspective. Topics include an introduction to chemistry and cell function, tissue types, skeletal system, muscular system, and nervous system.
*Students looking to fulfill their anatomy prerequisite have the option to complete it through PLNU's Anatomy Learning Institute.
Sport Management Concentration
None
No prerequisite other than those required for courses offered in the Fermanian School of Business.
Application Checklist
Note: The application is completed entirely online with the exception of transcripts, which can be submitted electronically or directly to PLNU, and test scores, which should be submitted electronically.
Submit online application for admissions (including $50 non-refundable application fee, which is waived for PLNU alums, current or former military and their dependents, and PLNU employees).
Submit official transcripts with proof of earned baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution.* (If you are a PLNU alumnus, please notify your counselor to have your transcripts retrieved. You do not need to request transcripts from the PLNU Office of Records.)
Official transcripts must be sent to: Point Loma Nazarene University Office of Graduate Admissions 3900 Lomaland Dr. San Diego, CA 92106
*Please note, official transcripts must be sent directly from the regionally accredited institution.
Submit personal essay. Specifically state how you would like to use your master’s degree from PLNU to further your career. Make sure you clearly touch on these three points:
Clarify what job setting you see yourself pursuing upon completing the MS-KIN and specify how this degree program will help you in that setting.
Describe how you will appraise, use, and integrate current evidence in kinesiology into your professional practice.
State how your previous education and work experiences have uniquely prepared you for success in this program.
Submit a resume/vita.
Once you have submitted your admissions application, your three selected professional recommenders will automatically be sent the auto-generated document to complete on your behalf. If you'd life to include a written letter in addition to this required document, you may do so, but it's unnecessary.
Ensure undergraduate course prerequisites are met:
Exercise Science Concentration: Human Anatomy and Physiology, Exercise Physiology
Sport Performance Concentration: Human Anatomy and Physiology
Sport Management Concentration: No prerequisite other than those required for courses offered in the Fermanian School of Business
You can indicate your interest in any of the positions during the application. If you have any questions, please contact your enrollment counselor.
Admission into a distance education program offered by Point Loma Nazarene University is granted at the time of initial acceptance into the program and is dependent on authorized program availability in the state where the student is physically located at the time of admission. If a student moves to another state after admission to the program, continuation within the program will depend on whether Point Loma Nazarene University is authorized to offer distance education courses in that state and/or whether Point Loma Nazarene University meets the professional licensure requirements for a specific program in that state. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the institution of a change in his or her physical presence.
State Authorization
State authorization is a formal determination by a state that PLNU is approved to conduct activities regulated by that state. PLNU is not required to obtain state authorization in every state, and the university has opted at this time not to seek authorization in some states. Additionally, PLNU meets the criteria for exemption from authorization in certain states.
At this time, PLNU does not have authorization in Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin, which means residents of these states cannot enroll in any PLNU online program or course. For more information refer to our disclosures page.
Authorizations in specific states may change periodically. PLNU recommends individuals contact PLNU admissions at (800) 733-7770 for the latest information.
Career Opportunities
PLNU’s MS-KIN will prepare you for careers in education, athletics, healthcare, sports administration, business, and many other specialized fields.
Some careers that MS-KIN alumni pursue include:
Exercise Science
Cardiac Rehabilitation
Exercise Physiologist
Physical Therapist
Community College Professor
Sport Performance
Strength and Conditioning Specialist
Athletic Trainer
Fitness Professional
Physical Therapist
Community College Professor
Sport Management:
Corporate Wellness Professional
Athletic Director
Sports Administrator
Physical Education Teacher
Head Coach
Community College Professor
PLNU's partnership with SD Loyal Soccer Club provides an exceptional learning experience for our students to work with elite athletes in a professional setting.
Financial Aid and Student Support
We take seriously the role of providing you with financial, academic, and career support so you have the tools you need to be successful at PLNU and beyond. That’s why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals — resulting from our deep concern for you, our student.
With a focus on authentic relationships and personalized attention, our goal is to help transform you so you can follow your calling in your own career and life.
Scholarships ranging from $500-2500 are available to those who qualify. Please contact your Enrollment Counselor for further information.
Kinesiology Graduate Assistant and Teaching Assistant Positions are available.
Each year the M.S. Kinesiology program seeks highly motivated students for various graduate assistant (GA) and teaching assistant (TA) positions. Compensation for these positions is based on experience, work hours, and hourly rates. The positions range from 5-20 hours per week at a benefit comparable to 25% - 50% of tuition.
If you have any questions about your student account balance, payments, financial aid, or just need to talk about all of your options, please feel free to contact your assigned student financial services advisor:
What is required to be admitted into this program?
To be admitted into PLNU's MS-KIN program, you must have a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution, as evidenced by an official transcript that indicates the completion of an undergraduate degree. You must also have an undergraduate cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. If you don’t meet the minimum GPA requirement, please contact your enrollment counselor regarding the exceptions process.
Can I work while completing the program?
Absolutely. The MS-KIN program consists of blended in-person and online courses that allow for a flexible schedule, so you can continue to work full- or part-time.
What scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to me?
You will have the option to apply for MS-KIN graduate and teaching assistant positions that include hourly compensation. Compensation for these positions is based on experience, work hours, and hourly rates. The positions range from 5-20 hours per week at a benefit comparable to 25% - 50% of tuition. This program also qualifies for state and federal financial aid options. For specific details, please contact PLNU’s Graduate and Professional Student Services.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The expected completion time is 12 months.
How many days a week do classes meet?
Two days a week (some quads only one day a week because one of the classes is online) Quad system – six units per quad and two quads per semester
How large will the classes be?
Class sizes are estimated to be 20 to 25 people.
Are international students eligible to apply?
Yes! As an international student, you can apply as a senior in university or any time after you obtain your bachelor’s degree. If you earned your baccalaureate degree outside of the United States, all documents must be translated into English and evaluated by members of National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). You must also submit official proof of English proficiency (TOEFL). Please contact Graduate Financial Aid and Student Support Services for more information.
We also will accept a 110 minimum score from DuoLingo as proof of proficiency.
PLNU is a Christian university, but I am not a Christian. Would I feel out of place in this program?
We welcome and encourage people of all backgrounds as students in our programs. Issues that relate to faith may be discussed in some classes, and engaging in discussion with individuals with alternative points of view will be encouraged as learning opportunities. Students will work within a learning community that is supportive academically, spiritually, and emotionally.
What if I have work or personal commitments that interfere with completing the program in 12 months?
We understand that work or personal commitments might make it difficult to complete your degree in the accelerated time frame. We'll work to accommodate you as best as possible to ensure you finish your degree while fulfilling your other obligations. For specific questions related to your circumstances, please reach out to your enrollment counselor.
Course List
For information about the courses required for the Kinesiology, M.S. program, view the PLNU Catalog.
Find out how this program fits you and your goals. Fill out the form or speak directly with a counselor. Either way, we'd be happy to send you what you need.
