Graduate studies at the forefront of health research
Waterloo Kinesiology and Health Sciences was the first department of Kinesiology and is now one of the most established departments of its kind in the world.
Spanning the disciplines of neuroscience, biomechanics and physiology and nutrition, our research on human health and movement ranges from cellular work that examines the mechanisms of movement, illness and injury, to exploring movement behaviour in the context of society.
Graduate programs
Our graduate programs give you the opportunity to conduct original research, engage in experiential learning, develop fundamental knowledge through course work and obtain teaching experience; preparing you for health and movement science careers.
MKin Kinesiology (coursework)
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Coursework-based, on campus
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3 terms | 1 year (Full-time only)
NOTE: Effective September 1, 2022, this program's name has changed. For those commencing the coursework program from Fall 2023, the degree conferred will be a Master's of Kinesiology (MKin).
MSc Kinesiology and Health Sciences (thesis)
- Research-based, on campus
- 6 terms | 2 years (Full-time)
- 12 terms | 4 years (Part-time)
- Master’s thesis
PhD Kinesiology and Health Sciences
- Research-based, on campus
- 12 terms | 4 years (Full-time from Master's level)
- 24 terms | 8 years (Part-time from Master's level)
- Doctoral thesis
Collaborative PhD Aging, Health and Well-being
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Collaborative program
- Research-based, on campus
- 12 terms | 4 years (Full-time from Master's level)
- 24 terms | 8 years (Part-time from Master's level)
- Doctoral thesis
Collaborative Aeronautics Program (CAP)
The MSc and PhD programs are available as part of the Collaborative Aeronautics Program (CAP). While completing your MSc or PhD in Kinesiology and Health Sciences, you can also complete aeronautical training alongside CAP students from other fields.
The CAP will uniquely equip the next generation of leaders with the interdisciplinary skills needed to align innovation with impact.
Fields
The study of kinesiology spans the breadth of cellular, biophysical and psycho-social parameters which affect and effect movement in the realm of sport, work, exercise and disease.
Applicants to the master or doctoral program apply to study in one of three areas: biomechanics, neuroscience or physiology and nutrition. Within these areas, there is a strong emphasis on aging, injury and disease prevention, health promotion and rehabilitation.
Given the multidisciplinary nature of kinesiology, undergraduates and graduates students with an interest in biology, physiology, biochemistry, nutrition, anatomy, engineering, systems design, physics, health studies, sociology, social psychology or psychology are encouraged to apply.
Biomechanics
In biomechanics, we study the effects and control of forces that act on or are produced in living tissue. Biomechanics also involves understanding the generation of internal forces within the human body, and how internal and external forces influence loading, posture and movement. Our researchers in this area are investigating basic, clinical and occupational aspects of biomechanics.
Neuroscience
In neuroscience, we investigate the acquisition and performance of human motor behaviour by examining the relationship among knowledge, neurological function and movement in social and environmental contexts. Our neuroscience researchers are actively involved in theoretical and applied work relevant to health, ergonomics and rehabilitation.
Physiology and nutrition
In physiology and nutrition, we investigate how the cardiorespiratory, metabolic, and neuromuscular systems function, as well as the relationship between these physiological processes. In addition, we study the influence of nutrition and diet on biochemical and physiological processes. Our researchers in this area are investigating basic and applied aspects of physiology and nutrition as they relate to health, physical activity, rehabilitation and disease.
Research facilities
Our laboratories and clinical research facilities are among the finest in North America and contain state-of-the-art equipment for graduate studies and research.
In-house technical experts can help you design and fabricate research equipment. Utilizing our workshop facility, our experts can service existing equipment, build new equipment or modify equipment to suit your specific research needs.
The Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences at the University of Waterloo is also one of the few non-medical programs in Canada with a School of Anatomy. If your studies require a thorough understanding of human anatomy, you can access dissected cadaveric materials, prepared specimens and skeletons through the School.
During his MSc Kinesiology in the Multisensory Brain and Cognition Lab, Siyavash researched motion sickness to try and determine when and how someone may get sick.
Your future
Our graduates go on to successful careers in healthcare, movement and rehabilitation sciences, industry, government, research and teaching.
Why Waterloo?
Canada's most innovative university for over a quarter of century, the University of Waterloo is a global leader for hands-on, experiential learning and comprehensive research. Our one-of-a-kind entrepreneurship ecosystem is fueled by our creator-owned intellectual property policy and our full spectrum of support.