Future graduate students

group of graduate students sitting around a coffee table with their laptops

Graduate studies at the forefront of health research

University of Waterloo Kinesiology was the first and is now one of the most established departments of its kind in the world.

Our research on human movement, from basic issues to applied aspects, ranges from cellular work examining systems that support and cause movements to exploring movement behaviour in 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.

MSc Kinesiology (coursework)
MSc Kinesiology (thesis)
PhD Kinesiology
Collaborative PhD Aging, Health and Well-being
Collaborative PhD Work and Health

Areas of specialization

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, play, dance, 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 on 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 areas are investigating basic, clinical, and occupational aspects of biomechanics.

Biomechanics researchers

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.

Neuroscience researchers

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.

Physiology and nutrition researchers

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.

Technical experts can help you design and fabricate research equipment in-house. Utilizing our in-house workshop facility, our experts can service existing equipment, build new equipment, or modify equipment to suit your specific research needs.

University of Waterloo Kinesiology 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.