Future graduate students

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

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.

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

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 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.