PDF version of this chapterGraduate Degrees
The Department of Kinesiology offers graduate curricula leading to the M.S., M.A. and Ph.D. degrees. The program is designed to prepare students to conduct research in their chosen area of specialization. Specialization areas include exercise physiology, biomechanics and psychology of sport.
Degree Requirements
These degrees are under the jurisdiction of the Graduate School. Refer to the Requirements for Graduation section and the USC Graduate School section of this catalogue for general regulations. All courses applied toward the degrees must be courses accepted by the Graduate School.Master of Science in Kinesiology
The department does not accept applicants for a Master of Arts or Master of Science degree in kinesiology. The M.A. and M.S. degrees are intended only as transitional degrees in the process of completing requirements for the Ph.D. in kinesiology.Degree Requirements
A total of 32 units including eight units in directed research, in addition to EXSC 594ab Master's Thesis (2-2), is required. An approved thesis on the results of an original investigation and a final oral defense of the thesis are also required. The final defense is made while the thesis is in final draft form. At least 20 units of graduate level study must be taken in residence at USC. No more than four units with superior grades may be transferred from graduate work taken elsewhere.Master of Arts in Kinesiology
Students are required to pursue a designated area of specialization. Two options are offered.Thesis Option
A total of 32 units including 14 units in a specialization area, 10 elective units and EXSC 591 Research Seminar, in addition to EXSC 594ab Master's Thesis (2-2 units) is required. At least 20 units of graduate level study must be in residence at USC. No more than four units with superior grades may be transferred from graduate work taken elsewhere.Non-Thesis Option
A total of 32 units is required with a comprehensive examination. The selection of the non-thesis option requires unanimous approval of the student's guidance committee. Sixteen units in a specialization area and 16 elective units are required. At least 20 units of graduate level study must be in residence at USC. No more than four units with superior grades may be transferred from graduate work taken elsewhere.Doctor of Philosophy in Kinesiology
Screening Examination
Examinations are administered during the spring semester by the departmental graduate degree commission, upon application to the student's major academic advisor. A screening examination may be given during the summer only at the discretion of the department chair.Students who have completed their master's degree at USC must apply for selection procedures in the first semester following completion. Students completing a master's degree elsewhere may not apply until they have completed one semester of study at USC. Courses taken in the semester at USC can be applied toward the 24 unit minimum required after admission to the doctoral program. Students entering the doctoral program directly from a bachelor's degree must complete a minimum of 60 units for the Ph.D.
The decision to recommend or deny admission to the Ph.D. program is made by the graduate degree commission. If admission is denied, the student may, at the commission's discretion, apply again not less than six months nor more 12 months following the first examination; however, the evidence of intellectual and professional growth during the elapsed period must be presented. After formal admission to the program, the student may apply for the appointment of a guidance committee via the appropriate form.