Last updated: March 15, 2024 @ 09:20AM
Professional Kinesiology
Master of Professional Kinesiology
Dean
Peter Tiidus Faculty of Applied Health Sciences
Associate Dean Research and Graduate Studies
Deborah O’Leary Faculty of Applied Health Sciences
Graduate Program Director
Kimberley L. Gammage Department of Kinesiology
Core Faculty
Professors Emeriti
Nancy Francis, Sandra Peters, Michael Plyley
Professors
Allan Adkin, Maureen Connolly, Stephen Cheung, David Ditor, Bareket Falk, David Gabriel, Kimberley L. Gammage (Graduate Program Director), Panagiota (Nota) Klentrou (Kinesiology Chair), Anna Lathrop (Vice-Provost and Associate Vice-President, Students), Ken Lodewyk, Toby Mondel, Deborah O'Leary (Health Sciences; Associate Dean Research and Graduate Studies), Brian D. Roy (Associate Dean, Faculty of Graduate Studies), Philip Sullivan, Craig Tokuno, Cathy van Ingen, Rene Vandenboom, Wendy Ward, Philip M. Wilson
Associate Professors
Nicole Chimera, Jarold Cosby, Val Andrew Fajardo (CRC), Tim Fletcher, Nathan Hall, Michael Holmes (CRC), Kelly L. Lockwood, Jae Patterson, Ian Ritchie, Danny Rosenberg
Assistant Professors
Shawn Beaudette, Amanda Black, William Gittings, Stephen Klassen, Sean Locke, Rob Millington
Clinical Instructors
Daniel Caterini, Joseph P. Kenny
Master of Professional Kinesiology Program Coordinator
Andra Parker - mpk@brocku.ca
Program Description
The Master of Professional Kinesiology (MPK) program is designed to prepare students as professional Kinesiologists with an advanced understanding of the latest evidence-based research to improve function, health, and wellness in all populations. The MPK program will provide innovative course work combined with experiential education in practicum courses to provide students with the clinical and scholarly competencies that are required to safely practice the profession. The MPK program will provide the opportunity for students to gain practical, hands-on experience by working directly with a variety of populations and individuals in diverse settings, increasing their professional confidence and competence. Students will also be prepared to pursue the wide variety of career possibilities as health care professionals.
Admission Requirements
Successful completion of a four-year Bachelor's degree, or equivalent, in Kinesiology (or equivalent), with an average of no less than 78% (B+) in the last two years of study. Completed course work in human anatomy, biomechanics, psychomotor learning, assessment and exercise prescription, ergonomics, and exercise physiology is required. The Graduate Admissions Committee will review all applications and recommend admission for a limited number of candidates. Admission to part-time study is not available.
Degree Requirements
Basic degree requirements include the successful completion of 10 half credit courses, and two non-credit courses. Requirements include: MPKI 5P00, MPKI 5P01, MPKI 5P02, MPKI 5P03, MPKI 5P04, MPKI 5P05, MPKI 5P06, MPKI 5P14, and two elective credits (number 5(alpha)00 or above) from the following courses: MPKI 5P07, MPKI 5P08, MPKI 5P09, MPKI 5P10, MPKI 5P11, MPKI 5P12, MPKI 5P13, MPKI 5P15 and/or AHSC 5P11, AHSC 5P18, AHSC 5P41, AHSC 5P81, AHSC 5P85, AHSC 5P86, AHSC 5P87, AHSC 5P91, AHSC 5P92, AHSC 5P93, AHSC 5P94, AHSC 5P95, AHSC 5P98, AHSC 5P99, AHSC 7P10, AHSC 7P92, AHSC 7P97, GERO 5P12, GERO 5P88, GERO 5P92, MPHA 5P10, MPHA 5P16, and/or MPHA 5P18.
Students must also register and complete three non-credit courses: MPKI 5N97, MPKI 5N98 and MPKI 5N99. Students are expected to complete their degree requirements within three academic terms (12 months).
Concentrations
Students apply to the Master of Professional Kinesiology program. Several courses also cluster into one of three concentrations that students may wish to complete. These concentrations allow students to focus on specific topics and develop relevant skills within Professional Kinesiology. Each concentration consists of three elective courses (at least two of which must be MPKI courses). In addition, one of the practicums (MPKI 5P01, 5P02, or 5P03) must be a relevant experience (as approved by the Graduate Program Director). Students may complete a maximum of one concentration. Students who have completed the three courses and practicum may apply for a concentration designation to appear on their transcripts. Please note not all courses will be offered every year.
Behaviour Change and Coaching
Focuses on application of theory and research to helping clients engage in physical activity and relevant health behaviours, within the scope of Kinesiology. Students must complete three of the following courses (two of which must be MPKI courses): MPKI 5P10, MPKI 5P12, AHSC 5P86, AHSC 5P99, MPHA 5P10, MPHA 5P18. In addition, students must complete one practicum (MPKI 5P01, 5P02, or 5P03) related to behaviour and lifestyle change, as approved by the Graduate Program Director.
Exercise for Chronic and Aging Populations
Focuses on developing skills and knowledge related to the practice of kinesiology for those working with aging populations and those living with chronic disease and/or disability. Students must complete three of the following courses (two of which must be MPKI courses): MPKI 5P07, MPKI 5P08, MPKI 5P11, AHSC 5P85, AHSC 5P93, GERO 5P12, GERO 5P88). In addition, students must complete one practicum (MPKI 5P01, 5P02, or 5P03) related to exercise and physical activity in aging or chronic condition populations, as approved by the Graduate Program Director.
Clinical Practice in Kinesiology
Focuses on the development and implementation of professional skills related to assessment, testing, treatment, and exercise prescription for a variety of populations. Students must complete three of the following courses (two of which must be MPKI courses): MPKI 5P07, MPKI 5P09, MPKI 5P13, MPKI 5P15, AHSC 5P87, GERO 5P12). In addition, students must complete one practicum (MPKI 5P01, 5P02, or 5P03) related to practice in a clinical setting, as approved by the Graduate Program Director.
Graduate Micro Programs
Program Overview
Graduate Micro-Programs
Program Overview
Graduate Micro-Programs (GMPs) are tailored to students interested in gaining graduate-level expertise in professional kinesiology. Each GMP is comprised of three (3) half-credit courses. Depending on courses taken, students may be able to complete their GMP in 2-3 terms. For a GMP to be noted on an academic transcript, students must successfully complete all requisite courses with a grade of 70% or higher. Please note, a student may complete only one GMP in Professional Kinesiology. Following successful completion of a GMP and with permission from the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs and the Graduate Program Committee, students may apply to transfer the credits earned in the GMP toward the Master of Professional Kinesiology.
Admission Requirements
Applications will be considered from those with a variety of experiences and qualifications who demonstrate an ability and aptitude to succeed in graduate-level study. The standard admissions criteria for graduate studies does apply (a four-year degree with a minimum 78% (B+) average over the last two years of full-time undergraduate study; completed course work in human anatomy and biomechanics, psychomotor learning, assessment and exercise prescription, ergonomics, and exercise physiology). However, applicants who do not meet the university’s minimum academic requirements may be considered if they can demonstrate equivalent competencies. Equivalent competencies may include, but are not limited to: a three-year diploma or degree coupled with relevant work experience (usually 3+ years); significant and related professional experience (usually 5+ years); and substantial and relevant learning and skills development.
Applicants who have not completed their undergraduate degree at a university where English was the primary language of instruction will be required to provide proof of English Language Proficiency. Please see brocku.ca/graduate-studies/future-students/international/english-language-proficiency/.
Interested applicants should submit their transcripts along with a resume outlining recent and relevant work and volunteer experience, and a letter of intent. Additional details can be found on the program page brocku.ca/programs/graduate/.
Program Requirements
All GMPs will consist of one (1) required half-credit course (MPKI 5P00) plus two (2) elective half-credit courses, one of which must be an MPKI course.
Graduate Micro-Program in Behaviour Change and Coaching in Kinesiology
Focuses on application of theory and research to help clients engage in physical activity and relevant health behaviours, within the scope of Kinesiology.
Required course: MPKI 5P00
Elective courses: Two of MPKI 5P10, MPKI 5P12, AHSC 5P85, AHSC 5P86, AHSC 5P99, MPHA 5P10, MPHA 5P18 (at least one of which must be an MPKI course)
Graduate Micro-Program in Exercise for Chronic and Aging Populations
Focuses on developing skills and knowledge related to the implementation of exercise and physical activity for professionals working with aging populations and those living with chronic disease and/or disability.
Required course: MPKI 5P00
Elective courses: Two of MPKI 5P07, MPKI 5P08, MPKI 5P11, AHSC 5P93, GERO 5P12 (at least one of which must be an MPKI course)
Graduate Micro-Program in Clinical Practice in Kinesiology
Focuses on developing and implementing professional skills related to assessment, testing, treatment, and exercise prescription for a variety of populations in physical activity settings.
Required course MPKI 5P00
Elective courses: Two of MPKI 5P07, MPKI 5P09, MPKI 5P13, MPKI 5P15, AHSC 5P87, GERO 5P12 (at least one of which must be an MPKI course)
Notes
1. Students may complete only one GMP.
2. At least three electives from each GMP will be offered each year, but the course offerings may change from year to year.
3. All program costs associated with required documentation or equipment are the sole responsibility of the student.
4. Please note that the majority of the courses that form these GMPs are offered in-person only. In-person attendance will be required in order to complete any of the GMPs.
Program Notes
- Failure to succeed in a practicum course may result in dismissal from the program
- Students require current Standard First Aid and CPR (BCLS or Level C) certification that is in accordance with and approved by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB), and must be valid during the time of study.
- Proof of immunizations may be required prior to commencement of practicum courses.
- Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC) may be required by practicum agencies. It is the student's responsibility to ensure the process is complete - at their own expense. In some cases, students may not be allowed to attend practicum if these requirements are not met.
- All program costs associated with required documentation or equipment are the sole responsibility of the student. It is the student's responsibility to ensure the process is complete prior to commencement of the program.
- With permission from the Graduate Program Director, students may take up to two additional MPK courses designed to facilitate meeting the core competencies of the Registered Kinesiology examination required for entry into clinical practice. These two courses replace the extra courses outside the program. Extra courses must be taken concurrently with degree required courses and cannot be taken after completion of degree requirements.
Facilities
The Faculty has several teaching labs including functional assessment labs, physiological assessment labs, and two anatomy labs - including access to the human cadaver lab. Students have access to a variety of software programs, including Microsoft Office Suite 2016; SPSS, SAS, and discipline-specific software.
Description of courses
Students must ensure that prerequisites are met. Students may be de-registered, at the request of the instructor, from any course for which prerequisites and/or restrictions have not been met.
MASTER OF PROFESSIONAL KINESIOLOGY COURSES
MPKI 5N99
Seminars In Professional Kinesiology III
Non-credit required course introducing students to professional skills in the field of professional kinesiology from faculty, staff, practitioners, and other guest speakers on topics related to professional development in kinesiology and related fields.
Restriction: Only open to MPK students.
MPKI 5P00
Professional Practice in Kinesiology
Introduction to the profession of Kinesiology including an examination of selected topics such as ethics, leadership, communication, and administration for the practice of Kinesiology.
Restriction: Only Open to MPK Students
MPKI 5P04
Business Skills & Entrepreneurship for Kinesiologists
Topics include models of business, personal and business financial skills, marketing, developing and implementing business plans.
MPKI 5P05
Physiological Assessment of Human Performance
Applied course work in a variety of techniques commonly used by Kinesiologists in the assessment of exercise performance. Specific topics will include the techniques necessary to assess: body composition, aerobic power, anaerobic power and capacity, functional and muscular strength, flexibility, and cardiac electrophysiology.
Restriction: Only open to MPK students.
Note: Materials fee may be required.
MPKI 5P06
Functional and Ergonomic Assessment
Overview of various functional assessments used in healthy and special populations will be covered. Topics include musculo-skeletal evaluation, neurological screening, and biomechanical assessments of posture, balance, and gait. Ergonomic assessments will focus on understanding and measuring physical workplace demands such that work-related musculo-skeletal injuries of non-traumatic origin (i.e. low back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome) can be limited.
Restriction: Only open to MPK students.
Note: Materials fee may be required.
MPKI 5P07
Injury Assessment and Rehabilitation
Principles of musculoskeletal assessments and rehabilitation will be examined and applied to the most common injuries occurring in the shoulder, elbow, back, knee and lower leg.
Restriction: Open to MPK students or permission of the Instructor.
Note: Materials fee may be required.
MPKI 5P08
Exercise and Chronic Disease
Overview of the role of exercise in the management of chronic disease, such as metabolic disorders, cardiopulmonary disease, cancer, and neurological disorders.
Restriction: Open to MPK students or permission of the Instructor.
MPKI 5P09
Advanced Exercise Prescription
Theory and application of exercise program design and prescription with diverse populations, across the lifespan. A problem based learning approach will be used. Topics include fitness programming, muscle strength and power, cardiorespiratory endurance, weight loss and management, and the issue of “over-exercise.”
Restriction: Open to MPK students or permission of the Instructor.
MPKI 5P10
Nutrition for Physical Activity
Effects of nutrition and supplements as related to physical activity and human performance settings in diverse populations.
Restriction: Open to MPK students or permission of the Instructor.
MPKI 5P11
Pharmacology and Human Movement
Understanding of the physiological effects of medication(s) and their interaction with physical activity.
Restriction: Open to MPK students or permission of the Instructor.
MPKI 5P12
Lifestyle Counselling for Kinesiologists
Acquisition and development of interviewing skills used by Kinesiologists to counsel clients about their engagement in health behaviours to optimize physical activity, lifestyle, and behaviour changes.
Restriction: Only open to MPK students or with permission of the instructor.
MPKI 5P13
Pain Modalities for Kinesiologists
Theory of pain pathways and modality applications for pain management. Includes pain control theories and treatment modalities. Content will allow future kinesiologists to critically select and provide rationale for appropriate therapeutic agents designed to maintain, rehabilitate, or enhance movement and performance.
Restriction: Open to MPK students or permission of the Instructor.
Note: Materials fee may be required.
MPKI 5P14
Advanced Clinical Musculoskeletal Anatomy
Overview of musculoskeletal anatomy with clinical applications and how it pertains to human movement and dysfunction. Topics include superficial to deep musculoskeletal anatomy, fascial connections, clinical movement screens and practical implications for anatomy as a healthcare professional.
Restriction: Only open to MPK students.
Note: Materials fee required.
MPKI 5P15
Functional Capacity Evaluations in Kinesiology
Theoretical and practical instruction in the design and implementation of assessments used in the practice of kinesiology, including common assessment tools, lifting and carrying tasks, working postures, balance, and hand dexterity/coordination. Standardized procedures adapted to investigate applications in professional practice, including matching occupational demands and clinical rehabilitation.
Restriction: Open to MPK students or permission of the Instructor.
Note: Materials fee may be required.
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING COURSES
MPKI 5P01
Professional Kinesiology Practicum I
Clinical, therapeutic, high performance, or health promotion experience in kinesiology, working with diverse populations. Three (3) different experiences with different populations must be completed.
Restriction: Only open to MPK students.
Note: Materials fee required.
MPKI 5P02
Professional Kinesiology Practicum II
Clinical, therapeutic, high performance, or health promotion experience in kinesiology, working with diverse populations. Three (3) different experiences with different populations must be completed.
Restriction: Only open to MPK students
MPKI 5P03
Professional Kinesiology Practicum III
Clinical, therapeutic, high performance, or health promotion experience in kinesiology, working with diverse populations. Three (3) different experiences with different populations must be completed.
Restriction: Only open to MPK students.
NON-CREDIT COURSES
MPKI 5N97
Seminars in Professional Kinesiology I
Non-credit required course introducing students to topics related to self-discovery, learning skills, and career planning in kinesiology and related fields from faculty, staff, practitioners, and other guest speakers.
Restriction: Only open to MPK students.
MPKI 5N98
Seminars In Professional Kinesiology II
Non-credit required course engaging with faculty, staff, practitioners, and other guest speakers on topics related to the theory and practice of kinesiology and related fields.
Restriction: Only open to MPK students.
Note: Materials fee may be required.