M.S. Concentration in Biomechanics

Degree Requirements Expectations Admissions Contact Information

M.S. Concentration in Biomechanics

The master's degree concentration in biomechanics focuses on the application of mechanical principles to the study of internal and external forces acting on the human body, and the effects produced by these forces. The concepts of biomechanics are presented from various approaches.

• Lectures are directed toward the development of knowledge, theory, and application of biomechanics to various physical activities and sports.
• Related course work in exercise physiology, adapted physical activity, or growth and motor development are studied to provide a more complete and integrated understanding of the concepts of biomechanics.
• Research and applied literature related to student interests are abstracted and analyzed. This increases student awareness of biomechanics literature and exposes the student to research and applied methodology.
• Biomechanics investigative and research techniques and instrumentation are utilized by the student in class projects. These methods include: high speed cinematography, videography, electromyography, electrogoniometry, force recording devices, and computer analysis.
• Class and independent experiments expose the student to problems of designing and conducting biomechanics investigations of physical activity and sport.

Degree Requirements

Students must complete all MSU and KIN requirements for the M.S. degree, including KIN 871-research methods, area of concentration, breadth requirement, and capstone (thesis, project, internship, or courses-only with certifying exam). The exact program of study is specified in an individual program plan approved by the student's guidance committee. Typical courses in the biomechanics concentration include:

• KIN 830 - Biomechanical Analyses of Physical Activity (3 credits)
• KIN 831 - Advanced Biomechanics of Physical Activity (3 credits)
• Choice of: KIN 810 - Physiology of Physical Activity (3 credits)
  KIN 860 - Growth and Motor Behavior (3 credits)
• KIN 890 - Independent Study in Kinesiology (1-6 credits)
• KIN 890 - Independent Study in Kinesiology (1-6 credits)

Students in the biomechanics concentration often complete courses in areas of study such as special education, teacher education, rehabilitation counseling, psychology, school psychology, and recreation. Consult the Academic Programs and Description of Courses catalogs for a full listing of academic programs and courses.

Expectations

Expectations of KIN master's degree students are individualized because of the different concentrations offered within the department and the students' various educational goals. Commonalities in expectations of master's degree students include: (a) professional growth and involvement; (b) demonstrated ability to teach within the context of the student's chosen field; and (c) knowledge and skill as a consumer of research. Students who intend to pursue doctoral study or research careers are also expected to develop ability to plan, conduct, and disseminate research. Departmental expectations related to that goal are described in Expectations of M.S. Students, and related learning experiences are described in Professional Development Opportunities. These expectations are individualized for students during advising and guidance committee meetings.

Admissions

Graduate Studies Secretary
Department of Kinesiology
3 IM Sports Circle
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48824-1049

Phone: (517) 355-4736
Fax: (517) 355-1689
Email: kingrad@msu.edu

Contact Information

Contact the following faculty member about the concentration in biomechanics.

Dr. V. Dianne Ulibarri
Department of Kinesiology
101 IM Sports Circle
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48824-1049

Phone: (517) 355-4733
Fax: (517) 353-2944
E-mail: ulibarri@msu.edu