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M.S. Concentration in Psychosocial Aspects of Sport and Physical Activity
The master's degree concentration in psychosocial aspects of physical activity focuses on both a practical and theoretical understanding of psychological, sociological, and social psychological variables involved in sport and physical activity. This area of scientific study encompasses two fields of study, sport psychology and sport sociology.
- Sport psychology examines the influence of psychological variables on motor performance and the influence of sport and physical activity participation on psychological phenomena.
- Sport sociology examines social structures on sport and physical activity, as well as the social significance of sport and physical activity from different theoretical perspectives.
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 psychosocial aspects of physical activity concentration include:
- KIN 840 - Psychosocial Aspects of Physical Activity (3 credits)
- KIN 841 - Stress Management Techniques in Athletics (3 credits)
- KIN 845 - Sociocultural Practices in Sport (3 credits)
- KIN 858 - Issues and Techniques for Student-Athlete Development (3 credits)
- KIN 870 - Physical Activity and Well-Being (3 credits)
- KIN 890 - Independent Study in Kinesiology (1-6 credits)
Students in this concentration often complete courses in areas of study such as psychology, counseling, women's studies, sociology, communications, and measurement and quantitative methods. 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 SecretaryDepartment of Kinesiology
27J 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
Dr. Martha EwingDepartment of Kinesiology
201 IM Sports Circle
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48824-1049 Phone: (517) 353-4652
Fax: (517) 353-5363
E-mail: mewing@msu.edu Dr. Deborah Feltz
Department of Kinesiology
134 IM Sports Circle
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48824-1049 Phone: (517) 355-4732
Fax: (517) 353-2944
E-mail: dfeltz@msu.edu Dr. Dan Gould
Department of Kinesiology
210 IM Sports Circle
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48824-1049 Phone: (517) 432-0175
Fax: (517) 353-5363
E-mail: drgould@msu.edu
