frequently asked questions
- Can I start attending classes before summer classes begin?
- Do I need to take the GRE (Graduate Record Exam)?
- When is the application deadline?
- When will I know if I've been accepted?
- How long will it take to finish the program?
- Can I write a thesis?
- Can I transfer graduate courses from another institution?
- Is financial aid available?
- Are there graduate assistantships available?
- Who should apply?
- Should I apply if I don't meet all the admission criteria?
- Is the Graduate Kinesiology Handbook online?
1. Can I start attending classes before summer classes begin?
Yes, you can begin with a fall or spring evening class. However, starting the program early does not help you graduate any earlier because attending 3 summer sessions is a program requirement.
2. Do I need to take the GRE (Graduate Record Exam)?
No.
3. When is the application deadline?
There is no official deadline, we have a rolling admissions policy. We maintain a maximum annual cohort size of 15, additional applications roll over to the next year.
4. When I will know if I've been accepted?
Your application is not reviewed until your file is complete (with a goal statement, 3 letters of recommendation and official transcripts). Once your file is complete you'll interview with the Chair of Kinesiology. After the interview you'll be notified of your status within 1 week.
5. How long will it take to finish the program?
Most students start in June and finish 25 months later.
6. Can I write a thesis?
Yes, but you must propose your thesis topic to a faculty committee, and approval is not automatic.
7. Can I transfer graduate courses from another institution?
A maximum of 6 units can be transferred. The units must have been completed within the past 5 years and must not have been used as a part of any other awarded degree. They must be graduate level and Kinesiology-related. Only A and B grades will transfer.
8. Is financial aid available?
Yes, contact our Financial Aid office at (925) 631-4370.
9. Are there graduate assistantships available?
Not at this time.
10. Who should apply?
Many of our students are coaches and use the degree to advance their careers, but we attract students with all kinds of interests and career goals. Our graduates teach physical education in public and private schools, enter doctoral programs in kinesiology, join the fitness industry and work in parks and recreation departments.
11. Should I apply if I don't meet all the admission criteria?
Every applicant will be considered. We review each application on its merits and pay particular attention to potential for success, not just traditional measures of past performance. We look for motivated students who want to learn and make a difference in the lives of others.
12. Is the Graduate Kinesiology Handbook online? Yes. Graduate Kinesiology Handbook (pdf)
