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. Check out what our alumni are up to.

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.

Do I need to take the GRE (Graduate Record Exam)?
No, the GRE is not required at this time.

When can I start the program?
Students can elect to start the program in the Spring (February) or Fall semester (late August).

When is the application deadline?
We have a rolling admissions policy. While students may apply until the general deadline, applying before the priority deadline ensures that students are eligible for departmental scholarships and fellowships.

Fall 2023: Our final Fall 2023 application deadline is July 31, 2023.

Spring 2024: TBD

When will I know if I've been accepted?
Once the program receives your completed application (personal statement, resume, two (2) letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and GPA exemption petition if applicable), your application will be reviewed by the admissions committee and you will be notified via email within 2 weeks. 

How long will it take to finish the program?
If taking courses full-time, requirements may be completed in as quickly as 14-16 months depending on a student's start term. If taking courses part-time, these requirements may be completed between 18 and 26 months depending on a student's start term and how many units they plan to take each semester.

Can I transfer graduate courses from another institution?
A maximum of 6 units may 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. You must have achieved an A or B grade to transfer a class. Prior approval by the Program Director is required to transfer.

Is there flexibility in the program?
Yes. All students must complete 30 units of coursework, including five (5) core courses, the colloquium, and comprehensive examinations. Students are then able to customize the remainder of the curriculum to their personal and professional goals by choosing from a wide variety of elective courses and internship opportunities. Students meet with the Graduate Program Director in advance of their first term to develop an academic plan that works specifically with their interests and goals, and to establish a specific time to graduation.

Is financial aid available?
Yes, please start by reading through the Tuition and Scholarship information complied on our website. If you have additional questions, please contact the Financial Aid office via phone (925-631-4370) or email (finaid@stmarys-ca.edu).

Are internships available?
Yes. Most of our students complete internships with local sport organizations. We have excellent relationships with high schools, colleges, and professional sport franchises all across the San Francisco Bay Area.

Are there teaching opportunities for Graduate Kinesiology students?
Yes, eligible Master of Arts in Kinesiology students can apply to teach undergraduate Physcial Education (PHED) courses when they are available.

Is on-campus housing available for graduate students?
If you are interested in on-campus housing please contact the student services manager Alyssa Plummer by email at afp5@stmarys-ca.edu to learn how to proceed.

How do I find off-campus housing?
The Housing Office has some great tips and useful tools to help you find off-campus housing near Saint Mary's on their website.

How often will I need to come to campus for classes?
During the summer term classes are offered from 6:00-8:45pm (M/W or T/TH) for 7 weeks. The Colloquium takes place during the first week of June from 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m..

During the fall and spring terms classes are offered once a week (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday) from 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. 

Is public transportation available if I have to commute?
Yes. There is a Country Connection bus that runs throughout the day and a special Gael Rail bus that runs later into the evening to and from the Lafayette and Orinda BART stations.