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Performance and Sports Science Master's Degree

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Program Overview

There has never been a greater demand for fitness and sports professionals who are trained in the latest strength and conditioning science. By integrating cutting-edge research, practical application, and a dedicated focus on the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Certified Performance and Sport Scientist (CPSS) certification, our Master of Science in Performance and Sports Science (MSPSS) is designed to produce graduates who can thrive in the rapidly evolving fitness and sports industry.

This program is an extension of King’s College's NSCA-accredited Exercise Science program in Wilkes-Barre, Pa.

students in the gym using exercise equipment

What makes the King’s Performance and Sports Science Program Different?

This master’s in sports science program is fully online and can be completed in two years, making it accessible to students worldwide and allows you to pursue your degree without compromising professional and personal commitments. What makes our sports science master’s program stand out:

  • Professional recognition: Both accredited and carefully designed, this master’s degree aligns with the new National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) certification for Performance and Sports Science (CPSS).
  • Flexible learning model: Our online and part-time format is perfect for working professionals and accommodates busy schedules.
  • Global faculty: Engage with top professionals from around the world, including those who work with elite athletes. Dr. Jan Kretzschmar, a distinguished expert in sports science and a Certified Performance and Sports Scientist (CPSS), leads the program.
  • Comprehensive curriculum: Our program offers advanced courses on sports performance analysis, data analysis and interpretation, and technology advancements.
  • Community engagement and networking: This sports science master’s program utilizes online platforms, enabling students to engage in discussions, share experiences, and build a valuable professional network which extends beyond graduation to alumni and other collaborations.
sports science student and professor pointing at exercise equipment

Program Highlights

  • 100% asynchronous online program designed for working professionals and students around the world.
  • 36-credit master's degree that can be completed in as little as two years.
  • 12 courses delivered in seven-week blocks.
  • Multiple entry points with fall, spring, and summer starts.

This program is well suited for strength and conditioning coaches, exercise science professionals, personal trainers, performance specialists, fitness professionals seeking advancement, individuals that are interested in applying sports science research to improve athletic performance, and sport coaches.

What can you do with a Master of Science in Performance and Sports Science?

This degree is designed for people who want to move beyond general fitness training into data-driven, evidence-based performance coaching and sports science roles, especially in competitive athletics or high-performance environments.

The Master of Science in Performance and Sports Science prepares students to advance in the rapidly growing field of human performance and athletic development. Graduates are equipped with the skills to work in strength and conditioning, sports science, and performance analytics roles, applying evidence-based training methods and cutting-edge technology to enhance athletic performance across collegiate, professional, and private sport settings. Some potential career placements are:

Performance & Strength Roles
  • Strength and Conditioning Coach (collegiate, professional, or private sector)
  • Performance Coach for athletic teams or elite training facilities
  • Sports Performance Specialist
  • High-performance training coordinator
Sports Science & Analytics
  • Sports Scientist (tracking, analyzing, and improving athlete performance)
  • Performance Analyst (biomechanics, movement efficiency, workload monitoring)
  • Data/Performance Analyst in sports organizations or tech companies
Fitness & Human Performance Leadership
  • Head Personal Trainer or Performance Director in private facilities
  • Fitness Manager or Program Director
  • Corporate wellness or human performance consultant
Clinical / Applied Exercise Settings (with additional certifications if desired)
  • Exercise physiology support roles in rehab or medical performance settings
  • Return-to-play or injury prevention specialist (often alongside clinical partners)
Education / Advancement Pathways
  • Community college or university instructor (with additional credentials depending on institution)
  • Pathway toward doctoral study in exercise science, kinesiology, or related fields

Performance and Sports Science Application Requirements

Admission to the Master of Science in Strength and Conditioning program is competitive and based on a holistic evaluation of each applicant's qualifications.

Full admission requirements

The following admission requirements are designed to identify candidates with the academic preparation, professional experience, and commitment necessary for success in the program:

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
  • Major or significant coursework in exercise science, kinesiology, sports science, or a related field.
  • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale.
  • NSCA CSCS certification (not to be confused with the NSCA CPSS). NSCA CSCS can also be obtained while enrolled in our program.
  • One letter of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant's academic or professional abilities (recommendations from professors, employers, or professionals in the field of strength and conditioning are preferred). A second recommendation may be required if the applicant’s GPA is below the minimum standard or if additional information is needed to make an admission decision.
  • A well-crafted statement outlining the applicant's career goals, motivation for pursuing this degree, and how the program aligns with their aspirations.
  • A current resume or curriculum vitae detailing educational background, work experience, certifications, and any relevant professional development.

Exceptions to the above requirements can be made depending on the circumstances of the individual applicant. Relevant professional experience in the field of strength and conditioning, fitness, or sports performance is highly valued, including coaching, personal training, or related roles and may be used to substitute for degree requirements or CSCS requirement.

Curriculum

The sports program entails a 36-credit curriculum with twelve three credit courses offered in seven-week blocks (see curriculum below). The program can be completed in two years, with entry available in the fall, spring, or summer semesters. Detailed curriculum information and curriculum options are available on our degree requirements page and our course descriptions page respectively. 

If students are not CSCS certified, they must attain their CSCS certification between year one and two of the master's program.

Faculty & Staff

Faculty and staff profiles can be accessed here.

Contact Us

Office of Graduate Admission
(570) 208-8519