Online Master of Science in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology

University of Florida’s online M.S. in APK program offers one of the broadest selections of courses compared to other master's in kinesiology, master's in exercise physiology, and master's in exercise science degrees. We are the only graduate program to offer online courses dedicated to athlete development, ergogenic aids, and corrective exercise training.

The degree path is highly customizable, with an array of electives and opportunities for students to gain real-world experience through graduate internships and independent study.

There are also five optional specializations students can choose from if they want a more concentrated learning experience: AI and Sport Science in Human Performance; Human Performance in Tactical, Flight, and Space Operations; Integrative Strength and Conditioning Science; Sport and Exercise Physiology; and Sport Psychology and Elite Human Performance.

• The AI and Sport Science in Human Performance specialization teaches students how to use data and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance athlete performance, with a curriculum focused on data acquisition and curation, use of AI applications, fundamentals of coding, research methods, and statistical analysis.
• The Human Performance in Tactical, Flight, and Space Operations specialization equips students with the physiological, kinesiological, and psychological expertise to support professionals who work in extreme environments, from military specialists to aviators and astronauts.
• Students who specialize in Integrative Strength and Conditioning Science learn how to strengthen athlete performance through in depth knowledge in areas such as bioenergetics, corrective exercise development, and athlete nutrition.
• The Sport and Exercise Physiology specialization focuses on the physiological mechanisms behind physical activity and teaches students how to apply this knowledge in clinical, fitness, and research settings.
• Students who choose the Sport Psychology and Elite Human Performance specialization will gain expertise in the psychological and kinesiological factors that influence physical performance, preparing them to support athletes, tactical specialists, medical personnel, and others who work under exceptionally high pressure.

The entire APK degree can be completed online, without any visits to the University of Florida campus — though you are always welcome to visit us in Gainesville.

This curriculum is built around skills that can be used immediately on the job, in the lab, or for further specialized education. Most of our human performance graduates move into exercise, sport, and fitness jobs, while others apply their master’s to Ph.D. programs, medical school, or advanced healthcare training.

While our courses are not built around a single specific certification, they provide a foundation for many professional designations. Our graduates have gone on to become:

• ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologists^®
• ACSM Certified Group Exercise Instructors^®
• ACSM Certified Personal Trainers^®
• Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists^®
• Certified Mental Performance Consultants^®

At the University of Florida, we are dedicated to online learning at every level. Our flexible courses allow students around the world to receive the same superior education and one-on-one feedback as our on-campus students. We take the design of our courses seriously and are regularly adding new technologies and techniques to the learning suite.

Our online set-up allows students to build connections, even while attending classes from different corners of the globe. Video chats, message boards, and other opportunities for interactions are just some of the ways we make sure everyone feels like part of the University of Florida community. This also allows our students to hone the professional and communication skills that are key for working with athletes, clients, or patients.

The University of Florida is a top-ranked, Research I university. As the eighth largest single-campus university in the United States, you’ll be joining a powerful community of global alumni.

UF is ranked #4 in Best Public Universities in the nation (Forbes), #5 in Top Public Schools in the country (U.S. News & World Report) and is consistently ranked a best-value public university (Princeton Review, Forbes, and Kiplinger’s). Read more about our mission and our accomplishments.