High-tech Biomechanics Lab, Advanced Research Options
Gain superior training for a rapidly growing sector of the work force in UNC’s sport and exercise science master’s program with biomechanics emphasis. With small class sizes, highly involved faculty and state-of-the-art research labs, our biomechanics master’s program takes an applied approach that prepares you for a wide range of careers in exercise science and biomechanics.
Benefit from our small biomechanics program with attentive faculty and a high degree of personal guidance and mentoring. Our on-campus Gait Laboratory gives you hands-on access to current technology, where you can collaborate with senior researchers and conduct your own research in biomechanics and exercise science. You’ll work with diverse populations, ranging from elite athletes in our Division I sports programs to cancer patients at the ground-breaking UNC Cancer Rehabilitation Institute. Graduates of our biomechanics program have an outstanding rate of job placement and Ph.D. program admissions.
Degree Options
M.S. in Sports and Exercise Science: Biomechanics (thesis option)
The biomechanics master’s program at UNC totals 33 credit hours. Take courses in lab techniques, research, advanced biomechanics, neuromuscular structure and function and related subjects. The program includes an optional graduate-level internship in sport and exercise science. If you choose the thesis option, you’ll complete the program by developing a research question, designing an original experiment, gathering and analyzing data and writing your conclusions.
Take the next step! Explore courses, contact information and admission requirements for these programs.
M.S. in Sports and Exercise Science: Biomechanics (professional research project option)
This option covers the same coursework and internship opportunities as the thesis option. However, as an alternative to a research thesis, you'll complete additional coursework and obtain a national certification to meet your specific career goals and better position you for the job market.
Take the next step! Explore courses, contact information and admission requirements for these programs.
Your Future in Biomechanics
The Biomechanics and Exercise Science fields are experiencing rapid growth. Employers in health care, equipment manufacturing, high-performance athletics and other industries have an increasing demand for professionals with graduate-level biomechanics training. Tailor your master’s education at UNC for a wide range of career paths in biomechanics, including research, shoe design, prosthetics design, athletic training and rehabilitation. If you choose to pursue a doctoral degree, UNC’s program provides you with an outstanding foundation for success at the Ph.D. level.
Consider a M.S. in Biomechanics if you want to:
- Perform sophisticated research with cutting-edge biomechanics technology.
- Learn applied skills that offer direct preparation for the work force.
- Work with diverse populations.
- Earn a versatile degree for a wide variety of career pursuits.
You’ll learn:
- The skeletal, muscular and neurological foundations of exercise science and biomechanics.
- How to gather and analyze biomechanical data.
- Specialized applications for cancer rehabilitation, sports performance and other areas.
Sample courses:
- Advanced Biomechanics
- Laboratory Techniques in Biomechanics
- Neuromuscular Structure and Function
- Biomechanics of Locomotion
Beyond the Classroom
UNC’s on-campus Gait Laboratory is fully equipped with the most current technology in biomechanics. You’ll work with advanced instrumentation that includes a 10-camera motion-capture system, instrumented tandem belt treadmill and force plate, 16-channel telemetered EMG system, isokinetic dynamometer, oscillation rack and timing gate system.
Where can your degree take you?
- Doctoral studies in exercise science or biomechanics
- Physical or occupational therapy
- Research and/or clinical practice in a gait laboratory
- Equipment design manufacturing, consulting firm or marketing
- Strength and conditioning coaching
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