Honours Kinesiology

Overview

McMaster’s Honours Kinesiology program is committed to the discovery, communication, and application of knowledge through the interdisciplinary study of human movement. We employ a cell-to-society approach to advance our understanding of the role of physical activity in promoting human health and well-being. We value creativity, innovation, and excellence, and aspire to develop leaders who have a passion for lifelong learning and a commitment to their community.

The Department of Kinesiology offers a direct-entry Honours B.Sc. (Kinesiology) degree through a program that is well-known for its quality and integrative approach to the study of kinesiology.

Low 90s

Anticipated Admission Average

250

Target Enrolment

Why Kinesiology at McMaster?

Experiential Education

Experiential Education provides students with the opportunity to gain real-world, academically relevant experience in a community, research, or professional setting. Combining both academic and applied learning allows students to further develop skills and gain experience to transfer to future career paths. Students gain experience through: Applied Science Placement Courses, Research Practicum Courses, Science Internships

Cooperative Education

Explore career opportunities while gaining relevant professional experience, and develop connections with employers from academia, industry, government, and hospital sectors. Cooperative Education is an integrated approach to higher education that enables highly motivated students to alternate academic terms with paid, relevant work experience. Review the following link to learn more about our co-op programs. Experience – Science Careers & Experience Centre – Faculty of Science – McMaster University

Research Experience

The Faculty of Science is thrilled to offer the Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) at McMaster University, which is the first of its kind at an undergraduate level in Canada. The mission of the OUR is to promote excellence in undergraduate student and faculty-led, collaborative research and scholarship in all disciplines. We recognize that it is incumbent upon us as a Faculty to provide opportunities for an immersive research experience for all our undergraduate students.

Student Supports

The Faculty of Science is committed to student success! Whether you need support, have a question, or are feeling a little (or a lot) lost, our knowledgeable, friendly team is here to support your academic success during your undergraduate studies.

Your Courses

Human Anatomy and Physiology I (KINESIOL 1A03)

Human Anatomy and Physiology II (KINESIOL 1AA3)

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Physical Activity (KINESIOL 1ED3)

Human Nutrition and Health (KINESIOL 1F03)

Foundations in Kinesiology (KINESIOL 1K03)

5 Electives

Careers

Kinesiology at McMaster prepares students for a variety of careers in science and elsewhere by giving them a firm foundation in traditional scientific disciplines while exposing them to multidisciplinary approaches to solving pressing problems.

1st Office of Undergraduate Research in Canada

#33 Internationally in sports-related subjects (QS World University Rankings 2025)

Over $27.5 million in Faculty of Science annual research revenues

98% employment rate two years after graduation

22 expert research faculty members

5000 square foot state-of-the-art facility

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Though I am notoriously indecisive, choosing to come to McMaster for Kinesiology was one of the easiest decisions I’ve made.

Aarushi
Kinesiology

↗︎

I chose McMaster’s Kinesiology program for my undergraduate degree because it allowed me to get right into the courses that I was most interested in.

Rebecca
Kinesiology

I chose McMaster’s Kinesiology program for my undergraduate degree because it allowed me to get right into the courses that I was most interested in.

I recently graduated from McMaster University in with a BSc Honours Kinesiology. In the fall after my graduation, I returned to McMaster to begin my master’s degree in Occupational Therapy. I am now in my final year of the program!

I chose McMaster’s Kinesiology program for my undergraduate degree because it allowed me to get right into the courses that I was most interested in. While a general first year is a great opportunity to explore your options, I knew that I wanted a career in health care, so I appreciated diving right into learning about what I love. One of my favourite things about the Kinesiology program is the flexibility that you have in your third and fourth year courses. There are many compelling classes to choose from, and you can cater your course load to reflect your interests and career aspirations.

During my undergraduate degree I was fortunate to volunteer at the McMaster Physical Activity Centre of Excellence (PACE), which led me to pursue my degree in Occupational Therapy. As I worked with clients and listened to their experiences, I realized what a unique, positive, and client-centered approach to health care the career had to offer. As I transitioned from an undergraduate level to a master’s level program, I felt that my degree in Kinesiology provided me with a strong understanding of anatomy, good critical thinking skills, and a passion for providing care.

If I could give one piece of advice to incoming Science students, it would be to discover how you best study and learn. Adjusting to university courses and expectations can feel overwhelming. I think it is important to take the time to explore what works best for you. Whether it is going to the library, studying with friends, using flashcards, or writing your notes by hand, find what makes you feel confident in your learning – and be sure to find time to take breaks!

I wish you the best in your bright futures in the Faculty of Science at McMaster University!

I chose McMaster’s Kinesiology program for my undergraduate degree because it allowed me to get right into the courses that I was most interested in.

I wish you the best in your bright futures in the Faculty of Science at McMaster University!

Facilities

Our undergraduate students are taught by outstanding faculty, have access to state-of-the-art teaching and research labs, and benefit from our active hands-on approach to learning.

5,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility

Labs equipped with data collection systems

Six custom-designed exercise physiology testing pods

Six custom biomechanics and motor control testing pods

Motion capture system with digital reconstruction of motion

Infrared detection vertical jump and ground reaction force assessment unit

Dedicated body composition analysis room

The Physical Activity Centre of Excellence, or PACE, is a state-of-the-art, exercise research and training centre, where education, research, and community engagement come together. Students can work with researchers or volunteer as a trainer in any of the specialized community programs that offer rehabilitation and exercise to people with chronic disease or disability.

PACE’s innovative equipment includes an overground gait and balance training system, a robotic-assisted gait training device, and body weight support treadmills, as well as accessible aerobic and strength training equipment.

Explore some of these labs and facilities used daily by undergraduate students. Virtual Tours – McMaster Academic Planner (MAP) – Faculty of Science – McMaster University

Admissions

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