25 Best Affordable Online Sports Medicine, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Physiology Studies Degree Programs (Master’s) 2020

25. Concordia University-Chicago

River Forest, Illinois

Website

Concordia University-Chicago (CUChicago, est. 1864) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, and a member of the Concordia University System. It incorporates Lutheran Christian traditions and worldview into its academic offering.

CUChicago offers inexpensive associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 100 top-value areas of study in total. It has one cheap online/ hybrid master’s degree program in sports wellness related topics: a Master of Applied Exercise Science with five concentrations:

• Fitness and Health Promotion – for health and fitness industry
• Human Movement Science – corrective exercise specialist
• Sports Nutrition – sports nutrition
• Sports Performance Training – athletic training, coaching; prepares students for PES (Performance Enhancement Specialist) certification exam, which some NFL and NBA teams require
• Strength and Conditioning — athletic performance coaching, strength and conditioning coaching

This is a 30-credit low-cost online master’s degree program expected to take at least 1-1.5 years. Students can choose one or more concentrations (an extra 12 credits each) as part of the program’s dual-degree option. Graduates of this online master’s degree program collectively find career opportunities in several areas, including: certified personal trainers; dietitians; exercise physiology researchers and scientists; physical education specialists; sports nutritionists; etc. Choice of concentration may determine actual available work. Sample core courses include: Kinesiology; Research Design and Methods in Exercise Science; Applied Exercise Physiology. Each concentration has its own Capstone Experience and topical Practicum requirement.

24. California Baptist University

Riverside, California

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California Baptist University (CBU, est. 1950) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the California Southern Baptist Convention. It incorporates a Baptist Christian worldview into its academic programs, and serves students at four campuses/ learning centers and online.

CBU offers economical associate’s through doctorate level degree programs — 110 best-value degree programs in total, excluding concentration and minor options. It has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in sports wellness related topics: a Master of Science in Kinesiology. This is a 30-credit cheap online master’s degree program with an average 12-month timeline. It covers topics in kinesiology and human movement science, including topics such as advanced exercise physiology, biomechanics, exercise and fitness education, exercise and sport psychology, fitness testing, performance nutrition, etc. Potential careers/ career areas for graduates include: athletic performance; coaching; exercise science; fitness industry; obesity prevention; physical education; strength and conditioning. Sample courses include: Advanced Exercise Physiology; Sports Nutrition; Advanced Study of Sport and Exercise Physiology.

23. University of Florida

Gainesville, Florida

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University of Florida (UF, est. 1853) is a public institution and a member of the State University System of Florida. Successful alumni of UF include Nobel Prize winners, Senators and House Representatives, ambassadors, governors, judges, astronauts, celebrities, entrepreneurs and more.

UF offers inexpensive associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 200 affordable online degree programs alone. It has one low cost online/ hybrid master’s degree program in sports wellness related topics: a top-value Master of Science in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology (MSAPK) with a concentration in Human Performance. This is a 30-credit, 100% online, non-thesis master’s degree program (2+ years) designed for individuals who will apply their knowledge in movement performance optimization or general athletic development. Online master’s courses covered include: biomechanics; exercise psychology; motor behavior; sport nutrition; sport psychology; strength and conditioning. Potential careers/ career areas include coaching, exercise or sport physiology, exercise science, human performance, sports nutrition, strength and conditioning. Sample courses include: Physiological Bases of Exercise and Sport Sciences; Human Pathophysiology for the Exercise Sciences; Biomechanics of Human Motion. Alternatives: on-campus Master of Science in Athletic Training.

22. SUNY College at Plattsburgh

Plattsburgh, New York

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SUNY College at Plattsburgh (SUNY Plattsburgh, est. 1889) is a public institution and a member of the State University of New York (SUNY) System. Originally founded as a teacher training college, it serves students on two campuses and online.

SUNY Plattsburgh offers affordable bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one of the cheapest online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in sports wellness related topics: a Master of Science in Fitness and Wellness Leadership, delivered by the Department of Sport and Wellness. This is a 30- to 33-credit, 100% online master’s degree program taking an average of one to 1.5 years, depending on choice of part- or full-time studies. Graduates of this top-value online master’s degree program may find career roles such as college lecturer, health and fitness business owner, personal trainer, sports performance coach, strength and conditioning instructor, wellness consultant, etc. Possible work environments include: college or community recreational centers; health clubs and gyms; personal training studios; physical therapy clinics; yoga studios and more. Sample courses include: Fitness Leadership and Professionalism; Advanced Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology; Biomechanics in Exercise Movements.

21. University of Northern Colorado

Greeley, Colorado

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University of Northern Colorado (UNC, est. 1889) is a public institution originally founded as a teacher training school. It serves students at this main campus, several learning centers, and online. Nearly 40% of undergrads are first-generation (in their family) college students. While not an HSI (Hispanic-Serving Institution), nearly 20% of students (all levels) are of Hispanic/ LatinX origin.

UNC offers affordable bachelor’s through doctorate level degree programs – over 220 top-value degree programs in total. It has one inexpensive online/ hybrid master’s degree program in sports wellness related topics: a low-cost Master of Science in Sport and Exercise Science (MS-SSES) with an emphasis in Sport Administration. This is a 30-credit online master’s degree program, with 21cr reserved for the emphasis option. Students have a choice of thesis or non-thesis track options, the latter of which requires completion of a comprehensive exam. The SSES prepares individuals for careers in with professional sports leagues/ teams (domestic and overseas), international competitions such as the Olympics, etc. Sample online courses include: Introduction to Research in Sport and Exercise Science; Sport and Higher Education. Optional: Graduate Internship in Sport and Exercise Science (1-6 cr). Additional emphasis options are available on-campus only (Biomechanics; Exercise Physiology; Social Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity).

20. Indiana Wesleyan University-National and Global

Marion, Indiana

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Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU, est. 1920) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Wesleyan Church. Online master’s degrees are some of the programs offered through the National and Global (NG) division of IWU. Students participate at this main campus and over a dozen learning centers in Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, plus online. A Christian worldview is integrated in to the academic offering.

IWU-NG offers inexpensive associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 90 affordable degree programs in total. It has one cheap online/ hybrid master’s degree program in sports wellness related topics: an economical Master of Science in Athletic Training – Post Professional (SAT). This is a 33-credit, hybrid program with a combination of online and onsite courses/ sessions, and a maximum of six transfer credits. Applicants should have a CAATE-accredited bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training or similar, and be interested in a career as a certified athletic trainer. Sample courses include: Athletic Training Clinical Anatomy; Epidemiology in Athletic Training; Health Information Technology and Informatics in Athletic Training.

19. University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, Alabama

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University of Alabama (UA, est. 1820/ 1831) is a public institution (first/ oldest in the state) and a member of the University of Alabama System. Amongst the university’s milestones is the 120+ Scholar awards (Goldwater, Rhodes, Truman, Hollings, Fulbright) that grads/ faculty have achieved collectively – not including the nearly 190 National Merit Scholar awards earned. These awards contribute to UA’s status as a Very High Research Activity institution, as per the Carnegie Classification.

UA offers top-value bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one of the lowest-cost online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in sports wellness related topics: a cheap Master of Arts in Kinesiology with Sport Management Teacher Certification. Delivered by the College of Continuing Studies, this is a 30-credit online master’s degree program requiring current teaching certification and GRE or MAT score for admission. Graduates “will be eligible for master’s-level teacher certification in Sport Management,” and will be prepared for careers in sport management roles, as well as in general sports performance areas. Skills gained include: communication, leadership, motivation and more. Completion of a Field Experience (practicum) and a Sport Management Internship are required. Sample courses include: Sociology of Sport; Techniques of Research; Administration of Athletics.

18. Morehead State University

Morehead, Kentucky

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Morehead State University (MSU, est. 1887) is a public institution originally founded as a private, religiously-affiliated teacher training school. The campus ranks for safety, and has an award-winning Recreation and Wellness Center, offering group fitness classes, outdoor adventure opportunities and more.

MSU offers low-cost associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one affordable online/ hybrid master’s degree program in sports wellness related topics: a cheap Master of Arts in Wellness Promotion (MAWP) with two relevant concentrations: Exercise Science; Exercise Physiology. This is a 30-credit online master’s degree program with a choice of 1- or 2-year study option, and choice of three tracks: thesis (2-year only); directed research; electives. It is suitable for individuals seeking roles as leaders in exercise prescription and health promotion, including helping others reduce chronic disease risk, prevent illness and injury, generally live a healthier life. Potential work environments include: clinics; college recreation/ wellness centers; commercial fitness clubs; community wellness facilities (e.g., YMCA); health departments; hospitals. Sample courses include: Research Methods in Kinesiology and Health; Applied Exercise Physiology; Advanced Exercise Prescription.

17. Lenoir-Rhyne University

Hickory, North Carolina

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Lenoir-Rhyne University (LR, est. 1825) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the North Carolina Synod/ Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Students participate on three campuses and online.

LR offers affordable bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in sports wellness related topics: a best-value Master of Science in Exercise Science (MSED). This is a fully-online, non-cohort, 33-credit master’s degree program with either full- or part-time studies and a choice of thesis and non-thesis tracks, and a required completion of a practicum. Lecturers are experts in: “sports nutrition; exercise/sport psychology; biomechanics, exercise physiology; testing and prescription; and research methodologies.” Students gain knowledge of the health benefits of exercise, nutrition, physical activity, etc., and increase their knowledge of biomechanics, human anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, etc. Career opportunity areas may include exercise physiology (clinical, corporate, industrial, sport), nutrition, fitness programs (evaluation, management, administration). Sample courses include: Sport and Exercise Psychology; Human Movement and Biomechanics; Exercise Physiology. Prerequisites (undergrad level) include anatomy and physiology course work.

16. Logan University

Chesterfield, Missouri

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Logan University (Logan, est. 1935) is a private, nonprofit institution founded as a chiropractic college. It serves students on campus and online, delivering range of health sciences, natural sciences and other programs.

Logan offers inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate level degree programs. It has one low-cost online/ hybrid master’s degree program in sports wellness related topics: a Master’s in Sports Science and Rehabilitation (MSSR). This is a 38- to 40-credit online master’s degree program with a local in-person internship/ practicum (choices: Sports and Exercise Science Practicum; Sports Emergency Care Practicum; Exercise Testing and Prescription Practicum; Active and Passive Upper Extremity Rehabilitation Practicum; Active and Passive Lower Extremity Rehabilitation Practicum). Graduates will be prepared for roles working with athletes, doing research and testing related to sports/ exercise/ fitness, and teaching. Sample courses include: Anatomy of Human Motion; Biomechanics; Exercise/ Cardiorespiratory Physiology.

15. Georgia Southern University

Statesboro, Georgia

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Georgia Southern University (GS, est. 1906) is a public institution and a member of the University System of Georgia. Students participate on three campuses and online.

GS offers affordable associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one cheap online/ hybrid master’s degree program in sports wellness related topics: an economical Master of Science in Kinesiology with two concentrations: Coaching Education (CE); Physical Education (PE). Delivered by the Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology within the Waters College of Health Professions, this is a 36-credit hybrid master’s degree program with Practicum or Capstone Research (varies on concentration) that is suitable for individuals with an interest in both general kinesiology principles and coaching or physical education. The CE option is designed for Level 5 coaches (as per the National Coaching Standards), and covers athletic training, coaching administration, coaching effectiveness and performance enhancement The PE option is for individuals with a current teaching certificate in Health and Physical Education.

14. Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

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Liberty University (Liberty, est. 1971) is a private, nonprofit unaffiliated Evangelical Christian institution. Founded by Dr. Jerry Falwell (deceased), once a noted televangelist, it is one of the largest universities in the world in this category, and it integrates a Christian worldview into its academic programs.

Liberty offers affordable associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has two low cost online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in sports wellness related topics:

• Master of Science in Exercise Science and Wellness (MSESW) with two specializations: Fitness and Performance; Nutrition and Wellness.
• Master of Science in Human Performance (MSHP) with four specializations: Clinical; Fitness and Wellness; Nutrition; Strength and Conditioning

Both cheap online master’s degree programs are expected to take about 1.5 years on average, and allow up to 50% transfer credits. The MSESW is a 100% online, 33-credit program and is suited to individuals seeking a carer as a wellness coach, nutrition and exercise specialist, human performance specialist, strength a conditioning coach, etc. Sample core courses include: Advanced Exercise Physiology; Statistical Analysis in Exercise Science – with customization through choice of specialization.

The MSHP is a 35-credit, hybrid program (requires two on-campus intensives of one week each). It is suited to a career as a clinical exercise physiologist, healthcare specialist, sports physiologist, sports scientist. It offers some study customization choices, depending on your area of interest.

13. Concordia University-Saint Paul

Saint Paul, Minnesota

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Concordia University-Saint Paul (CUSP, est. 1893) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. While a relatively small institution, it has had a steady increase in applications and enrollment for 12 of 13 years, and passed the 5K students mark for Fall 2018.

CUSP offers low-cost associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in sports wellness related topics: a cheap Master of Science in Exercise Science (MSES). This is a 33-credit online master’s degree program with 7-week online courses. It prepares current and future exercise science professionals with topics that include: applied exercise prescription; biomechanics; chronic disease prevention and management; exercise physiology and testing; health; metabolism; nutrition; sport and exercise psychology; strength and conditioning; etc. Potential careers for graduates of the MSES include: Athletic Trainer; Coach; Exercise Physiologist;l Occupational Therapist; Personal Trainer; Physical Therapist; Sports Nutritionist; Wellness Director. Sample courses include: Biomechanics in Exercise Science; Exercise Physiology; Strength and Conditioning. A Master’s Capstone is required, and an option for Graduate Study Abroad is available as well.

12. University of Western States

Portland, Oregon

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University of Western States (UWS, est. 1904) is a private, nonprofit institution that claims the status of being the second oldest chiropractic college worldwide. It primarily delivers degrees in health care/ health sciences.

UWS offers best-value bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has two of the cheapest online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in sports wellness related topics:

• Master of Science in Sports Medicine (MSSM; hybrid)
• Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology (MSSPP)
• NOTE: The Master of Science in Exercise and Sport Science) program is discontinued as of Feb 2019

The MSSM is a best-value hybrid program of 60.5 quarter credits (40.3 semester credits), with an estimated timeline of 1.5-2 years. Practicing clinicians can reduce their credit requirements to 38 quarter credits. This is suited for individuals planning to become health care professionals who want to specialize in working with athletes. For example, chiropractic physicians. Sample courses include: Exercise Physiology; Sport Psychology.

The MSSPP is an economical online program of 53 quarter credits (35.3 semester credits), with an estimated timeline of 1.5 years. This is suited to individuals who need to achieve top performance out of athletes using “positive and applied sports psychology.” In fact, Positive Coaching is a concentration option. Potential work environments include not just sports/ exercise but also mental health counseling or wellness. Sample courses include: Applied Sport Psychology; Psychological Preparation and Mental Skills Training.

11. Southern Utah University

Cedar City, Utah

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Southern Utah University (SUU, est. 1897) is a public institution and a member of the Utah System of Higher Education. Originally founded as a teacher training school, it serves students on-campus and online. Students who must come to campus for on-site sessions and workshops can take advantage of many outdoor recreational areas, both at SUU and nearby National Park Service locations.

SUU offers affordable associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 160 low-cost degree programs in total. It has one inexpensive online/ hybrid master’s degree program in sports wellness related topics: a cheap Master of Science in Sports Conditioning and Performance (MS-SCP) Delivered by the Department of Kinesiology and Outdoor Recreation within the College of Education and Human Development, this is a 33-credit, hybrid master’s degree program combining online courses plus three summer intensives (includes 1-2 weeks per session of clinical workshops on campus). A thesis is required. Those who can benefit from this program include: athletic trainers; coaches (including for strength and conditioning); personal trainers; physical educators; physical therapists; etc. Sample elective courses include: Athletic Training and Sports Medicine; Motor Skill Acquisition; Bioenergetics and Sport Nutrition.

10. Concordia University-Irvine

Irvine, California

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Concordia University-Irvine (CUI, est. 1976) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod and a member of the Concordia University System. Programs are integrated with a Lutheran Christian principles, and students participate on two campuses and online.

CUI offers low-cost associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one cheap online/ hybrid master’s degree program in sports wellness related topics: a 36-credit affordable Master of Science in Coaching and Exercise Science (MSCES). This is a 36-credit online master’s degree program that requires completion of a Culminating Project. Sample online elective courses include: Sport Medicine and Performance; Advanced Strength, Speed and Conditioning; Exercise Physiology for Sport; Biomechanics for Sport. The curriculum also offers a series of “Applied Exercise Science and Strategies” courses for over a dozen sports and activities, which allows students to gain the Exercise Science skills relevant to a sport of their interest. Alternatives: on-campus Master of Arts in Coaching and Athletics Administration (MCAA). Note: CUI is no longer taking applications for their Master of Science in Athletic Training.

9. University of Central Missouri

Warrensburg, Missouri

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University of Central Missouri (UCM, est. 1871) is a public institution. Originally a teacher training school, students now study a variety of subjects on three campuses and online.

UCM offers inexpensive bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one of the lowest-cost online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in sports wellness related topics: a cheap Master of Science in Kinesiology with two options: Pedagogy; Sport Management. This is a 30- to 33-credit online master’s degree program that has a required Internship. It is suitable to individuals with a combined interest in kinesiology and either teaching physical education or being involved in sport management. An internship is required for the SM option, but the Pedagogy option has a choice of thesis or internship tracks. Sample core online courses include: Statistics in Kinesiology; Introduction to Research in Kinesiology. Alternatives: an Exercise Science option (30-33 cr) for this Master’s is launching Summer 2019 and is currently only available on-campus, but maybe offered online in the future, ; on-campus MS in Athletic Training.

8. Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, Texas

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Sam Houston State University (SHSU, est. 1879) is a public institution and a member of the Texas State University System. Originally founded as a teacher training school, it serves students on two campuses and online, with the main campus designated by security company ASecureLife.com as being the safest in the state (#28 nationally).

SHSU offers affordable bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – nearly 140 low-cost degree programs in total. It has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in sports wellness related topics: a cheap Master of Science in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Sport and Human Performance. This is a 30- to 36-credit hybrid master’s degree program that requires one- to two-day lab sessions on campus each semester, and other possible on-site presence, as necessary. It is suitable for individuals interested in “movement-related” careers that involve any of the following: athletic performance improvement; college coaching; commercial fitness; corporate wellness; personal training. Students have a choice between internship and non-internship tracks, both of which have a Lab Practicum and are non-thesis. Sample core courses include: Advanced Physiology of Exercise; Advanced Biomechanics; Significance of Motor Learning.

7. Texas Woman’s University

Denton, Texas

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Texas Woman’s University (TWU, est. 1901) is a public institution and is one of the largest women’s colleges in the country. Designated a women’s college, and an active member of the Women’s College Coalition, it has been coeducational since 1994, though still primarily hosts a significant female enrollment.

TWU offers low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one affordable online/ hybrid master’s degree program in sports wellness related topics: a Master of Science in Kinesiology with three concentrations:

• Coaching
• Adapted Physical Activity: Adapted Physical Education (APE) – for students with teacher certification in physical or special education, or related subjects
• Adapted Physical Activity: Adapted Sport and Fitness (ASF) – for students not seeking teacher certification

This is a 36-credit online or hybrid master’s degree program (depending on track) and is suited to individuals with a combined interest of kinesiology and coaching or physical education. The coaching option is non-thesis while APA options offer a choice of thesis, non-thesis, professional project or capstone experience. Graduates of the coaching track may find work opportunities such as athletic director, community sports director, high school or college coach, sport trainer, professional instructor. APA-track graduates are qualified for roles such as a teacher of adapted physical education or specialist in adapted sport and fitness for special populations.

6. Augusta University

Augusta, Georgia

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Augusta University (Augusta, est. 1828) is a public institution and a member of the University System of Georgia. Formed from the merger of two universities, it currently serves students on five campuses/ satellite campuses and online, with female students making up about 62% of enrollees.

Augusta offers affordable associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – around 160 inexpensive degree programs in total. It has one low-cost online/ hybrid master’s degree program in sports wellness related topics: a cheap Master of Science in Kinesiology (MSK). This is a 36-credit master’s degree program with a choice of thesis or non-thesis tracks. The thesis track is blended, requiring an in-person oral defense, with some online courses but with any two semesters attended on-campus for applied research and related work. The non-thesis track is 100% online (launching Fall 2019), but involves an internship and completion of a comprehensive exam. Applicants to this program come from several backgrounds: allied health; exercise science; health science; medicine; nutrition; physical education/ coaching pedagogy. Curriculum topics build upon knowledge of “exercise science, health, physical activity and sports coaching.” Sample courses include: Behavioral Aspects of Physical Activity; Trends and Issues in Kinesiology and Health Sciences; Motor Control and Learning. Students have access to two labs: PEDAL – Physiology, Exercise, Diet and Locomotion Lab; NESL – Nutrition, Stress and Exercise Lab

5. University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Edinburg, Texas

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University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV, est. 2013) is a public institution and a member of the University of Texas System. Formed from the operations merger of two older U of Texas institutions, it is now one of the largest Hispanic-majority in the country by enrollment. It is also an HSI (Hispanic-Serving Institution) based on undergrad enrollment metrics.

UTRGV offers inexpensive bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one cheap online/ hybrid master’s degree program in sports wellness related topics: a low-cost Master of Science (MS) in Kinesiology. Delivered by the Department of Health and Kinesiology, this is a 36-credit, 100% online program with a choice of thesis or non-thesis tracks. It is intended for professionals who will be involved in roles that involve the promotion physical activity and wellness as means of achieving healthy lifestyles. Sample online elective courses include: Motor Learning; Advanced Biomechanics; Kinesiology Internship; Internship in Sport. Alternatives: on-campus Master of Science in Exercise Science (thesis or project).

4. Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, Florida

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Florida Atlantic University (FAU, est. 1961) is a public institution and a member of the State University System of Florida. Students participate on multiple campuses and online.

FAU offers economical associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs in sports wellness related topics: a cheap Master of Science in Exercise Science and Health Promotion (MS-ESHP), Health Promotion (HP) track. This is a fully online, 36-credit master’s degree program combining exercise science with fitness/ health education, with an optional thesis. Potential career settings for graduates include: college wellness programs; corporate health programs; health clinics; hospitals; nonprofit organizations; public health offices; schools; social service agencies; etc. Some roles may require professional certification as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES). Sample HP track courses include: Health Behavior, Health Education, and Health Promotion; Epidemiological Basis of Health.

3. Texas A and M University-Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi, Texas

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Texas A and M University-Corpus Christi (TAMU-CC, est. 1947) is a public institution (originally private, Baptist) and a member of the Texas A and M University System. Located near the Gulf of Mexico, this is an ideal location to visit for students who enjoy water sports and activities, as well as cycling.

TAMU-CC offers low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 80 in total. It places third in our ranking of the best, most affordable online master’s degrees in sports wellness related topics and has one relevant program: a top-value Master of Science in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Sport Science. Delivered by the College of Education and Human Development, this is a 36-credit master’s degree program (online or hybrid) with thesis or non-thesis track options, and a choice of fully online or hybrid delivery. This is suited to students interested in careers involving aspects of athletic performance, possibly including: assessment of sport performance; biomechanics; exercise physiology; leadership/management of sport; motor performance; nutrition; sport psychology; strength and conditioning. Sample online courses include: Sport Physiology; Sport Biomechanics; Principles of Strength and Conditioning. The non-thesis option allows further choice between a Graduate Research Project or elective courses. The thesis track requires completion of a comprehensive exam. Both tracks have a Capstone Experience. Note: No F-1 visas will be issued for this online master’s.

2. Midwestern State University

Wichita Falls, Texas

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Midwestern State University (MSU, est. 1922) is a public institution with diverse student population, with the 2nd largest group being Hispanic/ LatinX (>19%) and African American/ Black (>14%), with a slightly larger female base (61.5% vs 38.5% male).

MSU offers cheap bachelor’s and master’s level degrees programs. It comes in second in our ranking of the best, most affordable online master’s degrees in sports wellness related topics and has one relevant program: a low-cost Master of Science in Exercise Physiology (MSEP) with optional minor in Cycling Performance. Delivered by the Robert D. and Carol Gunn College of Health Sciences and Human Services, this is a blended, 30- to 36-credit master’s degree program with thesis (30cr) and non-thesis (36cr) track options. Both tracks require completion of a Graduate Internship in Exercise Physiology. The curriculum covers applied physiology and sports medicine. Career areas could include: allied health; athletic training; college coaching (strength and conditioning); worksite health promotion. Sample elective courses include: Advanced Exercise Physiology and Assessment; Clinical Exercise Physiology; Chronic Disease and Prevention; The Science Behind Injury and Rehabilitation. Alternatives: on-campus Master of Rehabilitation Counseling (MRC) program.

1. University of Texas of the Permian Basin

Odessa, Texas

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University of Texas of the Permian Basin (UTPB, est. 1973) is a public institution and a member of the University of Texas System. It serves students on multiple campuses and online. While not an HSI (Hispanic-Serving Institution) like some of the larger universities in Texas, Hispanic/ LatinX students do make up the second-largest enrollment group (over 19%). African American/ Black students make up the third-largest group (over 14%).

UTPB offers economical bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. It is first in our ranking of the best, most affordable online master’s degrees in sports wellness related topics and has one relevant program: a cheap Master of Science in Kinesiology with three interest areas:

• Exercise Science
• Psychology of Sport
• Teaching, Coaching, and Administration

This is a minimum 30- or 33-credit online or hybrid (choice) master’s degree program with a choice of thesis or master’s project tracks. Students can choose one of the above interest areas, depending on the type of work they’ll seek after graduation. Sample core online courses include: Exercise Physiology; Sport Psychology; Exercise Psychology.