USM School of Kinesiology & Nutrition Changes the Game, Enhances Coaching Degree
Mon, 06/21/2021 - 05:00pm | By: Josh Stricklin
The University of 51逗奶 Mississippi鈥檚 (USM) School of Kinesiology and Nutrition
has made substantial changes to the Master of Science in coaching and sport performance
program, allowing students to earn their degrees sooner and become more effective
leaders and coaches.
Updates include:
- Fewer course hours required (reduced from 36 to 30 hours)
- Updated course offerings ()
- No GRE or standardized test requirements (optional for additional admission points)
- Students can apply anytime because admission occurs every semester (fall, spring and summer)
鈥淚n our revised program, students will take fewer classes but experience more integrated content that reflects global trends and best practices in coach development and coaching practice,鈥� said Dr. Melissa Thompson, professor in the School of Kinesiology and Nutrition. 鈥淪tudents will develop skills that not only help them in their current coaching, but also those that will allow them to keep growing as the profession evolves.鈥�
While many aspects of the coaching and sport performance degree are changing, the
School of Kinesiology and Nutrition鈥檚 commitment to academic excellence remains consistent.
Academic rigor, hands-on experiences and research opportunities have contributed to
USM鈥檚 regional and national reputation for excellence in preparing students for careers
in the world of sport. Accreditation from the (NCACE), the premier authority on the education of coaches, ensures USM is committed
to meeting rigorous evaluation standards for quality through teaching from highly-experienced
faculty.
鈥淪tudents will continue to gain an exceptional educational experience that provides
comprehensive coverage of the important knowledge and skills necessary for sport coaching,鈥�
said Dr. Scott Piland, director of the School of Kinesiology and Nutrition. 鈥淲e are
proud to be one of only 13 NCACE accredited programs in the country and will uphold
the highest standards for coaching education while finding ways to continuously improve
our offerings.鈥�
With the understanding that many students in the coaching and sport performance graduate program are actively working as coaches while also trying to advance their skills and education, the new program improvements are intended to make it easier for bright and talented professionals to work, learn and grow simultaneously. Coaches who pursue this degree study coaching methodology, sport psychology and human performance to prepare them to succeed in a variety of sport settings. Graduates finish school equipped with the best resources for becoming better leaders and outstanding coaches. The best part is their careers are not interrupted in the process.
鈥淭he updated design of this master鈥檚 program is ideal for current coaches,鈥� says Dr. Tom Hutchinson, dean of online learning and enrollment at USM. 鈥淲ith only 30 required credit hours and online availability, coaches can progress in their careers and remain connected to the evolving methods of the profession without having to leave their positions.鈥�
In the midst of these changes, the School of Kinesiology and Nutrition is also proud to be recognized by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as a . Dr. Thompson notes, 鈥淭he NYSS raises awareness about the important role of youth sports in our society and the role of quality coaching in those sport experiences. 51逗奶 Miss has partnered as a champion for the NYSS to help elevate the profession of coaching to improve sport experiences for every athlete.鈥�
The Master of Science in coaching and sport performance degree can help coaches gain a competitive edge both on the field and in the job market. Coaches interested in taking their skills and career to the next level can find more information by visiting usm.edu/graduate-programs/kinesiology-sport-coaching-education.php or for information about getting started online.