Grad School Quick Facts

Many students in the kinesiology department are interested in applying to graduate school programs and this sheet provides some brief information on what goes into applying.

How do I find a graduate program?

Many students in the kinesiology department apply to graduate programs in varied fields and degrees. These can include clinical path program in physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant, medical school, and more. Research-based graduate programs in STEM fields (M.S. or Ph.D.). Education training programs such as Physical Education Licensing. Programs that prepare students to work in the athletics field such as Athletic Training and Strength and Conditioning. Great first steps to to research graduate programs are website searches on specific programs and speaking with career advisors, pre-health advisors, program advisors and peers. As there are several graduate programs out there, it is important to start looking early so you can find programs that are the right fit for you.

I found graduate programs that I like. Now what?

There are several important steps to take once you have decided on applying to graduate programs.

• Look at your program's specific prerequisite classes. The sequencing sheets provided by the advising team are a recommendation of typical classes required for programs and should be considered fa framework to plan from. You should able to determine the classes required for graduate schools from your program’s website.
• See if observation hours are required. Many programs require students to have observation hours in their area of interest. Some schools require 30 hours while others require 2,000, so it is important to check! Observation hours can be completed through internships, job positions (EMT, CNA, PT Aide and more) or volunteering
• Take the GRE (or MCAT or DAT). Some graduate programs require the GRE. This is best taken the summer between junior and senior year if you are planning on applying to programs during your senior year. GRE scores are good for up to five years, so it is recommended that you take them the summer after your junior or senior year while you are still in the school work mode.
  • The GRE is standardized electronic test, so it is very important to prepare for this exam in the proper context.
• Attend an information session. Most programs offer information sessions on campus or via zoom. These are very useful in determining if the program meets your expectations and if you can see yourself there. You may also want to use this opportunity to speak to current students about their experiences and connect with admissions staff.
• Ask questions. If you are unsure if any of your classes will count toward the prerequisites required by a program, you should contact the admissions office with a description of your class and the syllabus. The admissions offices are great ways to reach out with any concerns related to the application process!
• Start your applications early. Some programs go through common applications like PTCAS and OTCAS. The method for applying should be available on the program’s admission website.
  • Different programs have different deadlines, so it is important to check when each of your applications are due.
  • Line up references/letters of recommendation that meet the criteria established by the program.
    • A good rule of thumb is to ask for these early as you do not want to rush the person who is recommending you for a program.
    • A good reference is someone who can speak to your abilities and potential as a graduate student
  • Edit your essays and have your friends/family do the same! The UMass Writing Center and SPHHS Career Development are great resources to use during the writing process.