First of its kind: new master of professional kinesiology program at U of T

The Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education will launch the master of professional kinesiology (MPK) program in August. 2016 – the first program of its kind in the province. 

“MPK students will gain advanced knowledge and skills in the professional practice of kinesiology through exposure to diverse learning environments, interprofessional health care teams and top scholars,” says Professor Scott Thomas, one of the developers of the MPK program.

“Through a mix of classroom, case-based, laboratory and experiential educational offerings, we will take full advantage of the networks of expertise and breadth of populations in the GTA.” 

The Faculty received approval from the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities to introduce the program, on the heels of Ontario becoming the first province in Canada to regulate kinesiology as a health profession. 

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The MPK will appeal to new graduates as well as registered kinesiologists looking for advanced, professional development through the 16-month, course-based program, Thomas said. 

Some of the settings students will encounter include hospitals, clinics, sport institutes and community organizations working with elite athletes; children and youth of varying abilities; the aging and elderly; those living with chronic disease, concussion or musculoskeletal challenges. 

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“This is a tremendous advancement for our Faculty” says Acting Dean Gretchen Kerr. “With the growing recognition of the value of physical activity for health and wellness across the lifespan, research-informed practice in kinesiology is more important than ever.

“This new MPK programme uniquely integrates theory, research, and practice through leading-edge experiential education and community engagement opportunities. It is exciting to be a part of developing leaders in the field.” 

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