USM Faculty of Kinesiology & Diet Adjustments the Recreation, Enhances Teaching Diploma

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Mon, June 21, 2021 – 5:00 p.m. | By: Josh Stricklin

The University of Southern Mississippi’s School of Kinesiology and Nutrition (USM) has made a major change to the Master of Science program in Coaching and Sports Performance so students can graduate earlier and become more effective leaders and coaches.

Updates include:

  • Less course hours required (reduced from 36 to 30 hours)
  • Updated course offerings (click here to view the new course requirements)
  • No GRE or standardized test requirements (optional for additional admission points)
  • Students can apply at any time, as admission takes place every semester (autumn, spring and summer)

“In our revamped program, students will take fewer courses but experience more integrated content that reflects global trends and best practices in coach development and coaching practice,” said Dr. Melissa Thompson, professor at the School of Kinesiology and Nutrition. “Students will develop skills that will not only help them in their current coaching, but also those that will enable them to grow as the profession evolves.”

While many aspects of coaching and sports performance studies change, the School of Kinesiology and Nutrition’s commitment to academic excellence remains constant. Academic rigor, hands-on experience, and research opportunities have all contributed to USM’s regional and national reputation for excellence in preparing students for careers in sports. Accreditation by the National Committee for Accreditation of Coaching Education (NCACE), the leading agency for coaching education, ensures that USM is committed to meeting strict standards of assessment for quality through teaching from highly experienced instructors.

“Students will continue to have an exceptional educational experience that will provide the extensive knowledge and skills required for sports coaching,” said Dr. Scott Piland, director of the School of Kinesiology and Nutrition. “We pride ourselves on being one of only 13 NCACE-accredited programs in the country and will maintain the highest standards of coach education while finding ways to continually improve our offerings.”

Understanding that many coaching and athletic performance students are actively coaching while trying to improve their skills and education, the new program enhancements are designed to make it easier for smart and talented professionals to work, learn and grow at the same time. Trainers pursuing this degree study coaching methodology, sports psychology, and human performance to prepare them for success in a variety of sports situations. Graduates graduate from school with the best resources to become better leaders and great coaches. The best part is that it doesn’t interrupt their careers.

“The updated design of this master’s program is ideal for current trainers,” says Dr. Tom Hutchinson, Dean of Online Learning and Enrollment at USM. “With just 30 credit hours required and online availability, coaches can advance their careers and stay connected to the evolving methodologies of the profession without ever leaving their position.”

Amid these changes, the School of Kinesiology and Nutrition is also proud to be recognized by the U.S. Department of Health as a National Youth Sports Strategy Champion. Dr. Thompson notes, “The NYSS is raising awareness of the important role youth sports play in our society and the role of high quality coaching in those sports experiences. Southern Miss has teamed up as a champion for the NYSS to improve the coaching profession to improve the sporting experience for every athlete. ”

The Master of Science in Coaching and Sports Performance can help coaches gain a competitive advantage both in the field and in the job market. Trainers looking to take their skills and careers to the next level can find more information at usm.edu/graduate-programs/kinesiology-sport-coaching-education.php or online.usm.edu/graduate/sport-coaching-education- ms / for information on getting started online.