MSc in Kinesiology and Health Studies (Thesis-Based)
A High-Demand Health Master's Opportunity for International Students – Fall 2026 Intake
Many international students with backgrounds in Nursing, Medicine, Public Health, Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation, and Health Sciences want to pursue a Master’s degree in health-related fields in Canada.
However, one major challenge students face is that very few Canadian universities offer health-related master's programs open to international applicants. Many Public Health or Nursing master’s programs are highly competitive or restricted, making it difficult for international health graduates to secure admission.
The Master of Science (MSc) in Kinesiology and Health Studies provides a strong alternative pathway for students interested in health research, healthcare systems, rehabilitation science, and public health environments.
Because of this, the program has high international demand among healthcare and nursing graduates.
Program Overview
Program Name
Master of Science (MSc) in Kinesiology and Health Studies
Program Type
Research-Based Master's Program (Thesis)
Duration
2 – 3 Years
Intake
Fall Intake (September)
Next Recommended Intake
Fall 2026
Why This Program is Important for International Health Students
This program is particularly valuable for students who want to build careers in:\
- Healthcare systems
- Public health research
- Rehabilitation sciences
- Exercise and health science
- Health policy and leadership
Unlike many research master's programs, students can apply without securing a supervisor in advance.
If admitted, the department may assign a research supervisor or help match students with faculty members.
This makes the program more accessible for international applicants.
Program Specializations
Students specialize in one of the following research areas.
Bio-Sciences in Sport, Exercise and Health
This specialization focuses on scientific aspects of human health and performance.
Research areas include:
- Human physiology
- Exercise science
- Physical performance
- Rehabilitation science
Humanities and Social Sciences in Sport, Leisure, Exercise and Health
This area examines social and behavioral aspects of health.
Topics include:
- Health behaviour research
- Social determinants of health
- Community health studies
- Lifestyle and wellness research
Management in Sport, Leisure, Exercise and Health
This specialization focuses on leadership and management within health and recreation environments.
Research areas include:
- Health and recreation management
- Sports administration
- Organizational leadership in health sectors
Health Studies (Recommended for Health Background Students)
This specialization is ideal for students from Nursing, Medicine, Public Health, and Physiotherapy backgrounds.
Key research areas include:
- Epidemiology and health research
- Healthcare systems
- Physical activity and chronic disease
- Rehabilitation and therapeutic recreation
- Disability studies
What Students Learn
Graduate students conduct independent research projects related to health, exercise science, rehabilitation, or healthcare systems.
Students develop strong professional skills including:
- Research design
- Data analysis
- Health research methodologies
- Evidence-based healthcare decision making
Key Graduate Courses
Graduate Seminar
Students learn academic research techniques including literature reviews and scientific communication.
Research Design in Kinesiology and Health
Students study qualitative and quantitative research methodologies used in modern health research.
Admission Requirements
Academic Qualification
Applicants must have:
- A four-year bachelor’s degree
- Minimum 70% graduating average
Examples of equivalent qualifications:
- Indian First Division
- Nigerian Second Class Upper Division
Students from these academic backgrounds normally meet the academic requirements.
Suitable Academic Backgrounds
The program accepts students with degrees in fields such as:
- Nursing
- Medicine
- Public Health
- Physiotherapy
- Health Sciences
- Rehabilitation Sciences
- Exercise Science
- Biomedical Sciences
- Other related health disciplines
English Language Requirements
English testing may be required depending on the evaluation of previous education.
In many cases, applicants who completed their studies at English-medium institutions may receive a language exemption after review.
GMAT / GRE
The program does not require GMAT or GRE.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates from this program can work in a wide range of healthcare and research sectors.
Potential employers include:
- Healthcare systems
- Rehabilitation centres
- Public health organizations
- Government health agencies
- Sports medicine institutions
- Research and academic institutions
Examples of employers include:
- Provincial health authorities
- Hospitals and rehabilitation centres
- Primary care networks
- Government health departments
- Universities and research organizations
Possible Career Roles
Graduates may pursue careers such as:
- Health Researcher
- Exercise Physiologist
- Physiotherapist
- Health Policy Analyst
- Sports Health Consultant
- Academic Researcher
- University Professor
Why International Students Choose This Program
This program is attractive for international applicants because:
- One of the few research-based health master’s programs open to international students
- Accepts students from nursing and healthcare backgrounds
- Provides strong training in health systems and rehabilitation research
- Offers career opportunities in healthcare research and public health
- Provides a pathway to PhD studies and academic careers
Why Apply Early
International students are encouraged to apply early because:
- Limited Canadian universities offer health-related master's programs for international students
- Seats are competitive
- Early preparation improves admission success
Apply for Fall 2026 Intake
Students interested in pursuing health research, rehabilitation science, and healthcare leadership are encouraged to begin preparing their applications for the Fall 2026 intake.
Due to limited seats and high international demand, early application preparation is strongly recommended for students from India, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and other international markets.
For admission guidance, eligibility assessment, and application support, students can connect with the international education advisors at MakeStudy™.
Official Website:
https://www.makestudy.com/
Students can explore more Canada study opportunities, master's programs, and international admission guidance through the MakeStudy platform.