The Biomechanics major at Marshall University, housed within the School of Health and Movement Sciences (SHMS), provides a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary approach to the study of human movement. Combining anatomical, physiological, and mechanical principles, this program prepares students to analyze movement patterns, assess performance, and apply biomechanical concepts to real-world challenges in healthcare, sports, and rehabilitation.

Students engage in a dynamic curriculum that integrates foundational sciences with specialized biomechanics coursework, fostering expertise in motion analysis, neuromechanics, and applied research techniques. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, utilizing state-of-the-art technology such as force platforms, motion capture systems, and wearable sensors to develop critical problem-solving and analytical skills.

Graduates of the Biomechanics major are equipped for careers in rehabilitation sciences, research, technical support, safety, sports performance, and equipment development. Additionally, this program provides an excellent foundation for students pursuing graduate education in biomechanics, physical therapy, athletic training, prosthetics and orthotics, or other allied health professions. Through research opportunities and collaborations with industry partners, students gain practical experience and emerge as leaders in movement science and human performance optimization.

Admission Requirements

Prospective students must meet the minimum criteria listed below to be considered for admission to the program: 

• Admission to Marshall University Graduate School,
• Declare a Health and Movement Sciences major of biomechanics, exercise physiology, sports science, or strength and conditioning,
• An Undergraduate Grade Point Average of 2.75 or higher on a 4.0 scale for all previously completed undergraduate university work,
• An appropriate undergraduate/graduate background that includes human anatomy, human physiology, exercise physiology, and physics,
• Three letters of reference;
• Personal statement; and
• A scholarly writing sample.

Acceptance into the M.S. Health and Movement Sciences program is competitive and not guaranteed.

Students are restricted to twelve semester hours of transfer credit from other institutions and limited to a maximum of nine semester hours taught at the 500 level.

Graduation Requirements

Completion of one of the following approved by your academic advisor:

(1)  ESS 681 Thesis

(2) oral presentation of  ESS 660 Internship & pilot research project

(3) graduate project

Course Requirements

Course List

Code	Title	Credit Hours
ESS 621	Adv Exercise Physiology I	3
ESS 670	Research Meth in Kinesiology	3
HS 535	Biomech Instrument MatLab	3
HS 566	Biomechanical Analysis	3
HS 610	Adv Biomechanics	3
HS 615	Kinematic Analysis App Biomech	3
HS 635	Kinetics in Biomech	3
HS 650	Human Gait	3
STA 518	Biostatistics	3
Restricted Elective		3
ESS 681	Thesis	6
or ESS 660	Internship
Total Credit Hours		36

Plan of Study

Plan of Study Grid

First Year
First Semester		Credit Hours
ESS 670	Research Meth in Kinesiology	3
HS 615	Kinematic Analysis App Biomech	3
HS 635	Kinetics in Biomech	3
	Credit Hours	9
Second Semester
HS 535	Biomech Instrument MatLab	3
Restricted Elective		3
STA 518	Biostatistics	3
	Credit Hours	9
Second Year
First Semester
HS 566	Biomechanical Analysis	3
ESS 621	Adv Exercise Physiology I	3
HS 681 Thesis or HS 660 Internship		3
	Credit Hours	9
Second Semester
HS 610	Adv Biomechanics	3
HS 650	Human Gait	3
HS 681 Thesis or HS 660 Internship		3
	Credit Hours	9
	Total Credit Hours	36