King’s Launches Sports Science Master’s Program, Hosts Regional Human Performance Conference

King’s College today launched a new Master of Science in Performance and Sports Science in advance of its first Health and Human Performance Conference on Oct. 4, 2024.

The new master’s program offers advanced instruction on exercise science, data analysis, biomechanics, nutrition, and sports psychology, with a special emphasis on compatibility with the new National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) certification for Performance and Sports Science (CPSS).

The program is led by Jan Kretzschmar, Ph.D., a distinguished expert in sports science and one of fewer than 300 individuals worldwide to hold the CPSS.

“With a growing emphasis industry-wide on evidence-based practices and specialized certifications, the CPSS has become the gold standard for professionals in the strength and conditioning domain,” said Dr. Kretzschmar. “By aligning our program with this certification, we position our graduates at the forefront of the industry trends, making them especially attractive in today’s job market.”

This master’s program features a completely online and flexible learning model that is designed for working professionals. Students can complete the 36-credit degree in one to two years, and are free to enter during the fall, spring, or summer semesters.

Graduates with a master's degree in performance and sports science often excel as performance analysts for professional sports teams, strength and conditioning coaches, sports scientists at research institutions, and fitness program directors in health and wellness organizations.

For more information on the program, visit www.kings.edu/performance or contact Dr. Kretzschmar at jankretzschmar@kings.edu.

“One of the best features of this program is the opportunity to connect with a worldwide network of top sports scientists who work directly with elite athletes,” said Dr. Kretzschmar. “It’s thanks to that network we were able to host our first Health and Human Performance Conference this October.”

The event includes a special King’s-sponsored event on Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., followed by the NCSA’s state-wide conference on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Both events are in the Scandlon Physical Education Center at 150 N. Main Street in Wilkes-Barre.

The conference includes a lecture on strongman competition training taught by world record holder Bobby Thompson, a recovery management module taught by multi medal-winning hammer thrower and Olympic silver medalist in rugby Jennifer Joyce, and a hypertrophy discussion led by King’s College alumnus Jordan Downes, who graduated from the Master of Science in Nutrition Science program.