Woman looking out over open water after exercise

Master of Arts in Human Kinetics (MAHK)

Why choose human kinetics?

Lead innovation in sport, leisure, health and physical activity

The MA in human kinetics program at uOttawa prepares you to tackle complex challenges in sport, physical activity, leisure and health through rigorous research and interdisciplinary collaboration. Studying in Canada’s capital offers you unparalleled access to national organizations and federal agencies, uniquely positioning you to influence policy and practice.

Become a catalyst for positive change

Gain critical research and practical skills to become a leader capable of achieving meaningful improvements in community health, sport management and beyond. When you graduate, you’ll be prepared to advocate for evidence-based practices and informed policies in diverse professional settings.

Sitara Sharma

“From rigorous theory/methods training to hands-on thesis mentorship, the MAHK program sharpened my research-teaching toolkit and strengthened my ability to advance community health and wellness.”

Sitara Sharma

— PhD Candidate, Human Kinetics

What to expect

  • In-depth thesis research: Engage in original research guided by expert faculty mentors.
  • Bilingual and interdisciplinary opportunities: Experience a rich, collaborative academic environment that cuts across disciplines.
  • Hands-on mentorship: Receive personalized support as you sharpen your research skills and advance your career objectives.
  • Real-world connections: Leverage uOttawa’s unique position in Canada’s capital to access national sport, health and policy organizations.
Two women present using a flip chart in a boardroom with several people watching

Key learning outcomes

A boardroom with people in a meeting and people on tv screens

Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills

  • Analytical reasoning: Acquire the ability to assess and address complex issues in sport, leisure, physical activity and health through scientific inquiry and applied research.
  • Data interpretation: Critically evaluate the existing literature and generate new knowledge to tackle real-world challenges in human kinetics.
  • Real-world application: Learn to translate evidence-based research into innovative, practical solutions.
A boardroom with people in a meeting and people on tv screens

Refine your academic and research writing skills

  • Effective communication: Strengthen your ability to clearly articulate complex ideas in scientific writing, including research papers, grant proposals and policy briefs.
  • Technical writing mastery: Develop clear, coherent, precise writing skills to effectively reach academic audiences and key decision-makers.
  • Presentation and speaking skills: Enhance your ability to deliver confident, engaging presentations for thesis defenses, academic conferences, and public audiences.
A sports team huddles with the sun shining in the background

Engage in interdisciplinary research and collaboration

  • Integrative perspective: Work at the intersection of psychology, sociology, education and management to broaden your expertise in human kinetics.
  • Social awareness: Deepen your understanding of how social and cultural factors influence sport, movement, and physical activity across diverse populations.
  • Cross-disciplinary mentorship: Benefit from collaborative interactions with faculty experts across diverse fields, enriching your critical thinking and adaptability.

Career opportunities

A group of men and women dance with smiles on their faces

The MAHK program prepares students to lead and innovate in sport, leisure, health, and physical activity. Through rigorous research and interdisciplinary collaboration, students gain the skills to drive positive change in community health and sport management. Studying in Canada's capital provides unique access to national organizations and federal agencies.

Graduates pursue impactful careers in:

  • Sport policy and governance
  • Community health and wellness
  • Academic research and teaching
  • Sport and leisure management
  • Non-profit advocacy

Take the next step

Start your journey with the essential tools and resources to help you plan your academic path and achieve your goals.