Overview

The Motor Learning M.A. at Columbia University provides a comprehensive foundation in movement sciences, focusing on how functional skills are acquired and performed. This programme is designed for individuals from diverse backgrounds, including therapists, coaches, and movement practitioners, who wish to deepen their technical expertise. Students examine the behavioural and neural processes that underpin motor control across the human lifespan.

Why Motor Learning at Columbia University?

This programme is distinguished by its focus on bridging the gap between movement science theory and clinical or educational practice. Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates substantive research with practical laboratory work, allowing for a coherent understanding of neuromotor processes. The university provides a flexible academic structure, enabling students to tailor their studies across specialisations such as applied exercise physiology and physical education to meet specific professional goals.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 19179 per semester
National fee: USD 19179 per semester
Local fee: USD 19179 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of core coursework, substantive study, and laboratory-based learning. Modules may include:

Neuromuscular response and adaptation to exercise
Brain and Behavior
Motor control systems
Research design in the movement sciences
Motor learning
Motor Development Across the Lifespan
Biomechanical Analysis of Human Movement
Research Training Seminar

Careers with Motor Learning

Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for advanced roles in various health and movement-related industries. The degree serves as a significant credential for those working as physical or occupational therapists, athletic trainers, and professional coaches. Many students use the programme as a stepping stone for entry into medical school or as preparation for doctoral-level research in kinesiology and rehabilitation sciences. The skills gained are also highly applicable for practitioners of the Feldenkrais Method, Alexander technique, Pilates, and dance instruction.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Neuromuscular response and adaptation to exercise
Brain and Behavior I: Communication in the nervous system
Bases of motor control systems
Research design in the movement sciences
Motor development across the lifespan
Biomechanical analysis of human movement
Applied anatomy and biomechanics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-11-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-05-20 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-15 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-07-01 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2027-05-15 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

Credits

32 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

Sport and Exercise Science View 458 other Masters in Sport and Exercise Science in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

Online Degree Application, including Statement of Purpose and Resume
Transcripts and/or Course-by-Course Evaluations for all Undergraduate/Graduate Coursework Completed
Results from an accepted English Proficiency Exam (if applicable)
$75 Application Fee
Two (2) Letters of Recommendation

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

38358 USD / year

≈ 38358 USD / year
Out-of-State

38358 USD / year

≈ 38358 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

38358 USD / year

≈ 38358 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Motor Learning.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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