Motor Learning
The Motor Learning Master of Education program at Columbia University is a two-year, full-time graduate program designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of human movement, motor skill acquisition, and the principles of learning in physical activity contexts. The curriculum integrates concepts from neuroscience, kinesiology, biomechanics, and psychology to explore how individuals develop, refine, and retain motor skills across the lifespan. Students engage with research-based approaches to optimize motor performance, design instructional strategies, and develop interventions that enhance learning in athletic, educational, and rehabilitation settings.
Columbia’s program combines rigorous theoretical study with applied experiences in laboratory and field environments. Students examine factors affecting motor learning, including cognitive processes, sensory feedback, and physical conditioning, while gaining hands-on experience in assessment, analysis, and instructional design. The curriculum emphasizes the translation of research into practice, providing students with opportunities to implement evidence-based strategies in schools, clinics, sports organizations, and community programs. Faculty mentorship and collaborative projects further enhance the development of professional skills, analytical reasoning, and critical thinking in the context of applied motor learning.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Motor Learning
- Degree Type: Master of Education
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 November 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Sport and Exercise Science
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Motor Learning and Performance
- Principles of Motor Control and Coordination
- Human Physiology and Neuromuscular Function
- Biomechanics and Movement Analysis
- Research Methods in Sport and Exercise Science
Year 2 – Applied Motor Learning and Intervention
- Motor Skill Acquisition and Performance Enhancement
- Assessment and Evaluation Techniques
- Elective: Rehabilitation, Sport Psychology, or Cognitive-Motor Interaction
- Capstone Project or Applied Research Study
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in rehabilitation centers, athletic training facilities, educational institutions, and sport science research organizations. Many become motor learning specialists, movement analysts, athletic trainers, or physical education consultants, applying scientific principles to improve performance and facilitate skill development. Others pursue doctoral programs in kinesiology, neuroscience, or physical therapy, building on the strong methodological and applied foundation gained through the program. The combination of research experience, applied practice, and interdisciplinary knowledge equips graduates to design and implement programs that optimize motor learning and physical performance in diverse populations.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to develop expertise in human movement, skill acquisition, and evidence-based instructional strategies in physical activity and rehabilitation. Columbia University offers a rigorous academic environment, state-of-the-art laboratories, and mentorship from leading experts in sport and exercise science. The two-year curriculum balances theoretical study with applied practice, preparing graduates to implement innovative motor learning programs, evaluate performance outcomes, and contribute to research in the field. For those committed to advancing the science of human movement and enhancing learning across athletic, educational, and clinical contexts, this program provides the knowledge, skills, and professional network necessary to achieve meaningful impact.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
