Kinesiology

专业介绍

The Kinesiology department’s mission is to research, teach, and apply knowledge related to movement, exercise, and human occupation with the ultimate goal of enhancing human health, productivity, and quality of life.

Students in the Kinesiology major take coursework grounded in the basic sciences (e.g., physiology, anatomy, biology) and in kinesiology. Core courses examine how the body responds to physical activity, the role of physiology and psychological factors in exercise, mechanics driving movement, how movement is controlled, learned, and developed over the lifespan, and the role of physical activity in overall health.

The curriculum includes coursework, engaging laboratory research opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences. Additionally, at least 11 credits of electives are required, giving students some flexibility to tailor the program to their specific interests. Examples of elective topics include strength and conditioning, leadership, health theory, athlete monitoring, clinical exercise prescription, and advanced courses in exercise physiology, exercise psychology, and biomechanics.

Kinesiology is a pre-professional program, meaning our coursework prepares our students well for subsequent graduate or professional pursuits in the allied health disciplines. The degree also prepares students for graduate programs in kinesiology and athletic training. Graduating seniors have reported acceptance into the following graduate programs: Doctor of Physical Therapy, Master of Public Health, Doctor of Medicine, Chiropractic School, Clinical Exercise Physiology, Biomedical Engineering, Master in Physician Assistant Studies, Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Master of Science in Exercise Science, Master of Science in Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology, and Dentistry.

Kinesiology graduates also pursue entry-level careers in a wide variety of professions, including in the areas of fitness, home health, and rehabilitation assistance. Recent graduates have reported taking on the following positions in their first year after graduating: strength and conditioning coach, medical scribe, rehabilitation aide, personal trainer, research assistant/specialist, physical therapy aide, nursing home caregiver, group exercise instructor, medical device sales, program facilitator, EKG technician, behavioral technician, project manager, well-being intern, AmeriCorps member, programming administrator, and glacier guide, among others.