What will I learn in a kinesiology degree program?

If you want to better understand the mechanics of the human body and use that knowledge to improve health and wellness in your community, a bachelor's degree in kinesiology is for you.

Learning outcomes

A degree in kinesiology teaches students to understand the human body and the science behind how it moves. Kinesiologists often focus on promoting health and well being through injury prevention and rehabilitation. An understanding of kinesiology can prepare you for work in athletic fields, like training and coaching, education, or the medical field.

The kinesiology major also teaches you to understand health data and to communicate that data to diverse audiences, such as other medical professionals, clients and the community. You'll take courses in topics including human anatomy and physiology, exercise and training, the psychology of activity, and more.

In addition, as part of the School of Public Health, the bachelor's degree in kinesiology includes core courses in public health such as epidemiology, biostatistics and community health sciences. As a result, graduates with a degree in kinesiology have a well-rounded understanding of community health and wellness and are equipped to pursue careers in fields from health care to education to business.

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The School of Public Health is for anyone who is passionate about pursuing a career in the health industry. Learn more about the faculty who will be teaching your classes, our research and how you can get involved. 

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Explore specialized topics in Kinesiology

Students may select any electives that align with their individual interests from a wide range of topics, such as medical terminology, health and wellness communication, exercise for individuals with chronic disease, team and individual sports, movement for children and teaching education. 

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Careers with a degree in kinesiology

The bachelor of science in kinesiology prepares you for careers in the health and fitness fields as well as graduate education in exercise sciences, pre-professional schools like physical therapy or medical school, and physical education.

Students in the E. L. Wiegand Fitness Center, in the foreground two students are carrrying weighted loads up a set of stairs

Some possible careers for graduates with a degree in kinesiology include:

  • Athletic trainer: Trainers work with all kinds of athletes, from young children to professional athletes, to help them stay strong and healthy. Trainers focus on the spectrum of wellness, from conditioning and injury prevention, to injury treatment and rehabilitation. Athletic trainers generally need at least a bachelor's degree, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects much faster than average job growth for trainers from 2020 to 2030. Median pay in 2021: $48,420 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
  • Exercise physiologist: These professionals typically work in hospitals or private practice, with a focus on helping sick or injured patients recover. They may also work with patients in a preventative capacity to help improve heart or lung health. Median pay in 2021: $47,940 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
  • Physical therapist: Physical therapists must hold a doctoral degree in the field, and physical therapy programs typically require a bachelor's degree in a related field, like kinesiology, for admissions. Physical therapists work with ill or injured individuals to help them regain movement, manage pain and improve their overall health and wellness. Median pay in 2021: $95,620 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

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