Kinesiology Program Overview

Kinesiology uses scientific theory and modern research methods to generate practical applications for the advancement of health, wellness, healthcare, and disease prevention. Evidence-based coursework in nutrition, exercise physiology, and the psychology of exercise and behavior contribute to students’ pursuit of both careers in health-related fields and a healthy lifestyle. Specifically, students in KNES will learn to practice healthy choices; demonstrate that health and wellness are necessary for improved quality of life; prepare to address contemporary health issues including health disparities; and master preventative health behaviors that mitigate and minimize chronic disease. Additionally, students will engage in research, collaborative projects, internships, and community outreach as they utilize contemporary practice and technology to serve others. Finally, KNES also prepares students entering allied health care professions where they will be trained to provide compassionate, therapeutic interventions and holistic health care.

 

Recommendation for First-Year Students

Students intending to major in kinesiology should enroll in BIOL 101 (Principles and Methods of Biology) in the fall of their freshman year. Kinesiology majors with specific post-graduation goals should consult with a kinesiology faculty member early in their academic careers to determine which degree and courses best meet their goals. High school graduates who have taken the Advanced Placement test may receive credit for BIOL 101, depending on their test scores as shown in the Advanced Placement section of the catalog. Students with acceptable AP may start their kinesiology curriculum with BIOL 202.

 

 

Kinesiology Program Requirements

Major Requirements for a B.S. in Kinesiology

1. Twenty credit hours in Fundamentals of Biological Science, including:
   
   • BIOL 101: Principles and Methods of Biology (4 hours)
   • BIOL 202: Structure and Function of Organisms (4 hours)
   • BIOL 251: Medical Terminology (4 hours)
   • BIOL 301-302: Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II (8 hours)
2. Fifteen credit hours of Kinesiology core courses, including:
   
   • KNES 101-102: Introduction to Kinesiology & Exercise Nutrition (4 hours)
   • KNES 341: Biomechanics (4 hours)
   • KNES 342: Exercise Physiology (4 hours)
   • KNES 401: Senior Seminar (3 hours)
3. Twelve credit hours of Kinesiology electives. At least nine hours must be 300-level or above. No more than four hours of the twelve may be from Independent Study or Internship.
   
   • KNES 112: General Wellness (1 hour)
   • KNES 117: First aid/CPR (1 hour)
   • PHIL 212: Bioethics (4 hours)
   • KNES 260: Principles of Strength & Conditioning (3 hours)
   • KNES 343: Exercise Assessment and Prescription (4 hours)
   • KNES 344: Personal and Community Health (4 hours)
   • KNES 346: Motor Learning (4 hours)
   • KNES 347: Advanced Cardiovascular Physiology (4 hours)
   • KNES 348: Exercise for Special Populations (4 hours)
   • KNES 352: Kinesiology research methods (4 hours)
   • KNES 400: Kinesiology Internship (1-4 hours)
4. Twelve credit hours of supportive courses:
   
   • PHYS 104/114: Physics and Physics Laboratory I
   • MATH 115 as the Symbolic Reasoning Explorations course requirement
   • PSY 304 ECON 204  as B.S. second symbolic reasoning requirement