What is Kinesiology?

Important Facts About Kinesiology Education

Bachelor's Degree Programs

Typical programs have you take foundational kinesiology courses followed by specialized career-related courses that are often part of a concentration. Foundation courses may include anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, sports psychology and biomechanics. Some career-oriented concentrations found at the undergraduate level are physical education, pre-physical therapy, sports studies and exercise science.

Master's Degree Programs

Several master's programs in kinesiology are directed toward professional development rather than scholarly research. Following core courses in advanced kinesiology studies, you select electives based on your professional field. Some examples include sport pedagogy, adapted physical activity, rehabilitation and lifetime fitness. Professional internships may be incorporated into your graduate program. These programs typically culminate with a final project, or you may opt to write a thesis.

Doctoral Degree Programs

If you want to pursue research and teaching, you may consider pursuing a Ph.D. program in kinesiology. As a doctoral candidate, you will likely take courses in statistics, research methods and experimental design to support your dissertation research. Doctoral programs typically have concentration options, as well, which may include cognitive motor neuroscience, physical cultural studies, exercise physiology and exercise psychology, among others.

Career Information

Kinesiology leads to several career options in fitness, education, research, rehabilitation, sports and business. Some of the following careers may require additional training:

• Athletic trainer
• Sports medicine practitioner
• Public school teacher
• Recreation director
• Coach
• Sports marketer and promoter
• Sports media consultant
• Adapted physical educator
• Sports manager
• Physical therapist

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides career information for a few of those jobs. For coaches and physical therapists, 20% and 17% job growth are expected between 2022 and 2031, respectively, with 17% growth for athletic trainers. As of 2021, the median annual salary for coaches was $38,970 and that of physical therapists was $95,620. The 2021 median salary for athletic trainers was $48,420.