At which campus can I study this program?
Program Description
Kinesiology offers a comprehensive program of study in the science of human movement and is designed for students who want to prepare for professions involving physical activity and for graduate study in related areas. The Kinesiology major options are: Applied Exercise and Health; Movement Science; and Exercise Science. All options require a culminating practicum or research experience. Relocation away from the University Park campus is generally necessary for the practicum. All options require a minimum of 120 credits for graduation. Information about the major and its options can be found at: https://hhd.psu.edu/kines.
Applied Exercise and Health Option
Available at the following campuses: University Park
This option provides applied interdisciplinary training in the foundations of the scientific understanding of exercise and health through the lifespan. Students select one of two areas of emphasis that are certification-based and practice-oriented: (a) courses and practical experiences directed toward certification by organizations such as the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) or the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), or (b) health and physical education; a series of courses and student teaching leading to teacher certification. The completion of the Applied Exercise and Health Option will prepare students to work in the private or corporate fitness arenas, community-based fitness organizations, and university or hospital settings, or be Pennsylvania certified in health and physical education (K-12) and secure teaching positions in public or private schools.
Movement Science Option
Available at the following campuses: Altoona, University Park
This option provides interdisciplinary scientific training in academic areas such as biomechanics, exercise physiology, movement neuroscience, psychology of physical activity, and sport history and philosophy to understand movement for prevention and diagnosis of chronic disease, rehabilitation and treatment, and/or theoretical study. Students are prepared for graduate study in many clinical fields including medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant, cardiac rehabilitation, as well as a broad range of careers in biomedical and health-related fields.
Exercise Science Option
Available at the following campuses: Altoona, Berks, Harrisburg
This option is a program of study in the science of exercise. This program offers Kinesiology background and applied experience in fitness assessment, exercise physiology, exercise psychology, motor skill development, nutrition, and healthy living skills. Graduates will be able to scientifically assess fitness levels of individuals. Analyzing those assessments, graduates will then be capable of designing and implementing appropriate exercise programs. Students in the Business Emphasis acquire basic business skills in accounting, marketing, management and entrepreneurial skills. Students choosing the Science Emphasis will select courses from a department list, including courses in basic science, social science, exercise and health sciences, and other related coursework, that will enhance their opportunity for graduate studies in fields related to Kinesiology and allied health, such as physical therapy, athletic training, and medicine. The completion of the Exercise Science Option will enable graduates to compete for employment in private, corporate, or community-based fitness organizations, in hospital or university settings, and be prepared to apply for graduate programs in allied health fields.
What is Kinesiology?
Kinesiology refers to the study of human movement. This interdisciplinary field of study focuses on physical activity, movement and sport and includes specialized areas of study that include the arts, humanities, sciences and professional disciplines. These areas include biomechanics, psychology of physical activity, exercise physiology, history and philosophy of physical activity, motor development, as well as sports medicine and physical education pedagogy. This multi-disciplinary approach is useful for addressing health and wellness in a complex society.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT KINESIOLOGY
You Might Like This Program If...
You enjoy working with people, have a passion for health and wellness, and are open to approaching problems with interdisciplinary strategies. As you learn about the human body as a whole, you will also have the opportunity to understand how you can apply your knowledge and skills to develop solutions that can help others in a number of ways, whether in a rehabilitation facility, with a professional sports team, in a corporate office or in a school setting.
Entrance to Major
Entrance to Major
In order to be eligible for entrance to this major, a student must:
- attain at least a C (2.00) cumulative grade-point average for all courses taken at the University; and
- have at least third-semester classification.
READ SENATE POLICY 37-30: ENTRANCE TO AND CHANGES IN MAJOR PROGRAMS OF STUDY
Degree Requirements
For the Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology a minimum of 120 credits is required for the Applied Exercise Health option, a minimum of 120 credits is required for the Movement Science option, and a minimum of 122 credits is required for the Exercise Science option:
| Requirement | Credits |
|---|---|
| General Education | 45 |
| Electives | 0-16 |
| Requirements for the Major | 80-108 |
18-27 of the 45 credits for General Education are included in the Requirements for the Major. This includes: Applied Exercise and Health Option - 9 credits GN, 6 credits GQ, 3 credits of GH, 6 credits of GS and 3 credits of GHW; Movement Science Option - 9 credits of GN courses, 6 credits of GQ courses, 3 credits of GS courses, 3 credits of GHW courses; Exercise Science Option - 9 credits of GN courses, 6 credits of GQ courses, 3 credits of GHW courses.
Per Senate Policy 83.80.5, the college dean or campus chancellor and program faculty may require up to 24 credits of course work in the major to be taken at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. KINES requires students to complete 24 credits for the major through courses taken at University Park. Courses taken at other Penn State campuses may not be counted toward this 24 credit minimum. For more information, check the Suggested Academic Plan for this major.
Requirements for the Major
A grade of C or better is required for all courses in the major. To graduate, a student enrolled in the major must earn at least a C grade in each course designated by the major as a C-required course, as specified by Senate Policy 82-44.
Common Requirements for the Major (All Options)
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| BIOL 161 | Human Anatomy and Physiology I - Lecture  | 3 |
| BIOL 163 | Human Anatomy and Physiology II - Lecture | 3 |
| KINES 100 | The Cultural and Behavioral Foundations of Kinesiology | 3 |
| KINES 101 | The Biophysical Foundations of Kinesiology | 3 |
| KINES 202 | Functional Human Anatomy | 3 |
| KINES 295B | Kines Careers & Observation | 1 |
| KINES 321 | Psychology of Movement Behavior | 3 |
| KINES 341 | The Historical, Cultural, and Social Dynamics of Sport | 3 |
| KINES 345 | Meaning, Ethics, and Movement | 3 |
| KINES 350 | Exercise Physiology | 3 |
| KINES 360 | The Neurobiology of Motor Control and Development | 3 |
| KINES 384 | Biomechanics | 3 |
| NUTR 251 | Introductory Principles of Nutrition | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 3-4 credits from the following: | 3-4 | |
| Introduction to Statistics for Business | ||
| Elementary Statistics | ||
| Introduction to Biostatistics | ||
| Requirements for the Option | ||
| Requirements for the Option: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select an option | 40-67 | |
Requirements for the Option
Applied Exercise and Health Option (60-67 credits)
Available at the following campuses: University Park
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| CI 280 | Introduction to Teaching English Language Learners | 3 |
| EDPSY 10 | Individual Differences and Education | 3 |
| KINES 200 | Muscle Training: Physiology, Programs, Techniques | 3 |
| KINES 201 | Cardiorespiratory Training for Health and Performance | 3 |
| KINES 267 | Fundamental Movement Skills Instruction | 1 |
| KINES 367 | Games and Sports Instruction Across the Lifespan | 1 |
| KINES 368 | Individual Fitness and Wellness | 2 |
| KINES 401 | Applied Group Fitness Exercise Prescription and Program Design | 3 |
| KINES 456 | Physical Fitness Appraisal | 4 |
| PSYCH 100 | Introductory Psychology | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| MATH 26 or a higher level MATH course recommended by math placement test. Course list includes: MATH 26, MATH 40, MATH 41, MATH 110 or MATH 140 | 3 | |
| Select 3-5 credits from: | 3-5 | |
| Introductory Chemistry | ||
| Introductory and General Chemistry | ||
| Chemical Principles I | ||
| Introduction to General, Organic, and Biochemistry | ||
| Select 3-4 credits from: | 3-4 | |
| Technical Physics I | ||
| Introductory Physics I | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Take the following required courses with selected emphasis area: | 25-29 | |
| HPE Certification Emphasis: | ||
| The Process of Teaching Physical Education | ||
| Ldrshp Prac:Tchrs | ||
| Adapted Physical Education | ||
| Physical Education Programming and Practicum | ||
| Health Instruction in the School--Content and Method | ||
| Practicum in Student Teaching | ||
| Inclusive Special Ed Foundations: Legal, Characteristics, Collaboration, Assessment, and Management | ||
| ACSM/NSCA Certification Emphasis: | ||
| Leadership Practicum: KINES | ||
| Exercise Psychology | ||
| Physical Activity in Diverse Populations | ||
or KINES 481W | Scientific Basis of Exercise for Older Adults | |
or KINES 492W | Programming for Business and Agencies | |
or KINES 493W | Principles and Ethics of Coaching | |
| Exercise Prescription and Case Studies | ||
| Science and Practice of Training Athletes | ||
| Field and/or Research Practicum in Kinesiology | ||
| Advanced Professional Development in Kinesiology | ||
Select 3 credits from approved 400-level courses: | ||
| Nutrition for Exercise and Sports | ||
| Human Anatomy Cadaver Dissection | ||
| Bicycling Culture and Urban Design | ||
| Physical Growth and Motor Development | ||
| Introduction to Musculoskeletal Injury and Rehabilitation | ||
| Disability Sport and Recreation | ||
| Physical Activity Interventions | ||
| Psychology of Sports Injuries | ||
| Women and Sport | ||
| Physical Activity in Diverse Populations | ||
| Physical Activity and Public Health | ||
| Developmental Sport & Exercise Psychology | ||
| Motivation and Emotion in Movement | ||
| Psychology of Sport Performance | ||
| Groups in Physical Activity | ||
| Concussion in Athletics: Brain to Behavior | ||
| Women's Health and Exercise Across the Lifespan | ||
| Physiological Basis of Exercise as Medicine | ||
| Introduction to Electrocardiogram Interpretation | ||
| Community Engagement and Outreach in Kinesiology | ||
| Movement Disorders | ||
| Neurobiology of Sensorimotor Stroke Rehabilitation | ||
| The Science of Performance Enhancement | ||
| Scientific Basis of Exercise for Older Adults | ||
| Motor Patterns of Children | ||
| Principles and Ethics of Coaching | ||
| Principles and Ethics of Coaching | ||
| Expanded Field and/or Research Practicum in Kinesiology | ||
| Foreign Studies | ||
Movement Science Option (40-42 credits)
Available at the following campuses: Altoona, University Park
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| BIOL 110 | Biology: Basic Concepts and Biodiversity | 4 |
| BIOL 162 | Human Anatomy and Physiology I - Laboratory | 1 |
| BIOL 164 | Human Anatomy and Physiology II - Laboratory | 1 |
| CHEM 111 | Experimental Chemistry I | 1 |
| CHEM 112 | Chemical Principles II | 3 |
| CHEM 113 | Experimental Chemistry II | 1 |
| KINES 395B | Leadership Practicum: KINES | 1 |
| KINES 495B | Field and/or Research Practicum in Kinesiology | 3 |
| PHYS 250 | Introductory Physics I | 4 |
| PSYCH 100 | Introductory Psychology | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| CHEM 106 | Introductory and General Chemistry | 3-5 |
| or CHEM 110 | Chemical Principles I | |
| MATH 26 or a higher level MATH course recommended by math placement test. Course list includes: MATH 26, MATH 40, MATH 41, MATH 110 or MATH 140 | 3 | |
| Select 12 additional credits from 400-level Kines courses except KINES 403. No more than 3 credits of KINES 496, 408 or 495D may count toward this requirement | 12 | |
Exercise Science Option (52-55 credits)
Available at the following campuses: Altoona, Berks, Harrisburg
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| KINES 200 | Muscle Training: Physiology, Programs, Techniques | 3 |
| KINES 201 | Cardiorespiratory Training for Health and Performance | 3 |
| KINES 260 | Research Skills in Kinesiology | 3 |
| KINES 356 | Activity and Disease | 3 |
| KINES 358 | Ergogenic Aids | 1 |
| KINES 456 | Physical Fitness Appraisal | 4 |
| KINES 457 | Exercise Prescription and Case Studies | 3 |
| KINES 495C | Exercise Science Practicum | 4 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 3 credits from KINES 1 to KINES 99 | 3 | |
| MATH 22 or Satisfactory performance on the MATH placement examination -- i.e., placement beyond the level of MATH 22 | 3 | |
| PHYS 150 | Technical Physics I | 3-4 |
| or PHYS 250 | Introductory Physics I | |
| Select one of the following: | 3-5 | |
| Introductory Chemistry | ||
| Introductory and General Chemistry | ||
| Chemical Principles I and Experimental Chemistry I | ||
| Introduction to General, Organic, and Biochemistry | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 16 credits from one of the following emphasis area from an approved list, in consultation with adviser. At least 3 credits must be at the 400 level. | 16 | |
Business Emphasis | ||
Science Emphasis | ||
General Education
Connecting career and curiosity, the General Education curriculum provides the opportunity for students to acquire transferable skills necessary to be successful in the future and to thrive while living in interconnected contexts. General Education aids students in developing intellectual curiosity, a strengthened ability to think, and a deeper sense of aesthetic appreciation. These are requirements for all baccalaureate students and are often partially incorporated into the requirements of a program. For additional information, see the General Education Requirements section of the Bulletin and consult your academic adviser.
The keystone symbol appears next to the title of any course that is designated as a General Education course. Program requirements may also satisfy General Education requirements and vary for each program.
Foundations (grade of C or better is required and Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)
- Quantification (GQ): 6 credits
- Writing and Speaking (GWS): 9 credits
Breadth in the Knowledge Domains (Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)
- Arts (GA): 3 credits
- Health and Wellness (GHW): 3 credits
- Humanities (GH): 3 credits
- Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS): 3 credits
- Natural Sciences (GN): 3 credits
Integrative Studies
- Inter-Domain Courses (Inter-Domain): 6 credits
Exploration
- GN, may be completed with Inter-Domain courses: 3 credits
- GA, GH, GN, GS, Inter-Domain courses. This may include 3 credits of World Language course work beyond the 12th credit level or the requirements for the student’s degree program, whichever is higher: 6 credits
University Degree Requirements
First Year Engagement
All students enrolled in a college or the Division of Undergraduate Studies at University Park, and the World Campus are required to take 1 to 3 credits of the First-Year Seminar, as specified by their college First-Year Engagement Plan.
Other Penn State colleges and campuses may require the First-Year Seminar; colleges and campuses that do not require a First-Year Seminar provide students with a first-year engagement experience.
First-year baccalaureate students entering Penn State should consult their academic adviser for these requirements.
Cultures Requirement
6 credits are required and may satisfy other requirements
- United States Cultures: 3 credits
- International Cultures: 3 credits
Writing Across the Curriculum
3 credits required from the college of graduation and likely prescribed as part of major requirements.
Total Minimum Credits
A minimum of 120 degree credits must be earned for a baccalaureate degree. The requirements for some programs may exceed 120 credits. Students should consult with their college or department adviser for information on specific credit requirements.
Quality of Work
Candidates must complete the degree requirements for their major and earn at least a 2.00 grade-point average for all courses completed within their degree program.
Limitations on Source and Time for Credit Acquisition
The college dean or campus chancellor and program faculty may require up to 24 credits of course work in the major to be taken at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. Credit used toward degree programs may need to be earned from a particular source or within time constraints (see Senate Policy 83-80). For more information, check the Suggested Academic Plan for your intended program.
Program Learning Objectives
- Students will demonstrate personal, professional, and ethical competency within the discipline of kinesiology.
- Students will be able to define fundamental processes, theories, and methods in kinesiology including the physiology, psychology, biomechanics, motor control, history, and philosophy of human movement.
- Students will be able define and demonstrate competency for planning and implementing kinesiology-related health, fitness, performance, and behavior change interventions and programs.
- Students will be able to perform assessments of physical activity and fitness.
- Students will demonstrate skills related to thinking critically, evaluating research knowledge and evidence, and analyzing quantitative data.
Academic Advising
The objectives of the university's academic advising program are to help advisees identify and achieve their academic goals, to promote their intellectual discovery, and to encourage students to take advantage of both in-and out-of class educational opportunities in order that they become self-directed learners and decision makers.
Both advisers and advisees share responsibility for making the advising relationship succeed. By encouraging their advisees to become engaged in their education, to meet their educational goals, and to develop the habit of learning, advisers assume a significant educational role. The advisee's unit of enrollment will provide each advisee with a primary academic adviser, the information needed to plan the chosen program of study, and referrals to other specialized resources.
READ SENATE POLICY 32-00: ADVISING POLICY
Altoona
Tracey J. Elkin, M.Ed.
Program Coordinator
202 Adler Athletic Complex
3000 Ivyside Park
Altoona, PA 16601
814-949-5687
tje10@psu.edu
Berks
Colleen English
Program Chair and Associate Professor of Kinesiology
Perkins, 120
Reading, PA 19610
610-396-6365
BKKinesiology@psu.edu
Harrisburg
Rebecca Weiler-Timmins, D.Ed.
Program Coordinator
Educational Activities Building, 0216
Middletown, PA 17057
717-948-6211
rat146@psu.edu
University Park
Sarah Milito
Lead Academic Adviser
270 Recreation Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-4493
sjb176@psu.edu
Suggested Academic Plan
The suggested academic plan(s) listed on this page are the plan(s) that are in effect during the 2023-24 academic year. To access previous years' suggested academic plans, please visit the archive to view the appropriate Undergraduate Bulletin edition (Note: the archive only contains suggested academic plans beginning with the 2018-19 edition of the Undergraduate Bulletin).
Exercise Science Option - Business Emphasis: Kinesiology, B.S. at Altoona Campus
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BIOL 161*† | 3 | CAS 100A or 100B‡† | 3 |
| ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡† | 3 | STAT 200, 250, or SCM 200*‡† | 3-4 |
| MATH 22‡† | 3 | KINES 100 or 101* | 3 |
| NUTR 251*† | 3 | BIOL 163*† | 3 |
| PSU 3 | 1 | General Education | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | ||
| 16 | 15-16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| KINES 100 or 101* | 3 | ENGL 202C or 202D‡ | 3 |
| KINES 200* | 3 | KINES 201* | 3 |
| CHEM 101, 110 and 111, or 130*† | 3-4 | KINES 202* | 3 |
| PHYS 150 or 250*† | 3-4 | KINES 260* | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | KINES 295B* | 1 |
| General Education Course | 3 | ||
| 15-17 | 16 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| KINES 321* | 3 | KINES 345* | 3 |
| KINES 341* | 3 | KINES 358* | 1 |
| KINES 350* | 3 | KINES 360* | 3 |
| KINES 356* | 3 | KINES 456* | 4 |
| ECON 102 | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| 15 | 14 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| KINES 384* | 3 | KINES 420 (or 400-level equivalent)* | 3 |
| KINES 457* | 3 | KINES 1-99* | 3 |
| KINES 492W* | 3 | KINES 495C* | 4 |
| MGMT 301 or MKTG 301 | 3 | ACCTG 211 | 4 |
| General Education Course | 3 | MGMT 301 or MKTG 301 | 3 |
| 15 | 17 | ||
| Total Credits 123-126 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
Exercise Option - Science Emphasis: Kinesiology, B.S. at altoona campus
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BIOL 161*† | 3 | BIOL 163*† | 3 |
| ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡† | 3 | CAS 100A or 100B‡† | 3 |
| MATH 22‡† | 3 | STAT 200, 250, or SCM 200*‡† | 3-4 |
| NUTR 251*† | 3 | KINES 100 or 101* | 3 |
| PSU 3 | 1 | General Education | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | ||
| 16 | 15-16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| KINES 100 or 101* | 3 | ENGL 202C or 202D‡ | 3 |
| KINES 200* | 3 | KINES 201* | 3 |
| CHEM 101, 110 and 111, or 130*† | 3-4 | KINES 202* | 3 |
| PHYS 150 or 250*† | 3-4 | KINES 260* | 3 |
| General Education Course | 3 | KINES 295B* | 1 |
| General Education Course | 3 | ||
| 15-17 | 16 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| KINES 321* | 3 | KINES 345* | 3 |
| KINES 341* | 3 | KINES 358* | 1 |
| KINES 350* | 3 | KINES 360* | 3 |
| KINES 356* | 3 | KINES 456* | 4 |
| General Education Course | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| 15 | 14 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| KINES 1-99* | 3 | KINES 420 (or 400-level equivalent)* | 3 |
| KINES 384* | 3 | KINES 462W* | 2 |
| KINES 457* | 3 | KINES 495C* | 4 |
| KINES 461W* | 2 | Emphasis Selection | 3 |
| Emphasis Selection | 3 | Emphasis Selection | 3 |
| Emphasis Selection | 3 | ||
| 17 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 123-126 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
Movement Science Option: Kinesiology, B.S. at Altoona Campus
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡ | 3 | BIOL 163*† | 3 |
| BIOL 161*† | 3 | BIOL 164*† | 1 |
| BIOL 162*† | 1 | KINES 100 or 101* | 3 |
| MATH 26‡† | 3 | NUTR 251*† | 3 |
| PSU 3 | 1 | General Education Course | 3 |
| PSYCH 100*† | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| 14 | 16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BIOL 110*† | 4 | CHEM 112*† | 3 |
| CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C‡ | 3 | CHEM 113*† | 1 |
| CHEM 110*† | 3 | ENGL 202A, 202B, 202C, or 202D (202A or 202D suggested)‡ | 3 |
| CHEM 111*† | 1 | KINES 202* | 3 |
| KINES 100 or 101* | 3 | KINES 295B* | 1 |
| General Education Course | 3 | General Education Course | 3 |
| 17 | 14 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| KINES 321* | 3 | KINES 345 | 3 |
| KINES 341* | 3 | KINES 360* | 3 |
| KINES 350* | 3 | KINES 400-level Course | 3 |
| KINES 395B* | 1 | PHYS 251R or PHYS 251L*† | 4 |
| PHYS 250R or PHYS 250L*† | 4 | General Education Course | 3 |
| Supporting Course (suggest Grad School prerequisite) | 3 | ||
| 17 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| KINES 384* | 3 | KINES 495B* | 6 |
| KINES 425W, KINES 439W, KINES 447W, KINES 481W, or KINES 492W | 3 | KINES 400-level Course | 3 |
| STAT 200, 250, or SCM 200*† | 3-4 | Supporting Course (suggest grad school prerequisite) | 3 |
| KINES 400-level Course | 3 | ||
| Supporting Course (suggest Graduate School prerequisite) | 3 | ||
| 15-16 | 12 | ||
| Total Credits 121-122 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
Career Paths
A Kinesiology degree can provide many opportunities for students ranging from fulfilling careers in health and wellness to graduate/professional studies in a wide range of allied health professions. The hands-on learning opportunities and internships in the program allow students to build experience, gain professional skills and explore their interests to create a strong foundation for a post-graduation career or in the next step of their education.
Careers
Kinesiology students have many career options after graduation. Discussion with Kinesiology faculty, an adviser, or professionals in the field through internship experiences can provide additional insight. Many students use their Penn State Kinesiology degree in allied health and wellness fields, working with a wide range of populations in many different settings. The applied learning opportunities in our curriculum give students hands-on experience to work with children and adults to promote health and wellness. Kinesiology graduate are well-rounded and valuable employees with their strong scientific foundation that can be applied to solving problems related to human movement.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT POTENTIAL CAREER OPTIONS FOR GRADUATES OF THE KINESIOLOGY PROGRAM
Opportunities for Graduate Studies
Many students in Kinesiology aim to pursue graduate or professional school after they complete their undergraduate program. Kinesiology students are often interested in careers in physical therapy, athletic training, occupational therapy, physician’s assistant, medical school, dentistry, nursing, or chiropractic school. Students may also opt to attend graduate programs in Kinesiology to advance their understanding in one of the sub-disciplines of the field. The Kinesiology undergraduate program includes many of the prerequisite courses needed for a variety of these post-bachelor programs, providing students with a strong scientific foundation for further study.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OPPORTUNITIES FOR GRADUATE STUDIES
Professional Resources
Contact
Altoona
DEPARTMENT OF KINESIOLOGY
202 Adler Athletic Complex
3000 Ivyside Park
Altoona, PA 16601
814-949-5687
tje10@psu.edu
https://altoona.psu.edu/academics/bachelors-degrees/kinesiology
Berks
DIVISION OF SCIENCE
Luerssen Science Building
Reading, PA 19610
610-396-6365
BKKinesiology@psu.edu
https://berks.psu.edu/academics/bs-kinesiology
Harrisburg
SCHOOL OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES AND EDUCATION
Educational Activities Building, 0216
Middletown, PA 17057
717-948-6742
rlp26@psu.edu
https://harrisburg.psu.edu/behavioral-sciences-education/kinesiology-bs
University Park
DEPARTMENT OF KINESIOLOGY
276 Recreation Building
University Park, Pa 16802
814-863-0442
pennstatekines@psu.edu