Kinesiology, B.S. (Health and Human Development)

Program Code: KINES_BS

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:

  1. attain at least a C (2.00) cumulative grade-point average for all courses taken at the University; and
  2. 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)

Prescribed Courses
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
BIOL 161Human Anatomy and Physiology I - Lecture Keystone/General Education Course3
BIOL 163Human Anatomy and Physiology II - Lecture Keystone/General Education Course3
KINES 100The Cultural and Behavioral Foundations of Kinesiology3
KINES 101The Biophysical Foundations of Kinesiology3
KINES 202Functional Human Anatomy3
KINES 295BKines Careers & Observation1
KINES 321Psychology of Movement Behavior3
KINES 341The Historical, Cultural, and Social Dynamics of Sport3
KINES 345Meaning, Ethics, and Movement3
KINES 350Exercise Physiology3
KINES 360The Neurobiology of Motor Control and Development3
KINES 384Biomechanics Keystone/General Education Course3
NUTR 251Introductory Principles of Nutrition Keystone/General Education Course3
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 Keystone/General Education Course
Elementary Statistics Keystone/General Education Course
Introduction to Biostatistics Keystone/General Education Course
Requirements for the Option
Requirements for the Option: Require a grade of C or better
Select an option40-67

Requirements for the Option

Applied Exercise and Health Option (60-67 credits)

Available at the following campuses: University Park

Prescribed Courses
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
CI 280Introduction to Teaching English Language Learners Keystone/General Education Course3
EDPSY 10Individual Differences and Education Keystone/General Education Course3
KINES 200Muscle Training: Physiology, Programs, Techniques3
KINES 201Cardiorespiratory Training for Health and Performance3
KINES 267Fundamental Movement Skills Instruction1
KINES 367Games and Sports Instruction Across the Lifespan1
KINES 368Individual Fitness and Wellness2
KINES 401Applied Group Fitness Exercise Prescription and Program Design3
KINES 456Physical Fitness Appraisal4
PSYCH 100Introductory Psychology Keystone/General Education Course3
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 1403
Select 3-5 credits from:3-5
Introductory Chemistry Keystone/General Education Course
Introductory and General Chemistry Keystone/General Education Course
Chemical Principles I Keystone/General Education Course
Introduction to General, Organic, and Biochemistry Keystone/General Education Course
Select 3-4 credits from:3-4
Technical Physics I Keystone/General Education Course
Introductory Physics I Keystone/General Education Course
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
Scientific Basis of Exercise for Older Adults
Programming for Business and Agencies
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 Keystone/General Education Course
Physical Growth and Motor Development
Introduction to Musculoskeletal Injury and Rehabilitation
Disability Sport and Recreation Keystone/General Education Course
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

Prescribed Courses
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
BIOL 110Biology: Basic Concepts and Biodiversity Keystone/General Education Course4
BIOL 162Human Anatomy and Physiology I - Laboratory Keystone/General Education Course1
BIOL 164Human Anatomy and Physiology II - Laboratory Keystone/General Education Course1
CHEM 111Experimental Chemistry I Keystone/General Education Course1
CHEM 112Chemical Principles II Keystone/General Education Course3
CHEM 113Experimental Chemistry II Keystone/General Education Course1
KINES 395BLeadership Practicum: KINES1
KINES 495BField and/or Research Practicum in Kinesiology3
PHYS 250Introductory Physics I Keystone/General Education Course4
PSYCH 100Introductory Psychology Keystone/General Education Course3
Additional Courses
Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better
CHEM 106Introductory and General Chemistry Keystone/General Education Course3-5
or CHEM 110 Chemical Principles I Keystone/General Education Course
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 1403
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 requirement12
Exercise Science Option (52-55 credits)

Available at the following campuses: Altoona, Berks, Harrisburg

Prescribed Courses
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
KINES 200Muscle Training: Physiology, Programs, Techniques3
KINES 201Cardiorespiratory Training for Health and Performance3
KINES 260Research Skills in Kinesiology3
KINES 356Activity and Disease3
KINES 358Ergogenic Aids1
KINES 456Physical Fitness Appraisal4
KINES 457Exercise Prescription and Case Studies3
KINES 495CExercise Science Practicum4
Additional Courses
Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better
Select 3 credits from KINES 1 to KINES 993
MATH 22 or Satisfactory performance on the MATH placement examination -- i.e., placement beyond the level of MATH 223
PHYS 150Technical Physics I Keystone/General Education Course3-4
or PHYS 250 Introductory Physics I Keystone/General Education Course
Select one of the following:3-5
Introductory Chemistry Keystone/General Education Course
Introductory and General Chemistry Keystone/General Education Course
Chemical Principles I Keystone/General Education Course
and Experimental Chemistry I Keystone/General Education Course
Introduction to General, Organic, and Biochemistry Keystone/General Education Course
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 Keystone/General Education Course 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.

Integrated B.S. in Kinesiology and M.P.H. in Public Health

Available at the following campuses: University Park

Requirements for the Integrated B.S. in Kinesiology and M.P.H. in Public Health can be found in the Graduate Bulletin.

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

University Park

Sarah Milito
Lead Academic Adviser
270 Recreation Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-4493
sjb176@psu.edu

https://hhd.psu.edu/kines/undergraduate/advising/appointment-scheduling-current-penn-state-students-located-university-park

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

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).

Applied Exercise Health Option - Health and Physical Education Certificate Emphasis: Kinesiology, B.S. at University Park 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
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 101*#23CHEM 101, 106, 110, or 130*†3-5
BIOL 161*†3KINES 100*#23
MATH 26*#23STAT 200, 250, or SCM 200*‡#23-4
General Education Course (GWS) (ENGL 15, ENGL 30H, ESL 15, ENGL/CAS 137H recommended)‡#23General Education Course (GWS) (CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, CAS 100C, ENGL/CAS 138T recommended)3
General Education Course (GA)3General Education Course (Inter-Domain)3
PSU First-Year Seminar and KINES 972 
 17 15-18
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 200*3KINES 201*3
KINES 202*#23BIOL 163*†3
KINES 295B*#21NUTR 251*†3
KINES 321*3PHYS 250 or 150*3-4
PSYCH 100*#†23KINES 345*3
General Education Course (Inter-Domain)#†1,23KINES 267*1
 16 16-17
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
EDPSY 10*#†23CI 280*†3
KINES 341*3KINES 360*3
KINES 350*3KINES 384*3
KINES 367*1KINES 456*4
KINES 368*2General Education Course (GWS) (ENGL 202A or 202D suggested)3
KINES 401*3 
 15 16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 366*3KINES 495A*12
KINES 395A*1 
KINES 400*3 
KINES 464*3 
KINES 468W*3 
SPLED 400*4 
 17 12
Total Credits 124-128
*

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

1

Select one integrative studies from the approved literature list: https://sites.psu.edu/educationadvising/course-lists/lit/

2

More information about Entrance-to-Major requirements for the HPE Emphasis can be found at: https://hhd.psu.edu/sites/default/files/kinesiology-kines/undergraduate-programs/kinesiology-kines-undergraduate-programs-aehoptionhpeemphasisentrancerequirementspdf.pdf

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.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Advising Notes:

NOTE: The Kinesiology/AEH Academic Requirements takes precedence over the Suggested Academic Plan for graduation requirements.

LIMITATIONS ON SOURCE AND TIME FOR CREDIT ACQUISITION: In accordance with Policy 83-80.5, the Department of Kinesiology requires at least 24 credits of prescribed coursework in the major to be completed at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. World Campus courses may not be counted toward this 24 credit minimum. The 24 credits include the capstone course in the major: KINES 495A for the AEH (HPE Emphasis).    

Select from the approved literature list at: https://sites.psu.edu/educationadvising/course-lists/lit/.

Applied Exercise Health Option - American College of Sports Medicine/National Strength and Conditioning Association Certificate Emphasis: Kinesiology, B.S. at University Park 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
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 101*3CHEM 101, 106, 110, or 130*†3-5
BIOL 161*†3KINES 100*3
MATH 26*3STAT 200, 250, or SCM 200*‡3-4
General Education Course (GWS) (ENGL 15, ENGL 30H, ESL 15, ENGL/CAS 137H recommended)3General Education Course (GWS) (CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, CAS 100C, ENGL/CAS 138T recommended)3
General Education Course (GA)3General Education Course (Inter-Domain)13
PSU First-Year Seminar and KINES 972 
 17 15-18
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 200*3KINES 201*3
KINES 202*3BIOL 163*†3
KINES 295B*1NUTR 251*†3
KINES 321*3PHYS 250*4
PSYCH 100*†3KINES 345*3
General Education Course (Inter-Domain)13KINES 267*1
 16 17
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
EDPSY 10*†3CI 280*†3
KINES 341*3KINES 401*3
KINES 367*1KINES 384*3
KINES 395B*1KINES 456*4
KINES 421*3General Education Course (GWS) (ENGL 202A or 202D suggested)3
KINES 368*2 
KINES 350*3 
 16 16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 360*3KINES 457*3
KINES 492W, 481W, 425W, or 493W*3KINES 495B*6
KINES 485*3KINES 495E*3
KINES 400-level*3 
 12 12
Total Credits 121-124
*

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.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Advising Notes:

NOTE: The Kinesiology/AEH Academic Requirements Report (Degree Audit) takes precedence over the Suggested Academic Plan for graduation requirements.

LIMITATIONS ON SOURCE AND TIME FOR CREDIT ACQUISITION: In accordance with Policy 83-80.5, the Department of Kinesiology requires at least 24 credits of prescribed coursework in the major to be completed at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. World Campus courses may not be counted toward this 24 credit minimum. The 24 credits include the capstone course in the major: KINES 495B for the AEH (ACSM/NSCA Emphasis).

Movement Science Option: Kinesiology, B.S. at University Park 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
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 100*3KINES 101*3
BIOL 161*†3BIOL 163*†3
BIOL 162*1BIOL 164*1
MATH 26*3NUTR 251*†3
General Education Course (GWS) (ENGL 15, ENGL 30H, ESL 15, ENGL/CAS 137H recommended)3General Education Course (GH or GA)3
PSU First-Year Seminar and KINES 972General Education Course (Inter-Domain)3
 15 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 202*3PSYCH 100*†3
CHEM 110*3BIOL 110*†4
CHEM 111*1KINES 321*3
KINES 295B*1CHEM 112*3
General Education Course (GWS) (CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, CAS 100C, ENGL/CAS 138T recommended)3CHEM 113*1
General Education Course (GA or GH)3General Education Course: Exploration (GN, GA, GH, GS, Inter-Domain or up to 3 units of 12th unit and beyond World Language)3
General Education Course (Inter-Domain)3 
 17 17
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 350*3KINES 345*3
KINES 395B*1KINES 360*3
PHYS 250*4KINES 400-level3
KINES 341*3Elective (Suggest Graduate School Prerequisite)4
Elective (Suggest Graduate School Prerequisite)3Elective (Suggest Graduate School Prerequisite)3
 14 16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 384*‡†3KINES 495B*3
KINES 425W, 430W, KINES 439W, KINES 447W, KINES 481W, KINES 492W, or KINES 493W (Writing Across Curriculum)3KINES 400-level3
STAT 200, 250, or SCM 200*‡3-4General Education Course (GWS) (ENGL 202A or 202D suggested)3
KINES 400-level3Elective (Suggest Graduate School Prerequitie)3
Elective (Suggest Graduate School Prerequisite)3 
 15-16 12
Total Credits 122-123
*

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.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Advising Notes:

NOTE: The Kinesiology/MOVSCI Academic Requirements Report (Degree Audit) takes precedence over the Suggested Academic Plan for graduation requirements.

LIMITATION on the number of TRANSFER COURSES used for KINES 300-Level Core: Two courses (6 credits) can be transferred into PSU and applied to graduation requirements for the KINES major. KINES 300-level courses include KINES 321, 341, 345, 350, 360 & 384.

LIMITATIONS on SOURCE & TIME for CREDIT ACQUISITION: In accordance with Policy 83-80.5, the Department of Kinesiology requires that a minimum of 24 credits of prescribed major coursework be completed at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. World Campus courses may not count towards this 24 credit minimum. The 24 credits include the capstone course in the major: KINES 495B in Movement Science.

Applied Exercise Health Option - Health and Physical Education TrACK: Kinesiology, B.S. at Commonwealth Campuses (eARLY cHANGE OF 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
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 161*†3BIOL 1633
MATH 26*3CHEM 101 or 130*†3
PSYCH 1003STAT 200, 250, or SCM 200*†3-4
General Education Course (GWS) (ENGL 15, ENGL 30H, ESL 15, ENGL/CAS 137H recommended)3General Education Course (GWS) (CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, CAS 100C, ENGL/CAS 138T recommended)3
General Education Course (GA)3General Education Course (Inter-Domain)13
PSU First-Year Seminar1 
 16 15-16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
EDPSY 10*†3CI 2803
NUTR 2513PHYS 2504
KINES 2023KINES 1003
KINES 295B1KINES 3503
KINES 1013General Education Course (GWS) (ENGL 202A or 202D suggested)3
General Education Course (Inter-Domain)13 
 16 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 2013KINES 4564
KINES 3603KINES 3843
KINES 3413KINES 4013
KINES 2003KINES 3213
KINES 3671KINES 3453
KINES 2671 
KINES 3682 
 16 16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 366*3KINES 495A12
KINES 395A*1 
KINES 4003 
KINES 4643 
KINES 468W3 
SPLED 4004 
 17 12
Total Credits 124-125
*

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.

Advising Note:

Students who request an Early Change of Campus to University Park for fall semester of their second year should have completed the following courses in the first year:

Select one integrative studies from the approved literature list: https://sites.psu.edu/educationadvising/course-lists/lit/.

Applied Exercise Health Option - American College of Sports Medicine/National Strength and Conditioning Association Track: Kinesiology, B.S. at Commonwealth Campuses

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
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 161*†3CHEM 101, 106, 110, or 130*†3-5
MATH 26*‡3STAT 200, 250, or SCM 200*‡3-4
General Education Course (GWS) (ENGL 15, ENGL 30H, ESL 15, ENGL/CAS 137H recommended)3General Education Course (GWS) (CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, CAS 100C, ENGL/CAS 138T recommended)3
General Education Course (GA)3General Education Course (Inter-Domain)3
PSU First-Year Seminar1 
 13 12-15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
EDPSY 10*†3CI 280*†3
NUTR 251*†3PHYS 250 or 150*3-4
BIOL 163*†3PSYCH 100*†3
General Education Course (Inter-Domain)3General Education Course (GWS) (ENGL 202A or 202D suggested)3
 12 12-13
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 100*3KINES 321*3
KINES 201*3KINES 350*3
KINES 295B*1KINES 401*3
KINES 101*3KINES 341*3
KINES 202*3KINES 345*3
KINES 200*3KINES 368*2
KINES 267*1KINES 395B*1
KINES 367*1 
 18 18
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 360*3KINES 495B*6
KINES 421*3KINES 495E*3
KINES 456*4KINES 457*3
KINES 384*3KINES 485*3
KINES 425W, 481W, 492W, or 493W*3 
KINES 400-Level*3 
 19 15
Total Credits 119-123
*

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.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Advising Notes:

NOTE: The Kinesiology/AEH Academic Requirements Report (Degree Audit) takes precedence over the Suggested Academic Plan for graduation requirements.

LIMITATIONS ON SOURCE AND TIME FOR CREDIT ACQUISITION: In accordance with Policy 83-80.5, the Department of Kinesiology requires at least 24 credits of prescribed coursework in the major to be completed at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. World Campus courses may not be counted toward this 24 credit minimum. The 24 credits include the capstone course in the major: KINES 495B for the AEH (ACSM/NSCA Emphasis).

Movement Science Option: Kinesiology, B.S. at Commonwealth Campuses

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
FallCreditsSpringCredits
PSYCH 100*†3BIOL 163*†3
BIOL 161*†3BIOL 164*1
BIOL 162*1General Education Course (GA)3
MATH 26*3General Education Course (GH)3
General Education Course (GWS) (ENGL 15, ENGL 30H, ESL 15, ENGL/CAS 137H recommended)3General Education Course (Inter-Domain)3
PSU First-Year Seminar1Elective (Suggest Graduate School Prerequisite)3
 14 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CHEM 110*3STAT 200, 250, or SCM 200*†3-4
CHEM 111*1BIOL 110*†4
NUTR 251*†3CHEM 112*3
PHYS 250*4CHEM 113*1
General Education Course (GWS) (CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, CAS 100C, ENGL/CAS 138T recommended)3Elective (Suggest Graduate School Prerequisite)4
General Education Course (Inter-Domain)3 
 17 15-16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 101*3KINES 100*3
KINES 202*3KINES 384*‡†3
KINES 295B or 295*1KINES 350*3
Elective (Suggest Graduate School Prerequisite)3KINES 395B*1
General Education Course (GWS) (ENGL 202A or 202D suggested)3Elective (Suggest Graduate School Prerequisite)3
General Education Course: Exploration (GN, GA, GH, GS, Inter-Domain or up to 3 units of 12th unit and beyond World Language)3KINES 400-level13
 16 16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
KINES 360*3KINES 495B*3
KINES 321*3KINES 400-level13
KINES 341*3KINES 425W, KINES 439W, KINES 447W, KINES 481W, KINES 492W, or KINES 493W3
KINES 345*3Elective (Suggest Graduate School Prerequisite)3
KINES 400-level13 
 15 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

1

Course List: CAMS 442, HDFS 427, KINES 410, KINES 411, KINES 419, KINES 420, KINES 421, KINES 422, KINES 423, KINES 424, KINES 425, KINES 426, KINES 427, KINES 428, KINES 429, KINES 439W, KINES 440, KINES 441, KINES 442, KINES 443, KINES 444, KINES 446, KINES 447W, KINES 450, KINES 452, KINES 453, KINES 454, KINES 455, KINES 456, KINES 457, KINES 458, KINES 460, KINES 463, KINES 465, KINES 467, KINES 481W, KINES 483, KINES 484, KINES 485, KINES 488, KINES 492W, KINES 493, KINES 493W, KINES 495E, KINES 499, WMNST 424

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.

Note:

Each campus will need to adjust the semester course schedule planning according to their course offerings.

The Kinesiology/MOVSCI Academic Requirements Report (Degree Audit) takes precedence over the Suggested Academic Plan for graduation requirements.

Advising Notes:

LIMITATION on the number of TRANSFER COURSES used for KINES 300-Level Core: A limit of two courses (6 credits) can be transferred into Penn State and applied to graduation requirements for both KINES and Athletic Training majors. KINES 300-level courses include KINES 321, 341, 345, 350, 360 & 384.

LIMITATIONS on SOURCE & TIME for CREDIT ACQUISITION: In accordance with Policy 83-80.5, the Department of Kinesiology requires that a minimum of 24 credits of prescribed major coursework be completed at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. World Campus courses may not count towards this 24 credit minimum. The 24 credits include the capstone course in the major: KINES 495B in Movement Science: ATHTR 495C in Athletic Training: KINES 495B in AEH (ACSM/NSCA Certification Emphasis).

The Kinesiology MOVCS Degree Audit (LionPATH: Academic Record) is the official student record for graduation purposes. The Suggested Academic Plan is a tool for student usage, not an official university record.

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

Professional Licensure/Certification

Many U.S. states and territories require professional licensure/certification to be employed. If you plan to pursue employment in a licensed profession after completing this program, please visit the Professional Licensure/Certification Disclosures by State interactive map.

Contact

University Park

DEPARTMENT OF KINESIOLOGY
276 Recreation Building
University Park, Pa 16802
814-863-0442
pennstatekines@psu.edu

https://hhd.psu.edu/kines/undergraduate/major-kinesiology

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