The Department of Kinesiology prepares future leaders in health, education, sport, and human performance through rigorous academic coursework, hands-on learning experiences, and strong partnerships with healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and industry professionals. Our undergraduate programs combine a strong scientific foundation with applied learning opportunities, including laboratories, internships, research, and field experiences, preparing graduates to make a meaningful impact in their professions and communties.
B.S. in Kinesiology with a Concentration in Exercise Science
The Exercise Science program prepares students to improve health, fitness, and human performance through the study of how the body responds and adapts to physical activity. Students build a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, biomechanics, nutrition, and exercise physiology while gaining extensive hands-on laboratory, research, and internship experience. Graduates are prepared for careers in human performance, personal training, strength and conditioning, and corporate wellness, as well as competitive admission to graduate and professional programs such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, chiropractic, and other allied health professions.
B.S. in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sport & Fitness Management
The Sport & Fitness Management program prepares students for leadership careers in the dynamic sport, recreation, and fitness industries by combining business principles with industry specific knowledge. Students study sport marketing, finance, event and facility management, sports law, analytics, coaching, and organizational leadership while gaining valuable hands-on experience through volunteer opportunities, class projects, and a 200-hour internship. Graduates are prepared for careers with collegiate and professional organizations, fitness and recreation facilities, corporate wellness programs, and other organizations dedicated to promoting sport, health, and wellness.
B.S. in Kinesiology with Physical Education (P-12)
The Physical Education program prepares future educators to inspire lifelong health, wellness, and physical activity in student from preschool through twelfth grade. Students develop expertise in motor development, exercise science, instructional strategies, classroom management, and adapted physical education while gaining extensive hands-on experience through field placements and a semester-long teaching internship. Graduates are prepared to meet Alabama educator licensure requirements and lead engaging, inclusive physical education programs that promote physical literacy, healthy lifestyles, and student success.
B.S. in Child, Family, and Community Development
The Child, Family, and Community Development program prepares students to support children, families, and communities. Within the Department of Kinesiology, students pursue the Recreation & Community Leadership concentration, which emphasizes recreation programming, community engagement, leadership, and wellness. Students gain hands-on experience designing and leading programs that enrich the lives of individuals and families in a variety of community settings. Graduates are prepared for careers with parks and recreation departments, nonprofit organizations, youth development programs, community centers, camps, outdoor recreation, and other organizations dedicated to fostering healthy, active, and connected communities.
Coaching Minor
The Coaching Minor is open to students from any major who are interested in developing the knowledge and leadership skills needed to coach athletes at the youth, recreational, school, or amateur levels. Through interdisciplinary coursework in sport pedagogy, exercise science, sport management, leadership, ethics, and psychology, students gain a well-rounded foundation in effective coaching principles. This 18-credit-hour minor complements a variety of degree programs and prepares graduates to lead with confidence both on and off the field.
Health & Nutrition Minor
The Health & Nutrition Minor is open to students from any major who are interested in expanding their knowledge of health, wellness, and nutrition. Through interdisciplinary coursework in nutrition, exercise science, health promotion, and psychology, students develop a well-rounded understanding of the connections between physical health, mental well-being, and healthy lifestyle choices. This minor complements a variety of degree programs and prepares students to apply evidence-based wellness principles in both their personal and professional lives.
Sport & Fitness Management Minor
The Sport & Fitness Management Minor introduces students to the business side of the sport and fitness industry through coursework in management, marketing, leadership, and event planning. Open to students from any discipline, this minor is an excellent complement for those interested in careers in athletics, reacreation, fitness, and sport organizations.