Program Overview

Kinesiology, B.S. Degree

The Kinesiology, B.S. Degree offers several specializations that prepare students for careers in exercise, fitness, and related fields. The program emphasizes movement science through physiological, kinesiological, behavioral, and developmental contexts, helping students develop analytical and practical skills.

Specializations

• Exercise & Fitness Specialist: This specialization prepares students for careers in exercise, fitness, and related fields, such as cardiac rehabilitation. The curriculum emphasizes movement science and provides theoretical and hands-on experience in exercise testing and prescription.
• Rehabilitation Science: This specialization is for students pursuing careers in allied health professions, such as physical therapy, chiropractic, or medical fields. The coursework builds knowledge and skills for careers in health, rehabilitation, or graduate programs.
• Inclusive Physical Activity in Communities (IPAC): The IPAC specialization prepares students to work with special populations, including individuals with disabilities and older adults. It also serves as undergraduate preparation for a Master's in Occupational Therapy.
• Sport Management & Culture: This specialization provides an interdisciplinary understanding of sport management with a particular focus on social and cultural issues. Social justice and diversity issues will be highlighted from a critical cultural studies perspective.
• Transfer Curriculum Studies: This pathway to the baccalaureate degree in Kinesiology is specifically designed to meet California Law (STAR Act: SB1440) regarding unit requirements following transfer into San José State University from a community college in California.
• Individualized Studies: This area of specialization is designed to provide students with the opportunity to develop an individualized program of study. This pathway to the baccalaureate degree may be of particular interest to students needing considerable flexibility in designing a program of study to facilitate pursuit of an advanced degree or a specific career.

Program Details

The curriculum for each specialization is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in kinesiology and movement science. Students will develop analytical and practical skills, and gain hands-on experience through internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Statistics is recommended for Math Area B4 or prior to applying to graduate schools for certain specializations. Career opportunities for graduates of the Kinesiology, B.S. Degree program include roles in infant/toddler programs, older adult recreation, spinal cord rehabilitation, disability sports, camps, aquatic facilities, and fitness clubs.