Program Overview

Kinesiology and Public Health Department

The Kinesiology and Public Health Department offers a comprehensive program that provides students with hands-on, practical experience in their chosen discipline. The department is part of the Bailey College of Science & Mathematics.

Degree Programs

The department offers the following degree programs:

• Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
• Bachelor of Science in Public Health
• Minor in Exercise and Sports Studies

Internship Program Introduction

The internship program is a required capstone experience for students enrolled in the Bachelor's degree programs in Kinesiology and Public Health. The program provides students with practical experience at approved agencies, allowing them to engage in many facets of their discipline of interest under the direct supervision of an approved on-site coordinator.

Experience That Transforms

The internship experience is an invaluable option for students, providing them with hands-on experience in sport and exercise science, clinical settings in healthcare and PT, as well as health promotion and education programming.

Key Objectives of the Internship Program

The key objectives of the internship program are to:

• Bridge the gap between academic studies and professional development
• Align the internship experience with career goals in the field of Public Health and Kinesiology
• Gain real-world insights and skills in the chosen discipline

Location Flexibility

Internships are not restricted to San Luis Obispo County, and students are encouraged to explore opportunities beyond the region to broaden their experiences, perspectives, and professional growth.

Prerequisites

The prerequisites for the internship program are:

KINE 463 - Kinesiology Internship

• Junior or Senior standing
• Minimum GPA of 2.0
• Successful completion of relevant coursework in their major and for the agency where they will complete their internship

HLTH 463 - Public Health Internship

• Senior standing
• Completion of graduation writing requirement
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• HLTH/KINE 434 and HLTH/KINE 435 (dependent on course offerings)

Internship Guidelines

• Students are highly encouraged to arrange their own internship, similar to securing future employment in their chosen profession
• Students may choose from a list of agencies where previous students have interned as a guide for making decisions about who to contact
• A student's current employment may qualify for credit but must be preapproved by their internship coordinator
• Students can do an internship in the fall, winter, spring, and/or summer quarters
• Internships are secured at least one quarter prior to the experience
• Internships involve 200 hours of practical, career-related experience over one or two quarters

Prior to Internship

Step 1:

• Students meet with coordinators according to the timeframe listed below prior to the internship experience to determine if the prerequisites are met
• Meet with your internship coordinator no later than:
  • Fall: Week 8 of Spring Quarter
  • Winter: Week 8 of Fall Quarter
  • Spring: Week 8 of Winter Quarter
  • Summer: Week 8 of Spring Quarter

Step 2:

• Submit a current resume and cover letter to your Internship Coordinator
• Verification of CPR/AED (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation & Automated External Defibrillator) certification, if applicable to the internship
• Completion of an Internship Application and Contract Form confirming location, site supervisor approval, expectations, goals, and objectives for the internship
• Completion of two forms required by Academic Program and Planning University Release Agreement and Site Self-Assessment and Student Acknowledgement of Risks

Step 3:

• By the 10th week of the quarter prior to the internship, ensure all documents have been completed and uploaded to the OneDrive folder created for you by your Internship Coordinator
• Once approved, students register for the KINE 463 or HLTH 463; add codes will be provided
• Students can register for 1 to 3 units

Your Responsibilities Throughout the Internship

Weekly Hours and Progress Logs

• You will submit your weekly hours and progress logs to the KINE/HLTH 463 Canvas course
• Logs must include the days/hours you worked and the responsibilities that you completed for each day

Weekly Discussion Forum

• You'll have the opportunity to engage with your fellow students and gain insightful information and advice from their internship experiences
• These discussions are designed to foster a collaborative learning environment and encourage reflection and sharing of your own internship journey

Midway and Final Evaluation

• Your on-site supervisor will complete two evaluations of your work to assess your progress toward achieving your internship goals, as well as your contribution to the agency

Final Portfolio

• You will submit a final portfolio that encompasses all the projects that you completed, as well as a compilation of your professional references and work (i.e., updated resume, letter of recommendations, etc.)
• This will ensure you will be ready to apply for future employment opportunities