Use Exercise Science to Impact Lives with a Kinesiology Major

Azusa Pacific’s Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology shapes difference makers who care for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. Exercise, movement, and sport help others thrive by improving health, fitness, and quality of life across the lifespan, and the kinesiology major equips students for a variety of careers in these areas. Students can choose from two concentrations: health professions and applied exercise science.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports growth in many career fields related to kinesiology, including physical therapy, athletic training, exercise physiologists and fitness professionals. APU’s program helps prepare students for these careers while focusing on equipping lifelong learners who are academically engaged, relationally focused, vocationally aware, and wellness oriented through approaches that are discipline-based and grounded within a Christian worldview.

Gain In-depth Learning Experience

All kinesiology majors take part in semester-long internships under the direction of an exercise science professional at one of several APU-approved practicum sites. Students receive invaluable hands-on learning that can then be applied back to coursework. These internship opportunities provide contacts in the field and ensure that kinesiology majors graduate with significant, relevant experience on their résumés.

Choose a Concentration

Health Professions

70-73 units

The health professions concentration is for students interested in pursuing physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, chiropractic, physician’s assistant, and other allied health graduate programs, including master’s and doctoral degrees in exercise physiology, biomechanics, and other subdisciplines of kinesiology. Gain practical, hands-on training in kinesiology, including 100 hours of supervised internships and a strong theoretical foundation in the sciences, which may fulfill graduate school prerequisites. View the Health Professions Concentration Advising Sheet (PDF).

Applied Exercise Science

54-57 units

The applied exercise science concentration prepares students to obtain positions as fitness professionals, strength and conditioning specialists, wellness directors, exercise physiologists, and to pursue graduate degrees in cardiac rehabilitation, exercise physiology, kinesiology, nutrition, sports psychology, or allied health professions (additional prerequisite courses may be necessary). Through applied coursework, learn to assess, design, and implement evidence-based fitness programs for clients to achieve optimal health and performance. Plus, complete 150+ hours of supervised internship experience at the university’s fitness center and in the community at one of our pre-approved sites. Many students are successful at finding employment in the industry prior to graduation. View the Applied Exercise Science Concentration Advising Sheet (PDF).

Choose a Minor

Adapted Physical Activity

The adapted physical activity minor provides undergraduate students with education and experience working with individuals with disabilities. Students learn how to modify and adapt skills and activities to promote a lifetime of physical activity and wellness, and gain valuable experiences while preparing for a career in liberal studies, physical education, special education, or adapted physical education. This program also serves as excellent preparation for APU’s teaching credential and Adapted Physical Education Added Authorization to gain a competitive advantage in the job market.

Certifications

Students are encouraged to sit for the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) examination after completing KIN 242 in their sophomore year, and NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES) and/or National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) examinations after completing the related 300-level coursework. Students are responsible for all the associated fees and costs for the desired certification(s).

Is This Major Right for You?

You’re a kinesiology major if you:

• Are interested in how the human body works
• Are interested in health promotion and human performance
• Want to promote fitness and exercise among other people
• Enjoy exercise and sports
• Are a good verbal communicator