General Catalog 2025-2026
Kinesiology
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About the Department
Dr. Jenelle Gilbert, Department Chair
Email: jgilbert@csufresno.edu
South Gym, Room 112
559.278.2016
chhs.fresnostate.edu/kinesiology/
The term kinesiology means “the study of movement,” and the academic discipline of kinesiology comprises the subdisciplines of exercise physiology, biomechanics, sport and exercise psychology, athletic training and sports medicine, sports administration, physical education, and fitness and health promotion. The overall objective of the programs in kinesiology is to provide students with the insight, education, and practical experience in exercise, sport, and physical activity for employment in the kinesiology field. Programs in kinesiology open doors to relevant and rewarding professional careers.
The Department of Kinesiology is composed of a cohesive, creative, and dynamic group of well-educated faculty with a wealth of practical and professional experience. Students are engaged in educational and clinical research programs and practical experiences which incorporate leading-edge technology and best practices. The curriculum and associated instruction provide a solid foundation for future learning and professional growth. The program incorporates many opportunities for professional certification through prestigious national organizations and governing bodies. Students become experts in exercise, fitness, performance, and wellness.
The Exercise Science degree provides a foundation in the movement sciences which fully prepares students for graduate study and professional careers in fitness, wellness, health promotion, human performance, and preventive and rehabilitative sciences. The exercise science degree also prepares students for professional certifications from internationally recognized health/fitness organizations. Flexible and personalized educational and career development strategies are hallmarks of this program. Exercise science faculty provide instruction and advising that is based upon theories and principles as well as practical and professional experience. Many students seek admission to clinical programs, such as Athletic training, Physical therapy, Occupational therapy, Physician Assistant, Nursing, Chiropractic, and Medicine.
The Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) Option offers National and State standards-based curricular emphasis in physical education pedagogy, movement development and analysis, teaching strategies, and application of physical activities designed for students with professional goals to teach physical education. Students who graduate from the program are considered subject matter competent in physical education. Upon completion of the PETE program students will need to complete an accredited credential program as well. The PETE program is an accredited program that adheres to the standards outlined by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC).
The undergraduate Sport Administration Option prepares students for entry-level careers in the sport industry and graduate studies in Sport Administration. Students learn a combination of skills related to sport and undergo a strategic career analysis, evaluate their marketability within the sport industry, learn how to differentiate themselves from the competition, network with leading sport personnel and organizations, and develop a career plan and resume – all while gaining essential hands-on sport industry experience.
Obtaining a Master’s degree is a very effective strategy for career advancement. The Department of Kinesiology offers a Master of Science in Athletic Training, a Master of Science in Exercise Science, a Master of Arts in Sport Administration, and a Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology. There are 13 graduate faculty members in the department. The exercise science and sport and performance psychology labs are fully equipped with research-standard technology. Graduates have achieved remarkable success in professional careers as well as in doctoral programs in prestigious universities.
A degree in kinesiology can lead to very bright career prospects in health care, sports and athletics, education, and other professional avocations.
Activity Classes
The activity program is dynamic, diverse, rewarding, and fun. The focus is on quality experiences in fitness, skill, and personal development. Activity courses are offered in aquatics, dance, individual activities, and team sports. These courses are open to all students, and as many as 8 units of activity classes can be counted toward graduation (12 units for kinesiology majors).
Facilities
The facilities include a gymnasium; 12 tennis courts; a mat/gymnastics facility; two multipurpose/dance rooms; an all-weather track; multi-purpose fields for softball, soccer, football, ultimate Frisbee, and other nontraditional activities; and a swimming complex. Modern, well-equipped instructional and research labs in exercise physiology, biomechanics, sport and exercise psychology, and athletic training are central components of the department.
Career Opportunities
What You Can Do When You Get a Degree in Exercise Science
Exercise Science prepares students for professional careers in fitness and wellness, for example:
- Personal and group fitness training
- Worksite health and wellness promotion
- Strength and conditioning
- Clinical exercise physiologist
- Fitness equipment and medical equipment sales
Exercise Science will also prepare students for graduate study in areas, such as:
- Exercise physiology
- Biomechanics
- Health promotion and wellness
- Fitness and conditioning
Marketability and advancement within the various professions can be enhanced by additional professional certifications. Completion of the Bachelor’s degree in the Exercise Science Option is designed to prepare students to successfully complete professional certifications through such organizations as:
- American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
- National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
- American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- Exercise Is Medicine (EIM)
What You Can Do When You Get a Degree in Physical Education
Physical Education prepares students for:
- Teaching physical education in K-12 settings
- Gaining acceptance into related graduate education programs
- Coaching at various levels
- Pursuing a single-subject credential in physical education
What You Can Do When You Get a Degree in Kinesiology - Sport Administration
Sport Administration prepares students for entry-level careers in:
- Professional sports
- College sports
- Youth sports
- Olympic sports
ProgramsBachelorMasterCredentialMinorCoursesAthletic TrainingKinesiology ActivityKinesiologyPage: 1
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