Breadcrumb
Kinesiology, B.S.
The highly regarded Kinesiology program offers hands-on learning experiences in state-of-the-art facilities to study human movement, including physical activity and daily activities, and physical education, exercise, community health, and sport. The department offers a low student-teacher ratio and small, research-oriented classes in four concentrations in an interactive setting. Students also develop their skills through fieldwork and practical experiences in their areas of study.
There are four program concentrations, each has a different emphasis. All offer community work, research projects and other real-world experience to build a strong foundation for an academic or professional career.
Why this program
Develop skills through practical experiences and fieldwork, which often include collaborating closely with the local community.
Use state-of-the-art laboratory facilities such as the human performance, biomechanics, and behavioral performance labs.
Earn a B.S. and M.S. in Kinesiology in five years through a special Kinesiology Four Plus One (4+1) Program.
Program Concentrations
We hear it every day—exercise is essential for overall health, athletic conditioning, disease prevention, and maintaining quality of life as we age. Yet, making exercise a meaningful and sustainable part of daily life often requires the guidance of trained professionals. Individuals educated in fitness and wellness management play a critical role in helping people from all backgrounds achieve better health, improved performance, and personal well-being. You can be one of them.
Cal Poly Humboldt's Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with an option in Exercise Science is designed to meet the growing demand for graduates who can implement and interpret health and fitness assessments, as well as develop targeted programs that enhance health, fitness, and athletic performance. This program blends rigorous, science-based coursework with hands-on experience in our cutting-edge Human Performance and Biomechanics Laboratories. It culminates in a real-world internship with an organization seeking your specialized skills. Graduates are well-prepared for professional certification through the American College of Sports Medicine and the National Strength and Conditioning Association. They go on to pursue fulfilling careers in corporate, clinical, or community settings as health and fitness specialists or strength and conditioning coaches—and many continue their education in graduate programs or medical school.
The Health Promotion concentration is designed for students who are passionate about improving the health and wellbeing of their communities. If you see yourself working to create positive health outcomes through education and outreach, this concentration may be the right fit for you. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in community health, wellness, and education, while supporting the development of practical skills to design, implement, and lead health promotion programs for diverse populations.
Through a blend of classroom learning and hands-on experience, students gain the knowledge and tools needed to evaluate health programs and address real-world health challenges. Graduates are equipped to be leaders in the field of health promotion and are well-prepared for professional certification through the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) Exam.
The Physical Education Teacher Education program at Cal Poly Humboldt prepares students to teach and coach in K–12 schools, while fostering a deep understanding of how to support diverse learners through culturally responsive and equitable teaching practices. This dynamic program emphasizes both academic knowledge and practical application, offering coursework focused on legislation, assessment, behavior management, and pedagogy aligned with current educational standards. Students gain hands-on experience through directed fieldwork at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, where they develop lesson plans, conduct assessments, and provide instruction to a wide range of students.
The program encourages participation in various recreational, educational, and athletic settings to build a well-rounded background in physical education. Throughout their studies, students develop essential professional and interpersonal skills through clinical teaching and coaching experiences. The pathway includes a four-year bachelor’s degree followed by a fifth-year credential program, including student teaching. Approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, the program provides a seamless transition into the single subject teaching credential, supporting students on their path to becoming effective, confident educators in today’s diverse classrooms.
Careers in the health care industry are on the rise, and Cal Poly Humboldt’s Pre-Health Professions option provides a strong academic foundation for students pursuing advanced degrees in physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant programs, nursing, medical school, or prosthetics and orthotics. This program meets the academic requirements necessary for graduate school admission while offering students opportunities to gain valuable, hands-on experience through practical placements in local clinics and healthcare settings.
Recognizing that graduate program prerequisites can vary by discipline, the curriculum includes flexible upper-division electives that allow students to tailor their coursework to align with the specific requirements of their intended professional path. To support student success, a clear and realistic four-year Major Academic Plan (MAP) is provided to guide students through their studies. With thoughtful planning and regular advising, students are well-positioned to complete the program on time and take the next step toward a rewarding career in health care.
This program will prepare you for graduate programs like:
- Doctor of Physical Therapy
- Doctor of Occupational Therapy
- Masters in Athletic Training
Did You Know?
Students may select a degree program in Kinesiology with a concentration in one of the following areas: Exercise Science, Health Promotion, Physical Education Teaching, or Pre-Health Professions.
Students collaborate with community members, through multiple settings including lab testing, school observations and student teaching, clinical placements, and implementing community based programs.
With access to three teaching and research labs, students are well-equipped for studying human movement: Biomechanics Lab; Human Performance Lab and the Behavioral Performance Lab.
Careers
Students graduate with the ability to solve problems and communicate effectively—building blocks for lifelong learning—while learning to use the latest technology to enhance their skills. They’re encouraged to participate in a variety of recreation, education, and/or athletic programs to gain a well-rounded background in knowledge and skill.
- Athletic director
- Physical therapy aide
- Teacher/coach
- Physical/occupational therapist/ Physician assistant
- Corporate wellness/fitness specialist
- Biomechanist
- Community Health Specialist
- Exercise physiologist
- Strength and conditioning specialist
