Students may select a degree program in kinesiology with an option in one of the following areas: Exercise Science/Health Promotion, Physical Education Teaching, or Pre-Physical Therapy.
The exercise science and health promotion option allows students to develop an area of study compatible with career goals. Individuals, as well as corporations, recognize the need to improve health/fitness and prevent disease. Consequently, there is a demand for individuals prepared through this option, who have the ability to implement and interpret health/fitness assessments as well as develop programs to improve health, fitness, and performance. The final phase of the program is an internship providing professional experience in exercise science. This option helps prepare students for certification by the American College of Sports Medicine as a Health/Fitness Specialist, or the National Strength and Conditioning Association as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. Graduates of this option are employed in corporate, commercial, community, clinical, and university health/fitness settings, and/or continue on to graduate programs in related fields.
The physical education teaching option, approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, prepares students to teach and coach in K-12 schools. Teaching candidates complete a four-year degree program and a fifth year credential program, which includes student teaching. Humboldt’s physical education teacher education program provides opportunities to develop professional and interpersonal skills with clinical teaching and coaching experiences. Students are encouraged to participate in a variety of recreation, education, and/or athletic programs in order to gain a well-rounded background in knowledge and skill.
The pre-physical therapy option includes specific course work required by the majority of physical therapy schools. The academic program will be tailored to the student’s background and previous educational experiences. Academic advising is a key factor in students success in achieving placement in a physical therapy school.