Kinesiology
Program Overview
The Kinesiology program at Simpson University draws from strengths in both the Sciences and Mathematics Department and the Athletic Department, offering a strong depth of instruction while encompassing the breadth of the different areas where kinesiologists are employed. Within our major, students will learn more about careers in physical education or sports and fitness management, and even earn credit towards an Education minor through the courses offered in this program. With a graduate placement rate of nearly 100% within the previously offered majors in the Sciences and Mathematics Department, we anticipate that many of our graduates in this major will successfully go on to such careers or pursue graduate and/or professional education programs.
Simpson University’s Kinesiology major features small class and lab sizes, so students can get one-on-one attention from faculty members. Students will also have the opportunity to complete internships and gain clinical experience in the areas of sports management, coaching, athletic training and physical therapy, among others.
YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE GREAT TO START, BUT YOU HAVE TO START TO BE GREAT
“Studying kinesiology at Simpson University has helped me see how incredible the human body is and how intentionally it was designed by God. Through hands on learning and supportive professors, I’ve been able to grow in my understanding of movement, health, and how I can use that knowledge to serve others.”
Brady Glenn
Kinesiology – Class of 2026
Kinesiology Tracks
Applied Health
The Applied Health track is designed for students interested in clinical and rehabilitative health careers such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or athletic training. This track emphasizes foundational sciences alongside core kinesiology courses. Students also explore specialized topics such as exercise and nutrition for special populations and applied motor development. This program is ideal for students preparing for graduate programs in healthcare fields.
Exercise Science
The Exercise Science track prepares students for careers in fitness, coaching, health promotion, and personal training, as well as graduate studies in related areas. The curriculum blends theory and practice, covering topics like biomechanics, health education and promotion, exercise prescription, and sport psychology. This track is well-suited for those focused on health and performance in both individual and community settings.
Required Courses
- Nutrition
- Intro to Chemistry
- Care and Prevention of Athletic Injury
- Intro to Kinesiology
- Applied Movement Anatomy
- Contemporary Health Issues
- Exercise Physiology
- Measurement/Evaluation/Kinesiology
- Lifelong Motor Development
- Methods of Teaching Sports Activities
- Movement Experiences/Children
- Movement Experiences/Middle School
- Organization/Administration/Phys Ed
- Internship
- Precalculus
- First Aid/CPR
- PHED Activity or ODLE Skill Acquisition
- Biomechanics
- Exercise and Sports Psychology
- Exercise Prescription
- Applied Motor Development
Internship & Career Opportunities
- Physical Therapist
- Exercise Physiologist
- Athletic Trainer
- Sports Coach
- Fitness Instructor
- Occupational Therapist
- Wellness Coordinator
- Sports Nutritionist
- Corporate Wellness Specialist
- Rehabilitation Specialist
- Ergonomics Consultant
- Health Educator
- Personal Trainer
- Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist
- Biomechanics Researcher
