Kinesiology Major
Kinesiology is the study of human movement, exercise, and physical activity. It is a major within Health & Medicine.
Kinesiology is the study of human movement, exercise, and physical activity. The major examines how the body moves, why it moves the way it does, and how physical activity affects overall health and performance. Students explore questions such as how muscles and bones work together, what happens to the body during exercise, how movement patterns develop, and what factors influence physical fitness and wellness. The field draws on knowledge from biology, physics, and psychology to understand human motion in both athletic and everyday contexts.
Students drawn to kinesiology typically have a strong interest in how the body functions and a curiosity about fitness, health, or sports. Many enjoy hands-on learning and practical problem-solving. The major typically begins with foundational courses in anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics that build essential knowledge about body systems and movement mechanics. From this base, students progress to more specialized topics and applied work, often including laboratory experience, field observation, and practical projects that connect classroom concepts to real-world movement and physical activity contexts.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a Kinesiology program commonly includes topics such as:
- Exercise physiology
- Biomechanics
- Motor control
- Anatomy
- Sports nutrition
- Exercise prescription
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
Kinesiology is commonly offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's
- Master's
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a Kinesiology background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Exercise physiologist
- Athletic trainer
- Strength coach
- Rehabilitation aide
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a Kinesiology major?
Kinesiology is the study of human movement, exercise, and physical activity. It is part of health & medicine, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do Kinesiology majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control, anatomy, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a Kinesiology major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as exercise physiologist, athletic trainer, strength coach. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is Kinesiology offered at?
It is commonly offered at the bachelor's, master's level, though availability varies by institution.