The Kinesiology major at Avila
How does your body know which muscles to contract for a specific task? What is the best approach to healthy weight loss? Which dietary supplements really enhance performance? How does chronic stress affect physical and mental health?
At Avila University we do more than ask questions – We discover answers
Kinesiology not only seeks to enhance athletic ability; it strives to improve quality of life. Optimum health is the ultimate finish line, and Kinesiology is advancing ways for everyone to cross it.
Kinesiology is the study of human movement and the body’s response to physical inactivity and exercise. Relevant subdisciplines featured in the program include: exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor behavior, and sports psychology.The major also prepares students to apply to graduate programs in the areas of sport and exercise science, athletic training, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or physical and health education.
“This program itself meets Title IV requirements in Missouri and varies state to state outside of Missouri to allow a student to sit for the licensure exam. The program itself is not a licensure program but prepares you to sit for the necessary exam.”
Applied areas of specialization emphasize health and fitness instruction, sport coaching, strength and conditioning, and medical fitness/rehabilitation.Throughout the program students are engaged in action research that identifies research questions, gathers and evaluates information, develops and implements strategies for improvement, and monitors key performance indicators. This practical evidence-based approach to problem solving reinforces applications of course content and contributes to their professional development. The major also prepares students to apply to graduate programs in the areas of sport and exercise science, athletic training, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or physical and health education.
Kinesiology courses integrate best practices for hybrid/online course design, practical applications, and memorable learning experiences to facilitate intellectual and professional development.
Kinesiology Concentrations include:
- health and fitness instruction,
- sport coaching, strength and conditioning,
- and medical fitness/rehabilitation.
The CASCE accredited Strength and Conditioning concentration that includes a comprehensive field experience with mentoring provided by experienced strength and conditioning professionals. The Rehabilitation Science concentration that meets prerequisites for graduate application to athletic training, occupational therapy, and physical therapy programs.
NSCA-CSCS Exam Prep is embedded in the curriculum. Undergraduate dual-credit courses (KN 381/581 01, KN 420/520 01, KN 319/519 01, KN 376/576 01) may contribute up to 12 graduate credit hours towards the Avila University Master of Science in Kinesiology degree.
Be Prepared for Your Career
Kinesiology majors have a variety of career options across multiple fields.
- Personal Trainer
- Health Fitness Specialist
- Exercise Physiologist
- Health and Wellness Coach
- Athletic Trainer
- Occupational Therapist or Physical Therapist
- Sport Coach/Instructor
- Strength and Conditioning Professional
- Performance and Sport Scientist
Contact
Department of Kinesiology
11901 Wornall Road / Kansas City
Gerald Larson, Ph.D., ACSM-CEP, NSCA-CSCS*D, Associate Professor and Program Director of Kinesiology
P: 816-501-3714 / E: gerald.larson
Transferring to Avila?
Did you know that you can get college credit for work history? Learn more about the Prior Learning Assessment Transfer hours!
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