Best Kinesiology Programs

Kinesiology programs provide students with a foundation in anatomy, biomechanics, exercise physiology, and more. So, if you’re looking to pursue a degree in kinesiology, you’ve come to the right place.

When I started graduate school, I expected the rigorous and demanding workload it required. What I didn’t expect was how it affected my body. Studying meant a lot of sedentary work—papers, research, writing—which made my joints stiff. So, I looked into improving my exercise and physical health in my free time. This all pointed right to kinesiology, which is what brings me here today.

My personal interest in kinesiology aside, choosing the best kinesiology program comes down to a few factors. Whichever schools you're deciding between—Rice University, the University of Michigan, or California State University, to name a few—Bold.org is here with research and quick facts to help you decide.

For this article, I researched admissions details, costs, and what students can expect when entering a kinesiology program. Here's what you should look for in the best kinesiology programs:

1. National Rankings: University brands and prestige aren't everything, but they can still influence your chances of employment.
2. Tuition Costs: Every college is expensive these days, but let's look at which colleges are comparatively affordable.
3. Specialized Kinesiology Programs: Choose a specialization like neuromuscular function, sports management, or biomechanics.
4. Internships/Hands-On Experience: Understand what organizations, labs, or sports teams each university can connect you with.

And, of course, I will also include exclusive tips on how to maximize and pay for your kinesiology education—let’s get started!

If you want to get your kinesiology degree, start with Bold.org. Sign up for a free profile and apply for scholarships to get the education of your dreams today!

Top Kinesiology Programs in the US

With the right program and education, you can become the next leading professional in the physical health industry.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the best kinesiology programs in the United States:

1. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

• Ranking: #15 in the Nation
• Average Cost of Tuition: $15,154 (in-state); $33,691 (out-of-state)

UCLA's kinesiology program is known for its focus on both academia and professional opportunities. The program prepares students for careers in physical therapy, sports medicine, biomechanics, and fitness training.

UCLA's research in neuromuscular function, aging, and injury prevention allows students access to the most current developments in the field. Students can expect to receive a well-rounded education from faculty who are leaders in their respective specialties. UCLA also offers plenty of internship and clinical opportunities. The school’s location is central to sports teams, rehabilitation centers, and hospitals.

2.  Rice University

• Ranking: #18 in the Nation
• Average Cost of Tuition: $66,540

Rice University is located in Houston, Texas, and is one of the top kinesiology programs in the country. It is renowned for its focus on clinical practice and sports science, and the institute strongly emphasizes both the theoretical and practical applications of movement science.

Rice University is connected to surrounding sports teams and healthcare facilities, which provide students with unique internships and other opportunities to gain real-world experience.

3. University of Florida (UF)

• Ranking: #30 in the Nation
• Average Cost of Tuition: $6,390 (in-state); $28,658 (out-of-state)

Located in the Sunshine State of Florida, the University of Florida (UF) is home to one of the best kinesiology programs in the South. It is known for its strengths in exercise physiology and sports medicine. UF’s Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology offers undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare students for careers in physical therapy, sports coaching, strength and conditioning, and injury rehabilitation.

The program focuses on evidence-based practices in exercise science using research and clinical settings. Students will also have direct access to UF's relationships with local and state sports teams and healthcare organizations. UF’s kinesiology programs offer internships where students can receive hands-on training in real-world settings.

4. University of California – Davis

• Ranking: #33
• Average Cost of Tuition: $14,934 (in-state); $37,602 (out-of-state)

The University of California, Davis Campus, provides one of the most diverse and well-rounded kinesiology programs on the West Coast. UC Davis’s program is known for its focus on human movement, sports performance, and physical activity. This program is a great choice for students interested in careers in sports rehab, fitness, sports coaching, and more.

UC Davis’s research studies in injury prevention, performance, and rehabilitation prepare students for success in both clinical and athletic settings. Classes in biomechanics can also help enhance your kinesiology education.

5. University of Michigan School of Kinesiology

• Ranking: #63
• Average Cost of Tuition: $17,736 (in-state); $60,946 (out-of-state)

The University of Michigan's School of Kinesiology offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in areas of study like exercise science, sports management, and athletic training. The program provides students with a multidisciplinary education in biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor learning, and sports medicine. The school also offers students opportunities to gain practical experience in its state-of-the-art labs and research centers.

As a kinesiology major, students can expect to collaborate with the surrounding medical and sports communities, which offer them access to extensive professional networks and internship opportunities in sports teams, physical therapy clinics, and healthcare facilities.

Take a look at these prerequisites for medical school to give you a better understanding of what a future in physical therapy can look like!

Other Notable Kinesiology Programs

Below are more well-regarded kinesiology programs you may want to look at!

• University of Southern California
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Boston University Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation
• University of Georgia
• Texas A&M University Kinesiology & Sports Medicine
• Florida State University
• University of Miami
• Cal State LA School of Kinesiology

College is expensive. Access more scholarship opportunities on Bold.org and browse our full list of scholarships today!

What is Kinesiology?

Understanding what exactly this field entails can help you choose which program you want to attend, what classes you're interested in, and what occupation you may want to pursue.

Kinesiology is the scientific study of human movement. It originates from the Greek term “Kinesis,” which means movement. Over the years, kinesiology has increasingly become a popular field of study for students interested in health, fitness, sports, and rehabilitation careers.

Kinesiology focuses on different aspects of bodily movement, including:

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Biomechanics
• Motor control
• Psychology

Kinesiologists use studies in human movement to understand the causes and processes of physical movement. They also analyze and improve movement in different areas of physical context, such as wellness, fitness, rehabilitation, and more.

Why Physical Therapy is Important

To put it simply, the study of kinesiology is important because it helps us understand the way our bodies move on every level. From the way we eat to the way we recover from injury, kinesiology targets every aspect of these bodily functions and allows us to not only understand their fundamentals but also how we can improve health and physical performance.

For example, if you’re a sports fan or have been an athlete at some point, you know just how much sports impact our bodies. When athletes get injured, rehabilitation is key to recovery. Without kinesiology, sports medicine would be kneecapped.

This is why kinesiology education is crucial to society and has become a growing field of study.

Physical therapy and kinesiology go hand-in-hand. Get an in-depth look into the best physical therapy schools in the country.

Career Opportunities for Kinesiology Graduates

So, once you've graduated, the looming question beckons: What's next? Luckily for kinesiology students, their education offers a wide range of career opportunities in different areas such as:

• Physical therapist
• Occupational therapist
• Sports trainer
• Exercise physiologist
• Fitness trainer
• Athletic trainer
• Sports nutritionist
• Rehabilitation specialist
• Sports psychologist

Though not required, you may want to consider pursuing a pre-physical therapy program or looking into some medical courses that will not only give you a better understanding of the human body but also help you prepare for physical therapy school.

Need extra cash for your exercise science degree? Check out these jobs for college students!

Choosing the Right Kinesiology Program

Congratulations! You've made it this far in figuring out what you want to study. However, choosing the right program can make all the difference in your quest for a top physical therapy education.

Here are some things to consider when choosing the right kinesiology program for you:

• Research, research, research. Look into kinesiology programs that align with your career goals, whether occupational therapy, physical therapy, or exercise science; your ideal program should have your target focus.
• Consider factors like faculty expertise, clinical opportunities for research, and hands-on experiences.
• Look for programs with strong testimonials from past or current students to get an inside look at what to expect throughout the program.
• Check the program’s curriculum to ensure it covers essential topics such as exercise physiology, motor behavior, and sport psychology.

Though these are just a few factors to consider, they are the bread and butter of what's important when it comes to your education.

If you've settled on kinesiology for your education and career, apply for these physical therapy scholarships to reduce student debt!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Kinesiology Programs in the U.S.

What is kinesiology?

Kinesiology is the scientific study of human movement to understand the causes and processes of physical movement and analyze and improve movement in different areas of physical context, such as wellness, fitness, rehabilitation, and more. Kinesiology's core classes focus on different aspects of bodily movement like:

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Biomechanics
• Motor control
• Psychology

What career can I pursue with my kinesiology degree?

Kinesiology graduates can pursue careers in a range of fields, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, sports training, fitness training, athletic training, sports nutrition, and rehabilitation. Physical education offers a wide range of career opportunities, depending on your focus of study.

How do I choose the right kinesiology program for me?

Choosing the right kinesiology program depends on your career interests. So, whether you want to be a physical therapist, exercise physiologist, or specialize in sports medicine, the program suited for you should encompass all of these areas of study. You should also consider factors like location, reputation, faculty expertise, and campus life, as they will all support your time throughout the program.

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