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Kinesiology
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Undergraduate > Introduction
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Undergraduate: Introduction
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The Department of Kinesiology offers two
undergraduate degree programs in Kinesiology. Both lead to the Bachelor of
Science Degree in Kinesiology. One program prepares students for teacher
certification in the schools and the other for non-school careers in corporate
fitness. There are two tracks in the teacher certification program. The
All-Level Physical Education Teacher Certification Track’s primary purpose is to
prepare physical education teachers for public and/or private schools (EC-12).
The second track, Adapted Physical Education Certification Track leads to
Physical Education EC-12 teacher certification with a special emphasis in
adapted physical education, for those interested in working with persons with
disabilities.
The program of study available for those students who wish to pursue careers in
non-school settings affords opportunities for careers in corporate fitness or
graduate school opportunities in exercise science, physical therapy, or
occupational therapy. The non-school program is designed to increase general
knowledge of the broad field of Kinesiology, and to help students prepare
themselves to contribute to a wellness life style. There are specialized tracks
within the corporate fitness degree program designed for those interested in
meeting the prerequisites for a master’s or doctorate in physical therapy or a
master’s degree in occupational therapy. For information on fast-track options
see Dr. Sanborn or Ms. Robbie Reid.
The undergraduate Kinesiology program encompasses a wide variety of experiences
that are planned for the development of outstanding professionals in the world
of movement, exercise, and sport. Undergraduate Kinesiology students acquire a
sound background in theory, methodology, and laboratory experiences in the
movement sciences. Additionally each student develops competencies in working
with diverse populations in a variety of settings. Throughout the curriculum the
student will work to improve skills, knowledge, and attitudes in the area of
critical thinking, communication, professionalism, technology, citizenship,
pluralism (“a state of society in which members of diverse ethnic, racial,
religious, or social groups maintain an autonomous participation in and
development of their traditional culture or special interest within the confines
of a common civilization”), scientific foundation, and the application of theory
to practice. Each undergraduate Kinesiology major must fulfill the general
university requirements for graduation, including a minimum total of 120-123
semester hours, dependent upon the program track selected. These requirements,
along with the requirements for teaching certification can be found in the
university general catalog.
There are additional certification-training programs available to our students –
Certified Adapted Physical Educator (CAPE), and Ropes Course Facilitator. A
certification program does not lead to a degree, but is often integral to the
development of an effective professional. In most cases the certification can be
combined in a degree plan within or close to the 120 to 123-hour requirement for
graduation. Refer to the sections in this manual concerning certification
programs for more details.
Students may also take advantage of working toward State of Texas Licensure in
Athletic Training. This is different from NATA Certification, and currently we
do not have a NATA accredited program. If you are interested gaining State of
Texas Licensure in Athletic Training to compliment your degree track, please see
Ms. Kris Ring, Athletic Trainer.
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