Kines Home > Undergraduate Programs > Introduction

Introduction

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.