Kinesiology San Diego State University

Overview

The Kinesiology programme at San Diego State University provides an in-depth exploration of human movement and its impact on health, skill acquisition, and physical fitness. Students engage with a curriculum that integrates physiological, psychological, and mechanical parameters to improve well-being across diverse populations. This degree prepares graduates for professional roles in clinical, corporate, and educational environments.

The academic foundation of the programme focuses on how movement is quantified and modified to meet specific health needs. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, the course ensures that students can design effective interventions. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and ethical decision-making within the health and rehabilitation sectors.

Why Kinesiology at San Diego State University?

The university provides specialised facilities, including the Adaptive Fitness Clinic and various research laboratories, where students gain hands-on experience. The programme is distinguished by its three specific emphasis options: Exercise Science Generalist, Fitness Specialist, and Pre-Physical Therapy. These pathways allow students to tailor their education to specific career goals, such as rehabilitative sciences or corporate wellness leadership.

Furthermore, the School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences emphasises a global perspective through a mandatory international experience. This requirement ensures that graduates are prepared to address health challenges and cross-cultural issues in a globalised workforce. Students also benefit from strong community links and opportunities for undergraduate research assistant positions.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 14130 per year
• National fee: USD 14130 per year
• Local fee: USD 6838 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Applied Kinesiology
• Physiology of Exercise
• Measurement and Evaluation in Kinesiology
• Biomechanics of Human Movement
• Neuroscience of Movement
• Pathophysiology and Exercise Programming of Disease Populations
• Promoting Physical Activity and Healthy Eating
• Psychosocial Aspects of Disease and Injury Rehabilitation
• Human Anatomy

Careers with Kinesiology

Graduates from the programme pursue diverse roles in the health and fitness industries. Those following the Fitness Specialist track often find employment as fitness professionals in corporate, community, and commercial settings. Opportunities also exist in cardiac rehabilitation, human efficiency research, and wellness programme management within the private and public sectors.

The Pre-Physical Therapy emphasis specifically prepares students for postgraduate education in rehabilitative professions. Graduates frequently transition into advanced degrees for physical therapy, chiropractic care, occupational therapy, and podiatry. Employment is commonly found in medical environments, clinics, and hospitals where specialists work to restore patient mobility and health.