College of Communication & Education

BA in Kinesiology

Overview

Graduates of the Department of Kinesiology are well prepared to work in a variety of physical activity professions serving people of all ages. Student-centered instruction blending theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience makes our graduates attractive candidates for careers or advanced study in fitness leadership, physical education, and sports medicine. The Department of Kinesiology is fortunate to have quality facilities on campus and access to beautiful outdoor areas in Northern California. The department is housed in the new 64,000 square foot Yolo Hall located adjacent to the Shurmer-Acker Gym complex and playing fields. Department majors utilize dedicated laboratories for adapted physical education, athletic training, biomechanics, exercise physiology, fitness, motor behavior, and pedagogy. Other instructional facilities include dance studios, a climbing wall, a ropes course, two gymnasiums, swimming pools, a track, weight training/fitness rooms, and golf, soccer and multipurpose fields.

Mission

Kinesiology Mission Statement

The mission of the Department of Kinesiology is to communicate and create knowledge about sport, exercise, and physical activity. The department achieves its mission through innovative and engaging instruction, scholarship, and professional service. The uniqueness of our integrative discipline is that we work directly to promote lifelong learning and participation in human movement to enhance quality of life for all.

Program Mission Statements

Option in Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE)

To educate teachers to become knowledgeable and skillful agents of change so the California children and youth (K-12) become physically active for life.

Option in Movement Studies

To train professionals to lead systematic programs of human movement activity that improves the quality of life.

Goals & Objectives

Option in Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE)

The PETE program philosophy is congruent with the University’s vision for intensive, high-quality learning environments, cutting edge learning and information resources, intellectual rigor, and moral development. Furthermore, the program coincides with the University’s concept of a well-prepared teacher. This view of prospective teachers includes preparation of:

  • Effective public school teachers who will be ready to serve a diverse population of learners based on demographic changes in California.
  • Informed and reflective teachers who can link theory and practice.
  • Teachers who are knowledgeable and skillful agents of change who insure that schools are places where California’s future is shaped.
  • Teachers who understand the developmental nature of learners in a pluralistic, democratic society.
  • Teachers who value lifelong learning and are committed to personal growth and development

Option in Movement Studies

The curriculum in Movement Studies develops professionals that:

  • Integrate exercise science and practical knowledge of physical activity
  • Value lifelong learning and are committed to the personal growth of clients
  • Value individual differences and the developmental nature of learning

Learning Outcomes

Kinesiology BA - Learning Outcomes

The Department of Kinesiology’s Student Learning Outcomes describe the knowledge, skills, and dispositions of a Kinesiology graduate. These outcomes are consistent with the university strategic plan, department mission, and the standards set by professional organizations within the field. All undergraduate and graduate programs and options address these learning outcomes through specialized learning objectives. Specialized learning objectives are measurable competencies designed to address the relevant graduate, professional and credentialing standards. CSU, Chico graduates with a BA, BS, and MA from the Department of Kinesiology demonstrate knowledge, skills, and dispositions in the following areas:

  • Content Knowledge – Students will demonstrate knowledge and disciplinary concepts related to the field of Kinesiology
  • Communication – Students will apply knowledge of effective verbal, nonverbal, and media communication techniques to enhance learning and engagement in physical activity
  • Reflection and Critical Thinking – Students will demonstrate reflection and critical thinking in order to refine professional practice.
  • Programming and Assessment – Students will demonstrate evidence-based knowledge and skills (and best practices) for assessing client/student needs and for designing, implementing and evaluating programs.
  • Professionalism and Ethics – Students will demonstrate professional behaviors, including commitment to excellence, valuing diversity and collaboration, service to others, and techniques for lifelong learning.
  • Value Physical Activity and Fitness – Students will articulate a philosophy that physical activity programs are important to health and well-being of individuals, and that physical activity can foster self-expression, development, and learning.