Department of Kinesiology

Kinesiology

Immerse yourself in the science of human movement at Chico State. From helping clients heal through rehabilitation to educating children about the importance of physical activity, our program will prepare you for a rewarding career empowering people to move better and live healthier lives. Here, you will:

  • develop an understanding of how the human body moves
  • how exercise affects well-being, and
  • how to help others be active.

Programs Offered

The Department of Kinesiology has both undergraduate and master's programs available to students.

Exercise Physiology

BS in Exercise Physiology

The Exercise Physiology degree focuses on the physiological and metabolic responses of the body to physical activity and is ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in allied-health fields, fitness, rehabilitation, or research.

BS in Exercise Physiology


Kinesiology

BA in Kinesiology

The Physical Education Teacher Education option prepares students for teaching physical education at the elementary, middle, and high school levels.

The Movement Studies option provides a broader understanding of human movement and prepares students for careers in areas such as fitness, coaching, and sports performance.

BA in Kinesiology


skills lab

MA in Kinesiology

Gain an in-depth understanding of the theoretical basis of human movement and develop the skills, knowledge, and research experience to become leaders in education and research.

Take advantage of an outstanding graduate faculty and state-of-the-art laboratories that enhance graduate student learning in Kinesiology at Chico State.

MA in Kinesiology


Career Paths for Kinesiology Program Graduates

physical therapy

Physical Therapy

Many Exercise Physiology graduates pursue careers in physical therapy. After completing professional school, they may choose to work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or private clinics, helping patients recover from injuries or illnesses.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy

Another popular career path for Kinesiology graduates is occupational therapy. Occupational therapists help patients recover from physical, mental, or emotional injuries or illnesses, and help them regain the skills they need to live independently.

physical education

Physical Education

Physical Education Teacher Education/Adapted Physical Education
Kinesiology graduates may also pursue careers as educators. They work in school or community settings to promote physical literacy and physical activity across the lifespan.

Fitness

Fitness and Wellness

Kinesiology graduates can also work in fitness and wellness, developing and implementing exercise programs for individuals or groups, and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Research

research

Research and Academia

Kinesiology graduates may choose to pursue careers in research or academia. After completing graduate school, they may work as researchers, professors, or instructors, teaching and studying topics related to Kinesiology, such as biomechanics, exercise physiology, or sports psychology.


Kinesiology student

Is the KINE program right for me?

You should consider the Kinesiology program if you:

  • Enjoy being active and exercising
  • Are interested in how the human body moves and like helping others move better
  • Want hands-on, experiential learning opportunities in a variety of sub-disciplines with state-of-the-art equipment

get involved

How do KINE students get involved?

Engage in high-impact, hands-on learning through service programs such as BE:WEL, KIDS:PLAY, or the Autism Clinic. Our students also collaborate with faculty on research projects, attend conferences, and meet other kinesiology students through clubs.


How to Apply

We can’t wait to meet you! Chico State is part of the California State University system and uses Cal State Apply for applications.

Make sure to select California State University, Chico as your campus of choice when applying. Registering and applying is quick and easy, so let’s get started!

Apply to Chico State
About Chico State

Nationally Ranked

U.S. News and World Report consistently ranks us in the top 10 of regional public universities in the West, and Forbes ranks Chico State as a top college for educational quality and value (just to name a few).

US News Top 20 US Public universities in the West