OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY
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In the kinesiology program at OSU-Cascades, you’ll be immersed in the study of physical activity and its effect on human health, disease prevention and quality of life.
OSU-Cascades guarantees hands-on learning opportunities. As an intern at Healing Reins Therapeutic Riding Center, kinesiology major Hailey Hendrickson '23 put her biomechanics courses to work. She helped people with a range of cognitive and physical abilities ride horses to build core strength, which improved their overall balance, movement and mobility. Plus, being around the horses was a lot of fun. "I think the mission of Healing Reins to help others through the use of animals is very powerful and moving," said Hailey.
Earn a bachelor of science degree in kinesiology. The program coursework focuses on the application of the biological, physical, social and behavioral sciences in the study of physical activity and sport, and their effects on the health, fitness and quality of life of people of all ages and abilities. You can individualize your program of study based on your career goals.
The degree is designed to prepare you for employment and graduate school in areas related to kinesiology and exercise, including health professions such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, chiropractic, nutrition and dietetics, physician assistant, athletic training, wellness coaching, education, as well as medicine, public health, and research.
Undergraduate Degree Offered
Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
The kinesiology program offers a minor in exercise physiology for non-kinesiology majors. Kinesiology majors may not add the exercise physiology minor.
With an emphasis on movement and the functioning of human body due to exercise, the exercise physiology minor is an excellent addition for students interested in incorporating fitness and wellness into their major, or for those who love to exercise and be active and want to understand more about how the body responds. Find the minor requirements here.
As a kinesiology student, you can intern at the OSU-Cascades Functional Orthopedic Research Center of Excellence (FORCE) Laboratory. The FORCE Lab provides cutting-edge research and intervention strategies for injuries – especially knees, ankles and hips – creating a perfect match with Central Oregon’s population of elite and recreational athletes.
The study of human movement is complex, and getting "in it" can help you explore areas that interest you most.
OSU-Cascades offers a unique Physical Activity Course program that partners with fitness facilities located in our community.
As a kinesiology student, Rami Shehadeh '22 was a researcher in the biomechanics FORCE Lab and a Layman Fellowship recipient. His fellowship project examined how different styles of running shoes impact a runner's biomechanics. OSU-Cascades was the right fit for Rami – the supportive kinesiology faculty and hands-on environment gave him the kind of experience he greatly valued. "The faculty saw my potential and pushed me out of my comfort zone – showing me new ways of solving problems," he said. Rami plans to embark on a career in orthopedic medicine.
Sociocultural Dimensions of Physical Activity
Biomechanics of Human Movement
Exercise Physiology
Physical Activity, Aging and Chronic Disease
Scientific Inquiry in Kinesiology
General Nutrition
Motor Behavior
Psychology of Sport
Anatomical Kinesiology
Applied Muscle Physiology
Tissue Injury and Repair
We're here to help! Future students can connect with an OSU-Cascades admissions advisor for admission and program questions.
