Kinesiology focuses on the application of the biological, physical, social and behavioral science 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. This degree integrates two complementary applied human sciences that focus on optimal health and disease prevention through the lifestyle factors of nutrition and physical activity. The degree is designed to prepare students for employment and graduate school in areas related to exercise science/kinesiology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, allied health, medicine, research, education, physical/sport performance, and health & wellness across the lifespan.
Degree: B.S. in Kinesiology
Kinesiology Faculty
Career options(Some occupations may require further education/licensure) |
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Adapted/Therapeutic Recreation Director |
Exercise Physiologist |
Physical Therapist |
Where are OSU Kinesiology alumni working?(Data obtained from LinkedIn) |
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Certified Health & Fitness Specialist, Athletic Club of Bend |
Where have OSU-Cascades students participated in experiential learning (intern/research/etc.)? |
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212 Woman Wellness |
Job Search
In addition to our general job, internship, and volunteer search resources, below are some industry specific resources to help you search for opportunities in kinesiology. Don't forget the important process of researching employers and networking with professionals in companies/organizations that you are interested in.
- APTA HotJobs
- Careers and Internships in Sports
- Explore Health Careers
- Health Professions JobsPlus
- NCAA Job Market
- PTjobs
If you are interested in healthcare, good opportunities to gain experience are physical therapy aide, occupational therapy aide, athletic trainer, strength and conditioning coach, athletic coach, home health aide, medical assistant, certified nurse assistant (CNA), personal care assistant (PCA), patient care technician, emergency medical technician (EMT), paramedic, medical scribe and pharmacy technician. Research, volunteer opportunities and mission trips can also be a great way to gain related experience in healthcare.
Research Resources
Graduate School
In addition to our general Graduate/Professional School resources, utilize the following resources for researching advanced degrees in Kinesiology.
- American Physical Therapy Association list of accredited PT programs
- Council for Education on Public Health list of accredited programs
- U.S. News and World Report Best Graduate Programs for Biological Sciences, Medical School, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant
Professional Associations
Involvement in professional associations can expand your network, keep you up to date on current trends in the field, and give you access to additional job and internship opportunities. This is a sampling of professional associations that you could get involved in.
- American Academy of Physician Assistants
- American College of Sports Medicine
- American Kinesiology Association
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
- American Occupational Therapy Association
- American Physical Therapy Association
- American Public Health Association
- American Society of Biomechanics
- International Society of Biomechanics
- National Association of Athletic Trainers
- Southwest Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine
Additional Resources
- Council for Education on Public Health
- Exploring Health Careers
- Health Professionals Network
- OSU Corvallis information on Kinesiology
Career Development Center
The Career Development Center is here to help you navigate your future path.