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Kinesiology
Kinesiology
Degree Type
Bachelor of Science
Honors Bachelor of Science
Minor: Exercise Physiology
College
College of Health
Catalog Link
Description
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.
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.
Program Information
A total of 180 quarter credits are required to graduate, including 60 upper-division credits. Requirements include:
- OSU Core Education
- Kinesiology Core
- Electives if needed to meet the 180 credits, at least 60 upper division credits
Planning and Resources
Upon satisfactory completion of the degree students will be able to:
- Understand the methods by which public health identifies potential causes of population health status, and identifies potential targets for intervention;
- Describe the fundamental roles of public health and how those roles are operationalized in public health organization, funding, workforce, and regulations;
- Describe the role of physical activity in health and wellness;
- Demonstrate knowledge of scientific concepts related to physical activity;
- Apply scientific concepts towards assessing, promoting, or enhancing physical health, fitness, or performance; and
- Demonstrate skill in communication.
Exercise Physiology Minor (54 credits)
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.
Cutting-Edge Facilities
You’ll have access to state-of-the-art classrooms, the FORCE biomechanics lab and a cadaver lab.
Path to Doctor of Physical Therapy
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Earn your bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, then apply to our Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Study with faculty and researchers you already know as you pursue an advanced degree.
Location
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Bend is home to world-class athletes. Join a professor’s undergraduate research team to measure a rock climber’s or snowboarder’s performance!
Internship Spotlight
Finding strength through riding
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.
Faculty Spotlight
Cutting-edge research
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.
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Alumni Spotlight
Ready for the future
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.
Sample Courses
- 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
Where do our graduates work?
- Bend-La Pine School District
- Bend Memorial Clinic
- Bend Parks and Recreation
- Pacific Source Health Plans
- PeaceHealth Medical Group
- Philips Healthcare
- Rebound Physical Therapy
- St. Charles Health Systems
- Summit Health
- Therapeutic Associates
- Touchmark Retirement Community
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Contact Us
We're here to help! Future students can connect with an OSU-Cascades admissions advisor for admission and program questions.