Kinesiology
Bachelor of Science
The kinesiology degree at USU provides three different options for students who wish to pursue careers in exercise science, or physical therapy. In all of these areas, students study the psychological, neurophysiological, and biomechanical/biophysical aspects of human movement.
Through mentoring, students are given the opportunity to conduct undergraduate research. The department collaborates with state health programs, parks and recreation programs, and local and regional school districts to provide students with opportunities for hands-on experience and professional training.
Many graduates from the program are accepted into advanced degree programs in physical and occupational therapy or are admitted to medical schools.
For more information visit the USU Degree Finder.
Emphases
Exercise Science
The exercise science emphasis is science-based and focuses on the integration of anatomical, psychological, biomechanical, and physiological principles related to human movement, exercise, and rehabilitation. Many students complete the exercise science emphasis in order to build a strong foundation prior to pursuing graduate study in exercise science fields or health professions, such as medical school, dentistry, or chiropractics.
Learn more about the Exercise Science Emphasis through the USU Catalog.
Pre-Physical Therapy
The pre-physical therapy emphasis is designed to prepare students to enter into a graduate degree program in physical therapy. Physical therapists help people who have limited abilities to move and perform functional activities. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools, sport and fitness facilities, work settings, and nursing homes.
Learn more about the Pre-Physical Therapy Emphasis through the USU Catalog.
Contact Information
Zoyee Cantwell
Academic Advisor
Kinesiology and Health Science
Neisha Christensen
Peer Advisor
Kinesiology and Health Science
Raquel Friddle
Academic Advisor
Kinesiology and Health Science
Jana Johnson
Academic Advisor
Kinesiology and Health Science
Program Director
Brennan Thompson
Associate Professor
Kinesiology and Health Science
Admission Requirements
In addition to Utah State University’s admissions requirements, the kinesiology program has additional requirements. International students have additional admissions requirements as well. For more information visit the USU Catalog.
Transfer Students: Students transferring from other institutions need a 3.0 total GPA to qualify for admission as kinesiology major with an emphasis in exercise science. Students transferring from other USU majors need a 3.0 total GPA to qualify for admission as kinesiology major with an emphasis in exercise science.
Transfer Students: Students transferring from other institutions need a 2.75 total GPA to qualify for admission as kinesiology major with an emphasis in exercise science. Students transferring from other USU majors need a 2.75 total GPA to qualify for admission as kinesiology major with an emphasis in exercise science.
Graduation Requirements
All graduates, regardless of the type of degree, must satisfy University Studies general education and depth education requirements. Additional graduation requirements are below:
- Total credits: 120 credits minimum
- Total credits C- or better: 100 credits
- Upper-division credits (3000 level or above): 40 credits
- USU credits (20 upper-division, 10 req. by major): 30 credits
- USU gpa: 2.0 or better
- Overall gpa:
- 3.0 or better for Pre-Physical Therapy Emphasis
- 2.75 or better for Exercise Science Emphasis
Program Requirements
There may be additional program requirements that students need to complete on a case-by-case basis. Meet with your advisor to discuss program requirements and your progress towards graduation.