Kinesiology, Nutrition & Dietetics
Academic Department
Undergraduate and graduate programs in exercise science, physical education, athletic training, coaching, nutrition, dietetics and related disciplines.
Sport Coaching Kicks Off
Launching in summer 2026, UNC’s 15-credit graduate certificate in Sport Coaching (online) equips educator-coaches and youth sport leaders with cutting-edge principles in psychology, training, administration, and technology—all aligned with nationally accredited standards
Wellness & Performance Backed by Science
At UNC’s KiND community, students and faculty unite under one mission: to uncover how movement (kinesiology) and nutrition work together to power health and performance. Born from the recent merger of Sport & Exercise Science and Nutrition & Dietetics, this collaborative environment encourages creative, hands-on learning—using real-world tools like metabolic carts and body composition labs to explore how fuel and muscle interact.
Interdisciplinary Learning
Kinesiology Programs
Explore the science of human movement and physical activity, including the physiological, biomechanical, psychological, and sociological aspects of exercise and sports, or gain the knowledge and skills to teach Physical Education effectively from K–12.
Biomechanics students analyze human movement using advanced motion-sensor technology.
Nutrition & Dietetics Programs
Study the physiological, biological and behavioral science of human nutrition. Prepare for a career in clinical or private practice, schools, public health or health management.
Beyond the Classroom
Gain hands-on academic and professional experience in one of KiND’s unique and world-renowned research institutes.
North of the Norm
Jourdan Delacruz, B.S. ’23
Distance Dietetic Program alumna and professional weightlifter Jourdan had a stellar performance at her second Olympic games in Paris.
Katie Wright, Senior
Katie, a 10-year U.S. Army vet and ROTC student, is studying how to help soldiers make informed decisions about how they fuel their bodies.
Ryland Townsend, PhD Student
Ryland led a research project to determine whether CBD-laced beverages affect physical or mental health in active, healthy adults.
Betsey Hubbard, PhD Student
Betsey’s research in adaptive sports and recreation focuses on expanding opportunities for anyone who wants to be an athlete – including those with “invisible” disabilities like hers.
Jenna Altomare, PhD Student
Jenna’s dissertation evaluates the effectiveness of adding diversity, equity and inclusion training to Kinesiology’s undergraduate curriculum.
Bears Go Big
Pro Football Hall of Fame
“It’s important for students to understand the value of the education they’re getting at UNC… So many great people have come from UNC and it’s just a neat, neat thing to have through that. UNC has great tradition, great history, to be just a part of that is an awesome thing.”
Steve Antonopulos, B.A. ’72, M.A. ’73
Recently retired after 45 years as athletic trainer with the Denver Broncos
Program Spotlight
Evolving to Meet Market Demand
UNC’s Athletic Training program has been revered for decades, and while the program itself has changed, its reputation hasn’t faltered. The field of athletic training has advanced in recent years, and so has UNC’s program.
Research Spotlight
Stewart’s Research Debunks Myths Surrounding CBD
In her most recent study, Dr. Laura Stewart examined the potential effect of CBD on healthy people.