Kinesiology BS
- Major
- In-Person
- Greeley
- Exercise Science
4 Years
Fall, Spring, Summer
Program Overview
Explore the science of human movement with UNC’s Kinesiology B.S. Through hands-on coursework and applied learning, you’ll build skills in exercise testing, movement analysis, performance enhancement and program leadership.
You’ll work alongside faculty who are committed to helping you make a meaningful impact on health and well-being. Many students gain real-world experience through internships at UNC’s Cancer Rehabilitation Institute, local fitness centers, schools and hospitals — experience that sets you apart after graduation.
Choose the Exercise Science concentration to focus your degree on the scientific study of exercise and prepare for a career in health, fitness or rehabilitation. No matter your path, you’ll graduate ready to make a difference in the growing field of kinesiology.
All Kinesiology B.S. students build a shared foundation in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and exercise psychology. From there, you can add the Exercise Science concentration to sharpen your focus on pre-health and clinical careers.
The Kinesiology B.S. at UNC requires 120 credits, including:
- Liberal Arts Curriculum (31 credits):
General education courses in writing, math, arts and humanities, social sciences and natural sciences. Many science courses also count toward the major. - Required Major Courses (84-85 credits):
Coursework in exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor learning, cardiac rehabilitation and exercise programming, plus a required internship. Prepares you for careers in cardiac rehabilitation, gerontological fitness, exercise program management, athletic conditioning, biomechanics, ergonomics and sport and exercise leadership.- Exercise Science Concentration (85 credits):
Adds coursework in biology, chemistry, physics and statistics to deepen your scientific foundation. Prepares you for graduate and professional programs in physical therapy, athletic training, occupational therapy, medical school, physician assistant studies and other health fields.
- Exercise Science Concentration (85 credits):
- University-Wide Credits (4-14 credits):
Additional courses to reach the 120-credit minimum. Students who apply recommended courses to both the liberal arts curriculum and major requirements may have extra electives.
Students work closely with an advisor each semester to plan coursework and stay on track for graduation. View full degree requirements in the academic catalog using the button below.
This plan is a recommended schedule to complete this bachelor’s degree in 4 years. Courses are subject to availability. Students must consult with their major advisor to receive information on any additional graduation requirements and course sequence guidance.
The Sports Coaching Minor is for students who want to work with athletes of all ages in competitive sport. The program builds your coaching knowledge through theory, practice and hands-on application in coursework and internship opportunities. Students in any major can pursue a minor in Sports Coaching. It’s a strong fit for students in Kinesiology-related fields, and also a popular choice for education majors who want to coach while teaching.
The minor in kinesiology allows students to explore scientific, psychological, social, and developmental concepts related to human movement, exercise, physical activity, and sport.
Please note: Students in the following programs may not also earn a minor in Kinesiology, since the required coursework overlaps:
- Kinesiology B.S.
- Kinesiology B.S. – Exercise Science Concentration
- Physical Education and Physical Activity Leadership (PEPAL) B.S.
- PEPAL B.S. – Licensure: Physical Education (Grades K-12)
Why UNC for Kinesiology?
Hands-On Learning
Gain real-world experience from day one through internships, labs, research projects and work with elite athletes. Small classes mean close faculty support and hands-on training.
Nationally Recognized Excellence
UNC's Kinesiology program is recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association for excellence in exercise science and human performance. Our students gain cutting-edge training in biomechanics, kinesiology and exercise psychology. Graduates are prepared for careers in health, fitness and rehabilitation.
Career Versatility
Launch a career that fits your passion. Graduates work in fitness and rehab settings and are ready for roles in athletic training, exercise leadership, rehabilitation or graduate study.
Skills and Outcomes
Kinesiology B.S.
You’ll learn to:
- Understand the science of human movement and exercise
- Design and evaluate exercise and fitness programs
- Apply principles of biomechanics, motor learning and exercise psychology
- Work with athletes, older adults and clinical populations
- Gain hands-on experience through a required internship
Exercise Science Concentration
You’ll learn to:
- Apply clinical and practical techniques in exercise science
- Analyze biomechanics, physiology, nutrition and exercise psychology
- Design and implement exercise programs for diverse populations
- Build a strong science foundation in biology, chemistry and physics
- Gain hands-on experience through a required internship in a health, fitness or rehabilitation setting
Program Highlights
UNC Cancer Rehabilitation Institute:
Gain hands-on experience helping cancer patients and survivors improve strength, mobility and quality of life.
Complementary Health and Integrative Physiology Center:
Explore how exercise and complementary therapies work together to support health and healing.
Internships:
Apply your classroom learning in real fitness, health and rehabilitation settings across the region.
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help!
Kinesiology, Nutrition & Dietetics
Undergraduate and graduate programs in exercise science, physical education, athletic training, coaching, nutrition, dietetics and related disciplines.
- kind@unco.edu
- (970)351-2535
- Gunter 2590