As you explore which degree you want to pursue, it’s wise to consider kinesiology. This flexible field of study covers many exciting topics and can help prepare you for a wide range of careers. At Barton College, we provide degree options in kinesiology, and we’ve seen many students discover a career they love in this field. Here’s a look at what kinesiology is and some of the paths it can open up for you.
What is Kinesiology?
Simply put, kinesiology is the study of how the human body moves. That basic definition covers diverse topics, from data analysis to anatomy and physiology. How the body moves and how movement affects health and function is an intricate topic that can be used in many ways. Some classes you can look forward to in this field include biomechanics, chemistry, biology, math, statistics, and research methods.
People who study kinesiology can go on to work in careers such as sports medicine or exercise physiology, and athletes can obviously benefit from these specialties. However, kinesiology can also lead to jobs that serve people from all walks of life. You can work in fields such as nursing, education, or medical research. Movement is something that is a part of everyone’s life at every age, so this field includes many exciting potential careers.
The Types of Kinesiology Degrees
The specific type of kinesiology degree you should pursue depends on the career you’re interested in. The most entry-level degree is an associate’s degree, which requires around 60 credit hours of study and can usually be completed in two years. It can prepare you for a job such as a physical therapy assistant, but many people use this degree as a starting point to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program.
A Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology is typically a four-year program that requires about 120 credit hours to complete. At Barton College, we offer a selection of bachelor’s degrees that delve into kinesiology, including a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with advising toward pre-professional health programs such as pre-physical therapy. A master’s degree in kinesiology is a great way to delve even deeper into the science underpinning the study of kinesiology. It requires about 30 credit hours and two years to complete. Barton College offers a 4+1 program that enables students to graduate in five years with both a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science and aMaster of Science degree in Kinesiology.
Another degree you can pursue is a PhD in Kinesiology. This option is the next step after a master’s degree and takes three to four years to complete. A PhD requires you to complete a dissertation.
What You Can Do With a Kinesiology Degree
As mentioned earlier, a kinesiology degree can help prepare you for a wide array of careers. Here’s just a sample of the options:
- Health education
- Fitness instructor
- Occupational Therapist
- Nursing
- Coaching
- Sports program director
- Dance therapist
- Aquatics director
- Nutritionist
- Strength and conditioning coach
- Recreation therapist
- Personal trainer
- Epidemiologist
- Sports agent
- Exercise physiologist
These are just some of the career options available with a degree in kinesiology, depending on what specialty you pursue. Kinesiology could be the degree that helps you find the future you’re dreaming of.
See How Barton College Can Prepare You For Your Future
If you’re interested in studying kinesiology, we invite you to come see what we have to offer at Barton College.
We pride ourselves on providing an excellent education in a supportive environment. We go the extra mile to help our students succeed, not only in their academic work but also in life. For more information about how Barton College can help you pursue your dreams,contact us today!
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