College of Education and Human Development

School of Kinesiology

Move with purpose,
learn with passion

Unleash your potential through our undergraduate programs.

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Creating leaders,
shaping futures

Our graduate programs support your interests and desired career path.

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Helping people live
long, healthy lives

Our research labs and centers support communities around the world.

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What is kinesiology?

Kinesiology is the academic discipline and interdisciplinary field of study focused on the science and management of physical activity and human movement within contexts such as exercise, health care, and sport.

#10 SCHOOL OF KINESIOLOGY’S NATIONAL RANKING AMONG KINESIOLOGY DOCTORAL PROGRAMS REVIEWED BY NAK IN 2023
471|156|155 UNDERGRADUATE MAJORS, MINORS, AND GRADUATE STUDENTS ENROLLED (FALL 2021)
#318 NUMBER OF CLASSES OFFERED IN 2022-23
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Research

Part of the School of Kinesiology’s mission is to conduct innovative, interdisciplinary research in physical activity, human movement, and sport. Check out the work being done in the School’s research labs and centers.

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Academics

We offer three undergraduate majors, three undergraduate minors, six graduate programs, and two non-degree programs and certificates. Read more about the programs we offer and the faculty who instruct them.

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Outreach

The work done by our faculty and students promotes lifelong health and well-being in local, national, and global communities through public outreach and civic engagement activities. Read the latest news from the School.

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    Undergraduate

    Undergraduate programs

    Kinesiology BS Kinesiology BS

    The bachelor of science (BS) program in kinesiology is for students who are interested in the physical, biological, and social sciences related to the study of physical activity and human movement.

    Physical activity and health promotion BS Physical activity and health promotion BS

    Physical Activity and Health Promotion explores how individuals and families can increase physical activity and improve healthy lifestyles to help prevent disease and/or the progression of chronic disease.

    Sport management BS Sport management BS

    The bachelor of science (BS) program in sport management is for students who are interested in working with professional, collegiate, or community sports and athletic organizations.

    Sport management minor Sport management minor

    Sport management is the business side of the sport industry. It blends the unique aspects of sport with common business, marketing, management, and social and ethical principles.

    Sports coaching minor Sports coaching minor

    The sports coaching minor program is ideal for students who wish to coach (or are currently coaching) youth, club, high school, or college sports. This program provides a general theoretical basis for the many areas of knowledge needed for coaching

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    Graduate

    Graduate programs

    Kinesiology MS Kinesiology MS

    The master of science (MS) in kinesiology program combines theoretical instruction and practical experience

    Kinesiology PhD Kinesiology PhD

    A PhD in kinesiology prepares students for a career in academics, teaching, research, or clinical settings

    Physical activity and health MEd Physical activity and health MEd

    The physical activity and health master of education (MEd) provides advanced study in the broad areas of the promotion and implementation of physical activity and the resulting effect it has on health

    Sport and exercise science MEd Sport and exercise science MEd

    This provides advanced study in the broad areas of physical activity, including exercise science, movement science, and human performance, to prepare students for careers in health-related professions

    Sport management MA Sport management MA

    The master of arts in sport management concentrates on the theoretical and practical dimensions of the management of athletic events, sports teams and facilities, and the sporting process

    Sport Management MEd Sport Management MEd

    This is a practitioner-oriented master's program designed to prepare students for advanced study or careers in sport administration, sport management, or sport and fitness related professions

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    Non-degree programs

    Non-degree programs

    Coaching certificate Coaching certificate

    The sports coaching certificate program is ideal for students who wish to coach (or are currently coaching) youth, club, high school or college sports.

    Study abroad Study abroad

    The School of Kinesiology encourages students to consider a study abroad program during their undergraduate or graduate studies.

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    News and announcements

    How to choose a college major How to choose a college major

    Choosing a college major can be a big and intimidating decision. Luckily, we have tips to help you decide.

    Alumna Amanda Rodriguez: Combining sports and business into a career Alumna Amanda Rodriguez: Combining sports and business into a career

    Growing up, Rodriguez loved playing sports but wanted to pursue a business career. Once she got to the U of M, she learned she could pursue both of these interests through the sport management major.

    Amanda Rodriguez laughing at alumni event.

    Careers in kinesiology Careers in kinesiology

    Does learning about the science behind human movement interest you? Becoming a kinesiology major may be a great fit. Bonus: There are a lot of career opportunities for kinesiology graduates.

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    Student spotlight: Kennedy VanderLoop Student spotlight: Kennedy VanderLoop

    Kennedy VanderLoop is a physical activity and health promotion student. Learn more about her experiences inside and outside of the classroom, and how they support her dream career as a pediatric occupational therapist.

    Kennedy VanderLoop on Goldy Gopher statue

    Student spotlight: Marlo Mosley Student spotlight: Marlo Mosley

    Meet Marlo Mosley: A sport management undergraduate student who has a passion for football. Learn more about Mosley's experience in the School of Kinesiology, working with Gopher Football, and her NFL career aspirations.

    5 careers in physical activity and health 5 careers in physical activity and health

    Physical activity and health promotion (PAHP) explores how people can increase physical activity to improve their quality of life. If health, exercise, and working with others interests you, learn more about the careers available in this industry.

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    5 careers in sport management 5 careers in sport management

    Interested in business and sports? The sport management major may be a great fit for you. Learn more about various career paths in sport management, the opportunities are endless!

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