Kinesiology is an academic discipline that involves the study of physical activity and its impact on health, society and quality of life. It includes, but is not limited to, such areas of study as exercise science, sport management, sociocultural analyses of sports, sport and exercise psychology, coaching and fitness leadership, management functions, business principles and preprofessional training for physical therapy, occupational therapy, medicine and other health-related fields.

The Department of Kinesiology at Elmhurst University offers two dynamic majors in Exercise Science and Sport Management. The mission of the department is to impart knowledge and offer practical experience that prepares students for future career and academic pursuits. The curriculum combines a comprehensive liberal arts education with in-depth study in the student’s particular area of interest. Students graduating from the Department of Kinesiology are prepared as independent critical thinkers who possess an extensive understanding in either an area of physical activity and movement, which are fundamental to human vitality, growth, development and maturation or through an interdisciplinary academic field that prepares students for careers in the sport industry with emphasis on management, business, communication and leadership.

The Department of Kinesiology aligns its mission within the framework of the University’s mission, goals and strategic plan by creating an environment in which our students build on their liberal learning as they prepare for professional learning through pedagogical innovation, scholarship and creative expression.

Learning Outcomes

Students will:

• Develop knowledge and understanding in concepts related to kinesiology

• Integrate career-related experiences with classroom learning

• Prepare for entry-level positions or to be competitive applicants for graduate/professional schools