Kent State University

What you'll study

The programme covers the fundamentals of human movement, exercise physiology and motor behaviour alongside applied subjects in coaching, teaching and fitness programming. Core topics typically include anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor learning and development, sports psychology, nutrition for performance, and research methods.

Students choose pathways or concentrations depending on career goals — common options include exercise science, physical education teacher preparation, coaching and strength & conditioning. Practical learning is emphasised through laboratory classes (e.g. human performance and movement analysis labs), supervised practicum, community placements and an undergraduate capstone or research project.

• Core modules: human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, motor control and learning, exercise testing and prescription.
• Applied modules: strength and conditioning, coaching theory and practice, teaching methods for physical education, adaptive physical education, sport programme management.
• Professional skills: first aid and CPR, assessment and evaluation, communication in health and sport settings, ethical and legal aspects.
• Research and practicum: statistics and research design, lab-based skill development, supervised internships in schools, clinics or sport organisations.

Entry requirements

Admission is at undergraduate level and requires a completed secondary school qualification equivalent to a US high school diploma. Typical academic preparation includes coursework in biology and mathematics; chemistry is recommended for students pursuing exercise science pathways. Admissions decisions consider high school grades and the overall strength of the application.

Applicants for teacher education pathways must also meet the university and state requirements for teacher preparation, which often include background checks and additional application steps for student teaching placements. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or prior education in English; specific score requirements are set by the university and should be checked on the Kent State admissions pages.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across sport, health and education. Common career destinations include physical education teacher (with completion of state certification where required), exercise physiologist, strength and conditioning coach, fitness and wellness coordinator, community sport development officer, coaching roles at school and club level, and rehabilitation support positions in cardiac or pulmonary programmes.

The degree also prepares students for postgraduate and professional training — common next steps include master’s degrees in kinesiology, physiotherapy/physical therapy, occupational therapy, exercise science, sports psychology, athletic training, or professional programmes such as physician assistant studies. Employers value graduates’ combination of scientific knowledge, practical skills and supervised experience.

Why study at Kent State University

Kent State offers a programme with a balance of theory and hands-on experience, delivered by faculty with expertise in human movement science, coaching, exercise physiology and education. Students benefit from dedicated teaching and research facilities such as human performance and biomechanics laboratories, and from partnerships with local schools, healthcare providers and sport organisations for placement opportunities.

The university emphasises applied learning and career preparation through supervised practicums, internship support and access to campus wellness and athletic facilities. Career services, academic advising and a network of alumni working in education, sport and health sectors help graduates transition into employment or further study.