Pace University

What you'll study

This programme provides a foundation in the scientific study of human movement alongside applied coursework and hands-on experience. You will typically study core subjects such as anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor learning and control, sport and exercise psychology, and nutrition for health and performance.

• Core science and theory: Human anatomy, human physiology, kinesiology and biomechanics, exercise physiology.
• Applied practice: Exercise prescription and programming, strength and conditioning, fitness assessment, adapted physical education and teaching methods for K–12 settings.
• Health and behaviour: Sport psychology, health promotion, nutrition, and injury prevention.
• Research and professional skills: Research methods and statistics, measurement and evaluation, ethical and legal issues in sport and health.
• Experiential learning: Laboratory classes, supervised practicums or internships with community fitness centres, schools, hospitals or sports teams, and a capstone project or senior seminar.

Programme structure typically mixes lectures, laboratory sessions, supervised field placements and a final-year integrative project or practicum. Elective modules allow you to focus on specialisms such as strength and conditioning, youth physical education, adapted physical activity or wellness programming.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification. Successful applicants usually present study in science subjects (for example biology, chemistry and mathematics) at high-school level. Pace considers a range of academic backgrounds and also welcomes transfer students from community colleges and other universities.

• Academic evidence: Secondary school diploma or equivalent; transcripts for transfer applicants.
• Recommended subjects: Biology, chemistry and mathematics are advantageous because of the programme’s scientific content.
• English language: International applicants must demonstrate academic English proficiency through recognised tests or evidence of prior education in English where required.
• Additional requirements: Some applicants may be asked for a personal statement outlining their interest in kinesiology, references, and evidence of relevant experience such as volunteering, coaching or work in a fitness environment.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of roles in sport, fitness, health and education. The degree equips you for entry-level positions and for progression to professional credentials or postgraduate study required for certain careers.

• Fitness and wellness roles: personal trainer, fitness instructor, wellness coordinator, exercise physiologist assistant.
• Performance and sport: strength and conditioning assistant, performance analyst, coaching roles at community, club or school level.
• Rehabilitation support and allied health pathways: rehabilitation aide, physical therapy assistant (where regionally appropriate credentials are obtained), and preparation for graduate study in physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies or clinical exercise physiology.
• Education and community health: physical education teacher (may require state certification for school teaching), community health and recreation programming.
• Research and further study: postgraduate study in kinesiology, sports science or related research fields.

Many graduates complement the degree with professional certifications (for example in personal training, strength and conditioning, or CPR/first aid) to improve employability. The programme’s practicum and internship components help build employer connections in the New York region and beyond.

Why study at Pace University

Pace offers the advantages of study in the New York region: access to a wide variety of clinical, community and high-performance placement opportunities across the city and surrounding counties. The university provides modern laboratory and fitness facilities where students gain practical skills under faculty supervision.

• Placement opportunities: Local partnerships with hospitals, sports clubs, schools and fitness centres that support hands-on learning and internships.
• Small-group teaching: Relatively small lab and seminar groups that allow close interaction with faculty and personalised feedback on practical skills.
• Career support: Dedicated career services and alumni networks to help with certification pathways, job-search support and placement in graduate programmes.
• Flexible pathways: Options to tailor study through electives, minors or combined degree routes for students aiming at professional healthcare or education credentials.

These features make the programme a practical choice for students seeking a science-based grounding in human movement together with the applied experience needed for a range of careers in sport, fitness, education and allied health.