University of Chicago

What you'll study

This programme integrates fundamental biological and behavioural science with applied courses in movement, performance and health. Core topics include human anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control and learning, sports and exercise psychology, and nutrition for performance. Students also study research methods and statistics so they can design, conduct and interpret empirical studies.

Typical modules and experiences you can expect:

• Human Anatomy & Physiology: structure and function of musculoskeletal, nervous and cardiovascular systems relevant to movement.
• Exercise Physiology: cellular and systemic responses to acute and chronic exercise, energy metabolism and cardiorespiratory adaptation.
• Biomechanics: mechanical analysis of human movement, gait and performance optimisation using motion capture and force measurement.
• Motor Control & Learning: neural control of movement, skill acquisition and practice design for different populations.
• Sports & Exercise Psychology: motivation, mental skills training and the psychological factors that influence performance and adherence.
• Applied Practice & Practicum: supervised laboratory work, coaching practica and community-based placements in schools, clubs or clinical settings.
• Research Methods & Statistics: quantitative and qualitative techniques, experimental design and critical appraisal of literature.
• Electives & Interdisciplinary Options: classes drawn from public health, nutrition, biomechanics, sociology of sport, and philosophy of the body to broaden understanding.

The curriculum emphasises hands-on laboratory sessions, data analysis projects, and a senior capstone or research project that allows students to specialise in an area such as performance science, rehabilitation, or community physical activity.

Academic structure

The degree is delivered within the University of Chicago’s undergraduate framework, pairing liberal-arts breadth with concentration-specific depth. Students typically complete foundational science and liberal-arts requirements before progressing to advanced coursework and supervised practicum placements.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Chicago is competitive and based on a holistic review of academic achievement and personal qualities. Applicants for this programme should present a strong secondary-school record with preparation in the biological sciences and mathematics.

• Recommended academic background: high-school courses in biology and mathematics; chemistry and physics are advantageous.
• Qualifications accepted: A-levels, International Baccalaureate, or equivalent national secondary qualifications. Specific subject combinations and grades will be considered during application assessment.
• Other components: a personal statement or essays, teacher/counsellor recommendations and a record of extracurricular activities that demonstrate interest in sport, health sciences or community engagement.
• Standardised tests: the University’s policy on standardised testing can vary; consult the admissions office for current guidance. Test results are considered alongside the full application.
• International applicants: must meet English-language proficiency requirements and submit recognised secondary-school credentials for evaluation.

Applicants who lack some recommended preparation may be admitted but asked to take bridging or preparatory courses during their first year.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers across sport, health and science or for further professional training. Typical paths include:

• Allied health and rehabilitation: preparatory route to graduate training in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or clinical exercise physiology.
• Performance and conditioning: roles as strength and conditioning coaches, athletic trainers, or performance analysts in collegiate, professional or community sport settings.
• Health promotion and community fitness: positions developing and delivering exercise programmes in public health, corporate wellness, and non-profit organisations.
• Research and academia: graduate study (MSc/PhD) in kinesiology, biomechanics, exercise physiology or related fields leading to research or teaching careers.
• Sport management and coaching: coaching, talent development, and operational roles within clubs, schools and recreational organisations.
• Further professional study: medicine, public health, or other clinical professions where strong science and research skills are valued.

The degree combines practical placements and research experience that help graduates build professional networks with hospitals, laboratories, sports organisations and community agencies in the Chicago area and beyond.

Why study at University of Chicago

The University of Chicago provides a distinctive blend of rigorous liberal-arts education and intensive scientific training. Students benefit from small-group discussion formats, faculty-led research opportunities and access to on-campus laboratories and sports science facilities.

Studying here gives you interdisciplinary exposure across biology, psychology, public health and data analysis, preparing graduates to approach movement and health from multiple perspectives. The university’s location in a major metropolitan area also offers placement and internship opportunities with hospitals, community programmes and sports organisations, while faculty research projects provide pathways into postgraduate study and applied research careers.

Overall, the programme is well suited to students who want both a strong academic foundation and practical experience to launch careers or further training in health, sport science and allied disciplines.