Michigan State University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational science, applied practice and professional skills to understand and influence human movement, performance and health. Students complete university general education requirements alongside a coherent set of major courses that emphasise anatomy, physiology, motor control, learning and applied practice.

• Core science and theory: human anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control and motor learning.
• Applied practice: strength and conditioning, exercise testing and prescription, sport coaching methods, adapted physical activity and inclusive practice.
• Professional skills and methods: research methods and statistics, assessment and evaluation in physical education, sport psychology and leadership in sport settings.
• Laboratory and experiential learning: hands-on laboratory work in human performance and biomechanics, supervised practicum placements in schools, community programmes and athletic settings.
• Capstone and electives: integrative capstone projects or internships, elective options in nutrition, injury prevention, health promotion, motor development across the lifespan and biomechanics applications.

The curriculum is typically delivered through lectures, laboratory sessions, supervised field experience and small-group seminars. Students are encouraged to pursue certification preparation (for example in strength and conditioning or first aid), undergraduate research with faculty and international or community-based practicum opportunities.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education with strong preparation in science and mathematics. Suggested academic background includes biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics, along with evidence of participation in organised physical activity or leadership.

• Academic qualifications: a secondary school diploma with competitive grades; applicants presenting A-levels, IB, or equivalent national qualifications should have science and maths credits where possible.
• US applicants: a competitive high school GPA; standardised tests may be optional depending on admissions policies.
• International applicants: equivalent university‑entry credentials and proof of English language proficiency where required.
• Additional considerations: practical experience such as coaching, volunteer work in community sport, or paid roles in fitness settings can strengthen an application; some programme tracks may require a suitability interview or evidence of clearances for work with minors prior to practicum placements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of careers across education, sport, health and research. Typical entry-level roles include:

• Physical education teacher (often followed by state certification or additional teacher education).
• Assistant coach or youth sport coordinator in community and school settings.
• Strength and conditioning assistant (progressing to certified roles with professional credentials).
• Fitness or wellness coordinator, exercise specialist in corporate or community health programmes.
• Exercise physiologist or cardiac rehabilitation practitioner (may require postgraduate qualifications or professional certification).
• Support roles in athletic training, sport development and disability sport; many graduates pursue further study in physical therapy, occupational therapy, sports science or public health.
• Opportunities in research, performance analysis and sport technology for those continuing to postgraduate study.

Why study at Michigan State University

Michigan State combines large-university resources with departmental strengths in kinesiology and physical education. Students benefit from access to active research groups, human performance and biomechanics laboratories and applied learning through partnerships with campus athletics and local schools. The university’s network supports internship placements, community outreach programmes and collaboration with health and sport organisations. Faculty include researchers and practitioners whose work spans exercise physiology, motor development, sport psychology and rehabilitation, providing a strong foundation for both professional practice and further academic study.