University of Massachusetts Amherst

What you'll study

The degree builds a foundation in human anatomy and physiology and develops applied skills in exercise prescription, motor learning, biomechanics and sport psychology. You will study core subjects such as human anatomy & physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control and learning, sport psychology, assessment and measurement, and research methods in kinesiology.

The programme combines classroom learning with hands‑on laboratory work and field experiences. Typical modules and experiences include:

• Human Anatomy & Physiology — structure and function of musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
• Exercise Physiology — metabolic, cardiovascular and neuromuscular responses to acute and chronic exercise.
• Biomechanics — mechanical analysis of movement, video analysis and force measurement.
• Motor Learning & Control — principles of skill acquisition and movement coordination across the lifespan.
• Sport & Exercise Psychology — motivation, performance anxiety and team dynamics.
• Assessment & Measurement — fitness testing, health screening and interpretation of physiological data.
• Research Methods & Statistics — experimental design, data analysis and critical appraisal of research literature.
• Applied Practicum / Internship — supervised placements in community, clinical or athletic settings.
• Capstone / Senior Project — independent research project or applied professional portfolio demonstrating practical competence.

Students also complete university general education requirements and may choose electives or concentrations that support careers in coaching, allied health preparation, or physical education teaching. Opportunities for undergraduate research with faculty, participation in campus wellness and athletics programmes, and community partnerships are typical components of the learning experience.

Entry requirements

Admission to UMass Amherst requires a completed secondary school diploma or recognised equivalent. Applicants are typically expected to have a strong academic record with coursework in biology and mathematics; chemistry and physics are advantageous for students planning to focus on exercise science. Specific expectations include:

• Strong overall high school performance (competitive GPA for the university and programme).
• Recommended preparatory subjects: biology, algebra/trigonometry, chemistry and English.
• Standardised tests (SAT/ACT) may be considered where applicable, but policies vary; check the university’s admissions guidance for current practice.
• International applicants must meet equivalent secondary schooling and English language proficiency requirements.

For transfer applicants, successful completion of relevant college coursework (for example introductory biology, anatomy, or college‑level mathematics) and a solid college GPA strengthen applications. Some pathways or career tracks (such as secondary school physical education teaching) require additional state certification or graduate‑level preparation after the bachelor’s degree.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of careers in sport, health and education. Common roles include:

• Exercise physiologist or fitness specialist in hospitals, fitness centres and corporate wellness programmes.
• Strength and conditioning coach for amateur and professional sport teams or private training facilities.
• Physical education teacher (typically requiring additional state certification or teaching credential).
• Rehabilitation support roles such as physical therapy assistant or occupational therapy aide (often requiring further qualification).
• Community health and wellness coordinator, health promotion officer or lifestyle coach.
• Research assistant or laboratory technician in movement science and kinesiology research.
• Roles in sport management, coaching, officiating and performance analysis.

Many graduates also use this degree as preparation for postgraduate study in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, physician assistant programmes, public health or advanced research degrees in kinesiology and related fields.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst offers dedicated faculty in kinesiology with active research programmes in exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor behaviour and public health. Students benefit from access to well‑equipped human performance and biomechanics laboratories, motion analysis systems and physiological testing facilities that support hands‑on learning and undergraduate research.

The university’s campus athletic and recreational facilities provide plentiful practical placement and internship opportunities with varsity sport programmes, campus wellness initiatives and community partners across the Pioneer Valley. Small‑group laboratory classes, opportunities for faculty‑mentored research, and a broad range of allied health and education courses on campus make UMass Amherst a strong choice for students seeking a scientifically rigorous and professionally oriented kinesiology degree.