University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

This programme covers the foundations and applications of human movement science alongside professional preparation for teaching, coaching and allied-health roles. Core areas include anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor learning and control, sport and exercise psychology, and nutrition for performance. Coursework typically combines classroom lectures with laboratory practicals and field-based experiences.

• Foundational science: human anatomy, physiology, kinesiology and exercise physiology.
• Movement analysis: biomechanics, motor learning, and movement assessment techniques.
• Applied practice: strength and conditioning principles, coaching methods, sport skill acquisition and practicum placements.
• Education and pedagogy: curriculum design for physical education, inclusive practice, classroom and behaviour management for those on teacher-preparation routes.
• Health and wellbeing: sport and exercise nutrition, injury prevention and basic care, and health promotion across the lifespan.
• Research and professional skills: research methods, statistics for human movement science, ethics, and a capstone or senior project synthesising learning.

Students commonly complete progressive practicum placements in school settings, community programmes or performance environments and may undertake internships or co-op placements to gain applied experience. Options for elective study allow deeper focus on athletic training pathways, strength and conditioning, adaptive physical education or exercise testing and rehabilitation.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school qualification. Typical admissions expectations include a competitive overall academic record and college-preparatory coursework with emphasis on biology, mathematics and evidence of participation in sport or physical activity.

• Academic background: secondary-school graduation with strong grades; courses in biology, mathematics and health/PE are advantageous.
• Standardised tests: standardised test submission (such as ACT or SAT) may be optional or considered according to current university policy; check the university’s admissions guidance for current practice.
• Supporting materials: personal statement or statement of purpose, and one or more academic or character references that can speak to your suitability for study and practical work with children or athletes.
• Professional prerequisites: students pursuing teacher licensure will need to meet additional teacher-education admission requirements, which often include background checks, health screenings and demonstration of clinical readiness.
• Transfers and advanced standing: transfer applicants should provide college transcripts; recognised previous coursework in anatomy, physiology or statistics can be evaluated for credit.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across sport, health and education. Typical career destinations include:

• Physical education teacher (state teacher licensure required for K–12 public school positions).
• Strength and conditioning coach or performance specialist in collegiate, professional or private-sector settings.
• Exercise physiologist, fitness manager or wellness coordinator in clinical, corporate or community contexts.
• Athletic training and rehabilitation support roles (note: certified athletic trainer positions require postgraduate professional credentials and national/state certification).
• Coaching and sport development roles at youth, club and elite levels.
• Progression to postgraduate study or professional programmes in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, sports medicine, exercise science research or education.

The programme’s practical placements, internship and cooperative-education opportunities help build employer links and professional experience sought by hiring organisations across health, education and sport sectors.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers this programme within a campus environment that emphasises experiential learning and community partnerships. Students benefit from applied laboratories, field-based practicum opportunities and access to internship and cooperative-education networks that connect them with schools, hospitals, fitness facilities and sport organisations in the region.

• Experiential learning: structured practicum, internship and co-op pathways enable sustained, real-world experience alongside academic study.
• Facilities and resources: laboratory and performance facilities support practical training in biomechanics, exercise testing and strength and conditioning.
• Community and industry links: partnerships with local health providers, school districts and sport organisations provide placement options and employer connections.
• Preparation for professional accreditation: the curriculum supports students aiming for teacher licensure or further certification routes in allied-health and sport-science professions.

Together, the programme’s scientific foundations, practical training and professional networks prepare graduates for a wide range of careers or for advanced study in health, sport and education disciplines.