Belhaven University

What you'll study

This curriculum brings together exercise science, motor learning, biomechanics and pedagogy to give a broad foundation in human movement and applied practice. You will study core subjects that explain how the body performs and adapts to training alongside professional courses that prepare you to design programmes, teach classes and lead sport settings.

• Foundations of Kinesiology – principles of human movement, terminology and historical perspectives.
• Anatomy and Physiology for Movement – structure and function of musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and respiratory systems in relation to exercise.
• Exercise Physiology – acute and chronic responses to exercise, energy systems and conditioning concepts.
• Biomechanics – mechanics of movement, analysis of performance and injury-prevention strategies.
• Motor Learning and Development – skill acquisition, motor control and developmental considerations across the lifespan.
• Teaching Methods in Physical Education – curriculum design, classroom management and assessment for school settings.
• Strength and Conditioning – programme design, periodisation and practical coaching applications.
• Assessment and Rehabilitation Basics – fitness testing, basic rehabilitation principles and referral pathways.
• Practicum and Field Experience – supervised teaching and coaching placements in schools, community programmes and fitness settings.
• Capstone/Research Project – applied project or research synthesis that integrates discipline knowledge with professional practice.

Throughout the programme you will engage in laboratory sessions, supervised practicum, and opportunities to use performance analysis and fitness testing equipment. Electives typically allow specialisation in areas such as adapted physical education, sport psychology or outdoor education.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary education that prepares them for university-level study. Typical entry materials include an official high-school transcript or equivalent and evidence of completion of a college-preparatory curriculum. Background study in biology and mathematics is beneficial.

Belhaven considers a range of applicants, including international students; international applicants should demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved institutional pathways. Some programme pathways or practicum placements may require a health screening, background check, and up-to-date immunisations as part of professional placement requirements.

Transfer students with prior college credits in related subjects may receive credit after transcript evaluation. Applicants with relevant work or coaching experience are encouraged to highlight this in their application.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers in schools, community sport, fitness and allied health settings. Common destinations include:

• Primary and secondary physical education teacher (note: teaching in many regions requires separate state/provincial certification or licensure).
• Strength and conditioning coach or sport coach at community, school or collegiate levels.
• Fitness and wellness director, personal trainer or group exercise instructor in commercial and community facilities.
• Rehabilitation support roles and exercise specialist positions in clinical or private practice settings (often combined with further certification or postgraduate study).
• Sports administration, programme coordination or community recreation management.
• Progression to graduate study in fields such as exercise physiology, athletic training, physical therapy, sport pedagogy or public health.

Many graduates combine employment with professional certification (for example in strength and conditioning, personal training, or teaching) to meet industry and regulatory requirements.

Why study at Belhaven University

Belhaven offers a small-campus, student-focused learning environment grounded in the liberal arts and Christian values. The kinesiology programme emphasises hands-on learning through laboratory work, supervised practicum and close faculty mentorship. Students benefit from smaller class sizes that allow personalised feedback and mentoring by faculty with applied experience in coaching, teaching and rehabilitation.

The university maintains partnerships with local schools, clinics and community organisations to facilitate placements and employment pathways. Facilities typically include teaching laboratories, fitness suites and spaces for applied performance analysis. Belhaven also supports student development through academic advising, career services and opportunities for service learning and mission-oriented sport programmes.