Frostburg State University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational science with applied practice. Core topics include human anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor learning and development, sport psychology, and principles of strength and conditioning. Students study assessment and prescription for fitness and rehabilitation, nutrition for health and performance, and pedagogical methods for physical education.

The degree balances classroom learning with laboratory and field work: laboratory sessions and movement analysis, practicum placements in community fitness sites or school settings, and supervised internships that build coaching and programme-management experience. Students also gain training in professional certifications commonly required in the field, such as CPR/AED and first aid, and are prepared to pursue additional certification (for example in personal training, group fitness or strength and conditioning) after graduation.

Typical modules and learning experiences you can expect include:

• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Exercise Physiology and Metabolism
• Biomechanics and Movement Analysis
• Motor Learning and Development
• Sport Psychology and Motivation
• Assessment and Prescription for Health and Performance
• Teaching Methods for Physical Education
• Nutrition for Sport and Health
• Research Methods and Statistics in Kinesiology
• Practicum and Internship placements in schools, clinics or fitness settings

Programme structure

The programme follows a typical undergraduate structure with general education requirements, major core courses, elective options and capstone experiences. Practical placements and an internship or senior practicum are integral, giving hands-on experience in coaching, programme delivery, or clinical support under faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a recognised secondary school diploma with a record of academic achievement. Frostburg State University typically considers cumulative high school GPA and looks favourably on coursework in science (biology, chemistry), health, and physical education. Standardised test scores (SAT or ACT) may be optional depending on admission policies; check the university’s current admissions guidance for details.

Other common application components include a personal statement, and some programmes may ask for a resume of relevant extracurricular activities (sports, coaching, volunteer work). For international applicants, proof of English language proficiency (such as TOEFL or IELTS) is required if English-language qualifications are not already held. Transfer students should provide college transcripts and may receive credit for prior relevant coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of roles across sport, fitness, education and health sectors. Common career paths include:

• Fitness specialist, personal trainer or group exercise instructor in commercial or community settings
• Strength and conditioning coach for schools, colleges or private programmes
• Exercise physiologist or rehabilitation aide in clinical or wellness centres (often with additional certification or graduate study)
• School physical education teacher (note: teacher certification typically requires completion of an approved teacher preparation programme and state licensure)
• Sports coach, program coordinator or athletic administration roles at community and collegiate levels
• Progression to graduate study in kinesiology, athletic training, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or public health

Practical placements and internship experience provided by the programme support entry into these roles and help build professional networks.

Why study at Frostburg State University

Frostburg State offers small class sizes with accessible faculty, enabling close mentorship in both theory and applied practice. The campus provides dedicated facilities for kinesiology and physical education, including well-equipped laboratories, fitness and wellness centres, and spaces for sport performance and testing. The university’s involvement in collegiate athletics and its connections with local schools, clinics and fitness providers create opportunities for internships and community-based placements.

Located in western Maryland, Frostburg provides a setting where students can combine campus-based study with outdoor activity and regional practicum placements. The programme emphasises experiential learning, professional readiness and pathways to certification or graduate training, making it a practical choice for students seeking hands-on preparation for careers in sport, fitness and health.