Slippery Rock University

What you'll study

This degree blends foundations in anatomy, physiology and biomechanics with applied courses in motor learning, sport psychology and exercise prescription. Students follow a core curriculum in kinesiology and may choose tracks that emphasise teacher certification, exercise science, coaching or sport management. Typical modules and learning experiences include:

• Human Anatomy and Physiology – structural and functional systems relevant to movement and exercise.
• Biomechanics and Motor Control – mechanical analysis of movement and principles of motor skill acquisition.
• Exercise Physiology and Testing – energy systems, cardiovascular responses and laboratory assessment techniques.
• Sport Psychology and Sociology of Sport – psychological factors in performance and social contexts of sport participation.
• Teaching Methods and Curriculum for Physical Education – lesson planning, assessment and pedagogy for K–12 settings (for certification track students).
• Strength and Conditioning/Applied Coaching – program design, coaching practice and performance enhancement strategies.
• Professional Practicum and Internship – supervised field experiences in schools, fitness centres or sport organisations that provide hands-on practice and networking.
• Health Promotion and Wellness – community and corporate approaches to physical activity promotion and disease prevention.

Laboratory sessions, activity courses and assessment projects are integrated throughout the programme. Students also have opportunities to pursue professional certifications commonly aligned with the curriculum, such as CPR/AED/First Aid and industry-recognised strength and conditioning or fitness credentials where appropriate.

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet Slippery Rock University’s general undergraduate admission requirements and demonstrate readiness for a science- and activity-based degree. Typical programme expectations include:

• A completed high school diploma or recognised equivalent.
• A competitive high school GPA; specific departmental thresholds may apply for some specialisations.
• Recommended coursework in biology, chemistry and mathematics to prepare for science modules.
• For students aiming for initial teacher certification: completion of required education prerequisites and compliance with state certification requirements, which may include background checks and cleared field experience eligibility.
• Transfer applicants should submit official college transcripts; relevant prior coursework and credit for laboratory or professional courses will be evaluated.

The department encourages prospective students to contact academic advisors to review readiness, discuss appropriate preparatory courses and confirm any additional requirements for specialised tracks.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme enter a range of careers across education, sport, fitness and allied health sectors. Common career paths include:

• Physical education teacher and school athletic coach (with completion of teacher certification requirements).
• Exercise physiologist, fitness director or personal trainer in commercial, clinical or community settings.
• Strength and conditioning coach for collegiate, club or private sports programmes.
• Wellness coordinator or health promotion specialist in corporate, public-health or non-profit organisations.
• Sport management or operations roles within recreational and athletic organisations.
• Entry to graduate study and professional programmes in physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, exercise science, education or sport management.

Field placements, internships and SRU’s local partnerships help students build experience and professional networks that support employment and postgraduate opportunities.

Why study at Slippery Rock University

Slippery Rock University offers a dedicated kinesiology and physical education programme with hands-on laboratory facilities, athletic venues and activity spaces suited to practical learning. Students benefit from faculty who combine academic research with applied experience in schools, clinics and sport settings.

• Practical focus: extensive lab work, practicum placements and internship options that develop workplace-ready skills.
• Teacher preparation: a clear pathway for students seeking K–12 certification, including supervised student teaching placements in regional schools.
• Facilities and community connections: access to fitness and sport facilities and partnerships with local school districts and athletic organisations for applied learning and employment pipelines.
• Career support: advising, placement assistance and opportunities to earn industry-relevant certifications alongside the degree.

Overall, the programme is designed to prepare graduates for immediate entry into professional roles in physical education, fitness and sport, or for further study in allied health and graduate programmes.