Mission Statement
The Department of Kinesiology at CSUN is a learning-centered community, where students, faculty and the community are at the forefront in the study of human movement. The department values and respects diversity, and its mission is to promote physical activity for personal expression and wellness throughout the lifespan. Students and faculty work together to intervene and to improve the quality of life by studying the effects of acute and chronic exercise. Our core curriculum prepares students for studying the physiological, psychosocial and artistic aspects of physical activity and sport performance.
About the Department
All the necessary information about the department can be found on the Department of Kinesiology website.
The Department of Kinesiology offers undergraduate and graduate academic programs.
Bachelor of Science Degree in Kinesiology
The diversity of courses within the core curriculum prepares students for study leading to expertise in one of five areas of focus for academic options. These options are: Applied Fitness and Active Lifestyle Development, Dance, Exercise Science, Sport Studies and Physical Education.
Master of Science Degree in Kinesiology
The Master of Science in Kinesiology includes areas of study in Adapted Physical Activity, Biomechanics, Dance, Exercise Physiology, Motor Behavior, Pedagogy in Physical Education and Sport Studies.
Master of Science Degree in Athletic Training (MSAT)
The Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) is a full-time professional healthcare program that prepares students to sit for the national certification examination and, ultimately, practice as certified athletic trainers. The MSAT provides comprehensive didactic coursework and clinical rotations that prepare students to care for and treat a diversity of patient populations. All necessary information about the MSAT can be found at Master of Science in Athletic Training.
Academic Advisement
Kinesiology and Athletic Training faculty are available to assist students in reaching their academic goals. Student success depends upon commitment, responsibility and dedication to taking the appropriate steps toward these goals. Students are required to obtain advisement at least once a year to be cleared to register for courses (see the Department of Kinesiology website for advising information). Additional advising is available throughout the semesters.
- Freshmen and first semester transfer students should contact kinesiology.advising@csun.edu.
- Continuing students should contact their assigned, option-specific advisor. Individual advisors are assigned based on degree and degree option (see Department of Kinesiology website for assignments).
- Kinesiology students without a declared option should contact the Kinesiology Undergraduate Program Coordinator, Dr. Shane Stecyk.
- For inquiries about the Physical Education Credential program, contact Dr. Yeonhak Jung.
- Graduate students should contact the Graduate Program Coordinator, Dr. Vicky Jaque.
Careers
Kinesiology has many practical applications and leads to a variety of rewarding careers, such as teaching physical education or dance, coaching, serving as a consultant in the commercial health and fitness industry, working in a clinical healthcare setting like athletic training, or working as a fitness trainer or strength and conditioning coach. Many kinesiology majors become involved in scientific research or go on to graduate studies in exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor learning and behavior, motor programs for special populations, sport psychology or pedagogy. Another common path following graduation is to pursue professional programs in medical or allied health professions, such as athletic training, medicine, chiropractic, physical therapy, occupational therapy and nursing. Some graduates become coaches for professional sports teams or work in business environments dealing with sport management and marketing. Others pursue careers in dance therapy or professional dance or physical activities for individuals with disabilities.
The current societal interest in wellness and fitness has led both individuals and corporations to stress intervention and preventive care.
Because Kinesiology students understand the critical role of movement in fostering an individual’s well-being, they are important leaders and innovators in regard to improving societal health and wellness levels. Graduates of the Kinesiology programs work with people in all stages of life—with children and with seniors, with the able-bodied and those with disabilities, with elite performers and those of ordinary capability.
Accreditation
The Athletic Training Program at CSUN has been in existence since 1974 and is currently accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE).
Clubs and Societies
The Department of Kinesiology has seven student clubs/associations run by students who have common interests. A short slide presentation for each club/association can be found at Kinesiology Networking Series.
- 3WINS Fitness Club
- Athletic Training Club
- Kinesiology Majors Association
- Physical Education Club
- Pre-Athletic Training Club
- Pre-Physical Therapy Club
- Strength and Conditioning Club
International Studies
The Department of Kinesiology supports the concept of international education and encourages students to investigate opportunities for overseas study. Certain courses taken at CSU International Program Study Centers in foreign countries are equivalent to courses in the Department of Kinesiology and may be used to fulfill some of the requirements for degree options offered by the department and/or certain General Education requirements. Students should consult the International Programs Bulletin available in the International and Exchange Student Center, a departmental advisor or the campus International Programs advisor for more information.
Scholarships and Awards
The Department of Kinesiology has a Scholarships/Awards program. More information can be found at Scholarships.
Contact
Department of Kinesiology
Chair: Douglas McLaughlin
Redwood Hall (RE) 250
(818) 677-3205