Kinesiology

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 webpage 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 advisor. Individual advisors are assigned based on degree and degree option (see Department of Kinesiology webpage for assignments).
• Kinesiology students without a declared option should contact the Kinesiology Undergraduate Program Coordinator, Dr. Kim Henige.
• For inquiries about the Physical Education Credential program, contact Dr. Belinda Stillwell.
• Graduate students should contact the Graduate Program Coordinator, Dr. Vicky Jaque.

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 health setting, 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 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.

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).

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.