Do you have a competitive spirit? Is staying fit for life one of your main goals? Are you interested in a career that promotes a healthy lifestyle?
ulethbridge.ca/future-student
Kinesiology is the study of human movement through physical activity and the critical role it plays in society from both an individual and a cultural perspective.
It helps us understand the mechanics of human motion. It also delves into the need for physical activity from a sociological, historical, anatomical and psychological perspective.
Our programs are designed to provide you with the opportunity to study theoretical and practical applications of activity as a cultural form. You will also examine individual performance at all levels of involvement and all ages.
You will also gain an understanding of movement through the integration of specialized knowledge found in topics like anatomy, biomechanics, culture, exercise physiology, leadership, media, motor control, race and ethnicity.
Additionally, you will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, as well as the 1st Choice Savings Centre for Sport and Wellness, with its indoor track, pool and climbing wall.
Kinesiology Degrees. The Department of Kinesiology & Physical Education offers a major in kinesiology for the 40-course Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BSc) and Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc) degree programs. You can also opt for a general major in the social sciences or sciences and select kinesiology as one of your three streams. Alternatively, you can declare kinesiology as the BA major for the Combined BA/BEd or BA/ BMgt programs or the BSc major for the Combined BSc/BEd or BSc/BMgt programs.
• Bachelor of Arts: Explores physical activity from a socio-cultural, wellness and participatory perspective through courses in the history and philosophy of sport, exercise psychology and ethics.
• Bachelor of Science: Investigates our understanding of human movement through anatomy, biomechanics, exercise physiology and motor control.
Kinesiology Courses. Course selections for the program will vary depending on your degree, but may include:
• Wellness & Physical Activity
• Functional Human Anatomy
• History of Sport & Physical Activity
• Growth, Development & Aging
• Biomechanics
• Sport & Exercise Psychology
• Work & Physical Ergonomics
• Fundamental Movement Skills
• Interdisciplinary Research Dialogues
• Human & Exercise Physiology
• Fitness & Lifestyle Assessment
• Philosophy of Physical Activity
• Nutrition & Physical Activity
• Movement Disorders
Minors. Adding a minor to your degree is a great way to explore academic interests beyond your major. A minor is a set of courses comprising a secondary focus of interest. It is generally not related to your major. A minor may be required or optional. Minors are not available in all programs.
Learn more at ulethbridge.ca/artsci/minors
Honours Thesis. If your GPA is high enough in your fourth year, you can opt to complete an undergraduate thesis course. This is an excellent opportunity to prepare for graduate studies and to earn an “Honours Thesis” designation on your degree.
Community Involvement & Student Clubs. The department provides several community services, including public lectures and workshops and often draws research subjects from the local area. You can also gain experience by participating in KinPhyEdS Club, which hosts lectures and attends the annual KIN Games, a national event involving academic and physical activity challenges.
Learn more about kinesiology at ULethbridge, visit ulethbridge.ca/kinesiology
Faculty members in the department are happy to involve undergraduate students in their research projects, using state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. Our faculty members often collaborate with other departments, community members and employers on research projects — giving you the opportunity to get additional hands-on experience.
In addition to ongoing departmental research projects, you may have the opportunity to participate in field studies or gain employment with local researchers.
Independent Study. The department has a strong tradition of independent student research opportunities. An independent study course is offered at three levels and provides the opportunity to work with our researchers.
Current Research & Areas of Interest:
• Group & Team Dynamics
• Women & Sport
• Sport in Society
• Motivation & Physical Activity Adherence
• Movement Measurement & Assessment
• Energy Regulation & Metabolism
• Stress Management in Youth
• Physical Activity & Aging
• Balance Control in Parkinson’s
• Hormonal Responses to Exercise
• Physical Activity & Stress
• The Media in Sport & Physical Activity
Skills Acquired. In addition to developing exceptional communication skills, you will develop critical and analytical problem-solving skills, research and information management skills, leadership skills, time management, and improve your attention to detail. You will leave the program with a strong ability to summarize research findings, excellent lab experiences, as well as in-depth knowledge of health and wellness issues.
Related Fields. Here are just a few of the options open to you once you’ve earned your degree:
• Athletics Administration
• Coaching & Athletic Training
• Exercise Prescription
• Health or Wellness Industry/ Promotion
• Physical or Occupational Therapy
• Sport Nutrition
• Exercise Physiology
• Orthopedic Assistant
• Activity Director
• Outdoor Adventure Education
• Sports Management
• Injury Prevention & Rehabilitation
Graduate Studies. The University of Lethbridge’s School of Graduate Studies offers graduate programs at the Master and Doctoral levels, spanning over 60 disciplines — so why not consider pursuing grad school right here in Lethbridge! Whether you choose to do your advanced studies at ULethbridge or another institution, know that your undergraduate degree has set you on the path to post-graduate success.
Professional Disciplines. Your undergraduate degree in kinesiology provides an excellent foundation for medicine, chiropractic, physiotherapy, sports psychology, business management and education.
“I had never heard of kinesiology until I moved to Canada to attend the University of Lethbridge five years ago. I knew it was what I wanted to do the moment I stepped out of my first KNES1000 class. Ilsa Wong inspired me not just to want to learn more about the human body and how it works, but also to teach it to students of my own, which is why I am pursuing a combined degree in kinesiology and education. My dream is to teach physical education to people around the world. Specifically, I want to inspire other Muslim, hijab-wearing, sport-loving girls like myself to participate in physical activity without hesitation, and thanks to this program, I feel equipped and ready to do so.”
- Deema, Kinesiology
Whether you’re looking for a more in-depth learning experience by assisting with research projects or by testing your knowledge in a real-life setting, we can help. Combined with your required coursework, the opportunities outlined below will provide you with a solid foundation for further studies and an excellent framework for a challenging and rewarding career — whatever direction you decide to go.
Earn course credit for career-related paid, volunteer or community service work experience. This program is specially designed to allow you to integrate principles learned in the classroom in a practical work setting.
For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/appliedstudies
ULethbridge is proud to offer you the chance to participate in co-op. Co-op allows you to gain work experience directly related to your studies and make invaluable contacts in the workforce, all while earning a competitive salary. Completion of the program allows you to receive a co-op designation on your degree and, most importantly, a kickstart to your career the minute you graduate.
For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/coop
In addition to your regular courses, you can contribute to departmental research activities. For example, you can complete an independent study course or gain employment as a research assistant. If your GPA is high enough, you can also enrol in undergraduate thesis-based courses where research is a component of your studies.
Contact your department to learn more!
Your decision to explore a university education is the first step toward a great future — now let us help you navigate your degree options at ULethbridge and set you on the road to success. Do you have questions about what field of study best suits you? Would you like help with program and registration planning and just can’t find the answers? If so, you should speak to an academic advisor today — advisors have the answers to these questions and many more.
To learn more about the support services available to you through our academic advisors, visit: ulethbridge.ca/artsci/advising