A group of people in an exercise or therapy room, where one person is stretching on the floor while others observe or assist.

Kinesiology Major

Study Kinesiology at Azusa Pacific University

You’ll gain hands-on experience in APU’s state-of-the-art biomechanics and human performance laboratories and boost your résumé with a semester-long internship. You'll also gain a professional edge by obtaining certifications in the areas of personal training, corrective exercise, and strength and conditioning. Choose from three concentrations (Health Professions, Applied Exercise Science, or Doctor of Physical Therapy Accelerated Pathway) and graduate ready for a variety of careers in the health and fitness industry. You’ll be equipped to help others thrive by improving health and fitness across the lifespan, whether you pursue your calling in physical therapy, athletic training, or other exercise or health-related fields.

Program at a Glance

The Kinesiology program shapes difference makers who care for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—through the promotion of scholarship and professional practice in the disciplines of kinesiology.

Upcoming Events

APU One Day

  • December 6, 2024

Application Deadline

Early Action        (Freshmen Only)

  • November 15

Regular Decision

  • March 1 priority application deadline
  • June 1 final deadline
  • August 1 final transfer deadline

Apply Now

Program Information

  • Program Units: 51-77

Location

  • Azusa (Main Campus)
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Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School

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Gain Hands-on Experience

  • Discover how exercise, movement, and sport help others thrive.
  • Use advanced motion-capture technology in APU’s biomechanics laboratory.
  • Intern at a practicum site under the guidance of health, rehabilitation, and exercise science professionals.
  • Approach health, fitness, and wellness from a Christian worldview.
  • Learn to care for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.

By the Numbers

1 of 126 Best Western Colleges according to Princeton Review's 2023 Best Colleges Guide
10 :1 Student-to-faculty ratio
17 % Projected increase in physical therapy and athletic trainer employment from 2021-31.

Get Started

Clifford smiling

Clifford Young III: Resting in God’s Grace

Kinesiology major Clifford Young III ’23 has grown immensely through his faith-based community at APU as he prepares for his calling to help others.

Program Details

The BS in Kinesiology program provides strong foundational knowledge and skills related to the science and practical applications of human movement. The program provides excellent preparation for a variety of careers related to exercise, sports, rehabilitation, and health care. In order to help students achieve their academic and professional goals, the program offers three concentrations: Health Professions, Applied Exercise Science, and an Accelerated Doctor of Physical Therapy Pathway.

Browse the tabs below—if you have questions, visit the Student Services Center page, and we’ll make sure you get the info you need.

General Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Select an option below:

You might think that a private college education is beyond your reach, but there are many financial resources available to help make an Azusa Pacific education a reality. APU students may take advantage of three basic types of financial aid: scholarships and grants, education loans, and student employment.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are considered “gift aid” and do not require repayment. They can come from federal, state, or private sources. Scholarships are typically merit-based, meaning they are awarded depending on demonstrated academic ability or other specific talents.

Scholarships are often available from sources outside of APU. You can search for these scholarships through websites such as finaid.org or fastweb.com. The Student Services Center is sometimes notified of scholarships available through APU departments or local organizations, and can provide information about any available scholarships on request.

Education Loans

Education loans are usually repaid after graduation, may be deferred until after graduate school, and often have very low interest rates.

Military Benefits

Military members—and in some cases their spouses and dependents—qualify for financial assistance covering tuition, housing, and books. Azusa Pacific is a Yellow Ribbon University and Military Friendly School, so you can be confident that you’ll receive the benefits and flexibility you need to complete your education.

Student Employment

On-campus student employment is available for students needing additional income to pay for education-related expenses. APU students also find work off campus in the surrounding community.

Net Price Calculator

We’re committed to helping families understand early in the college search process the value of the APU experience and options for affordable financing of a top-tier Christian university education.

Now that you’re familiar with the financial aid opportunities available to APU students, it’s time to estimate what your true cost may be to attend Azusa Pacific. Remember, estimations are only as accurate as the information you provide. Click on the Net Price Calculator button below to begin.

Net Price Calculator

To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:

Job opportunities and earning potential in the health and fitness industry and allied health professions have a bright outlook for the coming decade. 

According to Payscale, the average base annual salary for individuals with a BS in Kinesiology is $67,000. There's a broad range of professional careers to choose from when you graduate. The The American Kinesiology Association has a list of 30 career paths in the field, including the following:

  • Adapted physical activity
  • Athletic trainer
  • Cardiac rehabilitation specialist
  • Chiropractic
  • Coaching
  • Exercise physiologist
  • Fitness instructor
  • Medical doctor
  • Occupational therapist
  • Personal trainer
  • Physical education teacher
  • Physician assistant
  • Physical therapist
  • Registered nurse
  • Researcher
  • Sports management
  • Sports marketing
  • Sports psychology
  • Strength and conditioning coach

 

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the job outlook for many careers in kinesiology is projected to increase by 2031. Here are some careers and their projected growth in the coming years:

  • Fitness trainers and instructors – 19%
  • Physical therapy – 17%
  • Athletic Training – 17%
  • Occupational therapy – 14%
  • Chiropractic – 19%
  • Exercise Physiologists – 9% 

For more information about the kinesiology major, use the contact information below.

Program Contacts

School of Behavioral Sciences

Phone

(626) 815-6000, Ext. 5518

Mail

College of Nursing and Health Sciences
Department of Kinesiology
701 E. Foothill BLVD
Azusa, CA 91702

 

Student Services Center

Contact (626) 812-3016 or [email protected], and visit apu.edu/ssc for details on the admissions process, financial aid, and class registration.

International Services

International students should contact +1-626-812-3055 or [email protected], and visit apu.edu/international/.

Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Career Outlook and Outcomes

Featured Faculty

William “Jody” Wilkinson

William “Jody” Wilkinson

Program Chair, BS in Kinesiology, and Professor, Department of Kinesiology

Sue Hebel

Sue Hebel

Internship Coordinator, BS in Kinesiology Program, and Professor, Department of Kinesiology

Madeline Cheaney

Madeline Cheaney

Assistant Professor, Department of Kinesiology

Note: This information is current for the 2024-25 academic year; however, all stated academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current Academic Catalog for more information.

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