Areas of Specialization
Below are the Areas of Specialization (AoS) for the B.S. in Kinesiology major available to all undergraduate KIN students. Once you have identified the area that best fits your goals, consult the undergraduate handbook for details on coursework within each area.
Exercise & Fitness Specialist
This area of specialization is designed for students who are interested in future
careers in the areas of exercise and fitness. Course work is designed to develop knowledge
and skills to work in cardiac rehabilitation or a variety of fitness and exercise
related professions. Exercise and Fitness Specialist emphasis is to provide an in-depth
understanding of the movement science area of Kinesiology through physiological, kinesiological,
behavioral, and developmental contexts. Students will develop analytical, critical,
and creative skills in movement science. These skills are designed to prepare the
student for post baccalaureate study and for many professional programs and occupations
in the movement science-related areas of kinesiology. The Fitness emphasis is designed
to provide theoretical and practical experience in exercise testing and prescription.
Students gain knowledge in exercise testing from exercise physiology and movement
science courses offered by the Department of Kinesiology. Practical application of
this knowledge is attained through an internship.
Rehabilitation Science
This area of specialization is designed for students who are interested in allied health professions, such as physical therapy, chiropractic. Course work is designed to develop knowledge and skills in order to pursue a future in physical therapy, chiropractic, medical school, or other health or rehabilitation careers.
Statistics is recommended for Math Area B4 (or to be taken prior to applying to graduate
schools).
Inclusive Physical Activity in Communities (IPAC)
The Inclusive Physical Activity in Communities (IPAC) area of specialization would prepare students to work and teach in the community, with an emphasis on working with special populations, particularly individuals with disabilities and older adults. This emphasis area can also serve as undergraduate-level preparation for a Masters in Occupational Therapy (please see note after the listed required coursework). This curriculum provides students with the specialized skills and knowledge to provide effective service delivery to individuals with disabilities, older adults, and other diverse populations in a physical activity setting. Students in this area of specialization will develop competencies in planning, assessing, coordinating, implementing, evaluating and advocating appropriate inclusive physical activity across the lifespan. This area would prepare students for careers in a variety of fields including: infant/toddler programs, physical activity for older adults in recreation or residential facilities, spinal cord injury rehabilitation centers, aquatic facilities, residential/seasonal camps, health/fitness clubs, disability sport programs, after school/community transition sites, etc.
PreOT Information: SJSU Master of Science in OT Prerequisite Courses
Statistics is recommended for Math Area B4 (or to be taken prior to applying to graduate
schools).
Individualized Studies
This area of specialization is designed to provide students with the opportunity to
develop an individualized program of study. This pathway to the baccalaureate degree
may be of particular interest to students needing considerable flexibility in designing
a program of study to facilitate pursuit of an advanced degree or a specific career
(e.g. sport broadcasting). All coursework beyond the core must be selected in consultation
with the student’s academic adviser and is expected to form a coherent program of
study that meets the student’s personal and professional goals.
Sport Management & Culture
The purpose of the Sport Management and Culture specialization is to provide an interdisciplinary understanding of sport management with a particular focus on social and cultural issues. Social justice and diversity issues will be highlighted from a critical cultural studies perspective. Additionally, students interested in sports studies will also gain a background in sport management, strengthening their professional preparation.
Qualitative Research Laboratory - info coming soon!
Transfer Curriculum Studies
This pathway to the baccalaureate degree in Kinesiology is specifically designed to meet California Law (STAR Act: SB1440) regarding unit requirements following transfer into San José State University from a community college in California. This option enables transfer students who enter with the 60-unit Kinesiology transfer curriculum completed to develop, in collaboration with their Kinesiology academic advisor, a program of study that meets their personal and professional goals.