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Home » 2025-2027 Undergraduate Bulletin » Programs » Kinesiology

Kinesiology

Information

Website: www.uwosh.edu/kinesiology/

KINESLGY

Faculty

Biese

Biwer

Calvert

Petit

Schmidt

Sipes

Wallace

Williams

 

Degrees

  • Undergraduate: The Kinesiology Program offers three undergraduate majors  that prepare students for careers in health and wellness. All three majors – Exercise and Sport Science, Rehabilitation Science, and Strength and Conditioning – lead to the Bachelor of Science Degree.
  • Graduate: The Kinesiology Program offers a professional graduate program in Athletic Training. The Master of Science degree in Athletic Training is a CAATE accredited professional program, which prepares students to sit for the national certification examination. For specifics, please see the Graduate Bulletin.

Summary of Fields of Study

Goal(s)

  • The members of the Kinesiology Program at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh are dedicated to educating students in the areas of Exercise & Fitness, Strength & Conditioning, and Rehabilitation along with preparing students for graduate allied health programs in Athletic Training, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Chiropractic.

The Major(s)

  • Exercise and Sport Science, Rehabilitation Science, and Strength and Conditioning.

The Minor(s)

  • None.

Admission/Graduation Requirements

Undergraduate Majors

Admission to the majors within the Kinesiology Program is a secondary admissions process; students interested in applying should submit an admissions portfolio the semester in which the requirements are met.  Portfolios are assessed before students gain entry into the major.  Minimum grade requirements include: grade of B or better in Kinesiology 121, passing grade in Kinesiology 122, and grade C or better in Biology 105 and 211, and a grade C or better in Kinesiology 170 and 171.  Additionally, students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.00 to be considered for admission to one of the three majors. A GPA requirement of 2.75 and C or better in all required and elective courses is required to complete the major. Students also submit a cover letter, resume, and essay in an online portfolio for admissions consideration.  Further information is provided on the program website and in Kinesiology 122.

Athletic Training

Students interested in studying athletic training at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh must complete the Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) degree in order to become certified and licensed to practice. Undergraduate students at UW Oshkosh are encouraged to complete the Rehabilitation Science major in preparation for the graduate MSAT program.

Students will apply to the MSAT graduate program during their senior year of an undergraduate program or post-graduation. Formal application is done through the UW System E-App process.

Admissions applications are considered as they come in, but any applicant with their materials completed prior to December 1st each year will be reviewed for Priority Admission Decisions. Those not receiving priority decisions or not able to complete the application before then will evaluated as they are processed.

Prospective MSAT students must submit the following documents to Graduate Studies to be considered for admission to the MSAT program:

  • Online application – link to graduate school application
  • $56 application fee
  • Official transcripts from all undergraduate institutions
  • 1 letter of reference regarding your ability to succeed in a graduate program
  • Personal essay (1-2 pages) describing your goals and qualifications for the MSAT program

MS in Athletic Training Prerequisites

Students applying to the MSAT program must have a cumulative 2.75 GPA in addition to having completed specific prerequisite undergraduate courses (catalog numbers at UW Oshkosh given for reference):

  • Biology (with lab) (BIO 105)
  • Human Anatomy (with lab) (BIO 211)
  • Human Physiology (with lab) (BIO 212)
  • Chemistry (with lab) (CHEM 105 or CHEM 101)
  • Physics (with lab) (PHYS 171 or PHYS 191)
  • Introduction to Psychology (PSY 101)
  • Exercise Physiology (KIN 350)
  • Nutrition (KIN 351)
  • Statistics course (MATH 201 or PSY 203) OR Research Techniques/Design (KIN 368)
  • Applied Anatomy/Kinesiology (KIN 173) OR Biomechanics (KIN 340)

Students must earn a C or better in all of these courses in order to qualify for admission to the Master’s program, along with the overall 2.75 minimum in all undergraduate courses.

Required Core Courses

  • None

The Major(s)

Exercise and Sport Science Major

  • Required Credits: 66 minimum
  • Required Pre-Admission Courses: 9 credits
    • Kinesiology 121
    • Kinesiology 122
    • Kinesiology 170
    • Kinesiology 171
    • Biology 211
  • Required Courses: 35 credits minimum
    • Biology 212
    • Kinesiology 173
    • Kinesiology 201
    • Kinesiology 331
    • Kinesiology 340
    • Kinesiology 349
    • Kinesiology 350
    • Kinesiology 351
    • Kinesiology 352
    • Kinesiology 361
    • Kinesiology 407
    • Kinesiology 447
  • Required Internship: 12 credits required
    • Kinesiology 480
  • Elective Courses: 10 credits minimum
    • Kinesiology 104
    • Kinesiology 200
    • Kinesiology 202
    • Kinesiology 320
    • Kinesiology 363
    • Kinesiology 368
    • Kinesiology 370
    • Kinesiology 371
    • Kinesiology 380
    • Kinesiology 405
    • Kinesiology 410
    • Kinesiology 425
    • Kinesiology 427
    • Kinesiology 443
    • Kinesiology 446
    • Kinesiology 450
    • Kinesiology 461
    • Kinesiology 474

Rehabilitation Science Major

  • Required Credits: 63 minimum
  • Required Pre-Admission Courses: 9 credits
    • Kinesiology 121
    • Kinesiology 122
    • Kinesiology 170
    • Kinesiology 171
    • Biology 211
  • Required Courses: 29 credits minimum
    • Biology 212
    • Kinesiology 173
    • Kinesiology 201
    • Kinesiology 331
    • Kinesiology 340
    • Kinesiology 349
    • Kinesiology 350
    • Kinesiology 351
    • Kinesiology 361
    • Kinesiology 368
  • Elective courses: 10 credits minimum
    • Kinesiology 104
    • Kinesiology 200
    • Kinesiology 202
    • Kinesiology 320
    • Kinesiology 352
    • Kinesiology 363
    • Kinesiology 370
    • Kinesiology 371
    • Kinesiology 380
    • Kinesiology 405
    • Kinesiology 407
    • Kinesiology 410
    • Kinesiology 415
    • Kinesiology 425
    • Kinesiology 427
    • Kinesiology 443
    • Kinesiology 447
    • Kinesiology 446
    • Kinesiology 450
    • Kinesiology 461
    • Kinesiology 474
  • Graduate School Prerequisites: Complete 15 credits from the following:
    • Physical Therapy: Chemistry 105, 106, Physics 171, 172, Math 106, 201, Sociology 281, Psychology 203, 320, 360, 391
    • Occupational Therapy: Chemistry 105, Physics 171, Math 106, 201, Psychology 203, 303, 320, 338, 360, 391, Sociology 281
    • Athletic Training: Chemistry 105, Physics 171, Math 106, 201, Sociology 281, Psychology 203, 320, 360, 391
  • Note: A 3+2 program exists for incoming first year students to be able to complete the undergraduate Rehabilitation Science Major in 3 years and then begin the graduate MS in Athletic Training program for 2 years as designed. See advisor for details.

Strength and Conditioning Major

  • Required Credits: 63 minimum
  • Required Pre-Admission Courses: 9 credits
    • Kinesiology 121
    • Kinesiology 122
    • Kinesiology 170
    • Kinesiology 171
    • Biology 211
  • Required Credits: 54 minimum
    • Biology 212
    • Kinesiology 104
    • Kinesiology 173
    • Kinesiology 201
    • Kinesiology 202
    • Kinesiology 331
    • Kinesiology 340
    • Kinesiology 349
    • Kinesiology 350
    • Kinesiology 351
    • Kinesiology 352
    • Kinesiology 370
    • Kinesiology 371
    • Kinesiology 427
    • Kinesiology 443
    • Kinesiology 461
    • Kinesiology 480

The Minor(s)

  • None

Course Offerings

 

Kinesiology    104 1 (crs.)
AED, CPR, and First Aid
This course will prepare students to use an Automated External Defibrillator, perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, and First Aid. Prerequisite: Declared major or minor in Kinesiology. Special course fees may apply.
 
 
Kinesiology    121 1 (crs.)
Orientation to Kinesiology
An introduction to Kinesiology, which is an integrated program of study utilizing information from several core science areas. Topics will include: the programs under this area of study, the range of employment opportunities in Kinesiology; and the roles and responsibilities of Kinesiologists in society.
 
 
Kinesiology    122 1 (crs.)
Kinesiology Admissions Seminar
This course consists of activities for students to learn more about the foundations of the field and the professions related to Kinesiology, as well as prepare for admission into programs in Kinesiology. Prerequisites: KINESLGY 121 with a B or better or concurrent enrollment. BIOLOGY 211 with a C or better or concurrent enrollment.
 
 
Kinesiology    170 1 (crs.)
Medical Terminology
This course will introduce the prospective student to terminology utilized in upper-level coursework and healthcare settings. Prerequisite: Declared major or minor in Kinesiology.
 
 
Kinesiology    171 2 (crs.)
Prevention, Recognition, and Treatment of Athletic Injuries
This course provides an introduction to injury prevention, recognition, and treatment strategies. Injury prevention principles, injury classification, and common injuries will be discussed. Prerequisite: Declared major or minor in Kinesiology, or enrollment in an Associates degree program at Fox or FDL.
 
 
Kinesiology    173 3 (crs.)
Applied Anatomy and Kinesiology
This course will introduce the prospective student to terminology utilized in upper-level coursework and within health care settings. Prerequisite: KINESLGY 122.
 
 
Kinesiology    189 2 (crs.)
Athletic Training Directed Observation
This course introduces the prospective athletic training student to some basic injury prevention techniques and practice in the athletic training clinical setting. Prerequisites: B or better in KINESLGY 121 and a B or better or concurrent enrollment in KINESLGY 170. Special course fees may apply.
 
 
Kinesiology    200 1 (crs.)
Strength and Conditioning Practicum
This course is designed to facilitate a cooperative learning experience for the strength and conditioning student. The practicum student’s responsibilities weigh heavily on exercise technique instruction and correction. The student is responsible for duties assigned by the site supervisor. These duties may include general weight room management and maintenance. Prerequisite: KINESLGY 201 with a C or better and 171 with a C or better, first aid and CPR certification (ARC or AHA).
 
 
Kinesiology    201 1 (crs.)
Strength Training Techniques
An introductory weight training course designed to present material related to the training and conditioning of athletes as well as general population. This is achieved through in-class demonstration and application of proper weight training techniques consisting of supplemental, complex, core strength and Olympic lifting exercises. Prerequisites: Admission to a major or minor in Kinesiology.
 
 
Kinesiology    202 1 (crs.)
Advanced Strength Training Techniques
A strength training course designed to present material related to the training and conditioning of athletes as well as the general population. Prerequisites: KINESLGY 201 with a C or better.
 
 
Kinesiology    320 3 (crs.)
Business of Wellness
This course will explore aspects and realities of operating or managing a wellness-based business. Students will learn about building a physical wellness-based business in a purchased or rented space, operating as an independent contractor and developing a corporate wellness program. Topics will also include establishing a creative vision and niche, understanding market trends, tax impact (operating as an independent contractor vs. employee), marketing and promotion, and the physical, emotional and mental impact of the role of owner/manager. Prerequisites: Admission to a major or minor in Kinesiology.
 
 
Kinesiology    331 3 (crs.)
Motor Learning
This course guides the study of the principles of motor skill performance and learning and the application of these theories to physical activities, learners and various environments. Prerequisites: PSYCH 101 with a C or better and admission to a major or minor in Kinesiology. Special course fees may apply.
 
 
Kinesiology    340 3 (crs.)
Biomechanics
Structural and mechanical principles involved in human movement; contribution of these principles to the efficiency of human movement. Prerequisites: Admission to a major or minor in Kinesiology. Special course fees may apply.
 
 
Kinesiology    349 3 (crs.)
Behavioral Aspects of Kinesiology
This course introduces students to psychological, or behavioral, aspects of sport, exercise, and physical activity. Students will explore factors that affect performance and psychological development and well-being. Prerequisites: PSYCH 101 with a C or better and admission to a major or minor in Kinesiology.
 
 
Kinesiology    350 3 (crs.)
Physiology of Exercise
The study of the body’s physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic bouts of exercise. Training techniques and enhanced physical performance will be emphasized. Prerequisites: BIOLOGY 212 with a C or better and admission to a major or minor in Kinesiology. Special course fees may apply.
 
 
Kinesiology    351 3 (crs.)
Nutrition for Health and Performance
Introduction to the principles of optimal nutrition, supplementation, and weight management as it relates to active and athletic populations. There is additional focus on the needs resulting from special circumstances (i.e. eating disorders, pregnant athletes, etc.). Prerequisites: BIOLOGY 212 with a C or better and admission to a major or minor in Kinesiology.
 
 
Kinesiology    352 3 (crs.)
Performance Assessment Techniques
This course will prepare students to determine and administer proper tests for both athletic and general adult populations engaging in performance training or exercise. The focus will be on administering reliable and valid tests, assessing and interpreting the data, and developing a strategy based on the test data. Students will learn to use modern testing instruments and equipment. Prerequisite: KINESLGY 350 with a C or better or concurrent enrollment.
 
 
Kinesiology    361 3 (crs.)
Medical Aspects of Kinesiology
The course discusses medically related risks and benefits associated with the performance of exercise and physical activity, focusing on cardiovascular, pulmonary, and metabolic adaptations. Chronic disease states, acute disease states, pharmacological issues, special populations will be included. Prerequisite: KINESLGY 350 with a C or better.
 
 
Kinesiology    363 2 (crs.)
Addictive, Ergogenic, and Therapeutic Agents
This course introduces students to legal and illegal substances designed to alter body chemistry, enhance performance, and promote healing. Indications, contraindications, and effects will be explored along with the legal aspects of pharmacological agents. Prerequisite: Admission to a major or minor in Kinesiology.
 
 
Kinesiology    368 3 (crs.)
Research Techniques in Kinesiology
The course encourages students to learn to design, critique, and prepare a research proposal utilizing APA (American Psychological Association) guidelines. Students will complete a research project based on their proposal and present their research study to peers and faculty. Prerequisites: KINESLGY 340 with a C or better, KINSELGY 350 with a C or better, one of the following statistics courses with a C or better (PSYCH 203, SOC 281, or MATH 201).
 
 
Kinesiology    370 3 (crs.)
Principles of Strength Training and Conditioning
Principles and theory of strength training and conditioning for athletic and sedentary populations will be taught. The course will be based on the principles, concepts, and guidelines for strength and conditioning according to the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). This course will prepare the student to apply the proper strength training and conditioning exercises for the athletic and sedentary populations based on the goals, indications, contraindications, and physical evaluation of the individual. Prerequisite: KINESLGY 350 with a C or better.
 
 
Kinesiology    371 3 (crs.)
Strength and Conditioning Program Design
The focus of this course is to develop the many principles of strength training and conditioning, with the final outcome being a comprehensive strength and conditioning manual developed by the student over the course of the semester. In doing so, the student will manipulate many training variables learned in previous courses to design a program that will aid in injury prevention and performance enhancement. Prerequisite: KINESLGY 370 with a C or better or concurrent enrollment in KINESLGY 370.
 
 
Kinesiology    380 3 (crs.)
Running Injuries, Assessment & Intervention
The course will focus on incidence and risk factor for running related injuries along with considerations for assessment and intervention of these injuries including gait analysis, exercise progression, shoe wear considerations and return to running programs. Prerequisite: KINESLGY 340 with a C or better and KINESLGY 350 with a C or better, or instructor consent.
 
 
Kinesiology    401 1 (crs.)
Performance Assessment in Kinesiology
This course will prepare students to assess physical/athletic performance parameters critical to success in athletic/activity settings. The focus will be on administering a reliable and valid testing battery, assessing and interpreting performance data, and developing a plan based on the test data. Prerequisites: Completion of or concurrent enrollment in KINESLGY 370. Special course fees may apply.
 
 
Kinesiology    405 1 (crs.)
Group Exercise Leadership
This course will emphasize the principles, concepts, and guidelines of adult fitness according to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). Principles of development, progression, and organization of an adult exercise program will be emphasized.  Prerequisites: KINESLGY 201 with a C or better, and first aid and CPR certification (ARC or AHA).
 
 
Kinesiology    407 3 (crs.)
Clinical Experience in Exercise Science
The course is designed to provide practical, hands-on experience in activities that promote the development of skills and techniques relating to fitness assessment, program management and supervision, and exercise leadership. On-campus experiences will be the primary assigned activity. (Off-campus/community placements may be arranged if deemed necessary.) Prerequisites: KINESLGY 352 with a C or better, and first aid and CPR certification (ARC or AHA). Special course fees may apply.
 
 
Kinesiology    410 3 (crs.)
Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury in Physical Activity
This course will focus on the mechanical bases of physical activity related musculoskeletal injury. Mechanisms of injury, and rehabilitation and prevention strategies, will be discussed. Much of the course will involve the hands-on application of contemporary biomechanics instrumentation (force plates, 3D motion capture, isokinetic dynamometry) as related to injury and recovery. This class is recommended for students who wish to pursue graduate study in fields related to human movement science or rehabilitation Prerequisite: KINESLGY 340, EGR 201 or PHYS/AST 171 with a B or better or instructor consent.
 
 
Kinesiology    415 3 (crs.)
Evaluation and Mitigation of Occupational Injuries
The course will provide an in-depth study of human factors, workplace assessment tools, and management strategies necessary to effectively assess, modify, and/or design equipment, tasks, and/or the work environment in a manner which minimizes ergonomics-related injury and risk. Prerequisites: KINESLGY 340 or EGR 201.
 
 
Kinesiology    425 1 – 3 (crs.)
Current Topics in Kinesiology
This course is designed to facilitate creative and critical thinking of current issues in the ever-changing field of Kinesiology. Topics will be chosen based on their relevance. Prerequisite: Admission to a major or minor in Kinesiology or instructor consent.
 
 
Kinesiology    427 3 (crs.)
Professional Preparation in Strength and Conditioning
This course is designed to discuss administration, management and professional preparation in the strength and conditioning profession. Facility design, day-to-day management, and administration of the strength and conditioning facility will be discussed. Students will develop their resume and interview skills as they prepare to apply for internships and job opportunities. In depth discussion on the NSCA, the CSCS exam, and the strength and conditioning profession will prepare students for their chosen career path. Prerequisite: KINESLGY 370 with a C or better.
 
 
Kinesiology    443 2 (crs.)
Progressive Training Techniques
This course is designed to give the student knowledge and experience in exercise modification for many different types of individuals/settings (those with physical limitations, injured clients, advanced athletes, settings with minimal equipment, etc.). Alternative methods of strength and conditioning will be demonstrated. This course will also reinforce and expand on strength and conditioning principles, ideas, and concepts developed in previous courses. Prerequisite: KINESLGY 370 with a C or better or concurrent enrollment in KINESLGY 370.
 
 
Kinesiology    446 1 – 3 (crs.)
Independent Study
See Independent Study under Course and Academic Advisement Policies information for and proper contract form requirements. Prerequisite: Admission to a major or minor in Kinesiology.
 
 
Kinesiology    447 3 (crs.)
Administration and Facilities Management in Kinesiology
This course is designed to give the student knowledge in several aspects of managing a strength and conditioning facility. Facility design, day-to-day management, and administration of the strength and conditioning facility will be discussed. Topics such as facility planning and design, scheduling, maintenance, legal responsibilities, and budgeting will be introduced. Prerequisite: KINESLGY 350 with a C or better, and first aid and CPR certification (ARC or AHA).
 
 
Kinesiology    450 3 (crs.)
Advanced Physiology of Exercise
The course will cover the advanced study of concepts, principles, and research in the field of exercise physiology. This will include critical analysis of the effect of exercise on human physiologic function with in-depth examination of current literature. Prerequisite: KINESLGY 350 with a C or better.
 
 
Kinesiology    461 3 (crs.)
Clinical Experience in Strength and Conditioning
This course is designed to provide students with clinical experience in the strength training and conditioning environment. Students will be asked to apply classroom knowledge, skills, and abilities through this clinical experience. Clinical assignments will be coordinated through the Strength and Conditioning program director. Prerequisites: KINESLGY 370 with a C or better, first aid and CPR certification (ARC or AHA); criminal background check must be completed prior to clinical placement. Special course fees may apply.
 
 
Kinesiology    474 3 – 6 (crs.)
Honors Thesis
The Honors Thesis is one of two options offered to Honors students to meet the senior capstone requirement of The Honors College. Students who choose the thesis engage in research as an independent study over two semesters (fall/spring or spring/fall) with the support of a faculty advisor. They decide on a topic in their major or minor, address recent scholarship, develop a prospectus, and produce substantial work (e.g., a written thesis, scientific experiment or research project, or creative arts exhibit or production). At the end of the term in which the capstone is completed, students give presentations at the Honors Thesis Symposia. Credits are applied to the respective program. Prerequisites: In good standing with The Honors College, prior enrollment in HNRS 175Q and HNRS 275Q, and senior status.
 
 
Kinesiology    480 1 – 12 (crs.)
Internship in Kinesiology
The internship experience is required and is viewed as an integral part of the professional preparation. It is designed to provide a quality, practical experience that is specifically related to the student’s career goals. The internship should be compatible with the goals of the Kinesiology program, the student’s professional goals, as well as with the specific needs of the placing agency. This experience is to be completed during the last semester of student’s college experience; it is a 12-credit class with a requirement of 35 experiential hours per credit.  Prerequisite: Instructor consent and Senior status. Special course fees may apply.
 
Health    495 5 (crs.)
Practicum in Community Health
Professional experience in a community health organization on a half-time basis for a full term. The student works under college supervision with a professional in the health care field. Prerequisite: Open to students with a major or minor in Kinesiology and Health only.