University of Michigan

What you'll study

The curriculum combines foundational science with applied training in movement analysis, exercise prescription and sport performance. Core topics typically include human anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, motor control and learning, exercise physiology, sport and exercise psychology, nutrition for health and performance, and research methods and statistics.

• Foundations: introductory courses in anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology principles to build a biological and mechanical understanding of movement.
• Movement science: biomechanics, motor development and motor control courses focusing on how and why movements occur, measured in lab and field settings.
• Exercise performance and health: exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, sport nutrition and metabolic responses to training.
• Applied practice: practicum, laboratories using motion-analysis and physiological testing equipment, supervised field experiences with teams or community programmes.
• Research and analytics: statistics, experimental design and a capstone or research project to develop evidence-based practice skills.
• Optional pathways: specialisations or electives in sport management, physical education pedagogy (including routes to teacher certification), rehabilitation sciences or public health and wellness.

Students are encouraged to take interdisciplinary electives across medicine, public health, psychology and engineering, and to undertake internships, student research or placements that align with career goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong academic record. Typical preparation includes coursework in biology and chemistry plus demonstrated competence in mathematics. Admissions looks for evidence of academic readiness, commitment to sport or health fields and extracurricular engagement such as coaching, volunteering, athletic participation or related work.

• Academic background: university-level admissions expect strong grades across a rigorous high-school curriculum; prior study in science and mathematics is recommended.
• Supporting experience: relevant practical experience in sport, fitness, community health or healthcare settings strengthens an application.
• Additional requirements: some routes (for example teacher certification or clinical practicum tracks) may require background checks, immunisations or health clearances before placement; graduate or professional training is required for clinical professions such as physical therapy or athletic training.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of roles in sport, health and education. Many pursue further professional qualifications for regulated healthcare roles; others enter directly into applied positions in performance, fitness and community health.

• Exercise physiologist, fitness and wellness specialist or corporate wellness coordinator
• Strength and conditioning coach, performance analyst or sport science practitioner with amateur and professional teams
• Secondary school physical education teacher (typically requires completion of teacher certification route)
• Rehabilitation technician, clinical assistant or preparatory pathway into physiotherapy, occupational therapy or athletic training (postgraduate study usually required)
• Research assistant, programme coordinator for community health initiatives, or roles in sport management and administration

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan’s School of Kinesiology is known for combining rigorous scientific training with extensive applied opportunities. Facilities include dedicated biomechanics and physiology labs, motion-capture suites and partnerships with clinical and community organisations that support internships and research placements.

• Research-led teaching: access to faculty active in sport science, rehabilitation and public-health research, giving students opportunities to contribute to real projects.
• Hands-on learning: laboratory classes, supervised practicum and connections to campus athletic programmes provide practical experience.
• Interdisciplinary options: collaboration with schools of public health, engineering, medicine and education to broaden skills and career pathways.
• Student support and careers: dedicated career services, industry links and student organisations that help with internships, licensure pathways and graduate-school preparation.

Together, these elements create a programme that prepares graduates for evidence-based practice, leadership roles in sport and health settings, or further professional training in allied health.