Ithaca College

What you'll study

The curriculum centres on the science of human movement and the pedagogy of physical education. You will study core subjects such as human anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor learning and development, sport psychology, and research methods. Practical learning is a major component: expect laboratory work in movement analysis and exercise testing, supervised practicum placements, coaching and teaching practicums, and an applied capstone or senior project.

Students may follow pathways or concentrations that emphasise physical education teacher preparation, exercise science and performance, strength and conditioning, or health and wellness promotion. Typical modules include:

• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Exercise Physiology and Metabolism
• Biomechanics and Movement Analysis
• Motor Learning and Development
• Sport Psychology and Sociology of Sport
• Assessment and Prescription of Exercise
• Teaching Methods for Physical Education (for certification candidates)
• Research Methods and Statistics in Kinesiology
• Practicum/Field Experience and Internship

Hands-on opportunities use campus laboratory facilities, fitness and performance centres, and placements with school districts, collegiate athletics and community organisations. Coursework is designed to meet the prerequisite knowledge and skills sought by professional graduate programmes in allied health and by certification programmes for teachers and coaches.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admissions typically consider academic performance (secondary-school grades and curriculum), recommendations and relevant extracurricular experience such as coaching, volunteering in sports or fitness, or work in healthcare settings. Recommended preparatory subjects include biology, chemistry, mathematics and physical education.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or qualifications when required. Specific course prerequisites, grade expectations and any required documentation are provided by the college admissions office; applicants intending to pursue teacher certification should review state-specific certification requirements and consult the programme adviser early in their studies.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a variety of roles across education, sport, fitness and allied health. Typical career paths include:

• Secondary school physical education teacher (following completion of teacher preparation and state certification)
• Strength and conditioning coach or performance specialist with amateur or collegiate teams
• Exercise physiologist, fitness director or wellness coordinator in clinical, corporate or community settings
• Assistant coach, sports development officer or youth programmes coordinator
• Rehabilitation aide or clinical assistant supporting physiotherapists and athletic trainers
• Progression to graduate professional programmes (e.g. physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, physician assistant studies) or to graduate research degrees in kinesiology

The programme’s strong practicum and internship emphasis supports employer connections and provides practical experience valued by hiring organisations and graduate schools.

Why study at Ithaca College

Ithaca College offers small class sizes, close faculty mentorship and strong emphasis on applied learning—features that benefit students of kinesiology and physical education. The college provides access to dedicated human-performance and exercise science laboratories, campus fitness and athletic facilities, and opportunities to work with collegiate athletic programmes and local school districts for practicum placements.

Faculty typically combine academic research with professional experience in coaching, clinical practice and teacher education, helping students build the practical skills and professional networks needed for careers in sport, education and allied health. The programme is structured to prepare students both for immediate employment in sport and fitness sectors and for continued study toward professional qualifications and certifications.