Contents
Catalog Links

Undergraduate-Catalog

Kinesiology

The Department of Sciences and Mathematics at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College aims to develop future scholars in human movement, and health and wellness related fields. Our dedicated faculty members strive to create an environment that supports student achievement and promotes a sense of community in our students. Our curriculum supports critical thinking and problem-solving skills, to enable students to efficiently put theory into real-world practice. We are committed to inspire our students to utilize their education to become future leaders and to stimulate positive change in our global society.

I. Mission & Value Statements

Mission

The Kinesiology program is dedicated to the study and applied practice of human movement, health, and wellness. Through our majors in Exercise Science, Health Science, Recreation Science, and minors in Sport Coaching, Nutrition, and Massage Therapy, we prepare students to promote lifelong physical well-being, prevent injury and disease, and enhance human performance across diverse populations. Our mission is to educate ethical, knowledgeable, and compassionate professionals who are ready to lead in healthcare, fitness, sports, and community wellness settings.

Core Values

1. Student Centered

We prioritize the holistic development, success, and well-being of our students by fostering a supportive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment to empower students as active participants in their education, promoting critical thinking, personal growth, and lifelong learning.

2. Whole-Person Wellness
We promote a holistic understanding of health, physical, mental, emotional, and social—and prepare students to support total well-being in individuals and communities.

3. Science-Driven Practice
Grounded in physiology, biomechanics, human movement, nutrition, and health science, our programs emphasize evidence-based approaches that inform responsible and effective care.

4. Applied Learning and Professionalism
Hands-on experiences, including labs, internships, and clinical settings, prepare students for real-world challenges in healthcare, coaching, performance, and wellness professions.

5. Movement for Life
We believe in the power of movement as medicine. Our work promotes active lifestyles across the lifespan, from youth to older adults, from elite athletes to underserved populations.

6. Equity in Health and Recreation
We are committed to making health and recreation accessible and inclusive, empowering students to address disparities and meet the needs of diverse communities.

7. Leadership and Coaching Excellence
We cultivate thoughtful leaders and coaches who inspire growth, resilience, and teamwork in others through sport and recreation.

8. Community Engagement and Service
Students learn to make a meaningful difference through outreach programs, partnerships, and service-learning that apply classroom knowledge to community health challenges.

9. Lifelong Learning and Advancement
Whether pursuing professional careers or advanced study, our students are prepared to lead, adapt, and grow in ever-evolving health and movement fields.

II. Student Requirements/Admission Procedure

Department faculty work closely with admissions and academic advising to create a supportive environment for new and transferring students, both from other institutions and between majors within the SMWC offerings. 

III. Transfer Policy

At least 50% of the total hours required for each major or minor within the Department of Science and Mathematics must be taken at SMWC. Students may also choose to gain credit through a CLEP exam or CPL. CLEP and/or CPL do not count as credit earned at SMWC and therefore do not apply toward the 50% rule of course credits in the major or minor.

IV. Grade Policy

The Kinesiology program and related minors do not have any cognate grade requirements.  However, students targeting graduate school post SMWC will be competing for their acceptance.  These graduate programs and schools have additional grade expectations to meet the requirements for the highly competitive application process. It is important for students to understand that although many graduate programs identify GPA minimums required for graduate school application, acceptance may require significantly higher grade achievement. 

V. Program Learning Outcomes

Kinesiology Educational Goals

  1. Promote Foundational Knowledge in Human Health and Movement
    Equip students with a strong scientific understanding of anatomy, physiology, exercise physiology, kinesiology, and related health sciences.
  2. Develop Applied Professional Skills
    Prepare students with practical competencies for kinesiology-based career settings such as coaching, health assessment, exercise prescription, nutrition planning, therapeutic massage, and recreational programming.
  3. Encourage Critical Thinking and Evidence-Based Decision-Making
    Foster the ability to analyze scientific research, interpret data, and make informed, ethical decisions in health and performance settings.
  4. Cultivate Communication and Leadership
    Strengthen students’ ability to effectively communicate with clients, patients, teams, and communities while promoting leadership and collaboration.
  5. Support Wellness and Prevention Across Diverse Populations
    Prepare students to assess needs, design interventions, and promote wellness strategies for individuals and groups across the lifespan.
  6. Emphasize Ethical Practice and Professional Standards
    Instill values of integrity, responsibility, and cultural competence in healthcare, coaching, and wellness fields.
  7. Encourage Community Engagement and Lifelong Learning
    Provide opportunities for students to engage in service, outreach, and continuous professional development.

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

Upon completion of a Recreation Science, Health Science, or Exercise Science degree in the Kinesiology program area, students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate Knowledge of Human Structure and Function
    Explain the anatomical, physiological, exercise physiological, biomechanical, human movement, and nutritional principles related to human movement and health.
  2. Apply Evidence-Based Practice in Health and Human Performance
    Evaluate and implement scientific research to inform decisions in exercise programming, sport coaching, nutrition, or therapeutic intervention.
  3. Conduct Health and Fitness Assessments
    Design, perform, and interpret assessments related to physical fitness, nutrition, or wellness to guide client-centered programming.
  4. Design and Deliver Targeted Interventions
    Create and implement effective, safe, and goal-oriented programs that support performance, recovery, health improvement, or recreational needs.
  5. Communicate Effectively Across Audiences
    Demonstrate clear, professional communication tailored to individuals, groups, and interdisciplinary teams.
  6. Demonstrate Ethical and Culturally Competent Practice
    Exhibit ethical reasoning and cultural sensitivity in all professional interactions and decision-making processes.
  7. Collaborate and Lead in Multidisciplinary Settings
    Work effectively in teams and exhibit leadership skills in health, sport, recreation, or wellness-related settings.
  8. Reflect on Personal and Professional Growth
    Engage in reflective practices that promote self-awareness, career development, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

VI. Programmatic Accreditation

There is no programmatic level accreditation for majors or minors associated with this program.

VII. Career Opportunities

Graduates emerge prepared to pursue a variety of careers in kinesiology such as:

  • Activity/Program Instructor
  • Addiction and Rehabilitation Worker
  • Athletic Coach
  • Athletic Director
  • Community Health Educator
  • Exercise Physiologist
  • Exercise Specialist
  • Fitness Trainer/Instructor
  • Health Care Navigator
  • Health Educator
  • Life Coach
  • Personal Health Coach
  • Personal Trainer
  • Physical Education Teacher
  • Program Instructor
  • Sports Coordinator
  • Team Leader
  • Wellness Advisor
  • Wellness Promoter for businesses, colleges, or insurance companies

With additional graduate education, students may pursue careers such as:

  • Athletic Trainer
  • Chiropractor
  • College Professor
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Physical Therapist
  • Sport & Exercise Psychology
  • Sport Psychologist