Kinesiology
College of Health and Social Sciences
Dean: Don Taylor
Department of Kinesiology
GYM 101
Phone: 415-338-2244
Fax: 415-338-7566
Chair: Marialice Kern
Graduate Coordinator: Marialice Kern
Faculty
Professors: Abraham, Kern, Kim, Schleihauf, Wallace, Zieff
Associate Professors: Hamel, Lee, Walsh
Assistant Professors: Gorelick, Guedes, Veri
Programs
Concentration in:
Pre-physical Therapy Curriculum
Adapted Physical Education Curriculum
Certificate in Athletic Coaching
Certificate in Exercise Physiology
Certificate in Movement Science
Certificate in Physical Activity: Social Scientific Perspectives
Program Scope
The programs in kinesiology at SF State are carefully designed so that students experience the multidisciplinary foundations of human movement. Students gain theoretical and practical knowledge related to the biological, physical, behavioral, sociocultural, philosophical, and psychological factors underlying movement. Exercise and movement are studied in the context of skill in a variety of contexts, including those related to activities of daily living, work settings, recreation, sport, and the performing arts. Factors associated with conditioning, learning, and rehabilitation are studied across the lifespan and within a diversity of populations. In addition, sport is studied as a personal endeavor and social institution. Thematic emphases allow students to select patterns of courses tailored to meet individual interests or career goals.
The department offers a wide array of activity classes that provide instruction in motor skills from beginning to advanced levels; an array of general education courses examining aspects of physical activity and performance from various perspectives; and courses leading to certification in CPR, first aid, and coaching.
Bachelor of Science Each concentration within the bachelor of science program has a foundation in science, mathematics, and psychology and a sequence of courses designed to progressively develop the students' knowledge of movement, exercise, and skill.
The graduating student will have the skills and knowledge to engage in the observation, analysis, and measurement of movement, fitness, performance, learning, and skill; will have the tools and knowledge to engage in synthesis and systematic inquiry; and will be capable of using the computer and supporting technologies for systematic inquiry and/or professional practice.
The Concentration in Exercise and Movement Sciences serves students interested in biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor control, motor learning and development, sport and exercise psychology, sport history, sport sociology, at-risk youth development, and physical or occupational therapy. Qualified students will be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed for advanced study in any of the above-mentioned domains or for employment in fitness settings, physical activity programming, the sports media, sports industries, and as consultants for agencies developing sports policy.
The program examines those factors that influence the form, function, and effectiveness of exercise and movement across the lifespan and for special populations, such as the disabled and individuals with chronic diseases. The framework for the degree program encompasses three major subject areas: 1) the socio-cultural and psychological factors that serve to constrain and/or define human movement; 2) the factors that influence the control, learning, relearning, and development of motor skills; and 3) the variables involved in the regulation of physiological systems in response to acute and chronic exercise.
Toward the end of the program, students will select an emphasis area of study that will introduce them to specialized work within the concentration. In the movement science subject area, students become adept in observation and analysis of movement and in use of video and computer technology to study movement related questions. Throughout their studies, students apply the knowledge and skills they gain to analysis of movement problems which are of personal interest and significance.
In the social science subject area, students will gain an understanding of the psychological, social, and cultural contexts in which physical activity occurs. Students will undertake study of the origins of modern sport and physical activity, as well as explore such factors as the social, psychological, cultural, economic, and political influences on physical activity participation at all levels.
In the exercise science subject area, students will study the effects of exercise on factors influencing work performance, training programs, and adaptations that include the reduction of risk factors for medical conditions such as coronary heart disease, cerebral vascular disease, adult-onset diabetes, obesity, and osteoporosis, as well as special conditions such as pregnancy, and other hypokinetic illnesses, or adaptations that are effective for the aged and disabled populations.
Successful completion of the exercise and movement sciences concentration requires that students demonstrate knowledge and skill in the following areas:
- Assessment of physical fitness and wellness including body composition, aerobic power, flexibility, muscular power, strength, and endurance.
- Exercise prescription across the lifespan and under varying environmental conditions.
- Evaluation of the effectiveness of various types of health and fitness centers.
- Identification and interpretation of factors that influence the learning, control, and development of movement and skill.
- Qualitative and quantitative analyses of movement in a variety of contexts.
- Selection of an appropriate level of analysis and analysis tools for specific movement problems.
- Articulation of the roles of social class, race, culture, and gender in the decision to engage in physical activity and identification of the meanings associated with this behavior.
- Identification of the various psycho-social factors that limit engagement in sport, exercise, recreation, and other physical activity settings.
- The historical roots of salient contemporary issues within the profession and its academic study.
The Concentration in Physical Education prepares students for entry to a teacher credentialing program. The course of study satisfies state requirements for the Subject Matter Program in Physical Education.
Successful completion of the concentration in physical education requires that the student demonstrate:
- Knowledge about human movement, learning, and development.
- Competence in analyzing and applying movement concepts to facilitate motor skill acquisition.
- Broad-based personal movement literacy, skillfulness, and fitness.
- Knowledge about a variety of movement and sport forms.
- Knowledge about health-related fitness and wellness in the school age population.
- Knowledge about working with individuals who are challenged physically, cognitively, or emotionally, and with individuals from a variety of cultural backgrounds.
- Familiarity with a variety of pedagogical techniques appropriate to a variety of ages, contexts, and conditions.
- Familiarity with assessment techniques appropriate to the teaching environment.
- Familiarity with the problems and issues facing physical educators within the school system.
- Knowledge of the historical and philosophical bases of practices in physical education.
Minor/Certificate in Athletic Coaching This area of study provides students in academic areas other than kinesiology with the knowledge and skills required for coaching interscholastic or community athletic teams.
Athletic Training Curriculum Students seeking certification in athletic training are advised to see the athletic trainer to plan a course of study. Students can opt for the concentration in exercise and movement sciences and see their adviser regarding the additional courses necessary to seek certification.
Physical Education and Adapted Physical Education Teaching Students who wish to become credentialed as public school teachers in physical education or as adapted physical education specialists should select the concentration in physical education program. However, to be eligible for admission to the credential program at SF State, students must attain a GPA of 2.75 in the Subject Matter Program curriculum. Students must work closely with an adviser to fulfill the requirements of the Subject Matter Program. They should also contact the College of Education Student Services Office at 338-7038 regarding teaching credential information.
Pre-physical Therapy The concentration in exercise and movement sciences supports preparation for advanced study in physical or occupational therapy and other therapeutic or rehabilitative fields. With the addition of specific courses required for admission to various graduate programs, the student will graduate with a strong foundation in the movement sciences as well as with the prerequisites necessary for entry to programs of their choice. Admission to graduate programs in physical therapy is extremely competitive. The kinesiology faculty and the kinesiology student association have a strong commitment to providing excellent advising and assistance to students who wish to become therapists.
Advising Students in all the programs must work closely with an adviser to select the proper degree program, concentration, and configuration of courses to support career and scholarly interest related to the study of human movement. Students seeking to major in or change their major to kinesiology must meet with the undergraduate advising coordinator in GYM 137 to be officially accepted into the major.
Undergraduate students interested in pursuing a masters degree in kinesiology should speak to their major adviser after completing KIN 250 KIN 350, KIN 504, BIOL 328, and BIOL 610.
Many of the courses listed in the major patterns have prerequisites or co-requisites and must be taken in a particular sequence. (Consult the on-line course descriptions.) See "Duplicate Use of Credit Between the Major and GE" at http://www.sfsu.edu/~bulletin/current/uged.htm. Prior approval by the student's major adviser is required for all individually tailored groups of courses and for course substitutions.
The course of study in the kinesiology major requires that the student has completed all Segment I requirements, including ENG 214 or equivalent, with a grade of C or better, prior to enrolling in the major courses. The major courses, projects, internships, and culminating experiences require competence in written and oral communication, quantitative reasoning, logical and critical thinking, computer facility, and a thorough grounding in biological and physical science. The B.S. in Kinesiology is science intensive. Successful and timely progress through this program requires careful planning and organization. Students must show proof of completion of prerequisites to the instructor at the start of all applicable courses.
Transfer students are encouraged to visit the department prior to enrollment at SF State, or as soon as possible thereafter, in order to learn about the major and the expectations for student performance. Students having academic difficulty for any reason are encouraged to seek assistance immediately by speaking to their adviser, a peer counselor in the Kinesiology Student Association, and/or the Student Resources Center in the College of Health and Social Sciences.
All courses used to satisfy completion of major requirements must be taken for a letter grade. No CR/NC grades may be used on the major petition for graduation.
Master of Science in Kinesiology Students in the M.S. Kinesiology program apply multiple perspectives to problems related to exercise, fitness, motor skill and/or development in the contexts of activities of daily living, play, games, sport, and other forms of human physical activity. Graduates exit the program with strong theoretical and problem solving skills, experience in the evaluation of current research in the field, and knowledge in the field of kinesiology. They are able to apply these skills in a wide variety of careers as well as further graduate study. The curriculum allows for an emphasis in exercise physiology, movement science, or physical activity with social scientific perspectives.
Exercise Physiology An emphasis in exercise physiology is intended for students who are interested in furthering their understanding of how the physiological systems of the human body respond to exercise. Exercise physiology is a multi-disciplinary field with strong ties to basic research, life sciences, and medicine. This emphasis offers comprehensive study of the acute and chronic cardiovascular, respiratory, and metabolic responses to exercise; and the application of these concepts to exercise testing, prescription and supervision in both healthy and diseased populations. Furthermore, an objective of the exercise physiology emphasis is to assist in preparation for certification as Health Fitness SpecialistSM or Clinical Exercise Specialist through the American College of Sports Medicine. Upon completion of the program, students will be prepared to further their education in a doctoral program, or seek employment in a rehabilitation clinic, health club, wellness center or other fitness setting. Students may earn a Certificate in Exercise Physiology by completing three courses (9 units) in the emphasis that are marked with an asterisk (*).
Movement Science An emphasis in movement science provides an advanced degree that prepares students to work in a variety of movement and health care settings, teach in community colleges or high schools, or continue postgraduate studies leading to a doctoral degree. Students explore the multitude of factors that influence the control of human movement and the way in which that control changes over time. In addition, students develop skill critiquing and analyzing movement using techniques from the neurosciences and biomechanics. Students ultimately apply their knowledge and skill in areas such as sports, dance, recreation, rehabilitation, teaching, coaching, and ergonomics. Students may earn a Certificate in Movement Science by completing three courses (9 units) in the emphasis that are marked with an asterisk (*).
Physical Activity: Social Scientific Perspectives The emphasis in physical activity: social scientific perspectives is intended for students interested in advanced study of physical activity from within the sociocultural, psychological, pedagogical or at-risk youth development areas. Students who have been active in the fields of education and physical education and who are interested in or are currently pursuing a teaching credential will also find the program relevant to their career goals. The curriculum is designed so that students who are currently enrolled in the credential program can apply 12 units towards the master's program. In addition, students who previously received their teaching credential and are returning to school for the M.S. degree can design, with advisement, a program of studies from the courses listed below and other electives. Lastly, students can plan, with advisement, a program of studies within adapted physical education. Students may earn a Certificate in Physical Activity: Social Scientific Perspectives by completing three courses (9 units) in the emphasis that are marked with an asterisk (*).
Career Outlook
Graduates from our program can gain immediate entry into a number of physical activity, exercise, and human movement related jobs or can seek advanced study leading to careers in: teaching, adapted physical education, coaching, athletic training, physical therapy, occupational therapy, exercise leadership, fitness program management, sports media, consulting, community-based program development, cardiac rehabilitation, biomechanical analysis of movement, ergonomics, sports-related endeavors, research in movement and skill development and learning, research in exercise physiology, research in sociocultural and psychological factors associated with physical activity, or at-risk youth development, or careers in technical writing or computer technology.
Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
The department offers a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with concentrations in Exercise and Movement Sciences, and Physical Education. Each concentration includes: a set of core requirements, some of which may be utilized to fulfill general education requirements, and which establish the framework for the study of movement, exercise, and skill from a variety of perspectives; and a set of concentration-specific courses which serve the purpose of preparing the student for specific careers and/or graduate study within the field or other related disciplines. Students must select one of the two concentrations.
Note: All majors are expected to show proof of current First Aid/CPR certification upon application for graduation. This can be obtained via KIN 295, or by receiving off-campus certification by an agency such as the American Red Cross.
It is recommended that students graduate with some form of certification to enhance employment opportunities, such as those provided by the American Red Cross, the American College of Sports Medicine, ACE, Senior Fitness Certificate, AFAA, or the National Coaching Association. See an adviser for suggestions and/or additional possibilities.
On-line course descriptions are available.
Prerequisites
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 100 or BIOL 230 |
Human Biology Introductory Biology (5) |
3 - 5 |
| BIOL 328 | Human Anatomy | 4 |
| KIN 250 | Introduction to Kinesiology | 3 |
| MATH 124 | Elementary Statistics | 3 |
Core Requirements
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 330 GW | Becoming a Kinesiologist - GWAR | 3 |
| KIN 457 | Culture, Gender and Movement | 3 |
| KIN 480 | Anatomical Kinesiology | 4 |
| KIN 486 | Motor Learning | 3 |
| KIN 504 | Sport and Exercise Psychology | 3 |
Total for prerequisites and core: 29 - 31
Concentration
Select either Exercise and Movement Sciences, or Physical Education (see below): 37 - 39
Total for degree: 66 - 70
Concentration in Exercise and Movement Sciences
Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated. On-line course descriptions are available.
Prerequisites and Core Requirements (see above): 29 - 31
Concentration
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 610 | Human Physiology | 3 |
| BIOL 611 | Human Physiology Laboratory | 1 |
| CHEM 101 and CHEM 102 or CHEM 115 |
Survey of Chemistry (3) Survey of Chemistry Laboratory (1) General Chemistry I: Essential Concepts of Chemistry (5) |
4 - 5 |
| PHYS 101 and PHYS 102 or PHYS 111 and PHYS 112 |
Conceptual Physics (3) Conceptual Physics Laboratory (1) General Physics I (3) General Physics I Laboratory (1) |
4 |
| KIN 384 | Research Methods in Kinesiology | 3 |
| KIN 482 | Exercise Physiology | 3 |
| KIN 483 | Exercise Physiology Laboratory | 1 |
| KIN 485 | Biomechanics | 3 |
| KIN 696 or KIN 697-8 or KIN 699 |
Kinesiology Community Based Internship (3) Integrative Research Seminar (3) Independent Research (3) |
3 |
Student must choose one of the following emphasis areas which accounts for 11 - 12 units necessary to complete the degree program:
- Neuromuscular Science (12 units)
- Human Performance Analysis (12 units)
- Fitness, Physical Activity, & Society (11 units)
- Social Science Studies in Physical Activity (11 units)
- Physiology of Fitness and Health (11 units)
- Fitness Programming in Youth and Elderly Populations (11 units)
Neuromuscular Science (12 units)
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 487 | Motor Development | 3 |
| KIN 538 | Therapeutic Exercise | 3 |
| KIN 636 | Neuromotor Control Processes | 3 |
| KIN 680 | Quantitative Analysis of Human Movement | 3 |
Human Performance Analysis (12 units)
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 325 | Computer Application in Kinesiology | 3 |
| KIN 331 | Peak Performance | 3 |
| KIN 539 | Motor Assessment of Individuals with Disabilities | 3 |
| KIN 680 | Quantitative Analysis of Human Movement | 3 |
Fitness, Physical Activity, & Society (12 units)
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 300 | Health-related Fitness and Wellness | 3 |
| KIN 322 | Sports in America | 3 |
| KIN 437 | Physical Dimensions of Aging | 3 |
| KIN 490 | Introduction to Sport and Fitness Program Management | 3 |
| KIN 502 | Sport and Social Issues (Required Course) | 3 |
Social Science Studies in Physical Activity (11 units)
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 322 | Sport in America | 3 |
| KIN 331 | Peak Performance | 3 |
| KIN 489 | History & Philosophy of Sport & Physical Activity (Required) | 3 |
| KIN 502 | Sport and Social Issues | 3 |
| KIN 620 | Advanced Practicum - Kinesiology | 2 |
Physiology of Fitness and Health (12 units)
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 490 | Introduction to Sport and Fitness Program Management | 3 |
| KIN 555 | Exercise Testing and Prescription | 3 |
| KIN 683 | Applied Exercise Physiology | 3 |
| KIN 690 | Internship | 3 |
Fitness Programming in Youth and Elderly Populations (11 units)
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 308 | Instructional Analysis: Fitness Activities | 2 |
| KIN 490 | Introduction to Sport and Fitness Program Management | 3 |
| KIN 437 | Physical Dimension of Aging | 3 |
| KIN 555 | Exercise Testing and Prescription | 3 |
Activity Requirement: 1 unit
With prior approval of adviser, select one activity course (KIN prefix) representing a fitness-related activity or movement form that complements and enhances the student's personal fitness and movement profile.
Total for concentration: 37-39 units
Total for major: 66-70 units
Concentration in Physical Education
Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated. On-line course descriptions are available.
Prerequisites and Core Requirements (see above): 29-31
Foundation
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 300 | Health-related Fitness and Wellness | 3 |
| KIN 340 | Orientation to Teaching in Physical Education | 3 |
| KIN 355 | Science, Sport, and Fitness | 3 |
| KIN 401 | Elementary School Physical Education, K-5 | 3 |
| KIN 402 | Practicum in Physical Education, N-5 | 1 |
| KIN 487 | Motor Development | 3 |
| KIN 488 | Assessment | 3 |
| KIN 489 | History & Philosophy of Sport & Physical Activity | 3 |
| KIN 536 | Movement for Individuals with Mild Disabilities | 4 |
| KIN 580 | Instructional Strategies for Middle and High School Physical Education, Grades 6-12 | 3 |
| KIN 581 | Practicum in Middle and High School Physical Education | 2 |
Movement Experiences: 7 units
With prior approval of adviser, select 7 basic activity courses (1 unit each) to satisfy the distribution shown below. Selections should broaden the student's personal movement and skill vocabulary.
- Aquatics
- Dance (which must include folk dance)
- Martial Arts
- Team Sports
- Fitness
Instructional Analysis
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 305 | Instructional Analysis: Track, Field, Gymnastics, Floor Activities | 2 |
Total for concentration: 39 units
Total for major: 68 - 70 units
Additional Subject Matter Requirements for the Single Subject Matter Preparation in Physical Education and Dance Program
Students seeking the Physical Education and Dance Single Subject Credential or the Physical Education Subject Matter Preparation Program (approved 2009 by the CCTC) are also required to complete the following courses:
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 306 | Instructional Analysis: Racquet Sports | 2 |
| KIN 307 | Instructional Analysis: Basketball and Volleyball | 2 |
| KIN 308 | Instructional Analysis: Fitness Activities | 2 |
| KIN 309 | Instructional Analysis: Soccer and Softball | 2 |
Students in the Physical Education Subject Matter Preparation Program must also complete an activity course in Individual Sports / Activities such as track, tennis, or gymnastics.
Additional Required Experiences
The following experiences are required for satisfactory completion of the Physical Education Subject Matter Preparation Program. Students may complete these experiences in courses available at a college, university, or off-campus. However, these experiences do not bear credit toward completion of the major.
- Life Guard Training and Water Safety Instruction.
- First Aid-CPR Certification.
- Active participation in student CAHPERD, AAHPERD, and/or the Kinesiology Student Association, or other related professional organization.
- Gain experience in coaching, teaching physical education, recreation, or intramurals through working as a volunteer or paid assistant.
Physical Education Teaching Credential Pathway
Each student in the Subject Matter Preparation Program meets the CSU Early Field Experience requirement for the SF State Single Subject Credential Program of 45 hours and develops curriculum and instruction skills. Students enrolling in KIN 402 and KIN 581 are assessed through a version of the Performance Assessment for California Teachers (PACT) required for a credential that has been adapted for the development of beginning teaching skills, planning, assessment analysis, class video recording and co-teaching. For curriculum and instruction, the courses KIN 401and KIN 580 require that students present a curriculum, a unit plan and a lesson plan for one grade level. The instructional analysis courses (KIN 305, 306, 307, 308 and 309) refine teaching skills using specific pedagogical strategies for physical education content. In KIN 488 students learn about assessment, data analysis and different methods of providing feedback to K-12 students. For adapted physical education requirements, the same procedures are followed by KIN 536, 537, 539 and 630.
Expectations for Student Performance
- Earn at least a C in each and all required KIN theory courses, and for credentialing purposes, at least a B in each and all movement experiences courses and all instructional analysis courses
- Demonstrate understanding of and possess demonstration level skill competence in twelve activity areas. Students must pre-plan their routes to meet this requirement upon consultation with faculty and in conjunction with KIN 340, Orientation to Teaching Physical Education.
- Successful completion of a fitness assessment test in conjunction with KIN 300, Health-related Fitness and Wellness.
- Demonstrate a high level of personal skill and coaching expertise in at least one sport.
Adapted Physical Education Curriculum
By completing the following courses, along with the Subject Matter Credential in Physical Education, a Specialist Credential in Adapted Physical Education can be achieved.
At the present time, job opportunities within the area of adapted physical education are abundant within the public school setting. The demand for adapted physical education teachers far exceeds the number of existing credentialed teachers. It is estimated that there will be numerous job opportunities in the future for individuals with a Specialist Credential in Adapted Physical Education.
Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated. On-line course descriptions are available.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 536 | Movement for Individuals with Mild Disabilities | 4 |
| KIN 537 | Movement for Individuals with Severe Disabilities | 3 |
| KIN 538 | Therapeutic Exercise | 3 |
| KIN 539 | Motor Assessment of Individuals with Disabilities | 3 |
| KIN 630 | Internship in Adapted Physical Education | 3 |
Pre-Physical Therapy Curriculum
Students who wish to enter graduate or certificate programs in physical or occupational therapy should select the bachelor of science concentration in exercise and movement sciences. This concentration includes a number of courses typically required for the admission to physical or occupational therapy programs, and may provide the graduate with more than one career/graduate study.
Note: The following listing of courses is not a separate degree program, they are courses typically required of graduate programs in physical and occupational therapy.
Physical and occupational therapy programs vary in their admissions requirements. The courses listed below represent potential required courses and, when added to the major, provide a strong profile for application to many programs. However, students are strongly advised to check the specific requirements of each program to which they plan to apply. Some of the courses listed may be substituted for parallel courses in the major, upon approval of the student's major adviser. Others may be taken as free electives or, in some cases, to fulfill General Education requirements. To stay informed and to optimize planning, students must work closely with a departmental adviser, and should become involved in the Physical Therapy Student Association.
Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated. On-line course descriptions are available.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 230 | Introductory Biology I | 5 |
| BIOL 240 | Introductory Biology II | 5 |
| BIOL 614 or BIOL 210 or |
Vertebrate Histology General Microbiology and Public Health |
3 - 4 |
| A course in cell biology | ||
| CHEM 115 | General Chemistry I: Essential Concepts of Chemistry | 5 |
| CHEM 215 CHEM 216 |
General Chemistry II: Quantitative Applications of Chemistry Concepts/Laboratory (3/2) | 5 |
| CHEM 130 or CHEM 233/ CHEM 234 |
General Organic Chemistry Organic Chemistry I (3/2) Organic Chemistry I Laboratory |
3 5 |
| PHYS 111/ PHYS 112 |
General Physics I/Laboratory (3/1) | 4 |
| PHYS 121/ PHYS 122 |
General Physics II/Laboratory (3/1) | 4 |
| PSY 542 | Abnormal Psychology | 3 |
Additional courses which may enhance the student's application to physical or occupational therapy programs include:
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| PT 300 | Introduction to Physical Therapy | 3 |
| BIOL 640/ BIOL 641 |
Neuroscience I/Laboratory (3/1) | 4 |
| BIOL 642 | Neuroscience II | 3 |
| PHIL 383 | Ethics in Medicine | 3 |
| PSY 431 | Developmental Psychology | 3 |
| PSY 330 | Child Development | 3 |
| SOC 476 | Medical Sociology | 4 |
Related courses in the following areas are recommended: adapted physical education, recreation therapy, health education, exercise science and fitness, human movement studies, multicultural aspects of society, research.
Minor/Certificate in Athletic Coaching
This sequence of courses is for students who are interested in coaching and/or pursuing a career in coaching. It provides the knowledge and skill base required for coaching club, school, and community athletic teams.
On-line course descriptions are available.
Core
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 328 | Human Anatomy | 4 |
| KIN 294 | CPR (KIN 295 optional) | 1 - 2 |
| KIN 321 | Introduction to Sports Injury Care | 2 |
| KIN 331 | Peak Performance | 3 |
| KIN 355 | Science, Sport, and Fitness | 3 |
| KIN 486 | Motor Learning (KIN 250 prerequisite not required) |
3 |
| KIN 504 | Sport and Exercise Psychology | 3 |
Total for core: 19 - 20 units
Select 2 courses from the following: 1 (Previous competitive experience in the sport or consent of instructor is required.) 4 units.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 305 | Instructional Analysis: Track, Field, and Gymnastics Floor Activities (2) | |
| KIN 307 | Instructional Analysis: Basketball and Volleyball (2) | |
| KIN 308 | Instructional Analysis: Fitness Activities (2) | |
| KIN 309 | Instructional Analysis: Soccer and Softball (2) | |
| KIN 620 | Advanced Practicum in Kinesiology 2 | |
| KIN 621 | Advanced Practicum in Kinesiology | |
Culminating Experience
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 570 | Directed Coaching Experience | 1 |
A one-season coaching experience in youth athletics, recreation leagues, interscholastic, or intercollegiate athletics in a sport in which a coaching course is selected.
Total for minor/certificate: 24 - 25
Master of Science in Kinesiology
Admission Requirements
A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 units will be required for admission to the M.S. program.
A minimum score of 4.0 on the GRE writing component is required for admission to the program. International students must achieve a minimum score of 4.5 (PBT) or 24 (IBT) on the TOEFL. The TOEFL standard must be completed prior to admission to the graduate program.
All students are conditionally admitted pending:
- Completion of the required entry courses and/or the minimum 24 unit undergraduate equivalency.
- Completion of all requirements of the Graduate Program.
No more than 6 units of graduate work may be completed prior to fulfillment of all prerequisites for admission to the program.
Upon admission, the department sends a letter to the candidate containing the name of the assigned adviser and classification conditions.
Written English Proficiency Requirement
There are two levels of literacy examinations required by the University.
Level One: Minimum 4.0 on the writing portion of the GRE exam.
Level Two: Completion of the written thesis or master’s project for the culminating experience requirement.
Program Requirements
The Master of Science in Kinesiology is 30 units and includes a core, an emphasis, electives, and a culminating experience. Students studying a specific emphasis, in consultation with their adviser, will select electives and a culminating experience that best meets their professional/personal needs. Final approval of the student's program rests with the graduate faculty. Students are expected to complete this degree in a maximum of 5 years.
Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated. On-line course descriptions are available.
Program Core Requirements: 9 units
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 710 | Research in Kinesiology | |
| KIN 715 | Research Designs and Analysis | |
| KIN 795 | Seminar in Kinesiology | |
Emphases: 15 units
Emphasis in Exercise Physiology:
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 740 | Advanced Exercise Metabolism* | |
| KIN 742 | Exercise and Cardiovascular Dynamics* | |
| KIN 746 | Clinical Exercise Physiology* | |
| KIN 755 | Exercise Electrocardiography, Testing and Prescription | |
| KIN 781 | Muscle Mechanics | |
Emphasis in Movement Science
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 730 | Advanced Biomechanics* | |
| KIN 733 | Motor Learning* | |
| KIN 736 | Advanced Neuromotor Control* | |
| KIN 763 | Motivation and Performance | |
| KIN 781 | Muscle Mechanics | |
Emphasis in Physical Activity: Social Science Perspectives
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 734 | Physical Activity Programs for Underserved Youth | |
| KIN 763 | Motivation and Performance | |
| KIN 766 | Sociocultural Bases of Physical Activity | |
| KIN 781 | Muscle Mechanics | |
| Elective Upon Advisement (3 units) | ||
Culminating Experience: 6 units
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 897 and KIN 898 |
Independent Research in Kinesiology Master’s Thesis |
|
| or | ||
| KIN 895 and |
Master’s Project | |
| Elective Upon Advisement | ||
Minimum total for Master's Degree: 30 units
Continuous Enrollment: Students are expected to continuously enroll in the University while working on the degree.
*To apply for award of certificate, you must submit the Certificate Approved Program form to your adviser and Program/Department Chair for approval. You will need to pay a $7.00 processing fee at the Cashier's Office before submitting the form and your unofficial transcripts to the GradStop Counter. For further information and to access the online form go to: www.sfsu.edu/~gradstdy/forms/cap.pdf
Assistantships: Opportunities may be available to work in the Kinesiology Department as a graduate student at San Francisco State University. Qualified students may apply, when available, to work in the activity program, as laboratory assistants, or as supervisors in the Intramural and Recreation Program. Students may also apply for financial aid through the University.
Footnotes
- Community college courses in coaching are accepted as substitutes.
- Limited to Wrestling under the supervision of the head coach of that sport.
