Kinesiology

In concordance with the Catholic, Lasallian and liberal arts traditions of Saint Mary's College, the Department of Kinesiology serves its students through a curriculum based on the interdisciplinary study of the human being in motion. With our students, we examine the whole person across the lifespan in the domains of health, sport and physical activity. We strive to motivate our students to embrace the ethos "Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve" because of our belief in their ability to positively lead and transform our society for the better.
 

mens sana in corpore sano

Our primary department focus is to ground our students in the disciplinary knowledge necessary for a meaningful professional and personal life after Saint Mary's College.  The faculty guides our students in the acquisition of foundational knowledge and fundamental skills through to higher order thinking and pre-professional practice.  We ensure that our students are immersed in the breadth and depth of our field's classic and contemporary scholarly literature.  Our undergraduate students have access to the following types of department coursework: sport history and sociology, exercise psychology and physiology, biomechanics and human motor performance, athletic facility management, community and peer health, athletic training, sport law, exercise testing and prescription, and sport nutrition.

Our faculty and staff consider and treat each student as an equal in the Department of Kinesiology's community of learners.  This is expressed through a curriculum that respects and engages difference and a faculty focused on the whole person we teach.  The traditions of the College are reflected in our small interactive classes, attention to individual student needs, internship placements, careful academic and career advising, and a commitment to the development of responsible independent thought.

Exercise Science (Formerly Health and Human Performance)

This emphasis provides students with a broad knowledge base, critical thinking and communication skills, and practical experience in the exercise sciences. The interdisciplinary coursework, in addition to labs, research, and practicum experiences, educates students to become effective and socially responsible contributors to the scientific community and subject population. This curriculum also prepares students to pursue professional certifications, professional and graduate programs, and advanced careers in the field. Exercise Science majors are prominent in the wellness, sport, and fitness industries; health care settings, such as injury prevention and exercise rehabilitation; and as trainers and coaches for individual and team athletes.

Health Promotion

This emphasis prepares students with interests in the field of public health, health education and promotion, and wellness. Course work has been designed to meet the four Critical Component Elements for undergraduate health education programs.

Sport and Recreation Management

This emphasis serves students interested in the business of sport and recreation. Coursework provides the philosophical grounding and practical skills necessary for success in these domains.