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Kinesiology

Description of the program

Department of Kinesiology (DOK) offers unequaled preparation for careers in athletic training, exercise science, teaching physical education and coaching. The new 132,000 square foot Kardatzke Wellness Center houses state of the art laboratories, clinical settings, classrooms, field house, dance studio and pool. High-quality faculty/staff serve exemplary academic, wellness, recreation and athletics programs.
 
"Hands-on" experiences under the watchful eye of professors who are active in their profession allow students to learn skills and knowledge that will prepare them for the job market. Each major includes application of learning skills in a real life setting working with AU community members, athletic teams, clinics, schools and agencies.

Majors
  • Athletic Training
  • Exercise Science
  • Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) K-12
Minors
  • Athletic Coaching
  • Physical Education (Non-teaching)

Facilities

The Kardatzke Wellness Center is the home for all academic majors in the Department of Kinesiology, athletic programs, campus recreation, and wellness activities. It's a state-of-the-art facility including a performance gym, fieldhouse, indoor track, pool, weight/cardio rooms, labs and classrooms, and a dance studio.

The Gaither Sports Medicine Center is the hub for athletic training education and services. Its spacious area for treatment and rehabilitation of athletic injuries include many therapeutic modalities and rehabilitation equipment, including the SwimEx rehab pool. In addition, a well-equipped laboratory classroom is used to enhance students' learning in the clinical skills needed to gain competency as an athletic trainer.

In the Hardacre Human Performance Laboratory, exercise science students acquire hands-on experience with the scientific testing equipment including a metabolic cart, treadmills, and cycle ergometers. Students learn testing procedures for kinematic motion analysis, electrocardiography, oxygen consumption/metabolic rate, blood lactate concentration, hydrostatic weighing/body composition, biomechanical analysis, skeletal muscle electromyography, and vertical jump power.

In the Ward Fieldhouse, Bennett Natatorium, and the Falls Weight Room, PETE students use the courts, track, weight/cardio equipment, pool, and dance studio to teach and promote healthy physical activity. Surrounding outdoor areas such as the tennis courts and outdoor playing fields accommodate sport participation and other physical activity opportunities.