College of Health, Education and Social Transformation
Kinesiology
College of Health, Education and Social Transformation
Kinesiology
Where Science Meets Movement.
Build Your Future in Kinesiology
The Kinesiology program offers a dynamic and hands-on education that prepares students to be leaders in health-related fields within the borderland region. The program emphasizes the importance of physical activity and promotes kinesiology as a vital discipline to enhance both physical and mental health. With a focus on human physiological, psychological and biomechanical function and performance, students gain practical experience that equips them for careers in medicine, therapy, health and wellness, athletic training or physical education.
Admission Deadlines
There are no fixed deadlines*
- Total classes: 40
- Total credit hours: 120-122
- Cost per credit hour: $223.58**
Delivery Format
Career Pathways
Graduates are well-equipped to assess, improve and support human movement, performance and health. They possess a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and exercise science, enabling them to design and implement fitness, rehabilitation and wellness programs. These graduates are prepared for careers in healthcare, fitness, education or advanced study in fields such as physical therapy, athletic training, occupational therapy or medicine.
- Physical Therapist
- Occupational Therapist
- Chiropractor
- Personal Trainer
- Strength and Conditioning Coach
- Community Health Program Coordinator
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology? Fill out our inquiry form.
The Science of Human Movement in Action
The Department of Kinesiology provides students with the education necessary to pursue careers in allied health sciences (athletic training, medical school, physician's assistant, physical and occupational therapy, chiropractic medicine, clinical exercise physiology, etc.), physical education and pedagogy, dance and various careers in the fitness and wellness industry.
Students who are drawn to the Kinesiology degree are curious about how the human body moves and functions, passionate about health and physical activity and motivated to help others improve their physical performance and well-being. They enjoy science-based learning, hands-on experiences and often aspire to careers in healthcare, fitness, rehabilitation or education.
Students can choose between three concentrations: physical education, exercise science or performance psychology. Students are not required to apply for certifications, but they are encourged to apply for one that fits best with thier chosen career path, for example, from the American College of Sports Medicine or the National Strength and Conditioning Association.
Certification Opportunities
Certifications are not a graduation requirement, but they are encourged.
Scholarships Available
Get up to 100% of tuition covered with the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship.**
This concentration provides a comprehensive understanding of human physiological, psychological and biomechanical functions, with a focus on enhancing movement and performance. Students engage in coursework that explores the mechanisms behind human performance and learn about health science research promoting healthy lifestyles across the lifespan.
Regardless of concentration, the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology consists of 120-122 credits. To earn this degree, you need to complete all Department of Kinesiology core courses, and all University degree requirements, which include General Education requirements, Viewing a Wider World requirements, and elective credits with 48 credits in courses numbered 300 or above. Kinesiology students must maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA in order to enroll in most upper division SPMD courses.
Take classes like:
- SPMD 1310 - Introduction to Kinesiology
- SPMD 1350 – Social Foundations of Physical Activity
- SPMD 2250 – Fitness for Health and Sport
- SPMD 3650 – Motor Development
- SPMD 2210 - Anatomy and Physiology
- SPMD 3550 - Psychology of Sport
This concentration is designed for students interested in the psychological and physiological aspects of human performance. This unique track allows students to earn both a degree in kinesiology and a minor in psychology, providing a comprehensive understanding of mental and physical performance.
Regardless of concentration, the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology consists of 120-122 credits. To earn this degree, you need to complete all Department of Kinesiology core courses, and all University degree requirements, which include General Education requirements, Viewing a Wider World requirements, and elective credits with 48 credits in courses numbered 300 or above. Kinesiology students must maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA in order to enroll in most upper division SPMD courses.
Take classes like:
- SPMD 1310 - Introduction to Kinesiology
- SPMD 1350 – Social Foundations of Physical Activity
- SPMD 4210 – Advanced Exercise Physiology
- SPMD 3410 – Exercise Physiology
- SPMD 3610 – Health and Exercise Psychology
- PSYC 2220 – Cognitive Psychology
This track combines coursework in kinesiology and teacher education, covering topics such as motor development, biomechanics, and adapted physical education. With a concentration in Physical Education and successfully meeting state requirements, students will be eligible to teach in the school system (e.g., Elementary, Middle and High School settings).
Regardless of concentration, the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology consists of 120-122 credits. To earn this degree, you need to complete all Department of Kinesiology core courses, and all University degree requirements, which include General Education requirements, Viewing a Wider World requirements, and elective credits with 48 credits in courses numbered 300 or above. Kinesiology students must maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA in order to enroll in most upper division SPMD courses.
Take classes like:
- SPMD 1310 - Introduction to Kinesiology
- SPMD 1350 – Social Foundations of Physical Activity
- SPMD 3710 – Motor Learning
- SPMD 3130 – Theory and Technique of Sports and Games
- CEPY 2110 -Learning in the Classroom
- SPMD 3140 - Designing Student Centered Afterschool Physical Activity Clubs
At NMSU you do not need to complete a minor to graduate. While having a minor can be beneficial, it's not mandatory for earning a degree. Minors can complement a major, broaden one's knowledge, and potentially enhance job prospects or graduate school applications. With a concentration in Performance Psychology, students can also receive a Minor in Psychology. Official Minor documentation and verification of completion must be approved through the Department of Psychology.
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Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.