The Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education
MISSION STATEMENT
To prepare graduates who are knowledgable, professional, experienced and idealistic regarding the significance and values of sport and exercise phenomenon.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education identifies its
role within the College of Education and Allied Studies and the University
in the following program description: It has long been evident that sport
and exercise phenomena have significant social, political, economic and
wellness implications in contemporary life. Kinesiology is the discipline
related to the scholarly study of sport, exercise and related activities
from anatomical, biomechanical, developmental, physiological, psychological,
sociological, philosophical and historical perspectives. Such understanding
is a necessary prerequisite to the preparation for sport and exercise related
careers.
Within the University, responsibility for generating, organizing, and
disseminating this important subject matter is assumed by the Department
of Kinesiology and Physical Education. The fundamental mission of the Department
is the education of students. More specifically, the educational needs
of three student constituencies are addressed: 1) students interested in
acquiring basic knowledge in kinesiology through undergraduate and graduate-level
curricula; 2) students interested in furthering their liberal studies through
physical education by learning and performing a wide variety of motor activities
at all levels, from beginning instruction to intercollegiate competition;
and 3) students interested in preparing for careers in kinesiology and
related professions.
Physical Education is one application of kinesiological knowledge and
focuses primarily on instruction that leads to physically educated individuals,
and on the preparation of physical education teachers, coaches and associated
professionals. Other professional options within the department include
athletic training; exercise, nutrition, and wellness; and pre-physical
therapy.
