General Kinesiology

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in General Kinesiology at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive foundation in the scientific principles and practical applications of human movement and physical activity. This program is designed for individuals interested in understanding the biological, psychological, and social aspects of physical activity, health, and human performance. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students explore areas such as biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor learning, and sport psychology, preparing them for careers in health promotion, athletic training, physical therapy, fitness management, and research. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning through labs, community engagement, and internships, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Additionally, students have opportunities to develop critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills essential for advancing in health sciences and kinesiology-related fields. The program also encourages students to pursue specialization options or minors to tailor their education to specific interests within kinesiology and health sciences. Graduates of the program are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute effectively to promoting active lifestyles, improving athletic performance, and supporting rehabilitation and recovery processes. With dedicated faculty research expertise, modern laboratory facilities, and collaborative industry partnerships, the University of Calgary provides a stimulating environment for students to thrive academically and prepare for diverse professional pathways in kinesiology and health sciences.

The Bachelor of Kinesiology program at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive education in human movement, physical activity, and health sciences. This program is designed to prepare students for diverse careers in health promotion, rehabilitation, sports management, research, and teaching. Throughout the program, students will engage with core topics such as biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor learning, and nutrition, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory work, research projects, and internships, enabling students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

In addition to foundational courses, students have opportunities to specialize in areas such as sport and exercise sciences, health and wellness, or rehabilitation. The program encourages a multidisciplinary approach, integrating perspectives from biology, psychology, and social sciences to understand the complex factors affecting human health and movement. Students also learn about contemporary issues in kinesiology, including aging, injury prevention, and health disparities.

Professional development is a key component of the program, with opportunities for leadership, communication, and teamwork skill-building. Graduates are well-prepared for graduate studies or careers in health and wellness industries, sports organizations, clinical settings, and research institutions. The Bachelor of Kinesiology at the University of Calgary aims to develop knowledgeable, competent, and compassionate professionals dedicated to improving human movement and health outcomes.

Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in General Kinesiology at the University of Calgary typically requires completion of high school with a competitive academic record, including prerequisite courses in English, mathematics, and sciences such as biology and chemistry. Applicants must submit official transcripts, and in some cases, supplementary materials or references may be requested to evaluate the applicant’s suitability for the program. Prospective students are encouraged to review specific admission requirements on the university’s official website to ensure they meet all criteria.

The program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with a broad understanding of human movement, health, and physical activity. Core courses include topics in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, exercise psychology, and motor learning. Students are also required to complete foundational courses in general education, which may encompass humanities, social sciences, and communication. The program emphasizes practical experience through laboratory work, internships, and community engagement to foster applied skills.

Students must meet a minimum overall GPA and successfully complete all required coursework to graduate. The program structure allows for flexibility in elective courses, enabling students to explore areas such as sport management, fitness assessment, or health promotion, depending on their interests. Additionally, the program may include opportunities for research projects, seminars, and involvement in kinesiology-related student organizations, enriching the academic experience.

To graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in General Kinesiology from the University of Calgary, students must earn a specified number of credits, typically around 120 to 130 semester hours, including all core, elective, and general education requirements. It is recommended that students consult their academic advisors regularly to ensure they are meeting progression and graduation criteria. The university maintains high standards for coursework and evaluates students continuously to ensure academic integrity and achievement.

Overall, the program prepares graduates for diverse careers in health and fitness industries, rehabilitation, sports management, and further graduate studies in kinesiology or related fields. Since requirements can be updated, students should verify details on the university’s official website or contact the program office for the most current information.

The University of Calgary offers a range of financing options for students pursuing the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in General Kinesiology. Tuition fees vary depending on whether students are domestic or international, with domestic students benefiting from lower rates supported by provincial funding. For Canadian residents, undergraduate tuition fees typically range from approximately $6,000 to $7,500 CAD per academic year, while international students can expect fees in the range of $18,000 to $22,000 CAD annually. In addition to tuition, students should budget for additional expenses such as student fees, health insurance, textbooks, supplies, and personal costs.

The university provides several scholarship opportunities to help offset the costs of education. Entrance scholarships are available for high-achieving students based on academic performance, and ongoing scholarships support students demonstrating academic excellence or financial need throughout their studies. The University of Calgary also offers work-integrated learning programs and part-time employment opportunities on campus, allowing students to gain practical experience while earning income. Furthermore, students may access government financial aid programs such as Canada Student Loans and Canada Student Grants, which provide targeted support for eligible students to help cover living expenses and educational costs.

Students are encouraged to explore private scholarships and external funding sources from health organizations, sports associations, and community foundations that support kinesiology-related studies. The university’s Financial Aid and Awards Office offers comprehensive guidance on application processes and eligibility criteria for various funding options. Additionally, many students participate in co-operative education (co-op) programs, which combine classroom learning with paid work experiences in related fields, providing both financial support and valuable professional development.

International students can access specific scholarship opportunities for international entrants, as well as external scholarships sponsored by organizations outside the university. They are also advised to consider private loans or financial sponsorship arrangements if necessary, although these should be handled cautiously and with proper consultation. The university emphasizes the importance of early planning and consultation with financial aid advisors to ensure students are aware of all available funding sources and deadlines.

Overall, while the cost of studying General Kinesiology at the University of Calgary can be significant, a variety of financial support options are available to assist students in managing their educational expenses. Careful planning, application for scholarships, and exploring employment opportunities can greatly reduce the financial burden, enabling students to focus on their academic and professional development in the field of kinesiology.

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in General Kinesiology at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive understanding of human movement, physical activity, and health. This program is designed for individuals interested in exploring the scientific, physiological, and psychological aspects of physical activity and how it relates to overall well-being. Students in this program gain foundational knowledge in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and motor behavior, which prepares them for careers in health promotion, fitness testing, coaching, and rehabilitation. The curriculum emphasizes practical experience through labs, fieldwork, and internships, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. The program also encourages the development of research skills and critical thinking, fostering the ability to evaluate the latest scientific literature and contribute to the field’s advancement.

Students can tailor their education by selecting specialized electives within kinesiology, enabling a focus on areas such as exercise science, sports medicine, or health and wellness. The program supports interdisciplinary learning, often collaborating with faculties like Medicine, Science, and Health & Wellness, thereby providing a well-rounded educational experience. Graduates of the General Kinesiology program can pursue various professional paths, including graduate studies, fitness training, health coaching, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and sports management. The University of Calgary’s facilities, including laboratories equipped for biomechanical analysis, physiological testing, and sport performance analysis, enhance students' learning experiences. Faculty members are actively engaged in research, contributing valuable insights into human movement sciences, which benefits students through exposure to cutting-edge developments. The program aims to prepare students not only for immediate employment but also for lifelong learning and continuous professional development in the dynamic field of kinesiology and health sciences.