Kinesiology

The Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology at KU Leuven offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary education designed to deepen your understanding of human movement, physical activity, and their impact on health and well-being. This program provides students with a solid foundation in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and motor control, enabling them to analyze and enhance physical performance in various contexts. Throughout the program, students explore the biological, psychological, and social factors that influence movement and exercise, preparing them for diverse careers in healthcare, sports, rehabilitation, and research. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical training, including laboratory work, field studies, and internship opportunities, fostering hands-on skills and real-world experience. Emphasizing an evidence-based approach, the program encourages critical thinking and scientific literacy, empowering students to contribute to innovations in sports medicine, physical therapy, and health promotion. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, students will learn to work effectively with professionals from related fields such as medicine, psychology, and engineering. The program also aims to promote lifelong learning and professional development, equipping graduates with the necessary skills to adapt to the evolving demands of the health and sports sectors. Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology will be well-prepared to pursue further studies or start a career as a kinesiologist, sports scientist, rehabilitation specialist, or health consultant. The international environment and research-focused approach at KU Leuven provide students with a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge scientific developments and contribute to improving the quality of life through movement and physical activity.

Training and development in the Doctoral School Biomedical Sciences consists of three elements:

• A mandatory truncus communis focusing on essential research skills;
• Thematic training in a doctoral school programme comprising advanced courses, invited lectures, journal clubs and doctoral seminars focused on a specific biomedical topic;
• Training and development of personal skills that are relevant for the successful completion of the doctorate and that can be valorised later in different professional sectors.

Requirements

• Students should submit a satisfactory score on an internationally recognized test of English language proficiency: TOEFL (minimum score 575 paper-based, 233 computer-based, 90 internet-based), IELTS (minimum score 7). No other proficiency tests will be accepted.
• Two recommendation forms
• A letter of motivation written and signed by the applicant, explaining the choice for Leuven and for this particular programme
• A master’s degree

The financing of the Kinesiology program at KU Leuven primarily involves a combination of government funding, tuition fees, scholarships, and external grants. As a leading university in Belgium, KU Leuven benefits from substantial governmental support aimed at promoting higher education and research. Tuition fees for international students are generally higher than those for domestic students, but the university offers various scholarship programs to assist talented students with limited financial resources. These scholarships are often awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as nationality or field of study.

Furthermore, KU Leuven has partnerships with industry and healthcare institutions that sometimes fund research projects or provide financial sponsorships for students conducting specialized research or internships. Students may also have opportunities to obtain external funding through European Union programs, national research grants, or private foundations that support studies in health sciences, sports sciences, and kinesiology-related disciplines.

Students enrolled in the program may be eligible for student loans or financial aid packages provided either by the Belgian government or through private financial institutions. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance to students seeking funding options and assists with the application process for available grants and scholarships.

The program's structure may include fees for laboratory access, practical training, and internships, which could be financed through student grants or employer sponsorships, especially for students pursuing work placements in healthcare or sports organizations. Overall, the financing strategy for this program aims to make higher education accessible while encouraging research and practical experience, which are essential components of a comprehensive Kinesiology education.

The Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology at KU Leuven is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of human movement, physical activity, and their impacts on health and well-being. This multidisciplinary program combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing students for careers in health promotion, sports science, rehabilitation, or further academic research. The curriculum covers various core areas such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, motor learning, and sports psychology, ensuring graduates develop a well-rounded perspective on the factors influencing physical performance and health outcomes. Students also gain skills in research methodology and data analysis, enabling them to conduct evidence-based assessments and interventions. The program emphasizes both individual and team-based learning, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills. Practical training components include laboratory work, internships, and fieldwork to enhance real-world experience. KU Leuven’s strong connections with sports organizations, healthcare providers, and research institutions offer students valuable networking opportunities and access to innovative projects. Graduates are equipped to pursue careers in sports consultancy, physiotherapy, health coaching, or continue with postgraduate studies. The program is taught in English, attracting international students and fostering a diverse learning environment. The faculty members are experts in their fields, actively involved in research and practice, ensuring students receive current and relevant education. Overall, the Kinesiology program at KU Leuven aims to produce competent professionals who can contribute to improving health and performance across various settings through scientific knowledge and practical expertise.