Kinesiology

Why study kinesiology?

The fascinating field of kinesiology has a wide variety of career opportunities including athletic trainers, personal trainers, physical therapists, physical education instructors, exercise physiologists, and kinesiotherapists. The baby boomer generation and the obesity epidemic are driving forces that will ensure that jobs in the field of kinesiology are in high demand well into the future.

Kinesiology classes at Parkland provide hands-on experience working with the latest technology and equipment. Learn how to use Gray Cook’s Functional Movement Screen, the Polar Body Age system, Team System, heart-rate monitors, and many other systems. 

At Parkland, you'll have the advantage of small class sizes, taught by master faculty—never teaching assistants. Your success is our priority.

Classes

Parkland College offers kinesiology classes that will transfer to a university toward a bachelor's degree, or lead directly to a career path.

Will my classes transfer?

Parkland College classes with an even middle digit (such as ENG 101, MAT 128, and BIO 141) are accepted for transfer as general education classes, major courses, or electives as determined by the transfer institution. 

For more information about transferring, speak with an academic advisor and visit the Parkland Course Matrix.

Personal Fitness Training

The Personal Fitness Training program is a 26 credit-hour certificate program that culminates with the NSCA-CPT certification. The National Strength and Conditioning Association Certified Personal Trainer is widely recognized as the gold standard in the industry.

Prepare for a career as a personal trainer. Start working hands-on in your second semester with real clients to develop individualized fitness plans, instruct them on technique, and monitor their progress. Train to use fitness equipment including the Polar TriFit in Parkland's state-of-art performance facility. Additionally, you will become certified in automated external defibrillators (AED) and CPR.

Curriculum

The kinesiology curriculum also gives you the opportunity to earn certifications in personal fitness training and coaching. The Associate of Science (A.S.) degree in kinesiology prepares you for transfer to a college or university where you can complete a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology or physical education. You may choose one of four specializations: Athletic Training, Exercise Physiology, Sports Management, or Teaching and Coaching.

Learn more about how these courses fit into a transfer degree or the general education core curriculum (GECC). 

Parkland Science Scholars

Students pursuing science degrees who are from low-income families are encouraged to apply to Parkland Science Scholars. This program provides financial support, mentoring, and opportunities to gain experience and create networks in science careers. For more information visit parkland.edu/ParklandScienceScholars.