The 10 Best Online BS in Kinesiology

Did you know that an online BS in Kinesiology degree can get your career moving in the right direction? Kinesiology, the study of human movement, covers functional walking to injury recovery. Since human movement is essential to health and wellness, you will find plenty of job opportunities! 

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Quick Summarization

Earning a four-year online BS in Kinesiology degree has its challenges but it’s among the most versatile degrees in health sciences! Kinesiology students can look forward to learning about the theories, principles, and practices of human movement. Health and wellness, quality of life, and functional movement are emphasized in equal measure. 

Note, however, that an online kinesiology degree is one step among many in establishing a firm career footing. Kinesiology students should also plan for continuing education and certification. A master’s degree and professional certifications are required in many advanced kinesiologies and exercise science-related occupations.

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Methodology

In an online Kinesiology degree program, students learn about the theories of human movement and the practical solutions to addressing the issues connected with mobility. Students also learn about promoting health and wellness among diverse populations, from athletes to the elderly. 

The opportunity to promote wellness and healthy lifestyle habits is also among the benefits of a career in Kinesiology. If your passion lies in being a positive influence on people, then an online BS in Kinesiology degree is for you!

Here are the outstanding features of the online undergraduate programs in Kinesiology that made it to our list:

• Offered as a 100% distance or hybrid learning for coursework flexibility and class scheduling convenience for adult learners,
• Delivers a comprehensive academic knowledge of Kinesiology through a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for a master’s program in the field or a relevant work option after earning a bachelor’s degree,
• Maintains a Transfer Path agreement with partner colleges to make it easy for Kinesiology students pursuing a graduate program,
• Employs an excellent panel of academic professors who are known for their expertise in Kinesiology,
• Emphasizes program affordability by providing financial assistance opportunities to eligible students, 
• Accredited by academic agencies that maintain the quality of instruction in online education, particularly at the undergraduate level,
• Recognized by associations that work to advance Kinesiology as a valuable degree and profession

Check out our Methodology page for our college ranking process details.

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10 Best Online BS in Kinesiology Degree Programs

The best online bachelor’s degree kinesiology programs ensure that their students learn both theory and application. Aside from the didactic instruction, internship and practicum experiences are required. Many programs also encourage pursuing an advanced degree in exercise science or a related field. 

Oregon State University

Offered at OSU’s College of Public Health and Human Science, the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology program provides an interactive learning environment. Online students learn through didactic instruction and online labs.  

Students pursuing a bachelor’s in kinesiology degree understand the relationship between health and wellness and physical activity. The online kinesiology degree has a 180-quarter credit curriculum. Students must earn at least 60 upper-division credits. 

The major courses in the online kinesiology degree program cover: 

• Adapted physical activity
• Biomechanics of human movement
• Exercise physiology
• Injury management
• Motor behavior

Experiential learning is integral to the online kinesiology program. Students work with an experiential learning coordinator to gain hands-on experience. 

Transfer credits are accepted. Admission is on a selective basis. 

This is different from a traditional kinesiology degree since students can add a minor. Choices include public health, occupational health, and environmental health. 

Oregon State University is recognized by the Northwest Commission on Colleges & Universities (NWCCU). 

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Tarleton State University

The online Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology at Tarleton offers students several possible academic and professional pathways. Students in the online kinesiology degree program choose from six concentrations: 

• Athletic Training, a 4+1 program resulting in a master’s degree in athletic training and eligibility for athletic training certification 
• Exercise and Allied Health Professions, which prepares students for occupational and physical therapy programs
• Fitness, Athletic, and Strength Training, which qualifies graduates for national certification exams in personal training, sports nutrition, and others 
• Physical Education Teacher Education, the first step toward a Texas Teacher Certification in All-Level Physical Education
• Coaching, Athletic Administration, and Recreation
• Exercise and Sport Studies

The four-year bachelor’s in kinesiology program has a 120-credit curriculum. Online students tackle courses in: 

• Exercise testing and prescription 
• Prevention and care of athletic injuries
• Strength and conditioning

Graduates of the online kinesiology degree find gainful employment in exercise science and other related fields. 

Tarleton State University, part of the Texas A&M University System, is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). 

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University of North Dakota

The accredited Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology program attracts students for its affordability and quality. Full-time students earn the online kinesiology degree in four years. 

This is a 120-credit program with courses in: 

• Adapted Physical Activity
• Sport Psychology
• Introduction to Coaching
• Exercise Physiology
• Exercise Testing and Prescription

Students in the online kinesiology program complete an internship program and earn a master’s degree in one year. 

UND’s bachelor’s in kinesiology program is known for its affordable tuition. All students benefit from in-state tuition rates and financial aid. 

The degree in kinesiology program has multiple learning modes. Asynchronous classes, streaming video content, and online simulations are common. Student support services include free online tutoring, library services, and academic coaching. 

The CAEP or Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation and the HLC have accredited the University of North Dakota.

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Montreat College

Montreat’s Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology Montreat equips students with foundational skills in kinesiology. Students earn the degree by completing 120 credit hours.

 The bachelor’s in kinesiology program features eight-week courses in: 

• Foundations of Kinesiology
• Research Methods and Evaluation in Kinesiology
• Introduction to Athletic Training
• Human Nutrition
• Biomechanics

Graduates who earn a degree in kinesiology are prepared for master’s degree programs in physical education and sports and health sciences. 

Admission into the online kinesiology program requires a high school diploma, minimum. Transfer credits are accepted. Financial aid is offered to online students. 

Montreat College, a private Christian college, is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). 

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East Central University

The Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology program includes 80 hours of hands-on training. Students earn a fully online degree in 2-4 years depending on transfer credits. Up to 94 transfer credits are accepted. 

The degree in kinesiology program features a 124-credit curriculum with eight-week courses. These courses prepare students for successful careers in kinesiology. 

Students pursuing the bachelor’s in kinesiology degree tackle major courses like: 

• Fundamentals of Sports Administration 
• Research and Evaluation of Kinesiology 
• Legal Aspects of Kinesiology 
• Biomechanics 
• Physiology of Exercise 

Students in the online kinesiology degree program complete a practicum course. Students develop skills in athletic training and exercise science. 

A high school diploma is the minimum admission requirement. Transfer students must have 24 college credits, minimum, and ACT/SAT scores. 

East Central University, a component of Oklahoma’s Regional University System, is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission  (HLC). 

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North Carolina Central University

The Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology program prepares students for diverse careers in health and wellness and sports. The online kinesiology degree is also a stepping stone for graduate degrees. 

The bachelor’s in kinesiology degree has a Fitness and Wellness Concentration. The 120-credit curriculum includes 48-credit fitness and wellness management courses. 

The degree prepares students for national certification exams, too. These include certified exercise physiologists from the American College of Sports Medicine and the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist credential. 

North Carolina Central University, a public HBCU, is a regionally accredited institution by SACSCOC.

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California Baptist University

The Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology degree prepares students for successful careers in athletic training, sports medicine, and other allied fields. Students tackle both exercise science and physical education courses. 

The online kinesiology degree can be completed in 18 months with transfer credits. Major courses in the bachelor’s in kinesiology program include: 

• Foundations of Kinesiology 
• Care and Prevention of Athletic Injury 
• Lifelong Motor Development 
• Exercise Physiology 
• Behavioral Aspects of Sport 

The kinesiology degree online program is compliant with standards set by the American College of Sports Medicine and National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA). Graduates can sit for their certification exams. 

Transfer credits are accepted, but applicants with a high school diploma are welcome. Financial aid including military and veteran benefits is available. 

California Baptist University is recognized by the WSCUC – Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College & University Commission. 

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Kansas State University

Kansas State University’s Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology allows students to explore physical activity and its importance in human movement. Students in the online degree in kinesiology program gain multiple perspectives on kinesiology and exercise science. 

The 120-credit-hour program consists of these core courses: 

• Measurement and Research Techniques in Kinesiology 
• Physiology of Exercise
• Cardiorespiratory Physiology
• Autonomic Neurophysiology
• Exercise Behavioral Science

Graduates of the kinesiology online degree program can seek immediate employment or pursue graduate studies. 

Admission into the bachelor’s in kinesiology program requires a high school diploma, at least. Transfer students are welcome. 

Kansas State University, a public land-grant research school, is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). 

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Concordia University Chicago

The Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology program has an accelerated format with a 16-month time-to-completion. The fully online kinesiology degree program also features small class sizes. 

Students complete 36 credits in the kinesiology online program with courses in: 

• Applied Kinesiology
• Physiological Basis of Exercise
• Health and Fitness Programming Management 
• Principles of Strength and Conditioning
• Exercise Psychology

Students pursuing the online bachelor’s in kinesiology degree gain foundational knowledge and skills in health sciences. Health and wellness, disease prevention, and human movement are covered. The courses prepare students for professional careers in physical therapy.

This is among the most affordable bachelor’s in kinesiology programs. Aside from affordable tuition, there’s a tuition lock policy. Admission into the online kinesiology program requires a high school diploma, minimum. 

Concordia University Chicago is a regionally accredited private university by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). 

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Maryville University

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science online program prepares Maryville University students for fulfilling careers in the sports, health, and wellness industries. Online students in the undergraduate degree program learn via a well-rounded curriculum and project-based learning. 

The dedicated exercise science degree program consists of general education and exercises science courses like: 

• Care and prevention of injuries 
• Exercise physiology 
• Biomechanics/Kinesiology 
• Anatomy and Physiology 
• Pharmacology 

Students in the online bachelor’s in kinesiology program have a choice of two concentrations. These are Strength and Conditioning and Wellness Management. 

There’s a capstone requirement where students complete a project in exercise science. The 400-hour practicum that covers sports and health sciences is also required. 

Students prepare for national certification exams, too, such as the Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist and EXOS Performance Specialist. 

The Maryville University of St. Louis has accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). 

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Overview of Online BS in Kinesiology Programs   

Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology programs have a strong STEM focus. If you’re planning on pursuing a kinesiology degree, you must have strong math and science skills. Your high school education should be ample preparation for the challenging road ahead!  

Admission Requirements 

Kinesiology programs have these typical admission requirements: 

• A high school diploma with a minimum cumulative GPA or GED equivalent
• Minimum number of transfer credits (For transfer students) 
• Completed college application 
• Official transcripts from schools attended 
• Letters of recommendation 
• Personal statements 
• Current resume 

Admission into a kinesiology program can be highly selective. 

Average Time-to-completion 

Online kinesiology programs usually have the same time-to-completion as on-campus programs – four years, on average. But due to the unique nature of online education, it can be shorter or longer. 

An accelerated kinesiology program can be completed in 16-18 months, for example. But the academic pace and performance expectations aren’t for unmotivated students. 

Credits, Curriculum, and Courses  

The best kinesiology programs combine general education courses and more advanced courses in kinesiology. The typical online kinesiology degree program has a 120-credit curriculum or its equivalent. 

Don’t be fooled by people saying that online education is easy-peasy, too. The program of study in online programs emphasizes academic excellence and hands-on learning, with these courses:

• Foundations of Kinesiology
• Biomechanics
• Physiology of Exercise
• Exercise Prescription
• Introduction to Athletic Training

Online Learning Technology and Performance Assessment

Bachelor’s degrees in kinesiology programs use learning management systems (LMS) for most, if not all, of its delivery of online education. Students and instructors use the LMS to upload and access learning materials, resources, and references, among others. 

The best kinesiology program online also provides students with choices in productivity and collaboration tools. These are designed to improve their learning outcomes and social interactions. 

An online kinesiology undergraduate degree program also uses digital simulations and assistive technology. 

Like every on-campus, online degree programs follow standards in grading academic performance and progress.

Internship and Practicum Requirements 

Many of the best kinesiology programs have internship and practicum requirements. Students usually become interns in third-party organizations and/or undergo practicum experiences with faculty members in their senior year. 

Both paid or unpaid internship and practicum requirements are intended to provide students with real-world experiences. The undergraduate degree becomes more attractive to employers regardless of the type of internship.

Many professional certifications, such as a certified health education specialist credential, also require a specific number of hands-on experiences.

Workplace-Ready Skills and Traits 

Every kinesiology major should develop the traits and skills that will make them successful in diverse workplaces. The most desirable of these include: 

• Compassion because you will work with patients who may be experiencing discomfort, pain, and mental distress from their physical injuries or illnesses. 
• Interpersonal skills are a must in managing difficult situations, communicating with patients and peers, and collaborating with other health sciences professionals. 
• Decision-making skills are crucial since informed decisions must be made, either on your own or with other health sciences professionals. 

Keep in mind, too, that skills development is a continuous process. 

Tuition and Financial Aid 

In a health science program, a bachelor’s in exercise science or kinesiology degree can be expensive. But there are many online kinesiology programs with affordable tuition fees. Look for public colleges and universities since these tend to have more affordable tuition than private institutions. 

Even if you think that you’re in a good place now, applying for financial aid is recommended. 

Careers and Salaries of Graduates of BS in Kinesiology Programs 

A bachelor’s in kinesiology degree is the minimum educational requirement for these exercise science jobs. But look beyond your undergraduate degree and consider professional certifications for career advancement. 

Kinesiologists ($54,066/year)

Kinesiologists are concerned about human movement and the factors that affect its full functioning. Their work may involve collaborating with physical therapists in designing rehabilitation programs. 

Athletic Trainers ($57,810/year)

Athletic trainers promote both a healthy lifestyle and injury prevention, care, and treatment among athletes. Many also work with physical therapists. 

Federal data reveal that the job growth among athletic trainers and the like is at 14% (2022-2032). 

Exercise Physiologists ($51,350/year) 

Exercise physiologists develop personalized health and wellness plans including exercise programs for patients. These patients have issues with physical health that prevent their full movement. 

The employment growth among exercise physiologists sits at 10% (2022-2032).  

Fitness and Wellness Managers ($72,045/year)

Fitness and wellness managers work in fitness centers and other similar organizations. Their main duties include planning, implementing, and evaluating fitness programming for their companies. 

Community Health Workers ($49,900/year)

Community health workers are advocates for health and wellness among individuals and families. Many also pursue the certified health education specialist credential, a recognition awarded by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing.

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Frequently Asked Questions 

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In Conclusion

The beauty of a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology is in its versatility – it’s an excellent ticket to diverse careers in fitness, health and wellness, and sports. While kinesiology has similarities with sports medicine, exercise physiology, and exercise science, these are distinct fields of study. 

Since kinesiology covers all types of human movement, a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology can open diverse career opportunities, such as athletic coaching, personal training, physical therapy, and nursing. Health and wellness companies including fitness centers, schools and community centers, and healthcare companies are a few possibilities!

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