Department of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology

Telephone: (302) 831-6036
https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/chs/departments/kaap/
Email: kaap-undergradprograms@udel.edu

The Department of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology (KAAP) offers undergraduate majors in Kinesiology, Human Physiology, and Sports Health, Honors Degrees in Kinesiology and Human Physiology, as well as minors in Exercise Science and Strength and Conditioning. The programs integrate background coursework in the natural and physical sciences with the study of the major field. These undergraduate programs prepare students for health-related clinical careers as well as careers in exercise science, and post-graduate study in areas such as athletic training, medicine, physical therapy, physician assistant, occupational therapy, orthotics and prosthetics, and research in kinesiology.

Each student’s academic advisor will assist in selecting courses and experiences that focus on the student’s interests and professional goals. Careful selection of breadth requirements and elective courses allows students to pursue a minor or an area of interest outside of the college or a double major. Students are encouraged to meet with their advisors at least once each semester. Failure to meet regularly with an academic advisor can result in a delay in graduation if program requirements have not been met.

Students are encouraged to enrich their academic programs by participating in study abroad experiences, seminars, and student organizations. To enhance prospects for employment and obtaining internships, students are encouraged to seek experiences outside the classroom. For those planning to pursue a graduate program, clinical observation opportunities and research apprenticeships are available. Opportunities exist for students to participate as student members of national and regional professional organizations related to each major.

There are several special academic opportunities for exceptionally talented and highly motivated students. Students may participate in the University’s Honors Program, undergraduate research, and the Degree with Distinction program. The College’s Dean’s Scholar Program also provides qualified students with the opportunity to develop individualized programs of study.

Major Degree Programs

The Kinesiology major, when combined with appropriate electives, prepares students for graduate school, physical therapy school, physician assistant school, occupational therapy school, or other clinical programs and research. When combined with a professional certificate and relevant experiences, graduates from the Kinesiology major are highly competitive for direct employment in health and fitness.

The Human Physiology major prepares students for graduate study in medicine, dentistry, biomedical research or other health science professions. This major provides necessary prerequisite coursework, including relevant coursework in the humanities, and preparation for the MCAT and other health science graduate examinations, while providing students with an in-depth study of human physiology.

The Sports Health major provides unique didactic and clinical experiences that prepare students for exciting graduate school opportunities in Athletic Training and other allied health careers. Clinical observational experiences, beginning freshman year, with UD’s NCAA Division I student-athletes and athletic trainers is a highlight of this program. Students wishing to pursue a graduate degree in Athletic Training have the opportunity to apply to the 3+2 Sports Health/ Master of Science in Athletic Training program at the University of Delaware. Students in the Sports Health major who decide not to pursue Athletic Training will complete the degree requirements for a Bachelor of Science degree in a timely manner and will be positioned to pursue careers in a variety of other health disciplines.

Application Procedures

Entering freshmen and transfer students may be admitted directly into the majors in Kinesiology, Human Physiology, and Sports Health. Enrollment in major courses is restricted to majors.

Minors

The Exercise Science minor is designated for students in majors (external to KAAP) who are planning careers in the health sciences and clinical fields and who wish to acquire knowledge regarding the mechanical, neurological, and physiological aspects of exercise. Students must have a minimum of 12 credits earned at University of Delaware with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee entry into the minor; approval is contingent on available space. Students must submit the web form in UDSIS entitled “Change of Major, Minor, Concentration & Graduation Term” from January 1-15 (for spring acceptance) or June 1-15 (for fall acceptance); students will be notified by February 1 or July 1, respectively.

The Strength and Conditioning minor is designed to provide students with in-depth understanding of the theory and practical considerations associated with physical training to enhance strength and conditioning. Students successfully completing the minor will be prepared to take the Strength and Conditioning Specialist Certification examination offered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Students applying for the minor must have a minimum of 12 credits earned at University of Delaware with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee entry into the minor; approval for the minor is contingent on available space.

Enrollment in the Strength and Conditioning minor for at least four semesters is necessary due to sequencing of courses. Electronic applications are accepted March 15th and October 15th. Please contact the Strength & Conditioning Minor Coordinator for information on obtaining the electronic application for the minor.

Programs

Major

Minor

Honors Degree

3+2

Sports Health/Athletic Training 3+2 (BS/MS)