Department of Kinesiology and Outdoor Recreation

Welcome to the Kinesiology and Outdoor Recreation (KOR) Department! Regardless of their chosen major, we are dedicated to providing students with exceptional learning experiences and preparing them for successful career goals in the field, whether entering the workforce or pursuing graduate studies.

How we help our students

  • Dedicated Faculty: Our faculty members are passionate about mentoring students and helping them develop the knowledge and skills they need to thrive.
  • Strong Student-Faculty Relationships: We foster a supportive environment where students and faculty work closely together, creating a strong sense of community.
  • Hands-on Experiences: We believe in learning by doing. Our programs emphasize practical experiences, inside and outside of the classroom, that prepare you for real-world challenges.
Collage of 3 images showing different SUU KOR students in labs and outdoors

Programs and Degrees

The Department of Kinesiology and Outdoor Recreation offers degrees focused on human movement, physical activity, wellness and Outdoor Recreation in Parks and Tourism (ORPT).

Our Exercise Science (BS) graduates are frequently admitted into health-related professional graduate programs, including Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Athletic Training, Physician Assistant, Dentistry, and Medicine (MD or DO). Others pursue careers in fitness, wellness, or related graduate programs, such as our own Master of Science in Sport Performance and Conditioning (MSSCP).
The Integrative Health Sciences (BS) degree offers students a flexible option that may allow them to pursue non-licensed healthcare roles in health promotion, community health, and workplace wellness. It may also serve as a stepping stone toward post-graduate studies in fields like athletic training, social work, physical therapy, or healthcare administration.
The ORPT (BS) degree offers three emphases, equipping students with career-ready training for professions in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism. This program integrates experiential learning, fieldwork, and industry partnerships to ensure practical skills and job readiness. SUU's location is uniquely suited to help students prepare for the recreation services workforce, including careers as state and federal park rangers, outdoor educators, adventure guides and outfitters, and natural resource managers.
The Physical Education Teaching (BS) degree and Health Education minor prepare students for K-12 teaching licensure, while the Coaching option emphasizes athlete conditioning, mental preparation, and performance strategies.
The Master of Science in Sports Conditioning and Performance (MSSCP) is an online graduate program designed for working professionals, including coaches, physical educators, personal trainers, athletic trainers, and physical therapists. A distinctive feature of the MSSCP is its three intensive summer courses, which require two-weeks of on-campus workshops during a single summer. These in-person sessions provide students with valuable hands-on experience, foster collaboration with classmates, and enhance the program’s interactive and practical learning environment.

Student Testimonials

Nicole Argueta in cap and gown posing with her diploma

I was attracted to SUU's Exercise Science program for its affordability and small class sizes…I felt that each faculty member was truly invested in helping me succeed…The professors go out of their way to make sure you have the chance to learn hands on skills…There are things that I learned while attending SUU that I use every day in my current job role, and I believe those skills made me more competitive as I entered the workforce.

Nicole Argueta -  BS Exercise Science Class of 2024, Cardiovascular Research Technologist, Mayo Clinic.

Tanner Jefferies

I was drawn to SUU’s Exercise Science program because of its strong emphasis on human physiology and the clinical aspects of the coursework…The program provided an excellent balance of classroom instruction and hands-on learning, which exceeded my expectations… Attending a smaller school allowed me to build meaningful relationships with my professors, who not only knew my name but also took an interest in my goals and hobbies. 

Tanner Jefferies - BS Exercise Science Class of 2022, 2nd Year DO Student, Campbell University.

Wyatt Fullmer, SUU Exercise Science Graduate

In addition to getting a great education, I was able to spend significant time working with a large number of the faculty outside of the classroom in various extracurricular activities including clubs and research...My exercise physiology courses and many others in my program provided a great foundation for many of the courses I have taken in medical school. I can say with complete confidence that SUU’s Exercise Science program can help prepare students for many different graduate level programs. 

Wyatt Fullmer - BS Exercise Science Class of 2023, 1st Year DO Student, Touro University.

Garron Schweighardt

I loved my time at SUU particularly because of the relationships I developed with faculty and students. I felt comfortable asking questions and took chances I otherwise might not have. I earned my CSCS shortly after graduation and currently I am finishing up physical therapy school with the University of Utah…My education at SUU prepared me well for the rigors of grad school. 

Garron Schweighardt - BS Exercise Science Class of 2022, 3rd Year DPT Student, University of Utah.

KOR News

News Archive | Blog Archive

Exercise is Medicine - On Campus