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.

Your Path from Snow College to SUU: SUU has a 2+2 agreement with Snow College that allows you to start strong at Snow College and finish strong at Southern Utah University! Our 2+2 Transfer Agreement is specifically designed for Exercise Science and Physical Education Teaching Bachelor degrees to ensure a seamless transition between institutions. By completing your first two years at Snow College, you can transfer to SUU with confidence, knowing your credits count toward your finish line. Join our T-Bird community for your final two years and turn your passion for movement into a four year degree without missing a beat.

Student Testimonial

KOR News

News Archive | Blog Archive