Return to: School of Education and Human Development: Degree Programs
Kinesiology refers to the study of movement and is a multifaceted field of study in which movement or physical activity is the intellectual focus. Physical activity includes exercising for improvement of health and fitness; learning movement skills; and engaging in activities of daily living, work, sport, dance, and play. It involves the general population as well as special groups such as children and older adults; people with disabilities, injuries, or disease; and athletes. Majoring in Kinesiology opens the door for a career in everything from fitness-related industries, to teaching, coaching, and health-related fields like medicine, public health, and physical or occupational therapy.
The School of Education and Human Development is dedicated to providing hands-on experiences for students. That means students not only learn in the classroom, but on the field, in the lab, in the clinic, and with faculty.
Residency Requirement (60 credits)
A recipient of a B.S.Ed. degree from the School of Education and Human Development must complete at least 60 of the 120 credits required for graduation at the University of Virginia. Exceptions for emergency situations may only be granted with the advisor’s and dean’s permission. In addition, all students must be full-time (12 credits minimum) during all semesters, except the final one.
Though there are a number of required courses, students also have opportunities to shape coursework according to career goals, including adding a second major or a minor inside or outside of the School of Education and Human Development. A faculty member from kinesiology will serve as the academic advisor, assisting students with the selection of classes. The advisor will also help students consider optimal settings for gaining hands-on experiences in clinical, athletic, or school setting.
Grade Point Average (GPA) Requirement
Students must earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 on all courses attempted at the University.
