Kinesiology and Exercise Sciences
This is content from the Catalog 2022–2023 past issue. Please visit the current catalog for current information.
Department Chair:
Email: ozan@hawaii.edu
Professors:
Lincoln Gotshalk , Ph.D.
Associate Professors:
Ozan Atalag , Ph.D.Misty Pacheco , DrPH, M.H.A.
Assistant Professors:
Helen “Yolisa” Duley , Ph.D.Takehiro Iwatsuki , Ph.D.
The Kinesiology and Exercise Sciences (KES) program within the College of Arts and Sciences offers students the following degrees:
The KES program focuses on the study of health and human performance. Students in the degree program will study foundational courses such as anatomical kinesiology, exercise physiology, nutrition, biomechanics, motor behavior, social/psychological aspects of physical activity, and health promotion. Successful degree candidates will complete the UH Hilo general education requirements, set of core KES courses, and complete selected courses to fulfill one of three specialized tracks. Students can choose between the Allied Health, Applied KES, and Health Promotion tracks. Below is a short description of each track, as well as some possible career options.
The Allied Health Track
Provides education and training for students who wish to prepare for advanced study in physical therapy, medicine, or other allied health fields.
Career Options: Physical Therapist, Athletic Trainer, Occupational Therapist, Chiropractor, Sports Medicine, Physician Assistant, Exercise Physiologist, Biomechanist.
The Applied KES Track
Provides students the opportunity to pursue basic and applied studies of the physiological, biomechanical, and social-psychological aspects of human movement and performance.
Career Options: Coach, PE/Health Teacher, Health Club or Gym Administrator, Instructor, or Trainer, Sport Management, Strength and Conditioning Coach, Director of Youth Camps/Sports Programs.
The Health Promotion Track
Gives students a deeper understanding of health issues, human behavior, and their impact on overall wellness and quality of life.
Career Options: Health Program Manager or Coordinator, Health Educator, Health or Life Coach, Epidemiologist- Physical Activity, Non-profit work, Public or Government Sector.
Goals for Student Learning in the Major
A student who completes the Kinesiology and Exercise Sciences degree program will be able to:
- Understand the fundamental principles of human movement and be competent in the basics of most physical and recreational activities.
- Identify fundamental anatomical functions, physiological mechanisms, and mechanical concepts involved with human movement and human performance.
- Apply kinesiology and exercise science concepts and knowledge to real-life issues through current scientific research, internships, field experience and service.
- Identify and evaluate the various cultural and behavioral factors related to the adoption and maintenance of a physically active & healthy lifestyle within our society.
- Have a strong foundation in exercise science necessary to effectively work in the exercise science field or related professions.