Why This Matters

  • DEMAND FOR EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGISTS TO INCREASE BY 11%

    The job rate for exercise physiologists is expected to grow much faster than other U.S. occupations. The increase is due in part to an increased focus on preventive care and exercise.

  • ATHLETIC TRAINERS MAKE $8,590 MORE THAN OTHER U.S. WORKERS

    With a median annual wage of $48,440 per year, athletic trainers with an undergraduate degree earn $8,590 more than the median salary for all other U.S. occupations.

  • 21,600 RECREATIONAL THERAPISTS IN THE U.S. BY 2029

    The need for programs that offer recreational treatment to people who are suffering from disabilities and injuries will continue to increase over the next decade.

Our Research

This list covers undergraduate programs in kinesiology that are taught online or with a mix of online and on-campus coursework. Graduates are often awarded either a Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology, Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, or Bachelor of Science in Health & Wellness.

The programs on this list have been accredited by institutions such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), the New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE), and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

  • 54 hours to write this article
  • 57 universities and colleges we assessed
  • 100 education programs we compared

The Top 50 Online Bachelor’s in Kinesiology Programs

Best Online Bachelor's in Kinesiology Programs Badge
01
Intelligent Pick
California Baptist University Online
01
Best in the South
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
01
Best Value
Eastern Oregon University
01
Best Christian Program
Concordia University, St. Paul
01
Best Exercise Physiology Certification
University of North Carolina Wilmington
01
Best for Professional Certification
American Military University
01
Fastest Completion Time
California University of Pennsylvania
01
Best for Transfer Students
Franklin University
01
Best for Sports Management
University of Florida
01
Best in the Southwest
Arizona State University
01
Best for Physical Therapy
The University of Kansas
01
Most Flexible
Southern New Hampshire University
01
Best Start Terms
Concordia University Chicago
01
Best for Wellness
Granite State College
01
Best Minor Options
University of Wisconsin-Superior
01
Best for Vets
Liberty University
01
Best Hybrid Option
Tulane University
01
Best for Adult Learners
Creighton University
01
Best Accelerated Option
Purdue University

 

What You Should Know About This Degree

If you’re interested in a career in physiology or sports medicine, you should consider pursuing an undergraduate degree in exercise science. While kinesiology is the study of human movement, exercise science examines how the human body can change through exercise. Both prepare graduates for roles in occupational therapy and athletic training. They also teach valuable information that can be applied to graduate studies in medicine and sports science.

Jobs in physiology will continue to be in demand, especially as older adults live longer and seek treatments for pain and chronic illness.

High-profile jobs in this industry are expected to remain competitive, meaning that additional professional certifications are useful to demonstrate your expertise. Credentials also help you gain specializations needed for specific occupations, such as a certified personal trainer. If you’re interested in gaining this certification, search for programs that are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).

What’s Next?

Here are some questions to ask when researching online bachelor’s in kinesiology programs:

  • Am I eligible for this program? To study at the programs on this list, you’ll need to have a high school diploma or equivalency. Some programs may also require a minimum GPA or standardized test scores, as well as previous coursework in physics, chemistry, or biology. Information about academic requirements and application deadlines can be found on the school’s website.
  • How long does it take to complete this online degree? The programs on this list require four years of full-time study to complete. The minimum number of credits needed to graduate is 120 credits while the maximum is 180 credits. There may also be additional requirements depending on your specialty.

Gather all application materials and make sure to turn in all documents on time. Also, be sure to consider how you will cover the costs associated with your education. You may be eligible for the Federal Student Aid program, which includes financial support that doesn’t have to be paid back following your studies.