God designed humans with the capacity for a variety of movements and activities. Whether we’re recovering from an injury or pursuing healthy lifestyles, it’s often beneficial to have a helping hand along the way.
The School of Human Performance, part of the Anderson University College of Health Professions, helps graduates discover fulfilling career opportunities where they can make a positive impact on others’ lives. In the School of Human Performance, students are studying Kinesiology, the science behind human motion. They are building a scientific foundation in anatomy, physiology and biomechanics, as well as the encompassing factors that affect movement such as nutrition, injury prevention and rehabilitation.
Kinesiology majors at Anderson University have three possible concentrations: Athletic Training, Exercise Specialist or Pre-Physical Therapy.
“We are a big major with a lot of options,” said School of Human Performance Director Dr. Vanessa Rettinger, noting that the program attracts the largest number of students at the university. Dr. Rettinger commented that students can find rewarding jobs as corporate wellness coordinators, sports performance specialists, personal trainers, senior center activities directors, cardiac rehabilitation specialists, clinic managers and other related careers.
She adds there has been a 100 percent acceptance rate for Anderson University’s Kinesiology graduates over the past three years. These graduates are entering master’s or doctoral programs in Physical Therapy, Athletic Training, Exercise Physiology, Sports Science, Speech Language Pathology, Nutrition, Strength and Conditioning, Prosthetics and Orthotics, Chiropractic, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine and Physician Assistant.
Dean of the Anderson University College of Health Professions Dr. Donald Peace, said that for students interested in a science career, a kinesiology major is the ideal degree that may be a perfect fit.
“The field is rich for those students interested in the study of human movement. Although many students are going into this field initially with a curiosity in sports related topics, the study encompasses diverse populations, reaching the elderly, the disabled, and the inactive, as well as the physically fit and the professionally athletic,” Dr. Peace said. “Building on a firm foundation in the sciences, biology, physiology, and anatomy are central to the understanding of this field of study.”
Graduate directors of various programs have commented that Anderson graduates come in well-prepared for the rigors of graduate school. “In my five years as a faculty member in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at AU, I have been very impressed with the quality of students that have come through the Anderson University undergraduate program,” said Dr. Curtis Kindel, chair of Anderson University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. “Some of our most accomplished graduates, whether it be academically, clinically, or through leadership/professional activities, received their foundation in AU’s Kinesiology program. We welcome AU undergraduate students to the same degree or even more of larger, historically respected institutions.”
In addition to academic rigor, small class sizes and state-of-the-art facilities, studying in Anderson University’s faith-based environment provides individuals with a spiritual foundation to become well-trained, compassionate healthcare professionals.
Details about the Anderson University School of Human Performance can be found online here.