Kinesiology at NIU
Bachelor of Science

Use exercise to optimize health and wellness.

The human body is amazing. It helps us do so many things, from feats of strength and speed to our everyday routines. The field of kinesiology is all about helping bodies reach their full potential. By studying anatomy and movement, you'll be ready to change peoples' lives by using exercise to increase wellness.

I chose kinesiology because I have a true passion for exercise, the body's capabilities and wanting to help people.

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What Can I Do With a Kinesiology Degree From NIU?

Your bachelor's degree in kinesiology will prepare you to use exercise as a form of medicine in settings focused on health, wellness and sport performance.

Top skills reported by alumni:

  • Coaching
  • Exercise
  • Public speaking
  • Sports
  • Teaching

Top fields alumni work in:

  • Arts and entertainment
  • Education
  • Health care
  • Life sciences
  • Services

Career Potential for NIU Kinesiology Majors

Average mid-career salary:

$72,540

Top employers include:

  • Advocate Aurora Health 
  • Athletico 
  • ATI Physical Therapy
  • Illinois Bone and Joint Institute
  • Northwestern Medicine

Job titles include:

  • Certified athletic trainer
  • Exercise physiologist
  • Physical education teacher
  • Physical fitness trainer 
  • Physical therapist

Source: Steppingblocks, 2023

What to Expect as a Kinesiology Major at NIU

You'll study the science behind behaviors and performance, including physiology, biomechanics, psychology and nutrition. In addition to a clinical experience, you'll select an internship site that fits your career goals, such as a fitness, sport performance or cardiac rehabilitation center.

Explore kinesiology courses.

How We’ll Help You Succeed

Apply for free and we’ll automatically consider you for a renewable merit scholarship.

Earn your bachelor’s degree fast with our affordable tuition and fees. Any credit hours you take over 12 are free (per semester).

Prepare to thrive after graduation with personalized support from Career Services.

With our truth-in-tuition policy, you’ll get the same fixed tuition rate for four continuous years, whether you live in Illinois or another state.

Apply to NIU

First-year Students
(Freshman)

High School GPA

3.0 or higher?

You're guaranteed general NIU admission.

ACT/SAT SCORES

Not considered.

We think your high school GPA is a better predictor of your success.

First-Year Application

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First-Year Application

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Transfer Students

ALL COLLEGES GPA

2.0 or higher?

You're guaranteed general NIU admission.

ALL COLLEGES GPA

3.0 or higher?

You're guaranteed a
renewable merit scholarship
.

See how your credits transfer

Apply to NIU as a Transfer Student

See how your credits transfer

Apply to NIU as a Transfer Student

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