About the Department
A career in a field such as physical or occupational therapy, physical education, or personal training requires a thorough knowledge of how the body moves. With a strong scientific component running through the curriculum, Elmhurst's kinesiology programs instill that knowledge—and lots more.
Here's some of what you'll find at Elmhurst:
- A personal education. you'll learn face to face with talented faculty who are experienced, resourceful practitioners in the field. What's more, we love to teach. Each of us is devoted to helping our students achieve their potential as professionals and persons. That's why we're here.
- Dynamic tools and features. you'll get plenty of hands-on experience with today's software programs and other teaching tools. For example, you'll analyze teacher behavior with the computer tool BEST and get a close look at muscles, tendons, and bones in our Cadaver Lab.
- A strong curriculum. You can major in physical education or exercise science. Each major has a strong scientific component, and each stays up to date with current trends. Each provides a thorough understanding of the dynamics of human movement—essential preparation for a wide range of careers in health and teaching.
- Hands-on experience. Our campus is located in a beautiful suburb 16 miles west of downtown Chicago. You'll complete internships at schools, hospitals, corporations, and organizations. You might participate in the Special Olympics program, or organize a bilingual team-building activity at an elementary school. You'll build the strongest possible foundation for success in professional life.
- A collaborative approach. If you plan to pursue a health-related career such as physical or occupational therapy, you'll benefit from our ground-breaking new Center for Health Professions. The Center brings together students from across the health-care spectrum for workshops, internships, mentoring opportunities, seminars, focused advising, and collaborative research. It's an innovative approach that leads to strong teamwork skills and a clear understanding of each component of patient care.
- A path to a great career. Elmhurst graduates build interesting careers in hospitals or corporate settings, wellness intervention programs, and other health-related careers. Others pursue graduate study in exercise physiology, medicine, chiropractic, nutrition, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and physician's assistance.