As society becomes more conscious of health and staying in shape, the kinesiology major has become more popular both at the University and nationally.   According to the Office of Budget and Planning, kinesiology’s undergraduate enrollment has increased from 373 students in fall 2003 to 551 students in fall 2009.   Between 2003 and 2009, enrollment in kinesiology steadily increased, with the exception of fall 2006. Within a one-year period, the largest increase in enrollment occurred between 2004 and 2005 with an additional 84 students.   “Kinesiology caters to many people through its wide variety of concentrations, including athletic training, sports management, exercise physiology and even pre-med,” said Emily Dawson, kinesiology sophomore.   Sports administration has become a popular new program, and many students are interested in working within the sports industry, said Katherine F. Hill, assistant chair of the Kinesiology Department.   “The courses are very applied and relative to what the students want to learn,” she said.   Laura Aleman, kinesiology sophomore, said she agreed with Hill.   “I gained an interest in human movement, physical activity and the anatomy of humans after running cross country and track for several years,” Aleman said. “From the moment I stepped foot onto the track, I knew this was going to be a passion of mine, and once I graduate, I plan to go physical therapy school.”   Laura K. Stewart, assistant professor of kinesiology, said many students she encounters are preparing to become physical therapists, a career that has gained popularity in recent years.   T. Gilmour Reeve, professor and chair of the Kinesiology Department, said people realize physical activity is important to everyone, not just young children and athletes.   “The window has widened, and there is a larger need for experts,” Reeve said.   Reeve said there are many “quacks” in the field looking to make quick money, and it is important experts are available to discredit any false information.   “Popular job prospects include strength and conditioning coaching, physical therapy, physical education and corporate wellness programming,” Stewart said.   Wanda Hargroder, assistant professor of kinesiology, said kinesiology is more science-based today than it was previously, and more jobs are available in the area.   “Some people may say that kinesiology is an easy college degree, but I think it’s just as hard as any other major. Our classes go into great depth and contain a lot of material,” Aleman said. “While most people think studying for kinesiology just contains memorizing, it takes plenty of understanding and comprehending how the body works along with chemistry and physics.”    
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Contact Kate Mabry at [email protected]