Program Overview

If you’re interested in how movement influences health, performance, and overall well-being, kinesiology offers a powerful lens for understanding the human body in action. In the online Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology program at Cal State Monterey Bay, you’ll explore how physical activity supports health, prevents chronic disease, and enhances quality of life.

Designed for transfer and returning students, this program provides a flexible online pathway to complete your degree while preparing for careers or further professional study in health, wellness, and other movement-related professions. Graduates leave with both a strong scientific understanding of human movement and the practical tools to help individuals and communities lead healthier, more active lives.

Skills you’ll gain in this program

As a student in the online Kinesiology program at Cal State Monterey Bay, you’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to stand out in the job market and enhance your career. Courses are taught by faculty with expertise in exercise science, movement analysis, and sport psychology, bringing both research and real-world experience into the online classroom.

You’ll build expertise in key areas that shape how movement influences health and performance, including:

  • Motor learning and motor behavior
  • Biomechanics and movement analysis
  • Exercise physiology
  • Fitness assessment and exercise prescription
  • Sport, physical activity, and health promotion
  • Psychological and behavioral aspects of physical activity

This foundation helps students master how the body moves, adapts, and performs, while preparing them to pursue careers in a variety of professional settings.

Degree Requirements

A minimum of 120 credits — at least 60 of which must be upper-division credits — are required to graduate with your degree in kinesiology, including:

  • California general education requirements 
  • Major requirements

Additional Program Features

Some degree requirements may be transferred from other institutions. Please note that a minimum of 30 credits in this degree program must be completed at Cal State Monterey Bay to meet the academic residency requirement.

Previously earned credits will be reviewed by an advisor for appropriate articulation. Additional information about transferring credits is available through a credit review.

Graduates of a kinesiology program develop skills in human movement, exercise science, health promotion, and performance analysis. These skills prepare students for careers in fitness, wellness, sport, recreation, and health promotion settings.

Fitness, Training, and Performance

  • Strength and Conditioning Coach
  • Personal Trainer
  • Fitness Director or Fitness Manager
  • Performance Coach
  • Sport Performance Specialist
  • Corporate Wellness Specialist
  • Group Exercise Instructor

Health Promotion and Wellness

  • Wellness Coordinator
  • Health Promotion Specialist
  • Worksite Wellness Program Manager
  • Community Health Program Coordinator
  • Lifestyle or Health Coach
  • Public Health Program Assistant

Sport, Recreation, and Community Programs

  • Recreation Program Coordinator
  • Youth Sport Program Director
  • Community Recreation Manager
  • Outdoor Recreation Program Coordinator
  • Sport Development Specialist

Sport and Performance Support

  • Sport Analyst or Performance Data Analyst
  • Sport Technology Specialist
  • Athlete Development Coordinator
  • Sport Operations Manager
  • Team Performance Support Staff

Fitness and Health Industry Roles

  • Fitness Facility Manager
  • Equipment and Fitness Technology Specialist
  • Fitness Program Developer
  • Health and Wellness Consultant

Students may also choose to pursue advanced study in areas related to movement science, health promotion, sport, and leadership.

Exercise and Movement Sciences

  • Master’s in Kinesiology
  • Master’s in Exercise Science
  • Master’s in Strength and Conditioning
  • Master’s in Human Performance
  • Master’s in Biomechanics

Health Promotion and Public Health

  • Master of Public Health (MPH)
  • Master’s in Health Promotion
  • Master’s in Community Health
  • Master’s in Health Education

Sport and Recreation Fields

  • Master’s in Athletic Training
  • Master’s in Sport Management
  • Master’s in Recreation Administration
  • Master’s in Outdoor Recreation Leadership
  • Master’s in Coaching Education

Behavioral and Social Aspects of Physical Activity

  • Master’s in Exercise Psychology
  • Master’s in Sport and Performance Psychology
  • Master’s in Behavioral Health Promotion

Education and Teaching

  • Teaching Credential Programs (Physical Education)
  • Master’s in Physical Education
  • Master’s in Coaching and Athletic Leadership