BA or BSc offered by the Faculty of Health
Are you fascinated by how the human body moves and heals? York's Kinesiology and Health Science program, recently ranked among the Top 10 in Canada by Times Higher Education, offers a comprehensive understanding of physical activity's vital role in health and society. With the most diverse course selections taught by full-time faculty in Canada, you’ll benefit from a rich learning environment. Engage in research and experiential education through classes, labs, and community projects that prepare you for diverse careers in sports medicine, rehabilitation, and health promotion. Join a vibrant community dedicated to improving well-being, and turn your passion into a rewarding career.
Career Options in Kinesiology & Health Science
Here are just some of the career options related to this major. As all degrees offer transferable skills, some jobs are more closely linked to this field, than others. Check Canada’s Job Bank for regional requirements.
- Activities Director
- Acupuncturist
- Athletic Trainer for eSports
- Athletics Instructor/Director
- Author (fitness-oriented books)
- Cardiovascular Technician
- Chiropractor
- Coach
- Corporate Wellness Consultant
- Ergonomics Consultant
- Environmental Health and Safety Specialist
- Firefighter
- Fitness App Developer
- Fitness Club Manager
- Fitness Trainer
- Health Data Analyst
- Health Educator for Tech Companies
- Health Information Coordinator
- Health Policy Planner
- Health and Wellness Blogger
- Holistic Health Practitioner
- Hospital Administrator
- Human Resources Consultant
- Humanitarian Aid Worker (Health)
- Law Enforcement Officer
- Massage Therapist
- Medical Illustrator
- Nutritionist
- Occupational Health Specialist
- Outdoor Activity Guide
- Personal/Team Trainer
- Physical Education Instructor
- Physical Therapist
- Physician
- Recreation Planner
- Recreation Program Director
- Recreational Therapist
- Recruiter/Scout
- Resort/Spa Coordinator
- Salesperson
- Sports Agent
- Sports Analyst
- Sports Equipment Designer
- Sports Historian
- Sports League Coordinator
- Sports Marketing Professional
- Sports Merchandise
- Sports Merchandise Design
- Sports Program Coordinator
- Sports Psychologist
- Sportscaster
- Therapeutic Recreation Specialist
- Yoga Instructor
Some career choices may require further education, such as graduate studies or professional courses and exams. For detailed career descriptions and specific requirements, please check Canada’s Job Bank.
Entry-Level Positions in Kinesiology & Health Science
An undergraduate degree is typically sufficient for these positions, though some locations may require additional qualifications. For region-specific information, please check Canada’s Job Bank.
- Athletic Trainer
- Cardiovascular Technician
- Coach
- Exercise Physiologist
- Fitness Club Assistant
- Fitness Instructor
- Fitness Trainer
- Health Educator
- Health Information Coordinator
- Human Resources Assistant (Wellness Programs)
- Massage Therapist
- Nutritionist Assistant
- Occupational Health Assistant
- Personal Trainer
- Physical Education Teacher
- Physical Therapy Assistant
- Recreation Coordinator
- Recreation Program Assistant
- Sports Program Coordinator
- Wellness Coordinator
For career descriptions, visit Canada’s Job Bank. Some occupations may also be found on Career Cruising; for login information, navigate to the Career Centre’s homepage in Experience York.
Skills Developed through a Degree in Kinesiology & Health Science
Core Skills
- Knowledge of Human Movement and wellness: Comprehensive understanding of the biological, psychological, sociological, historical, aesthetic, recreational and competitive aspects of human movement; specialized knowledge of nutrition, physical activity and health.
- Biomechanics: Understanding the mechanical aspects of human movement.
- Exercise Physiology: Studying the body's responses to physical activity and exercise.
- Motor Control and Learning: Focusing on how we acquire and refine movement skills.
- Health Promotion: Learning strategies for promoting health and wellness in populations.
- Anatomy and Physiology: Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the human body and its systems.
- Research Methods and Statistics: Developing skills in conducting research and analyzing data relevant to kinesiology and health sciences.
Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills
- The ability to present your thoughts clearly and intelligently in written and oral statements
- Deduction of information from various sources and the ability to concentrate on relevant resources
- An ability to prepare oral and written presentations and reports using current data and technology
- The ability to learn new information and apply this to professional demands
- The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound decisions while considering different sides of an argument
- The ability to explain complex ideas clearly to others and to apply complex theoretical concepts to everyday practice and professional dilemmas
Management and Teamwork Skills
- The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project's intended and successful end result
- Logical thinking skills and the ability to lead and interact with a variety of people with different approaches and personal and professional backgrounds
- Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
- The capability to identify priorities and proper courses of action, to plan the execution of tasks and to determine and delegate responsibilities to group members to most effectively carry out projects
Professional Associations
Professional associations offer valuable insights into qualifications, industry trends, and career opportunities. They provide networking events, workshops, mentorship programs, and internships, as well as job boards and career development resources. Additionally, some associations offer professional licensing and regulatory oversight.
- College of Kinesiologists of Ontario (COKO): The regulatory body for kinesiologists in Ontario, ensuring professional standards and public safety.
- Canadian Kinesiology Alliance (CKA): A national body focused on promoting kinesiology and advocating for the profession across Canada.
- Ontario Kinesiology Association (OKA): Provides resources and support specifically for kinesiologists practicing in Ontario, emphasizing professional development.
- Canadian Academy of Sport and Exercise Medicine (CASM): Focuses on the integration of sport and exercise medicine, bridging clinical practice with sports performance.
- Ontario Fitness Council (OFC): Dedicated to the fitness industry in Ontario, providing certification and advocacy for fitness professionals.
- The Kinesiology Network: An online platform connecting kinesiologists for networking, resources, and job opportunities.