Careers in Kinesiology & Health Science

Physiotherapy career began with a strong understanding of the complexities of the human body and its dynamic movements 

Kevin's journey towards becoming a Registered Physiotherapist began with his undergraduate degree in Kinesiology & Health Science at York University. Upon graduation, he successfully completed his Masters of Physical Therapy at Western University. He was inspired to pursue a profession in physiotherapy after experiencing his fair share of injuries while competing on the Men’s Varsity Wrestling Team. 

During his time at York, he actively engaged in various community initiatives. He volunteered as an orientation leader, provided assistance at local rehabilitation clinics and hospitals, and engaged as a student health ambassador in numerous university events. 

His undergraduate studies provided him with an understanding of the profound influence of physical activity in enhancing the quality of life, including its role in disease prevention, management, and the treatment of dysfunction. 

His favourite classes were human anatomy and biomechanics, and his most memorable experiences came from being involved with varsity athletics and volunteering as a Student Health Ambassador at York (SHAY).   

As a licensed Physiotherapist, Kevin specializes in improving the physical well-being of his patients. With a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, and evidence-based practices, he assesses, diagnoses, and treats various musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. His approach combines therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and patient education to reduce pain, improve mobility, and optimize overall physical function. He works with a diverse group of individuals, including athletes recovering from sports related injuries to those managing chronic pain. 

He is currently working at Athlete’s Care Sports Medicine Centres located at York University’s Keele campus in the Accolade East building and at York’s Track and Field Centre. 

“The Kinesiology program equipped me with a strong understanding of the complexities of the human body and its dynamic movements. This has been instrumental in my career as a physiotherapist, enabling me to effectively utilize this knowledge to assist my patients restore their physical health and overall well-being.” 

From biology to health advocacy and leadership

Jennifer Prosen, Certified Exercise Physiologist (CSEP-CEC) and Executive Director of the Ontario Society for Health and Fitness (OSHF) decided to complete her graduate studies at York University after working for three years at a media company, Canada Newswire (CNW) Group. Prior to that, she had already completed a Bachelor of Science degree at University of Toronto in biological anthropology and archeological science but experienced difficulty getting a job in that field – so she switched career paths and went to graduate school at York.

“I decided to follow my interests rather than a paycheque and return to school for Kinesiology and Health Science.  I didn’t have the academic background to be immediately accepted into the graduate program at York, so I did one year of full-time undergraduate coursework in order to qualify,” she says.

Considering that this would be her second university experience, Prosen was thrilled at the opportunity to participate in activities she had missed out on during her undergraduate degree such as campus life, work/study jobs and attending events. Overall, she maintained an active involvement at York’s Keele campus, which provided an enriching university experience.

In addition to receiving her Master’s degree in Kinesiology and Health Science, she obtained a CSEP-CEP certificate that gave her access to job postings from which she landed her current position at the OSHF in Ottawa. As Executive Director, she assumes the mandate of the OSHF to ensure the promotion and availability of quality fitness and physical activity practices throughout the province.  Considerable research underscores how regular physical activity and being physically fit treats and prevents chronic diseases. “We want all Ontarians to have the opportunity to capitalize on this,” she says “and being a CSEP-CEP gives me instant credibility as a professional. Organizations automatically know that I have completed a minimum of an undergraduate degree in Kinesiology, and I have the knowledge and practical skills to work with all kinds of clients. If you plan on working ‘hands-on’ in a fitness-related setting, getting certified is essential."

Today’s focus on health promotion and wellness is something Michelle Groat is part of every day in her career as a teacher with the Durham District School Board.

“We teach students about the importance of an active, healthy lifestyle while introducing them to different physical activities, at least one of which we hope they will continue to pursue after their mandatory physical education class is over,” says Michelle who teaches phys-ed and math. She also coaches her school’s junior girls’ basketball team, wrestling team, and junior and senior girls’ soccer team.

Michelle has been in her current position for a year, after having spent the previous year as a supply teacher. “Teaching is tough to get into right away, so it’s important to prepare for your career early,” Michelle advises. She recommends joining as many programs at York as possible—student government, intramurals, etc.—which provide good experience for people going into leadership careers.

“Also try to get as much experience as possible with the age group you hope to teach,” she says. “Volunteer in classrooms, coach kid’s teams, tutor high school students, work at summer camps—it’s better to get your experience now, rather than when you’re applying for jobs. Then, when you do apply, submit applications to as many school boards as possible.” Michelle also advises to be prepared to start as a supply teacher or a

“long-term occasional” (a position filling in for a teacher on maternity leave or other extended leave of absence) before landing a full-time position.