B.A. in Biology
Whittier College, located in Whittier, California, offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in ...
B.A. in Kinesiology & Nutrition Science
Whittier, California
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
Whittier College, located in Whittier, California, offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Kinesiology & Nutrition Science. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of human movement, exercise science, and the critical role of nutrition in health and performance. It integrates scientific disciplines such as anatomy, biomechanics, exercise physiology, and motor learning with psychological and sociological aspects of sport and exercise, preparing students for diverse careers in health, fitness, and rehabilitation. The program is specifically designed to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application through hands-on learning.
STEM-designated: Yes, the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Kinesiology & Nutrition Science program at Whittier College is a STEM-designated degree. This is a significant benefit, particularly for international students on an F-1 visa, as it qualifies them for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. This allows for an additional 24 months of post-completion work authorization in the U.S. beyond the initial 12 months, providing a total of up to three years of invaluable practical experience in their specialized field.
Curriculum: The B.A. in Kinesiology & Nutrition Science curriculum at Whittier College is structured around core courses that cover the scientific disciplines of human movement. Key courses include KNS 250 (Applied Musculoskeletal Anatomy) and its lab, KNS 307 (Research Methods & Statistics) and its lab, KNS 311 (Biomechanics) and its lab, KNS 313 (Exercise Physiology) and its lab, and KNS 440 (Motor Learning & Control) and its lab. Students also explore the mental and sociological aspects through courses like KNS 280 (Introduction to Sport and Exercise Psychology) or KNS 382 (Social Issues in Sport). A culminating Senior Seminar (KNS 489) ties the learning together. The program also offers an optional Pre-Physical Therapy Emphasis, requiring specific allied health sciences courses (e.g., General Chemistry, College Physics, Introduction to Psychology, and a statistics course) crucial for graduate school admission. The emphasis on mandatory lab components and experiential learning is central to the curriculum.
Research Focus: Whittier College strongly emphasizes undergraduate research within the Kinesiology & Nutrition Science program. The department is committed to fostering a culture of discovery and hands-on learning. Students are encouraged to "do science" with virtually all courses featuring a mandatory laboratory component. Opportunities for research include designated Research Intensive courses and specific fellowships, such as the Yao Yuan Sze Fellowship, which supports student research projects, often focusing on community health and wellness, like developing exercise programs for senior populations. Students are encouraged to develop their own research projects, which can culminate in presentations at events like the annual Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity (URSCA) conference, providing valuable experience in scientific inquiry and communication.
Industry Engagement: Whittier College's Center for Career and Professional Development plays a vital role in preparing Kinesiology & Nutrition Science graduates for successful careers. Through initiatives like "Whittier Works," students receive personalized coaching, career exploration, and preparation for both job searches and graduate school admissions. The department itself has strong connections, leveraging Whittier's Southern California location to provide students with valuable internships and experiential learning opportunities. These can include placements at physical therapy clinics, rehabilitation centers, sports organizations (e.g., LA Sparks, Special Olympics), and local elementary schools for teaching physical education. This proactive approach helps students gain practical skills, build professional networks, and secure real-world experience.
Global Perspective: Whittier College is dedicated to fostering a global perspective among its students, and this extends to the Kinesiology & Nutrition Science program. While the core curriculum is deeply rooted in scientific principles applicable universally, students are encouraged to explore study abroad opportunities through the Office of International Programs. These programs, spanning five continents, can expose students to diverse approaches to health, wellness, sport, and nutrition in different cultural contexts. For instance, students might engage in international internships related to public health or participate in faculty-led programs that examine global health disparities or traditional wellness practices. This global exposure enhances their cultural competence and prepares them for an increasingly interconnected world of health and human performance.
Location
Whittier, California
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 53019
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Whittier College offers a variety of scholarship opportunities for international students to help make a high-quality education affordable and accessible. These scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership, and other talents while supporting diversity and global engagement on campus.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students are eligible for merit scholarships based on their academic achievements, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are awarded automatically upon admission consideration or through separate applications.
International Student Academic Scholarships: Whittier College provides dedicated academic scholarships for international applicants, which recognize outstanding academic records from students worldwide. These awards typically range from partial to substantial tuition reductions and are renewable each year based on satisfactory academic performance.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While international students do not qualify for federal financial aid, Whittier College offers some need-based assistance through institutional funds. International applicants must submit a financial aid application along with supporting documents to be considered for these awards.
Specialized and Departmental Scholarships: Certain departments and programs at Whittier may have specific scholarships for international students who demonstrate excellence or interest in particular fields, such as business, sciences, or the arts. These awards encourage students to pursue their academic passions with financial support.
Whittier College's Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Kinesiology & Nutrition Science provides a comprehensive and STEM-designated foundation in human movement and its vital relationship with nutrition. This interdisciplinary approach equips graduates with the scientific knowledge and practical skills highly valued in the rapidly growing health, wellness, and fitness industries. With a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and research, students are well-prepared for diverse career paths and advanced professional studies.
Exercise Physiologist: Graduates can work in clinical settings, wellness centers, or research institutions, designing and implementing exercise programs for individuals with chronic diseases, injuries, or those seeking to improve athletic performance. Their understanding of exercise physiology, anatomy, and biomechanics is critical.
Registered Dietitian (with further education/certification): While a bachelor's provides a strong foundation, becoming a Registered Dietitian typically requires completing a supervised practice program and passing a national exam. Graduates with this degree are well-positioned for these post-graduate steps, advising individuals and groups on nutrition to prevent and manage diseases or optimize health.
Personal Trainer/Fitness Instructor: This is a popular entry-level role where graduates use their knowledge of human movement, exercise science, and nutrition to design personalized workout plans and provide guidance to clients in gyms, fitness studios, or through private practice.
Strength and Conditioning Coach: Working with athletes at various levels (high school, collegiate, professional), these coaches design and implement training programs to enhance performance, prevent injuries, and improve physical capabilities. The program's focus on biomechanics and exercise physiology is key.
Rehabilitation Aide/Technician: Graduates can support physical therapists, occupational therapists, or other rehabilitation specialists in clinics or hospitals, assisting patients with exercises, maintaining equipment, and preparing treatment areas. This is often a stepping stone to further graduate studies.
Wellness Coordinator/Health Educator: In corporate settings, community organizations, or public health departments, these professionals design and implement programs to promote healthy lifestyles, reduce health risks, and improve overall well-being through nutrition and physical activity initiatives.
Sports Performance Analyst: Leveraging their understanding of human movement, graduates can analyze athletes' performance using various technologies, providing data-driven insights to coaches and teams for optimization and injury prevention.
Public Health Specialist (Nutrition/Physical Activity Focus): Graduates can work for local, state, or national public health agencies, developing and implementing programs that address health disparities, promote healthy eating, and encourage physical activity within communities.
Research Assistant (Kinesiology/Nutrition): For those interested in scientific inquiry, opportunities exist to work in university labs or research institutions, assisting with studies on human performance, exercise interventions, nutritional impact on health, or disease prevention. The program's research emphasis prepares students for this.
Pre-Professional Health Programs: The rigorous science curriculum within the Kinesiology & Nutrition Science program, especially with the Pre-Physical Therapy emphasis, provides an excellent foundation for pursuing advanced degrees in highly competitive fields such as Physical Therapy (DPT), Occupational Therapy (OTD), Physician Assistant (PA), or even Medical School (M.D.).
