Study the mechanics of the human body and gain expertise in the theory and practice of physical activity across the lifespan. This cross-disciplinary degree encompasses biology, human anatomy, human physiology, psychology, and the application of kinesiology concepts within each discipline.

Drive your own education with courses that inspire and explore careers through internships at healthcare clinics, fitness facilities, college athletic departments, and more. Prepare for a career in strength and conditioning, personal training, or graduate work in physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, chiropractic, or exercise science.

Earn a Master’s in Athletic Training in 5 Years

Interested in advanced education in athletic training? You have the opportunity to earn an undergraduate degree in kinesiology and a master’s degree in athletic training in our Athletic Training 3+2 program, graduating with both degrees in five years.

Explore Internships & Careers

Hands on experience is a unique element of our kinesiology program. During your studies, you will complete at least one internship, research, or practicum experience. Examples include:

  • Dubuque Physical Therapy
  • University of Iowa Pediatric Cardiac Rehab
  • YMCA
  • IVCH Center for Physical Rehabilitation and Aquatics
  • Movement Fitness & Personal Training
  • Velocity Sports Performance
  • Burger Chiropractic
  • Loras All-Sports Camp
  • University of Minnesota Strength & Conditioning

Move on to graduate school or a career in one of these fields:

  • Physical Therapist
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Athletic Trainer
  • Chiropractor
  • Clinical Exercise Physiologist
  • Personal Trainer
  • Strength & Conditioning Coach
  • Health Education Specialist

Course Highlights

Physiology of Exercise

A study of the physiological adaptations to exercise. Explores the interrelations of various organs and systems related to the understanding of physical activity functioning. Emphasis is placed on energy metabolism, physiological responses to exercise, diet and conditioning in athletics, and exercise training techniques.

Human Anatomy & Physiology

This course provides an introduction to anatomical terminology and provides instruction related to understanding of how the body is organized both regionally and systemically. Topics include the organization of the musculoskeletal, nervous, cardiopulmonary, digestive, renal, and sensory systems. This course provides students with an anatomical foundation for understanding the physiology of the human body.

Nutrition

A course in the fundamentals of nutrition and how they relate to exercise, metabolism, weight control and maturational development.

School of Science & Health

Majors & Minors

Graduate Degree Opportunities

Consider continuing your education at Loras through one of our graduate, dual degree, or accelerated programs.

Clubs & Orgs

We have a variety of opportunities for you to get involved from the moment you set foot on campus.

Athletic Training Club
DuHealth

Straight Talk from a Duhawk

Kinesiology professors are the most passionate and fun people you will meet on campus. They make learning fun.

— Brianna (’23)

Meet Your Professors

photo of Elaina Biechler

Elaina Biechler  PhD

Associate Professor of Kinesiology
Coaching Leadership Program Director

photo of Kate Cooper

Kate Cooper  PhD

Professor of Biology

photo of Kathryn DeShaw PhD

Kathryn DeShaw  PhD

Assistant Professor of Kinesiology

headshot Sharon Feld

Sharon Feld  EdD LAT ATC

Assistant Professor of Athletic Training
Athletic Training Clinical Education Coordinator

Loras College Crest graphic

Jessica Kirby  EdD

Assistant Professor of Athletic Training

headshot Molly McDonald Figgins

Molly M. McDonald Figgins  PhD ATC

Associate Professor of Athletic Training
Athletic Training Program Director

photo of Keith Thraen-Borowski, Associate Professor of Kinesiology

Keith Thraen-Borowski  PhD

Associate Professor of Kinesiology

Kinesiology News

  • Loras College kinesiologu students in lab

    Ultimate Athlete ELITE Study

    Loras College is excited to be one of the testing grounds for the ELITE study, aiming to uncover the genetic determinants of human aerobic performance. In collaboration with Stanford University, Dr. Elaina Biechler, associate professor of kinesiology, will contribute to this initiative. On our campus, she’ll be conducting tests on 100 elite athletes, playing a crucial role in the larger 10,000-subject study. More

  • male student in front of wall with stars

    A Healthy Dose of Achievement

    As an intern, Steve Marfo (’26) assists clients with daily tasks, monitors their health, and provides emotional support. More

  • Three students with two professors with Stryker medical heart/chest mannequin

    Loras Partners with Paramount for EMS Education

    Paramount EMS and Loras College have embarked on a partnership that broadens opportunities for community members interested in and/or seeking a career in Emergency Medical Services. More