Concentrations

Students in our Kinesiology and Physical Education major can choose from four concentrations or specialized pathways: Exercise Science, Exercise Science (Pre-Athletic Training), Health and Physical Education, and Outdoor Leadership. No matter what track they choose, students in the Kinesiology and Physical Education major enjoy a combination of classroom and hands-on learning through laboratories, internships or student-teaching experience.

Exercise Science

The Exercise Science concentration focuses on the science of human movement, preparing graduates for a variety of careers in settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, sports medicine and business. Students use state-of-the-art metabolic and bio-mechanical analysis systems to develop their understanding of human capacity for movement and work. They practice with the latest applications and modalities for injury evaluation and rehabilitation. In a number of applied settings, students work a wide variety of age groups and physical abilities gaining valuable hands-on experience. We also offer a minor in Exercise Science.

Pre-Athletic Training

The Exercise Science (Pre-Athletic Training) concentration is a pathway for students interested in the growing allied health field of athletic training, which requires a master’s degree. Athletic trainers are certified medical professionals who specialize in the prevention, examination, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of emergent, acute or chronic injuries and medical conditions. Students who choose this track earn both their undergraduate degree in Kinesiology and Physical Education and their Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) from UMaine. This innovative 3+2 program allows students to start taking graduate level courses during their senior year, and become certified athletic trainers in just five years. For more information, check out our Accelerated MSAT page.

Health & Physical Education

The Health and Physical Education concentration builds on strong partnerships with school districts locally, statewide and beyond, allowing students to apply the knowledge, expertise and skill developed in the classroom to field experiences in a variety of schools and settings. After graduation, students are certified to teach either health or physical education in K-12 schools in Maine, and can easily apply for teaching certification in other states. Our graduates gain the knowledge and skills needed for a rich and rewarding career of engaging students, schools and communities in physical activity and healthy practices that span all ages, from young children to older adults. We are proud to say that hundreds of our former students have gone on to become longtime role models in their schools and communities. We also offer a minor in Educational Studies.

Outdoor Leadership

The Outdoor Leadership concentration provides students with the knowledge and tools necessary to safely and successfully lead outdoor adventures for groups of all ages in different environments and conditions. Maine’s outdoor resources serve as both classroom and teacher,  preparing those who are passionate about the outdoors for a variety of rewarding careers connecting individuals to the natural environment. Students are prepared to become licensed Registered Maine Guides, and the curriculum includes the coursework required to earn no less than four national certifications, including Wilderness First Responder and Swift Water Rescue. We also offer a minor in Outdoor Leadership [add link]. For more information about this concentration or the minor, contact Senior Lecturer and Outdoor Leadership Coordinator Lauren Jacobs.