Department of Kinesiology

Janet Wigglesworth, Academic Unit Head
Phone: (540) 568-6145
Email: jmukinesiology@jmu.edu
Location: Godwin Hall, Room 331
Website: http://www.jmu.edu/kinesiology

Professors
S. Carson Sackett, N. Luden, S. Nye, M. Saunders, D. Wenos, J. Wigglesworth, J. Williams, C. Womack

Associate Professors
E. Edwards, L. Gano-Overway, T. Hargens, C. McKay, T. Moran

Assistant Professors
S. Kurti, E. Magrum

Instructors
C. Duncan, R. Lifka, J. Walters

Mission

The Department of Kinesiology is dedicated to the development of future leaders in professions that maximize the potential of individuals and society through physical activity. Programs include exercise science and teacher education in physical education and health.

The department is committed to:

Outstanding undergraduate programs based on the criteria of relevant professional associations which will enable graduates success in their professional endeavors.
Building upon the strong liberal studies background provided through General Education.
Developing professionals committed to engaging with diverse communities in ways that help all individuals reach their full potential.
Challenging students to think critically.
Using technological advances.
Appreciating the global community.
Providing quality graduate programs that complement the undergraduate programs and deliver advanced study in kinesiology.
Contributing to the university’s General Education curriculum through programs designed to promote lifelong fitness and wellness.
Appreciating differences in perspective, identity and experience through cultivating class environments, curriculum and pre-professional opportunities that align with the spirit of inclusion.
Servicing JMU, the professions and local community through our unique knowledge and expertise.
Promoting effective practice in kinesiology through research and development projects that push back the boundaries of knowledge.

Career Opportunities and Marketable Skills

The exercise science concentration provides students with the opportunity to gain knowledge and applied experiences to enter fields such as:

Fitness Industry
- Personal Trainers
- Corporate Wellness/Fitness Directors
Health Care Industry (when combined with a pre-professional health minor)
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Physician Assistant
- Medical School
- Athletic Training
- Cardiac Rehabilitation
- Medical Technician
Additional opportunities
- Exercise Physiologist
- Nutrition and Exercise Specialist

Graduates completing the Physical and Health Education concentration provide students with the opportunity to gain knowledge and applied experiences to enter the field of teaching Health and Physical Education pre-K-12.

Graduates completing the Coaching Education Minor provide students with the opportunity to gain knowledge and applied experiences to enter fields such as:

Coaching youth and interscholastic teams
College/University coaching
Strength and Conditioning coaching