DBU’s Kinesiology Program: Developing Leaders for Purposeful Careers and Lives

The Department of Kinesiology in the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics prepares students for success in both their professional and spiritual lives. Dallas Baptist University offers the Kinesiology program to students as a minor, B.A., B.S., B.A.S., and M.S.

The Kinesiology program is designed for students pursuing courses related to sports, strength and conditioning, and athletic development, performance, safety, and management. As students begin the Kinesiology program, they develop an appreciation and respect for the human body, and learn to become good stewards of the earthly temple of God.

Throughout the program, students participate in both classroom settings and organized exercise courses. The balance of academic knowledge and physical activities provides students with a social and emotional outlet that they can carry with them as they become professionals in the field.

The courses students participate in combine knowledge, practical skills, and the integration of their Christian faith into their profession so they can navigate challenges successfully with knowledge and experience from a Christian perspective. As professors aid in developing each student's mind and body as they learn to be better stewards of God's gifts and become servant leaders in their field, students graduate prepared to be successful in their desired career.

DBU's Co-Director of Graduate Kinesiology and Assistant Professor of Kinesiology, Dr. Jamie Jordan, shares how the University's kinesiology professors aim to encourage and challenge students to pursue excellence in every part of life. "We strive to develop more than future professionals," she says. "Our team is committed to equipping students with the knowledge, compassion, and character necessary to transform lives, strengthen communities, and honor Christ through their calling in kinesiology."

The Kinesiology Program’s Chair for the undergraduate degree is Dr. Adam Ross, who also serves as Professor in the program. Dr. Jeff Burnett also joined the Kinesiology faculty this fall as Professor of Kinesiology.

Kinesiology students in the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics are encouraged to combine their degree with additional interests in teaching, coaching, or sports. Students can partner with DBU’s College of Education to obtain a degree in EC-12 Physical Education with teacher certification or earn a concentration in sport management through the Don and Linda Carter School of Business. In addition, the kinesiology program offers concentrations in exercise science and sport performance. 

After graduation, kinesiology students are prepared to explore pre-professional programs like physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, and chiropractic, as well as careers in fitness, rehabilitation, sport-related professional contexts, athletics, health, recreation, and in the wellness industry.

Alongside undergraduate programs offered to DBU students, the Department of Kinesiology offers a Master of Science in Kinesiology, led by Program Co-Directors, Dr. Ray Galloway and Dr. Jamie Jordan. The graduate program specializes in STEM, giving graduate students the opportunity to study anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and the biophysics of human movement.

Continuing to integrate faith in each course, the Kinesiology program remains committed to preparing students for successful careers and lives as active stewards of the skills, knowledge, and temple God has provided.

Explore our undergraduate and graduate kinesiology degree plans below to learn more about specific program requirements: