UC Irvine Kinesiology: A Path to Success in Movement Science

Introduction

At the forefront of movement science research and education, UC Irvine’s Department of Kinesiology stands as a beacon of innovation and discovery. With its world-renowned faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and collaborative partnerships, UC Irvine Kinesiology empowers students to become leading professionals in the field.

Unparalleled Research: Advancing Knowledge in Movement Science

UC Irvine Kinesiology boasts over 50 research-active faculty members, whose groundbreaking work has earned the department a reputation for excellence in the field.

• Biomechanics: Uncover the complex mechanisms of human movement, from analyzing gait to modeling sports injuries.

  

• Exercise Physiology: Explore the physiological responses to exercise, including cardiovascular health, metabolic adaptations, and performance enhancement.

• Motor Control: Investigate the neural and muscular mechanisms that govern movement, from skilled coordination to pathological disorders.

• Health and Fitness: Develop innovative strategies to promote health and well-being through physical activity, nutrition, and behavior change.

  

Cutting-Edge Curriculum: Nurturing Future Leaders

UC Irvine Kinesiology offers a comprehensive undergraduate and graduate curriculum that prepares students for careers in:

• Exercise Science: Apply scientific principles to optimize human performance, prevent and treat injuries, and promote health.

  

• Physical Therapy: Diagnose, evaluate, and treat movement dysfunctions to restore mobility and function.

• Athletic Training: Provide comprehensive healthcare to athletes, including injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement.

• Biomedical Engineering: Combine engineering principles with biological knowledge to develop innovative medical devices and treatments.

Undergraduate Programs

UC Irvine Kinesiology’s undergraduate programs provide a strong foundation in the biological, physical, and behavioral sciences. Students engage in hands-on labs, research projects, and internships to develop a comprehensive understanding of movement science.

• B.S. in Kinesiology: A versatile degree that prepares students for careers in health, fitness, research, and more.

Graduate Programs

UC Irvine Kinesiology offers a diverse array of graduate programs that delve into the specialized areas of movement science:

• M.S. in Exercise Physiology: Focus on the physiological adaptations to exercise, with concentrations in clinical exercise physiology and sports nutrition.

• M.S. in Biomechanics: Study the mechanical principles of human movement, with concentrations in injury biomechanics and rehabilitation science.

• M.S. in Motor Control: Explore the neural and muscular mechanisms of movement, with concentrations in neurorehabilitation and motor learning.

• Ph.D. in Kinesiology: Pursue advanced research and earn the highest degree in the field.

State-of-the-Art Facilities: Empowering Innovation

UC Irvine Kinesiology is home to state-of-the-art research and teaching facilities that enhance the student experience and foster innovation:

• Biomechanics Laboratory: Equipped with advanced motion capture systems, force plates, and electromyography devices to analyze human movement.

• Exercise Physiology Laboratory: Includes a metabolic chamber, body composition analyzer, and specialized exercise equipment for studying physiological responses to exercise.

• Motor Control Laboratory: Features a virtual reality system, electromyography equipment, and a gait analysis lab for investigating movement control.

Collaborative Partnerships: Bridging Academia and Industry

UC Irvine Kinesiology actively collaborates with industry leaders, medical professionals, and health organizations to provide students with real-world experience and research opportunities.

• UCI Health: Work alongside clinicians and researchers at one of the top academic medical centers in the nation.

• Honda Research Institute: Participate in cutting-edge research on robotics and human movement in collaboration with a global leader in automotive technology.

• National Institutes of Health: Secure funding for groundbreaking research projects that advance the field of movement science.

Alumni Success: Making a Global Impact

UC Irvine Kinesiology graduates have gone on to achieve remarkable success in diverse fields:

• Dr. Susan Hillier: World-renowned biomechanist and author of several textbooks in the field of motor control and learning.

• Dr. Trent Ness: Orthopedic surgeon and former NBA player, specializing in sports medicine and injury prevention.

• Dr. Claire Patterson: Physical therapist and founder of a successful rehabilitation clinic, focusing on neurorehabilitation and chronic pain management.

■ Notable Statistics

• UC Irvine Kinesiology consistently ranks among the top 10 kinesiology programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

• Over 90% of undergraduate students participate in research projects or internships.

• Graduate students receive over $2 million in research funding annually.

• Alumni work in a wide range of professions, including healthcare, fitness, education, and research.

Conclusion

UC Irvine Kinesiology is a dynamic and innovative department that provides students with an unparalleled education in movement science. Through groundbreaking research, cutting-edge curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and collaborative partnerships, UC Irvine Kinesiology empowers students to become leading professionals in the field and make a meaningful impact on the world of movement.

Exploring New Frontiers: The “Kinectome” Concept

As UC Irvine Kinesiology continues to push the boundaries of movement science, a new concept has emerged: the “Kinectome.” This term encompasses the entire repertoire of human movement, from the most basic reflexes to the most complex athletic feats. By studying the Kinectome, researchers aim to:

• Gain a deeper understanding of the fundamental principles of human movement.

• Develop personalized interventions to improve health and performance.

• Create novel technologies and devices to assist people with movement impairments.

The Kinectome concept offers a transformative approach to movement science, opening up countless possibilities for future research and innovation.

Tables

Faculty Research Expenditures

Graduate Student Enrollment

Alumni Employment Sectors

Research Grant Funding Sources