Kinesiology and Sport Studies Diploma

The Kinesiology and Sport Studies Diploma prepares students for diverse careers in sport, recreation, health, and wellness by providing a foundational understanding of core competencies in kinesiology as defined by the Alberta Kinesiology Association. Students will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in various settings, positioning them for employment in fitness centers, leisure facilities, retirement complexes, educational institutions, the private sector, as well as with provincial, national, and international sports organizations and events.
This program will explore human body movement through a comprehensive lens, including anatomical, physiological, psychological, nutritional, and mechanical aspects, with a particular focus on the assessment and prescription of exercise for positive health-related results in the community. This in-depth understanding of health and fitness will enable you to advocate for wellness by promoting healthy lifestyle choices. Graduates will be well-equipped for careers across a range of environments within health and wellness sectors.
This program is designed to be completed over two years with 10 courses completed in each academic year. This program will include a combination of face-to-face and online courses. F2F courses will be based in Lac La Biche.

This program is available to International Students. Our Designated Learning Institute (DLI) number is 0111010246767.

Career Potential

Graduates of a Kinesiology Diploma program are equipped to pursue a wide variety of career paths in the health, fitness, sports, and rehabilitation fields. Some of the most common and rewarding career options include kinesiologist, athletic therapist, personal trainer, sports coach, exercise physiologist, sports nutritionist/dietitian, rehabilitation specialist, and health and wellness coach. 

Advanced Career Paths

For those looking to further their education or specialize in a particular field, a Kinesiology Diploma serves as a solid foundation for pursuing advanced degrees or certifications. Graduates may choose to pursue further studies in fields such as:

Physical Therapy (DPT): Physical therapists assess and treat individuals with musculoskeletal issues and physical impairments. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and private practices.

Occupational Therapy (MOT or OTD): Occupational therapists help individuals develop, recover, or maintain the skills needed for daily living and work, especially after an injury or illness.

Sports Medicine: A field that combines aspects of physical therapy, athletic training, and medicine, focusing on the prevention and treatment of sports-related injuries.

Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors focus on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those related to the spine

Credentials
Diploma

Admission Requirements: 

  • ELA 30-2- Minimum 60%
  • Biology 30
  • Math 30-2- Minimum 60%

Transfers:

Transferable to other Alberta post-secondary institutions such as Athabasca University, Bow Valley College, the University of Alberta, and Concordia University. Please refer to Transfer Alberta for more detailed information based on the courses selected.

Certification:

Diploma in Kinesiology and Sport Studies 

 

Program Start/End Dates
Year 1: August 28, 2025 to May 29, 2026
Year 2: August 2026 to June 2027

Application Deadline
Domestic Student: August 15, 2025
International Student: May 15, 2025 
Study Permit Deadline: August 1, 2025 for Fall 2025

Locations
This program will include a combination of face-to-face and online courses. Face-to-face courses will be based in Lac La Biche.

TBD

Course Listing

  • ANATOMY I

    Course ID: BIOL230

    Name: ANATOMY I

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    This course provides an in-depth study of the structures of the human body and their interrelationships using a systems approach. The correlations between structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) are noted. Major topics include body organization, the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, respiratory, cardiovascular, lymphatic, digestive, endocrine, urinary and reproductive systems, the general and special senses, and human development. This course is designed to prepare students in medical fields of study for advanced courses in their respective fields, as well as other university transfer students.

  • APPLIED RESISTANCE TRAINING

    Course ID: KINS 115

    Name: APPLIED RESISTANCE TRAINING

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Introduction to the principles and techniques of resistance training. Students will learn proper exercise form, program design, and injury prevention strategies to improve strength, endurance, and overall fitness. Emphasis will be placed on developing personalized training programs and understanding the physiological adaptations to resistance training.

  • DIVERSITY AWARENESS

    Course ID: DIAW101

    Name: DIVERSITY AWARENESS

    Hours: 3

    Credits: 0

    This introductory course is designed to allow the learner to develop an appreciation of the value of diversity within our culture. A unique combination of video and animation sets the path of exploration through a fictitious company. The interactive learning environment is designed for learner engagement and participation.

  • FOUNDATIONS OF HUMAN MOVEMENT

    Course ID: KINS110

    Name: FOUNDATIONS OF HUMAN MOVEMENT

    Hours: 52.5

    Credits: 3

    This course explores human movement through multiple contexts, including daily living, recreation, sport, and exercise and apply it in practice through participatory and experiential learning.

  • HISTORY OF SPORT

    Course ID: KINS114

    Name: HISTORY OF SPORT

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    This course explores the evolution of sport from ancient times to the present day, examining how cultural, social, and political factors have shaped sporting practices and institutions. Students will study key moments in the history of sport, significant figures, and the development of modern sports and their global impact. The course also considers the role of sport in society and its influence on issues such as identity, race, gender, and class.

  • INTRODUCTORY COMPOSITION

    Course ID: ENGL102

    Name: INTRODUCTORY COMPOSITION

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    This course helps students to develop the academic writing skills they use throughout their university studies. Students learn to identify good writing, and develop needed research, analytical, and organizational skills. Starting with building good sentences and paragraphs, the research essay is the most important genre in this course. By analyzing, summarizing, synthesizing, and critiquing a variety of texts, students learn how to develop their own analyses and arguments with appropriate and correctly documented primary and secondary sources. Readings by or about indigenous and minority peoples form no less than 50% of the readings in this course. A review of grammar and sentence structure is a key component of this course.  Students are advised to choose a research topic in line with their career goals.  
     
    Prerequisite 60% in ELA 30-1
  • INTRODUCTION TO COACHING

    Course ID: KINS220

    Name: INTRODUCTION TO COACHING

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Introduction to coaching theory focusing on theoretical and practical coaching topics including ethical decision-making, practice planning, basic mental skills, teaching, and learning.

  • INTRODUCTION TO PERSONAL PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

    Course ID: KINS 112

    Name: INTRODUCTION TO PERSONAL PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

    Hours: 52.5

    Credits: 3

    The promotion of lifelong physical activity habits through active participation and self-assessment. Examination and application of the foundations of physical fitness, health, and wellness with an emphasis being on the knowledge and understanding of basic concepts and methods of physical fitness and active living.

  • INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOCULTURAL FOUNDATIONS OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION, LEISURE, AND SPORT

    Course ID: KINS111

    Name: INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOCULTURAL FOUNDATIONS OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION, LEISURE, AND SPORT

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    The study of sociocultural factors that shape physical education, recreation, leisure, and sport in contemporary society. Social institutions, culture, politics, and economics will be explored on how they influence physical activity and sport participation.

  • MEASUREMENT AND EVALUATION

    Course ID: KINS118

    Name: MEASUREMENT AND EVALUATION

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Introduction of fundamental concepts and methods linked to measurement and evaluation of physical activity programs and participants. Students will develop skills in data collection, analysis, and reporting to inform decision-making and program evaluation in physical activity and sport settings.

  • PHYSIOLOGY I

    Course ID: BIOL231

    Name: PHYSIOLOGY I

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    This course provides a study of the overall function of the human body. Major topics include fundamental chemistry, homeostasis, cytology and cell physiology, cell signaling and communication, and muscle, nervous, respiratory, cardiovascular, lymphatic, digestive, endocrine, urinary, and reproductive physiology, as well as fundamental genetics as it applies to human physiology. This course is designed to prepare students in medical fields of study for advanced courses in their respective fields, as well as other university transfer students.

    Pre/Corequisite 60% in ELA 30-1 and BIO 30 BIOL230

  • STANDARD FIRST AID/LEVEL A CPR

    Course ID: FAID070

    Name: STANDARD FIRST AID/LEVEL A CPR

    Hours: 16

    Credits: 0

    This course provides comprehensive First Aid & CPR techniques for those who want more knowledge to respond to emergencies in the home or workplace until medical aid arrives. A variety of topics are covered from basic first aid such as cardiovascular and breathing emergencies, CPR Level A, prevention of disease transmission, artificial respiration, how to help someone whom is choking, how to deal with shock and unconsciousness, severe bleeding, head and spinal injuries, fractures of the upper and lower limbs and CPR for adult and youth casualties.

  • ADAPTED PHYSICAL EDUCATION

    Course ID: KINS217

    Name: ADAPTED PHYSICAL EDUCATION

    Hours: 67.5

    Credits: 3

    Introduction to the principles and practices of adapted physical education for individuals with diverse abilities. Students will explore strategies for designing inclusive physical activity programs, focusing on assessment, modification, and accommodation techniques. Emphasis is placed on promoting physical activity and well-being for all participants in school, recreation, and community settings.

  • BIOMECHANICS

    Course ID: KINS213

    Name: BIOMECHANICS

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Qualitative analysis of human movement, using biomechanical principles. Principles are based on basic physics and mathematical laws and theories which are transferred to real world situations to improve motor performance in humans.

  • CAREER INTERNSHIP 1

    Course ID: INTD205

    Name: CAREER INTERNSHIP 1

    Hours: 130

    Credits: 3

    This unique, optional course provides students the opportunity to put classroom learning into practice in a 100-hour work experience. Students can apply their academic knowledge and skills to meaningful experiences in the workplace within their field of study and/or their career goals. This course involves 30 hours of employment training activities prior to entering the 100-hour placement. Students are responsible for securing an approved work-experience placement; the work experience is monitored and evaluated by the employer.

    Pre/Corequisites: Completed 12 credits with a minimum GPA of 2.5 (prior to enrolment) and permission from the Coordinator or designate

  • DIRECTED STUDIES IN KINESIOLOGY AND SPORTS STUDIES

    Course ID: KINS230

    Name: DIRECTED STUDIES IN KINESIOLOGY AND SPORTS STUDIES

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Introduction to sport psychology and mental performance, focusing on understanding human behaviour in physical activity and sport. This course examines key concepts in sport psychology, incorporating perspectives from personality and social psychology.

  • ELEMENTARY PHYSIOLOGY II

    Course ID: KINS215

    Name: ELEMENTARY PHYSIOLOGY II

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Integrative human physiology focusing on functions of the human body with special emphasis on control and integration of these functions. The responses and adaptations to exercise will be used as a foundation upon which the concepts of control and integration will be discussed.

  • GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

    Course ID: KINS218

    Name: GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Exploration of the biological, psychological, and social aspects of human growth and development across the lifespan. Students will examine key developmental stages, from infancy to adulthood, and analyze the factors that influence growth, learning, and behavior. Emphasis will be placed on understanding how genetics, environment, culture, and individual experiences contribute to human development.

  • INTRODUCTION TO ATHLETIC THERAPY

    Course ID: KINS211

    Name: INTRODUCTION TO ATHLETIC THERAPY

    Hours: 67.5

    Credits: 3

    Overview of athletic therapy, focusing on the prevention, assessment, and rehabilitation of sports-related injuries. Students will explore key concepts such as injury mechanisms, treatment techniques, and rehabilitation strategies.

  • INTRODUCTION TO NUTRITION

    Course ID: KINS210

    Name: INTRODUCTION TO NUTRITION

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Overview of the fundamental principles of human nutrition, including macronutrients, micronutrients, digestion, metabolism, and the role of nutrition in health and disease prevention. Exploration of dietary guidelines, food sources, and the impact of nutrition on physical and mental well-being across the lifespan.

  • INTRODUCTION TO THE ADMINISTRATION OF SPORT, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, AND RECREATION PROGRAMS

    Course ID: KINS113

    Name: INTRODUCTION TO THE ADMINISTRATION OF SPORT, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, AND RECREATION PROGRAMS

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Introduction of administration and management concepts in sport, physical activity, or recreation programs. Topics include organizational structures, program planning, leadership, and financial management. There will be exploration of key skills such as communication, problem-solving, and strategic planning.

  • METABOLIC CONDITIONING

    Course ID: KINS216

    Name: METABOLIC CONDITIONING

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Introduction to the principles and practices of metabolic conditioning to enhance fitness, endurance, and overall performance. Students will explore energy systems, exercise programming, and high-intensity training techniques. Emphasis will be placed on developing safe and effective workouts that target multiple energy pathways, improving both anaerobic and aerobic capacity.

  • PSYCHOLOGICAL SPORT PERFORMANCE

    Course ID: KINS221

    Name: PSYCHOLOGICAL SPORT PERFORMANCE

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Introduction to sport psychology and mental performance, focusing on understanding human behaviour in physical activity and sport. This course examines key concepts in sport psychology, incorporating perspectives from personality and social psychology.

  • PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND AGING

    Course ID: KINS219

    Name: PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND AGING

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Examination of the biological, psychological and sociological aspects of aging and their application in developing activities and working with older adults. Emphasis will be given to the role of physical activity and its impact on aging.

  • PHYSIOLOGY OF EXERCISE

    Course ID: KINS212

    Name: PHYSIOLOGY OF EXERCISE

    Hours: 75

    Credits: 3

    An introduction to the physiological responses and adaptations of the human body to exercise. Students will explore how various body systems, including the cardiovascular, muscular, and respiratory systems, are affected by different types of physical activity. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the mechanisms behind endurance, strength, and recovery, as well as the role of exercise in health and fitness.

  • RESEARCH METHODS IN KINESIOLOGY

    Course ID: KINS222

    Name: RESEARCH METHODS IN KINESIOLOGY

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Introduction to research methods and design used in kinesiology. Focus on evaluation and analysis of research studies, qualitative, quantitative, and mixed research methods with focus on kinesiology context.

  • SKILL ACQUISITION AND MOTOR PERFORMACE

    Course ID: KINS126

    Name: SKILL ACQUISITION AND MOTOR PERFORMACE

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Exploration of motor learning and skill acquisition in physical activity and sport. Students will examine how individuals develop, refine, and perform motor skills, focusing on factors that influence performance, such as practice, feedback, and individual differences. Importance will be placed on understanding the processes involved in skill learning and how these concepts apply to enhancing motor performance in various physical contexts.

  • VALUES AND ETHICS IN ADAPTED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

    Course ID: KINS223

    Name: VALUES AND ETHICS IN ADAPTED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    Exploration of the issues affecting the lives of marginalized individuals and communities. This includes defining and challenging historical moments, current issues, theories, and practices in adapted physical education and rehabilitation. Emphasis is placed on understanding. key values and ethical principles that guide professional practice for rehabilitation professionals, along with the fundamentals of ethical practices in adapted physical activity.

We acknowledge that Portage College’s service region is on the traditional lands of First Nation Peoples, the owners of Treaty 6, 8 and 10, which are also homelands to the Métis people. We honour the history and culture of all people who first lived and gathered in these lands.
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