Kinesiology and Sport Studies Diploma

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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 O111010246767.

Please Note: This program is eligible for a post-graduate work permit (PGWP).

Domestic Apply

Use this process to apply to Portage College if you are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident (landed immigrant) or a protected person (refugee).

Domestic Funding Options

Browse through funding options available to students at Portage College to see what may be available to you.

Domestic Information Request

If you would like to receive more information about this program please use the Info Request Form linked here.

International Student Apply

International students, once you have chosen your program and checked the admission requirements you are now ready to apply for admission.

International Student Study Permit

Your study permit is the document that allows you to stay in Canada and study. It is different from a student visa, which is the document that allows you to enter Canada.

International Information Request

Our international student representatives are happy to answer your questions about programs, services and any immigration related questions that you may have. Please use the form link provided.

Learning Technology Support

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: 

  • English Language Arts 30-2 at 60%
  • Math 30-2 at 60%
  • Biology 30

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 31, 2026 to April 30, 2027
Year 2: August 31, 2026 to April 30, 2027

Application Deadline
Domestic Student: August 15, 2026
International Student: May 15, 2026

Location
Lac La Biche Campus

Delivery
In-person

Domestic Student Fees Application Fee $53.50 Fall Term Fee payment deadline: August 15, 2025

Tuition $2,594.46
Student Association $116.70
Dental Insurance Fee $163.25
Health Insurance Fee $163.25
Technology Fee $82.71
Recreation Fee $54.57
Total $3,174.94

Winter Term Fee payment deadline: December 15, 2025

Tuition $2,594.46
Student Association $116.70
Technology Fee $82.71
Recreation Fee $54.57
Total $2,848.44

Part-time Fees Tuition is calculated using “cost-per-credit” one credit is $170. Calculate the cost by multiplying the number of credits per course by $170. Tuition Deposit – $100 (non-refundable for oversubscribed programs) Visit Portage Bookstore for textbooks and supplies

Fee Explanations

Students’ Association Fees These fees are authorized by student referendum and the Board of Governors. They are collected by the College on behalf of the Students’ Association in accordance with the Post Secondary Learning Act. Health & Dental Fees You may opt-out of the Dental and Health Insurance plan if you provide proof of comparable coverage for an extended health and/or dental care benefits plan. Any questions regarding SA Fees including the Health and Dental Insurance fees should be directed to the SA Office 780-623-5609. Athletics & Recreation Fees These fees are collected to provide recreation and leisure opportunities that promote students’ physical, social, and emotional well-being, whether online or through in person facilities. Check out your +region in the link, to see what is offered at your campus or online. Technology Fee This is a mandatory fee assessed to students enrolling in any credit course (except for apprenticeship programs) at Portage College. The fee supports the on-going maintenance and upgrades to administrative systems that support the entire College infrastructure. As such, it is considered a “mandatory non-instructional fee” and, therefore, is subject to Alberta Advanced Education Public Post-Secondary Institutions’ Tuition Fees Regulations. Visa students are charged the same rate as Canadian residents for this fee.

Click here to view Other Fees for Service

International Student Fees Application Fee $160.00 Tuition Deposit $5000.00 (non-refundable) If you choose to pay the full tuition and mandatory fees, you may still be eligible for a refund of payments above the $5000 deposit, as per the Portage College refund policy. Fall Term Fee payment deadline: August 15, 2025

Tuition $7,650.00
Student Association $116.70
Dental Insurance Fee $163.25
Health Insurance Fee $163.25
Guard Me Insurance $602.25
Technology Fee $82.71
Recreation Fee $54.57
Total $8,832.73

Winter Term Fee payment deadline: December 15, 2025

Tuition $7,650.00
Student Association $116.70
Technology Fee $82.71
Recreation Fee $54.57
Total $7,903.98

Visit  Portage Bookstore for textbooks and supplies

Fee Explanations

Students’ Association Fees These fees are authorized by student referendum and the Board of Governors. They are collected by the College on behalf of the Students’ Association in accordance with the Post Secondary Learning Act. Health & Dental Fees You may opt-out of the Dental and Health Insurance plan if you provide proof of comparable coverage for an extended health and/or dental care benefits plan. Any questions regarding SA Fees including the Health and Dental Insurance fees should be directed to the SA Office 780-623-5609. Athletics & Recreation Fees These fees are collected to provide recreation and leisure opportunities that promote students’ physical, social, and emotional well-being, whether online or through in person facilities. Check out your +region in the link, to see what is offered at your campus or online. Technology Fee This is a mandatory fee assessed to students enrolling in any credit course (except for apprenticeship programs) at Portage College. The fee supports the on-going maintenance and upgrades to administrative systems that support the entire College infrastructure. As such, it is considered a “mandatory non-instructional fee” and, therefore, is subject to Alberta Advanced Education Public Post-Secondary Institutions’ Tuition Fees Regulations. Visa students are charged the same rate as Canadian residents for this fee.

Kinesiology & Sport Studies Diploma Year One Course Listing

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.
Hours: 45
Credits: 3

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.
Hours: 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.
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 examined. 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. Pre/Corequisite 60% in ELA 30-1, BIO 30, BIOL231
Hours: 45
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.
Hours: 52.5
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
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.
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.
Hours: 45
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.
Hours: 52.5
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.
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.
Hours: 45
Credits: 3

This two day course (16 hour) course is designed to prepare an individual to recognize and provide intervention for life threatening emergencies until medical aid arrives, includes 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.
Hours: 16
Credits: 0.5

Kinesiology & Sport Studies Diploma Year Two Course Listing

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.
Hours: 67.5
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.
Hours: 45
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.
Hours: 130
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.
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.
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.
Hours: 45
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.
Hours: 67.5
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Hours: 45
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.
Hours: 75
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.
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.
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.
Hours: 45
Credits: 3