Careers with a health, kinesiology and applied physiology degree
Studying Health, Kinesiology and Applied Physiology means exploring how movement, fitness and physical activity impact human health and performance, and designing programs that promote wellness and support rehabilitation.
What can I do with my degree? This program leads to careers in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, fitness and wellness coaching, clinical research and health promotion.
Skills you'll develop
Your degree builds more than academic knowledge, it shapes the way you think, communicate and collaborate. Throughout your studies, you'll develop key skills for your career, such as:
Functional knowledge:
Develop rehabilitation programs for people with various chronic diseases and/or injuries
Communication:
Explain technical health and fitness concepts into clear, motivating language that resonates with different client needs and goals
Management and organization:
Develop detailed training schedules, rehabilitation timelines and wellness programs
Teamwork:
Collaborate with classmates and healthcare professionals to create effective care strategies
Critical thinking and problem solving:
Modify programs in real-time based on client feedback or unexpected changes
As a Concordia student, you will develop valuable skills to bring to any career opportunity.
Beyond the classroom: Build your career path
Getting involved outside of the classroom can help you discover your interests, develop new skills and build a network of peers and professionals in your field.
First year
- Get support organizing your busy schedule at the Time Management Clinic.
- Join Health, Kinesiology & Applied Physiology Student's Association (HKAPSA) or explore other clubs that interests you.
- Register for the Science First-Year Experience course to get hands-on experience in a research setting.
- Attend events organized by CU Wellness to learn more about well-being.
- Improve your language fluency in French or English through conversation practice.
- Browse the CAPS online job bank for opportunities to gain work experience.
Middle years
- Connect with Career Counselling & Education Transitions to plan your career path.
- Enrich your global perspective by studying abroad for an academic term.
- Get paid work experience and tackle real-world challenges with District 3’s 12-week summer residency program.
- Volunteer with an organization for a cause you care about.
- Join the community-based internship program to drive meaningful change while building professional skills.
Final year
- Take control of your finances before your next chapter by exploring FutureBound’s financial literacy workshops.
- Help make campus greener at Concordia.
- Explore leadership opportunities in Health, Kinesiology & Applied Physiology Student's Association (HKAPSA).
- Join a professional association such as the Canadian Association of Fitness Professionals.
- Network with potential employers at recruitment events and career fairs.
Specialize your studies
Minors & elective groups
You can customize your degree by adding a minor or elective group.
Graduate studies and certifications
Graduate studies can help you specialize in a subject you love, engage in meaningful research or open doors to new career paths. Certifications are a great way to build new skills that complement your degree.
Talk to your professors or a career counsellor at the Student Success Centre to find programs that fit your goals.
Start exploring:
- Universitystudy.ca: A data base of graduate programs in Canada
- Concordia’s School of Graduate Studies: Graduate programs offered at Concordia
- Graduate funding and awards: Scholarships and awards, research and teaching assistantships, and other financial supports for Concordia graduate students
- Concordia Continuing Education: Courses, workshops and programs to advance your career
Career exploration resources
Professional associations
Access professional associations to explore opportunities and expand your network.
- Canadian Association of Fitness Professionals
- Canadian Athletic Therapists Association
- Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology
- Certified Personal Trainers Network
- Canadian Physiotherapy Association National Office
- Corporation des thérapeutes du sport du Québec (CTSQ)
- Fédération des Kinésiologues du Québec
- Physical and Health Education Canada
Job banks
Career counselling & advising
Want tailored career advice? Book an appointment with one of our career counsellors or career advisors.
Start your job search
Career Advising and Professional Success (CAPS) can help you find opportunities and support you with networking, applications and interviews.
