At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s Department of Health and Kinesiology, a passionate team of faculty, researchers, and students are working to improve human health, movement and mobility. Their goal is simple: to enhance lives through science, innovation, and hands-on research.
From helping athletes optimise performance to developing rehabilitation techniques for individuals with mobility challenges, the department takes a broad approach to understanding health and movement. For instance, in one recent project, Assistant Professor Matt Hanks and his graduate students in the Disability & Movement Biomechanics Lab worked with Illinois wheelchair athletes, conducting performance and shoulder health assessments.
The department’s research spans biomechanics, exercise physiology, and the impact of physical activity on overall well-being. Students play a key role, gaining real-world experience in labs, clinics, and community programmes. Whether they have their eyes on fields like healthcare, sports science, or research, they graduate ready to make a difference.
To support diverse career paths, the department offers degree programmes across three areas: Kinesiology, Community Health, and Interdisciplinary Health Sciences — along with a range of minors and certificates.
Programmes tackling the pressing issues of our time
Kinesiology
Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
This programme prepares students for careers in human movement and further studies. Through research-driven instruction and hands-on learning, faculty address issues like childhood obesity and chronic disease prevention. Graduates excel in clinical, academic, corporate, and government roles and promote lifelong health, fitness, and well-being.
Master of Science in Kinesiology
This programme offers specialised study in areas such as exercise physiology, biomechanics, and motor control. Designed for in-depth learning, it can be completed in as little as one year with a summer session, though most students finish in two years.
This programme is for those pursuing careers in research and teaching. Students specialise in exercise physiology, biomechanics, and motor control, gaining advanced expertise through in-depth study and research. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in academia, healthcare, and industry, advancing progress in human movement and health sciences.
Community Health
Community Health Undergraduate Degree
This programme equips students with a deep understanding of healthcare systems, preparing them for careers and graduate programmes. With a systemic perspective, they become leaders and change agents, driving innovation and positive impact in their communities and healthcare organisations.
The nationally-accredited MPH programme combines the benefits of a small programme with the resources of a top research university. Students major in Epidemiology or Public Health (Health Behavior and Promotion) and gain hands-on experience in real-world settings, ensuring they are well-prepared for impactful public health careers.
Master of Health Administration
This programme develops strong leaders by combining leadership training with financial planning, strategic management, and quality initiatives. Graduates are prepared for careers in hospitals, medical offices, insurance groups, pharmaceutical companies, and other healthcare settings, equipping them with the skills to drive positive change in the industry.
Master of Science in Community Health
This programme prepares students to tackle current and future health challenges. With various focus areas, students engage in meaningful work while developing the skills needed for research and practice. Graduates become health researchers and practitioners dedicated to improving public health and well-being.
This programme prepares students for academic and research careers. They can specialise in one of six concentrations while working towards becoming community health researchers and practitioners capable of addressing society’s biggest challenges.
Interdisciplinary Health Sciences
Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Undergraduate Degree
The undergraduate Interdisciplinary Health Sciences (I-Health) programme takes a holistic approach to healthcare. Students learn to integrate knowledge from multiple fields to develop new solutions to health challenges. Graduates gain a strong foundation in biology and other sciences, preparing them to care for the whole person.
Hear from the students
Sylvia Okon, Community Health PhD
Okon, a second-year PhD student in Community Health, is making the most of her time at UIUC. Working in the MEASURE Lab under Dr. Hoopsick’s mentorship, she has embraced opportunities that will help her achieve her career goals.
“The programme offers a well-rounded experience, combining applied knowledge, teaching training, and research development,” she says. “Coming from a different academic background, I was initially worried about building a solid foundation in the field. However, I quickly discovered that the programme is well-structured to provide the essential knowledge and skills to prepare me for a successful career in public health.”
Beyond the classroom, Okon presented a poster at the 2024 American Public Health Association Annual Conference, a milestone that allowed her to connect with leading professionals in the field. “I’m proud to be part of this dynamic and supportive academic community,” she says.
Ziwei Li, Health and Kinesiology PhD
Li is in her third year of the PhD programme. Moving to Champaign-Urbana as an international student was a big step, but the welcoming community quickly made it feel like home. At UIUC, Li has found a place that celebrates diverse cultures while encouraging new perspectives creating an environment of inclusion and support.
Her PhD experience has been both challenging and rewarding. With guidance from Dr. Laura Rice and a supportive lab team, Li has grown as a researcher, mentor, and educator. “My work focuses on fall prevention and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities, and I love how practical the programme is,” she says. “Whether it’s collaborating with clinicians, designing community interventions, or mentoring undergrads, I’m constantly learning how to turn theory into real-world impact.”
Li is equally appreciative of the programme’s interdisciplinary nature. From seminars to teaching opportunities and research collaborations, it’s been a chance to build skills beyond academics.
“The blend of academic rigour, mentorship, and community warmth has shaped me into a more confident and compassionate scholar,” she says. “As an international student, I could not have found a better place for my professional and personal growth.”
An enriching education awaits at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s Department of Health and Kinesiology.
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