Best Kinesiology Degrees in Mesa

Best Kinesiology Degrees in Mesa: Top Programs, Costs, and Career Outcomes

Kinesiology is one of the fastest-growing academic pathways in Arizona, connecting students to careers in physical therapy, sports performance, athletic training, occupational therapy, and health sciences. If you are searching for the best kinesiology degrees in Mesa, this guide delivers a complete comparison of programs, tuition, career outcomes, and local internship opportunities so you can make an informed decision.

Key Takeaways

• Mesa offers strong options in exercise science, kinesiology, and applied movement science through public universities and private institutions.
• Arizona State University leads in research facilities, internships, and pre-health preparation.
• Students can pursue associate, bachelor’s, and graduate-level pathways within commuting distance.
• Local partnerships with hospitals, clinics, and athletic organizations enhance hands-on training.
• Job growth for kinesiology-related careers is projected to rise significantly across Arizona.

What to Look for in a Top Kinesiology Program

Before comparing schools, understand what separates an average program from a high-impact one.

1. Accreditation and Academic Rigor

Look for regionally accredited institutions with coursework in biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor development, anatomy, and sports psychology. Programs aligned with pre-physical therapy or pre-med tracks provide added flexibility.

2. Hands-On Clinical Experience

Strong kinesiology degrees embed internships in hospitals, physical therapy clinics, strength and conditioning facilities, or community health programs.

3. Graduate School Placement

Many students pursue doctorates in physical therapy, occupational therapy, or chiropractic medicine. Schools with high graduate acceptance rates add long-term value.

4. Facilities and Labs

Modern biomechanics labs, human performance testing equipment, and athletic training spaces matter. Access to research-grade tools strengthens both learning and resumes.

Best Colleges for Kinesiology Degrees in Mesa

The following schools offer the strongest kinesiology and related programs in or near Mesa based on academic quality, student outcomes, internships, and faculty reputation.

SchoolDegree LevelsProgram StrengthBest ForArizona State University (ASU)Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral PathwaysResearch-focused, nationally recognizedPre-PT, sports performance, research careersMesa Community CollegeAssociate DegreeTransfer-friendly and affordableBudget-conscious studentsA.T. Still UniversityGraduate Health Science DegreesHealthcare-focused educationStudents pursuing advanced clinical careers

1. Arizona State University

Location: Tempe Campus, 15 minutes from Mesa
Program: BS in Kinesiology, MS in Exercise and Wellness, Doctoral health pathways

Why ASU Stands Out

• Comprehensive kinesiology curriculum covering exercise physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition.
• Internship placements with professional sports teams, rehabilitation centers, and research labs.
• High graduate school acceptance rates for physical therapy and medical programs.
• Access to cutting-edge motion capture and metabolic testing labs.

ASU consistently ranks among the top public universities in innovation. Its kinesiology graduates move into physical therapy, strength coaching, cardiac rehabilitation, and advanced research roles.

Ideal Student: Someone seeking research exposure, competitive graduate school preparation, or leadership in athletic performance.

2. Mesa Community College

Program: Associate in Science with emphasis in Exercise Science

Why Choose MCC?

• Affordable tuition compared to four-year universities.
• Designed for smooth transfer to ASU or other Arizona universities.
• Smaller class sizes for personalized instruction.

This option is particularly strong for students testing the field before committing to a bachelor’s degree. Many graduates transfer seamlessly to complete a four-year kinesiology program.

Ideal Student: Recent high school graduates prioritizing affordability and flexibility.

3. A.T. Still University

Location: Mesa, AZ
Focus: Health sciences and rehabilitation-focused graduate programs

While A.T. Still University does not offer a traditional undergraduate kinesiology degree, it provides advanced healthcare education aligned with movement science, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.

Strengths Include

• Strong emphasis on whole-person healthcare.
• Reputation in osteopathic and allied health education.
• Advanced clinical placements across Arizona.

Ideal Student: Those already holding a bachelor’s degree seeking advanced healthcare credentials.

Career Outlook for Kinesiology Graduates in Mesa

Kinesiology is not just an academic discipline. It is a gateway to high-demand careers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Physical therapist employment is projected to grow much faster than average nationwide.
• Exercise physiologists and fitness trainers continue to see steady growth.
• Arizona’s growing population increases demand for rehabilitation and sports health services.

Popular Career Paths

• Physical Therapist
• Occupational Therapist
• Chiropractor
• Sports Performance Coach
• Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist
• Physician Assistant

In Mesa and greater Maricopa County, students benefit from proximity to Banner Health facilities, Dignity Health hospitals, private physical therapy clinics, and professional athletic organizations.

Internship and Networking Opportunities in Mesa

One of the biggest advantages of studying kinesiology in Mesa is access to a thriving healthcare network. Students commonly complete internships at:

• Banner Desert Medical Center
• Select Physical Therapy clinics
• Local high school and collegiate athletic departments
• Private sports performance centers

These experiential opportunities help students build resumes and professional networks before graduation.

Tuition and Financial Considerations

Costs vary significantly by institution and residency status. In general:

• Community colleges provide the most affordable entry point.
• Public universities offer competitive in-state tuition for Arizona residents.
• Private health science schools carry higher tuition but may provide specialized training.

Students should explore Arizona-based scholarships, federal grants, and work-study opportunities tied to health sciences.

How to Choose the Right Kinesiology Degree in Mesa

Step 1: Clarify Your End Goal

Do you want to become a physical therapist, athletic trainer, or strength coach? Your career target should guide degree level selection.

Step 2: Compare Transfer Pathways

If starting at a community college, confirm articulation agreements with four-year universities.

Step 3: Evaluate Internship Access

Ask about required clinical hours, internship placements, and graduate outcomes.

Step 4: Visit the Campus

Tour labs and speak to faculty advisors. The availability of exercise physiology labs and testing equipment can significantly impact your training experience.

Online Kinesiology Degree Options Near Mesa

ASU also offers online exercise and wellness programs that provide flexibility for working adults. Hybrid models allow students to complete theoretical coursework online while finishing lab or clinical components in person.

Online options are ideal for adult learners balancing employment, athletics, or family responsibilities.

Admissions Requirements for Mesa Kinesiology Programs

While criteria vary, students typically need:

• Strong GPA in biology, anatomy, chemistry, and mathematics
• SAT or ACT scores for four-year universities
• Personal statement outlining career goals
• Transfer credits evaluated for community college pathways

Competitive programs often look for volunteer experience in hospitals or athletic settings.

Student Success Factors in Kinesiology

Students who thrive in kinesiology programs often demonstrate:

• Interest in human anatomy and movement
• Strong study habits for science-intensive coursework
• Communication skills for patient or athlete interaction
• Commitment to continuing education

The field requires dedication, but Mesa offers one of Arizona’s strongest environments for launching a movement science career.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kinesiology Degrees in Mesa

What kinesiology and exercise science degrees can you earn in or near Mesa?

In the Mesa area, you can start with an associate degree in exercise science at Mesa Community College and then transfer into a bachelor’s program such as Arizona State University’s BS in Kinesiology. From there, you can pursue master’s and doctoral pathways in exercise and health sciences at ASU or graduate clinical programs at schools like A.T. Still University in Mesa.

How much does a kinesiology degree near Mesa usually cost?

Community colleges such as Mesa Community College generally have the lowest tuition, especially for in-district students. Public universities like Arizona State University charge higher tuition, but in-state rates are usually more affordable than out-of-state rates. Private graduate schools, including A.T. Still University, often cost more per credit but focus on specialized clinical training. Your final cost will also depend on scholarships, grants, and financial aid.

What careers can you pursue with a kinesiology degree from Mesa-area schools?

With a kinesiology or exercise science background, you can move into roles such as exercise specialist, fitness coach, or strength and conditioning coach, or use the degree as a pre-professional path toward becoming a physical therapist, occupational therapist, chiropractor, physician assistant, or other health professional. Many graduates continue into advanced clinical or research programs after their bachelor’s degree.

Are there good internship and clinical opportunities for kinesiology students in Mesa?

Yes. Kinesiology and exercise science students near Mesa often complete internships or clinical hours with local hospitals and health systems, such as Banner Desert Medical Center, outpatient rehab and physical therapy clinics, school and college athletic departments, and private sports performance centers. These sites help you gain hands-on experience while you study.

What admission requirements should you expect for kinesiology programs near Mesa?

You should expect to need a solid high school GPA, especially in biology, chemistry, math, and related science courses. Many four-year universities ask for SAT or ACT scores, a personal statement that explains your interest in health and movement science, and transcripts for any college credits you want to transfer. Volunteer or work experience in fitness, sports, or healthcare settings can also strengthen your application.