Best Kinesiology Programs in Eloy

Best Kinesiology Programs in Eloy, AZ (2026 Guide)

Kinesiology is one of the fastest-growing fields in health and human performance. If you live in Eloy, Arizona and want to pursue a career in physical therapy, athletic training, sports medicine, or exercise science, choosing the right program is critical. This guide ranks and compares the best kinesiology programs near Eloy based on accreditation, affordability, curriculum strength, career outcomes, and flexibility.

Key Takeaways

• The top kinesiology programs near Eloy are located in Phoenix and Tucson, within commuting distance.
• Arizona State University and the University of Arizona offer nationally respected bachelor’s degrees in kinesiology and exercise science.
• Central Arizona College provides an affordable associate degree pathway close to Eloy.
• Accreditation, internship access, and graduate school preparation are essential factors when choosing a program.
• Graduates can pursue careers in physical therapy, occupational therapy, coaching, personal training, and health sciences.

How We Ranked the Best Kinesiology Programs Near Eloy

To identify the strongest programs, we evaluated:

• Accreditation: Regional university accreditation and program credibility.
• Curriculum depth: Courses in anatomy, biomechanics, exercise physiology, and motor development.
• Career preparation: Internship opportunities and graduate school placement.
• Cost and financial aid: In-state tuition and scholarship availability.
• Format options: On-campus, hybrid, or online learning flexibility.

All programs below are located within reasonable reach of Eloy, AZ or are accessible fully online to residents.

Top Kinesiology Programs Near Eloy, Arizona

SchoolProgramLocationFormatApprox. In-State TuitionArizona State UniversityBS in KinesiologyPhoenix, AZOn-campus$11,000 per yearUniversity of ArizonaBS in Physiology & Medical SciencesTucson, AZOn-campus$13,000 per yearNorthern Arizona UniversityBS in Fitness WellnessFlagstaff, AZCampus & Online$12,500 per yearCentral Arizona CollegeAssociate in Health & Physical EducationCoolidge, AZOn-campus$2,500 per year

1. Arizona State University (ASU)

Best Overall Kinesiology Program Near Eloy

Located about 70 miles from Eloy, Arizona State University offers one of the strongest kinesiology bachelor’s programs in the state. The program emphasizes scientific principles of human movement, injury prevention, and performance optimization.

Highlights:

• Comprehensive coursework in biomechanics, exercise physiology, and sport psychology
• Hands-on lab experience with advanced human performance technology
• Strong preparation for Doctor of Physical Therapy and medical programs
• Access to research opportunities and faculty mentorship

ASU graduates frequently pursue careers in physical therapy, occupational therapy, strength and conditioning, and healthcare administration. The university maintains strong connections with Phoenix-area hospitals and clinics for internships.

Ideal for: Students seeking research experience and graduate school preparation.

2. University of Arizona (UArizona)

Best for Pre-Med and Physical Therapy Pathways

Approximately 65 miles south of Eloy, UArizona in Tucson offers a Bachelor of Science in Physiology and Medical Sciences that aligns closely with kinesiology career goals.

Why it stands out:

• Advanced coursework in human anatomy and neurophysiology
• Strong MCAT and DPT program preparation
• State-of-the-art research labs
• High acceptance rates into graduate health programs

This option is excellent for students who plan to continue into physical therapy, physician assistant programs, or medical school. While not labeled strictly as “kinesiology,” the curriculum covers key exercise science foundations.

Ideal for: Students focused on clinical or medical careers.

3. Northern Arizona University (NAU)

Best Flexible Option (Campus and Online)

NAU offers a BS in Fitness Wellness that emphasizes applied exercise science and community health promotion. While the main campus is in Flagstaff, some coursework and degree pathways are accessible online, making it a practical option for Eloy residents who need flexibility.

Program strengths:

• Online learning flexibility
• Focus on personal training and wellness coaching
• Preparation for certifications like ACSM or NASM
• Practical, career-ready coursework

This program is well-suited for students aiming to become certified personal trainers, corporate wellness coordinators, or health coaches.

4. Central Arizona College (CAC)

Best Budget-Friendly Option Close to Eloy

Located in Coolidge, just minutes from Eloy, Central Arizona College provides an affordable Associate degree in Health and Physical Education. This program can serve as a transfer pathway to ASU or UArizona.

Advantages:

• Low in-state tuition
• Small class sizes
• Convenient location
• Transfer agreements with Arizona universities

For students who want to reduce overall tuition costs before completing a bachelor’s degree, CAC provides a smart starting point.

Career Outcomes for Kinesiology Graduates in Arizona

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in fitness training and instructing is projected to grow faster than average through 2030. In Arizona specifically, demand for health professionals continues to rise due to population growth.

Common Career Paths and Median Salaries:

• Exercise Physiologist: Approximately $50,000 per year
• Fitness Trainer or Coach: $40,000 to $65,000 per year
• Physical Therapist Assistant: $60,000 per year
• Occupational Therapy Assistant: $63,000 per year
• Physical Therapist (with doctorate): $95,000 per year

Many kinesiology graduates continue into graduate programs, which significantly increases earning potential.

How to Choose the Right Kinesiology Program in Eloy

1. Define Your Career Goal

If you plan to attend physical therapy school, prioritize programs with strong anatomy and physiology foundations. If you want to work immediately after graduation, choose programs with internships and certification prep.

2. Verify Accreditation

Ensure the institution is regionally accredited. Graduate schools and employers require degrees from accredited universities.

3. Compare Total Cost

Look beyond tuition. Consider transportation, housing, lab fees, and certification costs.

4. Ask About Internships

Hands-on experience in clinics, hospitals, or training centers improves job readiness and graduate school applications.

5. Consider Learning Format

If you work full-time, hybrid or online options may provide flexibility without sacrificing quality.

Campus vs Online Kinesiology Programs

Students in Eloy can choose between commuting to Phoenix or Tucson campuses or enrolling in partial online programs.

On-Campus Pros:

• Access to advanced labs and equipment
• Face-to-face faculty mentoring
• Networking opportunities

Online Pros:

• Scheduling flexibility
• Reduced commuting costs
• Ideal for working adults

For exercise-based programs, fully online options may still require in-person lab components, so verify program requirements before enrolling.

Student Success Tips for Kinesiology Majors

• Maintain a strong GPA if planning for graduate school.
• Gain CPR and first aid certification early.
• Volunteer or work in physical therapy clinics.
• Seek research or lab assistant positions.
• Build professional relationships with faculty mentors.

The combination of academic performance and practical experience is what separates average graduates from top candidates in competitive healthcare programs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kinesiology Programs Near Eloy, AZ

What kinesiology or related programs are closest to Eloy, AZ?

The closest option is Central Arizona College in Coolidge, which offers an associate degree in Health and Physical Education. Within commuting distance, you can access kinesiology and related bachelor’s programs at Arizona State University in Phoenix, the University of Arizona in Tucson, and Northern Arizona University through campus and online formats.

How do you choose the right kinesiology program near Eloy?

Start by defining your career goal, such as physical therapy, coaching, or personal training. Then check that the school is regionally accredited, compare total costs, review course lists in anatomy and exercise science, and ask about internships or clinical hours. Also decide if you need on-campus, hybrid, or online learning based on your work and family schedule.

Can you start at Central Arizona College and transfer to a university kinesiology program?

Yes. Central Arizona College offers an affordable associate pathway with transfer agreements to Arizona universities. You can complete your general education and foundational health and physical education courses at CAC, then transfer to schools like Arizona State University or the University of Arizona to finish a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, exercise science, or a related major.

What careers can you pursue with a kinesiology or exercise science degree in Arizona?

With a kinesiology or related degree, you can work as a fitness trainer, strength and conditioning coach, wellness coach, or exercise specialist. Many graduates use the degree as a foundation for advanced study in physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant programs, or medical school, which can lead to higher-paying clinical roles.

Is it better to study kinesiology on campus or online if you live in Eloy?

If you want access to labs, in-person coaching, and campus networking, an on-campus option in Phoenix or Tucson may fit you well. If you work full-time or need to stay close to Eloy, a hybrid or online format like Northern Arizona University’s fitness wellness options can offer more scheduling flexibility. Some courses may still require in-person labs, so review each program’s format before you apply.