If you are looking for the best Canadian university kinesiology program, then look no further! In this blog post, we will discuss the five best universities in Canada for studying kinesiology. Each of these universities has well-respected kinesiology programs for Canadians and international students that will help you launch your career in kinesiology and health science.
The good news is that the best kinesiology programs in Canada are each delivering quality education. Prospective undergraduate students at kinesiology undergraduate programs have access to exceptional professional development training in kinesiology and health sciences. There's no need to choose between a public research-focused university and the best sport-related schools as these universities have it all.
Read on to learn more about these distinguished kinesiology and health science schools.
University of Ottawa School of Human Kinetics is in a Prime Location
Kinesiology at the University of Ottawa combines broad knowledge domains and award-winning teaching to deliver students an exemplary education. The undergraduate program offers five majors and a minor in kinesiology.
Students can choose between honours studies in applied kinesiology, kinesiology science, kinesiology education, sports management, and the social science aspect of kinesiology. Each track offers a distinct focus on human movement, from sport organization governance to evidence-based techniques for exercise therapy. These kinesiology and health studies programs integrate five core domains: socio-cultural and leisure studies, sport management, psychology and pedagogy, biomechanics and motor control, and physiology.
Kinesiology degrees hold significant value in Ontario, as it is the only Canadian province where kinesiology is a regulated profession. This regulation broadens career opportunities for graduates pursuing a future as registered kinesiologists. The focus on professional kinesiology may attract students aiming for a direct career in the field, rather than using their degree as a stepping stone toward physiotherapy, athletic therapy, or occupational therapy.
In addition to its academic offerings, the University of Ottawa provides students with access to unique experiential learning opportunities. Its prime location in the nation’s capital enables partnerships with national sports organizations, government health agencies, and community initiatives. These connections enhance the practical experience and professional networking opportunities available to kinesiology students, equipping them for success in diverse career paths.
University of Toronto Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education has State of the Art Facilities
The University of Toronto’s Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education is one of the largest and best established in North America. The faculty, based at the downtown St. George Campus, has a long-standing reputation for excellence in teaching and research. The school offers both a Bachelor of Kinesiology degree and research opportunities to undergraduates.
The kinesiology program at U of T is one of the most comprehensive in Canada, with a strong focus on hands-on experiential learning. Canadian and international students have the opportunity to specialize in areas of physical and mental health.
This includes biophysical, physical-cultural, and psychological domains. Kinesiology and health science course topics include exercise physiology, psychology of injury and rehabilitation, motor learning and control, ethical issues, and biomechanics.
In addition to its academic curriculum, U of T provides students access to state-of-the-art facilities such as the Goldring Centre for High Performance Sport and the Mental Health & Physical Activity Research Centre (MPARC). These facilities offer students opportunities to engage in applied research and collaborate on community-focused health initiatives. This integration of resources and expertise helps students build a strong foundation for careers in healthcare, research, and sports science.
University of British Columbia Faculty of Education School of Kinesiology Offers Unique Experiential Learning
The School of Kinesiology at the University of British Columbia offers undergraduate students a comprehensive and challenging health sciences program. The school boasts multiple kinesiology research laboratories including the Puterman lab, in addition to student labs giving students access to hands-on education and professional research.
The UBC kinesiology curriculum includes courses in active health, biomechanics, motor learning, sociology, anatomy, and physiology. But what sets UBC apart from the rest is the opportunity for students to specialize in Neuromechanical and Physiological Sciences (NPSC), Social and Behavioural Sciences (SBSC), or Multidisciplinary Science (MDSC) in their second year.
UBC sport-related courses benefit from the university's dominance in western Canadian athletics. Kinesiology students also gain from the school’s emphasis on developing soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, which are particularly valuable for graduates entering the workforce. Unlike at every other university, this is the only Kinesiology program remaining under the Faculty of Education rather than the Faculty of Science. This allows students to implement what is called a “bio-psycho-social” approach to treatments and training.
Students at UBC also have access to unique experiential learning opportunities, such as partnerships with local community organizations and internships with high-performance sports teams. These experiences prepare students for diverse career pathways, from health promotion to sport science, and enhance their ability to address real-world challenges.
Simon Fraser University Faculty of Science Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology Ensures Students Learn Theoretical and Practical Skills
Simon Fraser University's Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology (BPK) offers a well-rounded health sciences program that prepares undergraduate students for careers in various health-related fields. The department also provides additional certifications in Health and Fitness and Nutrition, enabling students to diversify their skills and credentials. While the program’s online presence may be understated, its curriculum and research opportunities offer substantial value for motivated students.
Students in SFU’s BPK program benefit from instruction by renowned lecturers and researchers. Faculty members lead several cutting-edge labs, such as the Aerospace Physiology Lab, which collaborates with the Canadian Space Agency, and the Molecular Cardiac Physiology Group, which explores advanced tissue research. The Sensorimotor Neuroscience Lab also pushes boundaries by studying the intricate link between vision and movement. With around 1,000 students and multiple active research groups, SFU fosters a dynamic academic and research environment. This program is particularly well-suited for students interested in continuing into graduate studies or pursuing research-focused careers.
The university’s co-op program adds a valuable experiential learning component, allowing students to gain paid work experience in their field of interest. These placements often include roles in healthcare, fitness industries, and research organizations, ensuring graduates are equipped with both theoretical and practical expertise. This combination of academic rigor and real-world application makes SFU an appealing option for aspiring kinesiologists and health professionals.
McGill University Faculty of Science Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education Emphasizes Interdisciplinary Opportunities.
McGill University's kinesiology program is recognized for its rigorous academic framework and practical learning opportunities. As one of Canada’s leading research universities, McGill offers a well-rounded undergraduate program that delves into both the theoretical and practical aspects of exercise science.
The undergraduate curriculum covers a variety of subjects, including anatomy, ergonomics, and psychology, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of human movement and health. A notable feature of the program is its internship component, which begins in the second year. These placements enable students to gain valuable hands-on experience in settings such as rehabilitation centers, fitness facilities, and sports organizations.
McGill’s kinesiology students also benefit from the university’s top-tier sports facilities and vibrant athletics programs. From state-of-the-art fitness centers to its famous hockey rinks, McGill integrates physical activity into campus life, fostering a holistic approach to education and well-being. Additionally, the university supports research initiatives such as the ice hockey research group, which explores the sport’s impact on physical performance and injury prevention.
The program also emphasizes interdisciplinary opportunities, allowing students to combine kinesiology with related fields such as public health, neuroscience, or education. These options provide flexibility for students to tailor their degree to align with diverse career goals, including research, healthcare, or sports management.
Conclusion
The five universities listed above offer competitive kinesiology programs to undergraduate students that will prepare students for a successful career in the health and fitness industry. These programs are comprehensive and cover a range of topics from biomechanics to sociology.
Students at these universities can look forward to receiving an excellent education as well as opportunities for hands-on learning preparing you to register as a kinesiologist and work in the field. So if you are looking for a kinesiology program in Canada, any of the universities listed above would be an excellent choice.
If you're taking the next step and applying to a kinesiology school make sure to read our blog on what to know before starting an undergraduate degree in kinesiology.
Resources:
University of Ottawa School of Human Kinetics
University of Toronto Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education
University of British Columbia Faculty of Education School of Kinesiology
Simon Fraser University Faculty of Science Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology
McGill University Faculty of Science Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education
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