You want to attend a credible college that stands out from the rest. At COD, you'll discover:

• Dedicated instructors with years of professional experience.
• Affordable programs to help students achieve success without creating overwhelming debt or draining a savings account.
• Instruction utilizing top-notch facilities and equipment in the Physical Education Center (PEC) and Chaparral Fitness Center.
• Small class sizes that ensure students receive personalized attention.
• Convenient and affordable transfer programs with Aurora University, Elmhurst University, and Lewis University.
  
• An award winning program, categorized as the third best Exercise Science and Kinesiology associate degree program in the U.S. for 2021.

Kinesiology and Fitness Transfer Pathway, A.A.

What is a Transfer Pathway?

A transfer pathway represents a typical course schedule/sequence for a student planning to complete the A.A. degree within two years, then transfer and major in a specific discipline. A transfer pathway is not institution-specific.

It is important to understand that the pathway provided in the adjacent tab is just one possible combination of classes by which to complete an A.A. and prepare for transfer in your chosen area of study. Other course combinations and sequences can work, too. It is strongly recommended that students work directly and frequently with a COD academic counselor/advisor, a COD faculty advisor, and academic counselors/advisors at potential transfer schools, to develop and execute a plan that works best for them.

Kinesiology and Fitness Transfer Pathway, A.S.

What is a Transfer Pathway?

A transfer pathway represents a typical course schedule/sequence for a student planning to complete the A.S. degree within two years, then transfer and major in a specific discipline. A transfer pathway is not institution-specific.

It is important to understand that the pathway provided in the adjacent tab is just one possible combination of classes by which to complete an A.S. and prepare for transfer in your chosen area of study. Other course combinations and sequences can work, too. It is strongly recommended that students work directly and frequently with a COD academic counselor/advisor, a COD faculty advisor, and academic counselors/advisors at potential transfer schools, to develop and execute a plan that works best for them.

Personal Trainer, Certificate

The Personal Trainer Certificate is designed to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in personal training: kinesiology, nutrition, fitness assessment, and exercise program design. The culmination of the coursework in this program prepares students to sit for a nationally accredited personal training certification exam.

Once nationally certified as a personal trainer, students are eligible for employment at local health clubs, community centers, park districts, and other fitness-related facilities.

Physical Education Teaching and Coaching Transfer Pathway, A.A.

What is a Transfer Pathway?

A transfer pathway represents a typical course schedule/sequence for a student planning to complete the A.A. degree within two years, then transfer and major in a specific discipline. A transfer pathway is not institution-specific.

It is important to understand that the pathway provided in the adjacent tab is just one possible combination of classes by which to complete an A.A. and prepare for transfer in your chosen area of study. Other course combinations and sequences can work, too. It is strongly recommended that students work directly and frequently with a COD academic counselor/advisor, a COD faculty advisor, and academic counselors/advisors at potential transfer schools, to develop and execute a plan that works best for them.

Sports Management Transfer Pathway, A.A.

What is a Transfer Pathway?

A transfer pathway represents a typical course schedule/sequence for a student planning to complete the A.A. degree within two years, then transfer and major in a specific discipline. A transfer pathway is not institution-specific.

It is important to understand that the pathway provided in the adjacent tab is just one possible combination of classes by which to complete an A.A. and prepare for transfer in your chosen area of study. Other course combinations and sequences can work, too. It is strongly recommended that students work directly and frequently with a COD academic counselor/advisor, a COD faculty advisor, and academic counselors/advisors at potential transfer schools, to develop and execute a plan that works best for them.

Get moving and jump into one of our group fitness or activity classes including yoga, pilates, water aerobics, kickboxing, weight training, power lifting, HIIT or boot camp.

All activity classes are taught by experienced, certified instructors who will help you reach your fitness goals and earn a college credit along the way. 

A full list of classes can be found in the course catalog.  

Complete Your State of Illinois Subsequent Physical Education Endorsement Coursework

Once you complete the requirements needed to earn your Professional Educator License (PEL) or Educator License with Stipulations endorsed in a teaching field, you can earn additional content area endorsements. According to the Illinois State Board of Education, endorsements can be added at any grade level even if the underlying teaching endorsement on the PEL is a different grade range.  

Learn more about adding a PE endorsement. 

Physical Education Teaching and Coaching

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the various health issues currently facing today’s society.
2. Explain the benefits of regular exercise and healthy eating as it relates to the dimensions of wellness and hypokinetic disease.
3. Understand the components of physical fitness and steps to achieve each.
4. Recognize and apply proper protocol in periodization of training.
5. Recognize career possibilities and preparation within the fields of teaching and coaching.

Kinesiology/Fitness 

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles of Kinesiology.
2. Summarize the relationship of physical activity and nutrition as it relates to human wellness.
3. Explain the fundamental processes involved in human movement as it relates to anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and motor learning.
4. Evaluate the validity of various health and fitness information sources.
5. Recognize career opportunities and preparation within the field of Kinesiology.

Sport Management

1. Demonstrate the knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles required for professional success and the effective practice of sport management.
2. Develop and apply critical thinking skills related to effective and ethical sport management decision-making and problem-solving.
3. Recognize the social, ethical, and culturally competent obligations and responsibilities of a sport management professional. 
4. Develop and apply the interpersonal and professional communication skills necessary for effective sport management practice.
5. Recognize career opportunities, options, and the various working environments within sport management. 

College of DuPage partners with several four-year institutions to help students seamlessly complete a bachelor’s degree in physical education, fitness and sports studies. Students can connect with Transfer Services for personalized guidance on transfer opportunities.

For more information about Transfer Pathways, visit the College of DuPage Catalog. The pathway outlines a typical two-year course plan for completing an AA or AS degree before transferring to a four-year program. Course requirements vary by institution, so consult your faculty or academic advisor for specific guidance.

Articulation Agreements

College of DuPage maintains transfer agreements with many colleges and universities to ensure a smooth transition toward a bachelor’s degree. These agreements often include a defined course sequence. Students should regularly meet with a faculty member or Advising Services to stay on track.

• Aurora University, AS (Kinesiology track) to BS in Exercise Science + Master of Science in Athletic Training 
• Aurora University, AS (Kinesiology track) to BS in Exercise Science + Master of Science in Exercise Science
• Aurora University, AA (Sport Management track) to BA in Sport Management + MBA Sport Management track
• Elmhurst University, AA to BA in Exercise Science
• Elmhurst University, AA to BA in Physical Education with K-12 Teacher Licensure
• Elmhurst University, AA to BA in Sport Management

Transfer Guides

Beyond articulation agreements and guaranteed admission programs, College of DuPage courses transfer to many other institutions. Transfer Guides help students select COD courses that meet prerequisites for specific majors and include details such as contact information, major requirements, general education requirements, and transfer policies.

• Lewis University, AA to BA Sport Management

Do you have a passion for physical education, fitness or sports? Students who pursue an education with our program open the door to careers in teaching, coaching, personal training, strength and conditioning, athletic training, kinesiology, sport management and marketing, athletic administration, health and wellness.

We offer a top-notch, affordable program with experienced faculty, a variety of course offerings (on campus and online), and transfer options.  

If you’re not quite sure exactly what you want to pursue as a career, no problem. We offer three pathways or intended majors:

• Physical Education Teaching and Coaching
• Kinesiology 
• Sport Management

Although these paths lead toward specific careers, much of the coursework overlaps and therefore students can move from one path to another.

In addition, we recommend all students interested in our program start with PHYS 2200, Introduction to Physical Education. This class gives students a great understanding of the career and education options within our field as well as clarity on potential paths moving forward. 

Our intended majors are designed to lay the educational groundwork for students who are looking to transfer to a four-year university after their initial two years of study at COD.  

Our Personal Trainer certificate gives students an opportunity to become nationally certified as a personal trainer in a shorter amount of time. Once nationally certified, students are employable at health clubs, YMCAs, Park Districts and other fitness-related facilities. This allows students an earlier entry into the fitness field and/or get certified and gain experience while pursuing their degree.  

We highly encourage all students to take activity classes. All activity classes are taught by experienced, certified instructors who lead quality workouts to help you reach your fitness goals. You will even earn a college credit along the way. We offer a wide variety of classes including but not limited to cardio kickboxing, Yoga, Pilates, water aerobics, a variety of martial arts and weight training.  

To get started, click on the “Get Started” link above or contact one of our full-time faculty members for more information:  

Nicole Juhl, Assistant Professor
Phone: (630) 942-2056

Sandy Kurby, Assistant Professor
Phone: (630) 942-2587

Jane Vatchev
Phone: (630) 942-3329
Advising area: Physical Education Teacher/Coach 

Stephanie Vlach
Phone: (630) 942-2629
Advising area: Sport Management