KHP 577 Practicum

The Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion offers an exercise science option for students who do not wish to obtain a teacher certification. The exercise science option is for students who plan to work with adults in a variety of sports, healthcare and fitness settings. The Practicum is a class in which students must complete a total of 300 contact hours of “real life” experience in a career field they are interested in pursuing. Students complete 300-work hours minimum for 6 hours credit in one semester or 150-work hours minimum for 3 hours credit per semester over 2 semesters.

The practicum is designed for the student to work in an assortment of situations. For example, if the student was assigned to a physical therapy unit of a clinic or hospital that deals with sports medicine, the student would: 1) assist in the performance of all aspects of adult fitness evaluations including cardiovascular endurance tests, muscular endurance tests, muscular flexibility tests and assist in the evaluation of these tests; 2) assist in pre-season screening of athletic teams; 3) appropriately assist the physical therapy personnel in the performance of their duties; 4) assist with record keeping and office management; 5) help with maintenance of equipment; and 6) contribute to cost efficiency and conservation of resources.

Some exercise science students find placements in settings that deal with businesses closely related to sport, fitness and health clubs, and wellness programs. The practicum for these students should provide experiences in: 1) office routine; 2) office management; 3) record keeping; 4) budget procedures; and 5) involvement in the general program operations.

The student must work at least 20 hours per week in the fall and spring semesters and at least 25 hours per week in the summer to meet the required 300 hours minimum.

For questions concerning the practicum contact: Dr. Stephanie L. Bennett, practicum coordinator, Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, 211 Seaton Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506-0219, phone (859) 257-5687, e-mail stephanie.bennett@uky.edu or fax (859) 323-1090.