The Health Education program at Laney College is under the Kinesiology, Sports Fitness and Athletics Department. We offer a variety of classes that can meet General Education requirements under Area E “Lifelong Learning and Self Development”. Courses range from a broad exploration of health issues to specific first aid, CPR, and safety concepts. We strive to educate general population students on a variety of health and wellness issues to enhance their personal development as well as provide an opportunity for students in Health majors to develop the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes they will need for their degree programs and for careers in the Health and Wellness industry.
Career Opportunities
A degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis on Health Education Studies can open up various career opportunities in the fields of health, wellness, fitness, and education. Here are several potential career paths you could pursue with this degree:
- Health Educator/Health Promotion Specialist: As a health educator, you would design and implement programs to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent illness or injury. This could involve working in schools, community health organizations, hospitals, corporate wellness programs, or government agencies.
- Fitness Trainer/Instructor: With a focus on health education, you could become a fitness trainer or instructor, helping individuals and groups develop exercise routines and healthy habits. This could include working in fitness centers, gyms, corporate wellness programs, or offering private training sessions.
- Community Health Worker: Community health workers play a vital role in connecting individuals and communities to health and social services. They provide information and support to promote healthy behaviors and access to healthcare resources, often working in community health centers, nonprofits, or government agencies.
- Corporate Wellness Coordinator: Many companies have wellness programs aimed at promoting employee health and productivity. As a wellness coordinator, you could develop and oversee these programs, which may include organizing fitness classes, health screenings, and educational workshops.
- Public Health Advocate/Policy Analyst: With a background in health education, you could work as an advocate for public health issues or as a policy analyst, helping to shape health-related policies at the local, state, or national level. This could involve working for government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or advocacy groups.
- Health Coach: Health coaches work one-on-one with clients to help them set and achieve health goals, such as weight loss, improved fitness, or stress reduction. They provide support, encouragement, and education to help clients make sustainable lifestyle changes.
- Physical Therapy Assistant/Occupational Therapy Assistant: While these roles typically require additional certification or licensure, a degree in Kinesiology with a focus on health education can provide a strong foundation for pursuing a career as a physical therapy assistant or occupational therapy assistant. These professionals work under the supervision of physical therapists or occupational therapists to help patients recover from injuries or manage disabilities.
- Academic Advising/Student Support Services: Some individuals with a background in Kinesiology and health education may choose to work in academic advising or student support services within educational institutions. In these roles, you could help students navigate their academic and career paths, including course selection, internships, and post-graduate opportunities in the health and wellness field.
These are just a few examples of the many career paths available to individuals with a degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis on Health Education Studies. Depending on your interests, skills, and professional goals, you may choose to pursue additional certifications, specialized training, or advanced degrees to further enhance your career opportunities in this field.
