Kinesiology and Physical Therapy at UCSD

Learn the basics of human anatomy, movement fundamentals, and exercise principles while doing lab work and clinical education.

Program Highlights

Understand the career options and differences between various health professions such as Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Athletic Training, Personal Training, Kinesiology, and more.

Understand various medical concepts regarding injury, disability and pain, and how they apply to rehabilitation of the human body.

Learn how the body moves through various techniques and tools, such as range of motion measurements, endurance testing, and outcome measures.

Develop basic assessment skills such as; range of motion (ROM), flexibility, strength, gait (i.e., learning how to walk) and balance assessment.

Practice manual skills such as palpation, manual muscle testing, sports taping and soft tissue mobilization with and without tools.

Residential Tuition:
$5,498

Commuter Tuition:
$3,198

Session 1:
June 29, 2025 July 11, 2025

Session 2:
July 13, 2025 July 25, 2025

Session 3:
July 27, 2025 August 8, 2025

UC San Diego
San Diego, CA

Course Overview

When someone has trouble moving or is injured, what can truly help is a non-invasive discipline that helps evaluate and improve mobility and relieve pain. Physical therapy might be just what they need. In this program, you will learn the basics of human anatomy, movement fundamentals, and exercise principles while doing lab work and clinical education.

Students will also gain a basic understanding and learn the physical therapy requirements and the many job opportunities this field can provide through various specialties. Learn to make a positive change in the community by empowering others through physical and mental health.

Meet your instructor

Dr. Tracy Smith

Kinesiology & Physical Therapy

Dr. Tracy Smith holds a Master’s and Post-Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy from Baylor University. She is fellowship trained in orthopedics/manual therapy and is a certified Athletic Trainer. Dr. Smith served as an active duty Army officer and physical therapist for 20 years, treating Soldiers and their families in many settings.

Learn more

Topics you'll explore

Hands-On Learning

Students will get the opportunity to visit local physical therapy clinics and organizations utilizing the career discipline, as well as interact with professionals in the field. In the past, students visited an outpatient physical therapy clinic, a sports physical therapy clinic, and the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center to get practical exposure.