The Department of Health and Kinesiology is an interdisciplinary unit dedicated to the study of health, rehabilitation and human movement. Our research centers on improving the lives of all people across the lifespan through movement, education and practice. Our outreach and engagement activities allow us to connect with the community in meaningful ways. Our world and its people face many challenges; HK is rising to the occasion.
History
The Department of Health and Kinesiology has roots in the earliest days of the university. Going back to 1874, instruction in calisthenics was offered for women and classes included lectures in health. In 1895, the Department of Physical Training for Men was established and the Department of Physical Culture for Women was authorized by the Board of Trustees. The departments of Physical Education for Men and Physical Education for Women merged in 1972. The new Department of Physical Education became the Department of Kinesiology in 1987.
The Department of Community Health at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has been helping to promote health in Illinois, the U.S. and the world since 1957. In 1998, the Community Health Department merged with the Division of Rehabilitation Education. In November 2004, the University of Illinois Faculty Senate voted to support the merger of the Departments of Kinesiology and Community Health. The merger was endorsed and implemented by the Board of Trustees of the University in February 2005. In August 2024, the department was renamed the Department of Health and Kinesiology.
Our Mission
To advance and disseminate knowledge related to health, rehabilitation and human movement using an interdisciplinary approach. Through the integration of high-quality research, instruction and outreach programs, faculty scholars within the department are leading initiatives that address pressing concerns of our diverse society such as the prevention and management of chronic disease as well as maintenance of health and well-being across the lifespan.
Our Vision
To serve as a global leader in the discovery and dissemination of knowledge and evidence-based practices that can positively impact health in our diverse society.
Our Focus Areas
Our focus areas represent the research and curricular strengths within the department, offering a structured framework for advancing scholarly activities, supporting students, faculty and staff, and facilitating administrative planning.
Faculty and Staff
Learn more about our faculty and staff and the work they do.
Careers and Alumni
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