Opportunities for Students | Penn State College of Health and Human Development

Woman in VR headset in front of screen that shows muscle groups on human back

Students work with virtual reality technology for understanding muscular and skeletal function.

Student Research

Students in Penn State’s Kinesiology program have a truly unique opportunity to work with world-renowned researchers and faculty members in an active research environment. Explore each area of study below to discover topics that interest you and identify which researchers work in each field.

As a student, you will contribute to our research mission while gaining firsthand experience in conducting groundbreaking research, working with participants, collecting data, conducting data analyses, publishing papers, and presenting your findings at academic conferences. In keeping with our innovative and interdisciplinary mission, the research possibilities here are extensive and diverse.

Graduate Studies

The Kinesiology Graduate Program at Penn State has been ranked as one of the top three programs in the nation by the National Academy of Kinesiology for the last 15 years. Graduates of our program go on to careers in academia, industry, and other health and science-related professions.

Undergraduate Research

The Department of Kinesiology provides undergraduate research opportunities for students from a wide range of majors including Kinesiology, Biology, Pre-Medicine, and Nutritional Sciences.

Our Department also provides two Schreyer Honors College advisers to support students in the Honor Study program in Kinesiology and Athletic Training.

Student researcher checks vitals of a volunteer on an exercise bike

Getting started in undergraduate research in HHD

Student research is not like taking a class: there is not a single repository where you sign up. Typically, students find or create their own opportunities. Much like in conducting research, staying passionate and being persistent are critical.

Read 10 steps for getting started in research.
Learn more about funding and opportunities for undergraduate research.
Think you know what faculty you might want to work with? Read our tips for reaching out to faculty.
Questions? Read our frequently asked questions on undergraduate research.
See a list of undergraduate research opportunities across Penn State. The list is not comprehensive, but it is a great place to start.

If you still have questions, speak with your academic adviser.