Certificate in Mental Health and Physical Activity

The Mental Health and Physical Activity Certificate is designed for students who have interest in studying courses with a major focus on physical activity participation for mental health and well-being promotion across a variety of populations. These behavioural and psychology based courses addressing topics related to injury, sport, health, and engagement in exercise across the lifespan, include case-based approaches incorporating evidence-informed recommendations and best practices for sustainable physical activity participation. Students will learn about the increasingly important role of kinesiology and physical education in supporting mental health and well-being.

Requirements 

Students currently registered in KPE must successfully complete 2.0 FCE from the following Mental Health and Physical Activity Pathway list of courses as part of their BKin degree requirements: KPE322H1, KPE324H1, KPE325H1, KPE327H1, KPE330H1, KPE355Y1* KPE368H1, KPE390Y1*, KPE407H1, KPE426H1, KPE431H1, KPE438H1, KPE455Y1*, KPE463H1, KPE490Y1*, KPE495H1*.

Courses with an asterisk(*) have varying topics and will only count towards the certificate if the focus of study/placement is on physical activity for the promotion of mental health and physical activity.

Note: Students do not have to apply for this certificate but must request the certificate with the Registrar’s Office. The Registrar’s Office will confirm eligibility for the certificate upon graduation.

IMPORTANT ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
  1. Individual courses may only count towards one identified BKin certificate in addition to counting towards the BKin degree
  2. Students are limited to a maximum of 3 BKin certificates with their degree

Please contact the Registrar’s Office for further information: undergrad.kpe@utoronto.ca.


Mental Health and Physical Activity Pathway List of Courses

 

KPE322H1 - Psychology of Injury and Rehabilitation

Psychosocial aspects of physical injury are often overlooked. They are important considerations for understanding the experience of injury and also for enhancing rehabilitation. This course focuses on theory, research, and practical applications related to psychological and psychosocial variables of injury and rehabilitation of athletes and dancers. Prevention, management, performance, and ethical issues relevant to sport/performance psychology, rehabilitation psychology as well as sport/dance science and medicine across a broad spectrum of health care professions are addressed. Empirical work and case studies are used to explore methods and strategies for research, assessment, intervention and best practice across injuries, populations, genres and professions. Students take an active role in the learning process with case-based studies, application of case examples to theoretical frameworks and student engagement activities.

Prerequisite: ANA125H1/ANA126Y1, KPE120H1, KPE260H1, KPE290H1/KPE391H1, KPE291H1
Recommended Preparation: KPE363H1
Course Category: Behavioural (B)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

KPE324H1 - Advanced Sport Psychology

This course will examine the most effective means by which individual and team athletic performance can be enhanced. The focus will be on integrating scientific research based on cognitive and social psychology with real life case studies. Mental preparation strategies and performance techniques will be taught so that recreational and elite athletes can achieve optimal performance. Topics to be covered throughout the term will include: anxiety, arousal and stress; psychological skills training, motivation, confidence, focus, goal-setting, imagery, team dynamics, burnout and coach-athlete relationships.

Prerequisite: KPE220H1
Course Category: Behavioural (B)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

KPE325H1 - Stress and Coping

This course will challenge the student to deal with the interrelationships between stress, health and physical activity. A holistic approach is taken to the integration of these concepts, to allow the student to better understand how stress affects the body, the optimization of health and prevention of stress disorders. Attention will be paid to theories of stress and coping, and selected stress management strategies and techniques will be analyzed, practiced and evaluated.

Three lecture hours per week, including some practical, experiential classes.

Prerequisite: KPE120H1, KPE264H1
Exclusion: HMB471H1
Course Category: Behavioural (B)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

KPE327H1 - Exercise and Mental Health

Mental well-being is a critical element of total health. There is a spectrum of mental states that range from clinically diagnosed psychopathologies such as depression and schizophrenia to total wellness that might be represented by constructs such as high self-esteem, subjective well-being, and life satisfaction. This module critically examines the evidence underpinning the role of physical activity in a) the avoidance of mental disorders, b) recovery from mental disorders, and c) the well-being and quality of life of those with or without mental disorders. The module will also address the definition and measurement of key psychological constructs that act as markers of psychological well-being. Initiatives to enhance mental health through physical activity will be discussed and implications for health service design and delivery will be identified.

Prerequisite: KPE220H1
Exclusion: HMB473H1
Course Category: Behavioural (B)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

KPE330H1 - Advanced Exercise Psychology

This course will focus on the understanding of theoretical frameworks and psychological principles related to exercise. Emphasis will directed towards the application of these theories and principles to the design, development and evaluation of interventions to encourage adoption and maintenance of exercise for individuals, groups and communities.

Prerequisite: KPE220H1
Exclusion: KPE327H1
Course Category: Behavioural (B)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

KPE355Y1 - Interpersonal Theory in Kinesiology and Physical Education

This course will provide students an opportunity to develop their knowledge and competencies in interpersonal theory in Kinesiology and Physical Education. Topics covered in this course include, verbal and non-verbal communication strategies, active listening with patients/clients, reflective practice, managing conflict, decision making, teamwork, and leadership. This course draws upon previous coursework and integrates theory and practice across course learning activities to apply the course content to the breadth of populations and settings within the field of Kinesiology and Physical Education. As a part of the course, students will participate in a field experience (100 hours) with a mentor observing and engaging in interpersonal relations and participating in the planning and implementation of programs as appropriate. Course evaluation activities include weekly class and tutorial sessions, written assignments, presentations, and examinations. Notes: Classroom/tutorial sessions are two hours per week in addition to field experience. Please refer to the 'Fees and Financial Requirements' section of the calendar for information on ancillary fees.

Prerequisite: You must have followed the appropriate pre-course procedures in the year preceding course enrolment, be entering 3rd year (or higher), and obtain instructor approval.
Exclusion: KPE350Y1
Course Category: Behavioural (B)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

KPE390Y1 - Directed Research

Under the guidance of a faculty member, accepted students participate in a research project related to the study of physical activity and health. The student and supervising faculty member collaborate on defining the research question, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting the findings. At the end of the course, students submit an extensive research paper and present their research at the annual Bertha Rosenstadt National Undergraduate Research Conference. Students are also required to attend some classes/workshops to assist them with the research projects.


*Notes regarding KPE390Y1, KPE490Y1 and KPE495H1:
1. For permission to enrol a student must: a) Obtain course information and application forms from Registrar’s Office website. Application forms are available in the spring for the following academic year. b) Find a faculty advisor. c) Complete the pre-requisite form (may do so with faculty advisor if desired). d) Complete advisor-student agreement form together with faculty advisor. e) Submit both prerequisite and student-advisor agreement form together to Registrar’s Office for review and approval by course coordinator.

2. Nominal funding may be available to subsidize some costs of KPE390Y1/KPE490Y1/KPE495H1 projects. See the course information package for application guidelines. **Please note that each faculty member can accept only a limited number of students.

Prerequisite: KPE2901H1/KPE391H1, KPE291H1, a minimum B average in the area of interest, and an application process.
Course Category: Behavioural (B)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

KPE407H1 - Maltreatment in Youth Sport

Participation in sport for youth has been associated with physical, social, emotional, and cognitive benefits. The attainment of positive developmental outcomes through sport participation is influenced by factors including the manner in which sport organizations design and deliver programs and the type of relationships youth experience. Although sport participation for youth has the potential to foster developmental benefits, not all youth have positive sport experiences. In fact, as issues of athlete maltreatment in youth sport, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse as well as neglect continue to emerge throughout research and media outlets, it may be argued that sport is not designed and delivered in ways that meet the psychosocial needs of young people. In order to optimize the sport experiences of youth athletes, it is important that stakeholders are aware of the potential for these negative experiences and are educated about ways in which to foster more developmentally appropriate sport. In this course students will be introduced to concepts, theories and ideologies regarding psychosocial development as well as youth maltreatment and protection as they apply to sport. Students will have the opportunity to critically discuss issues of maltreatment within youth sport and will be challenged to critique present research in addition to educational/policy initiatives intended to safeguard youth and foster positive development. Moreover, students will learn about organizational philosophies, coach and parent education, and relationships in sport with the intention of understanding how such factors may stimulate a youth sport environment conducive to maltreatment, thus hindering athletes’ psychosocial needs.

Prerequisite: KPE220H1
Course Category: Physical Cultural (A)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

KPE426H1 - Exercise & Cancer Survivorship

This course will examine the role of exercise and physical activity in cancer survivorship from a physiological, functional, and psychosocial perspective. The effects of exercise and physical activity on cancer will be studied across the disease continuum, including its role in cancer prevention, disease- and treatment- related symptom management, post-treatment late-effects, and palliative care. Exercise guidelines, required adaptations, appropriate fitness and outcome assessments for cancer survivors will be discussed. This course will explore contemporary approaches, facilitators, and barriers to exercise integration in clinical care within the context of oncology, as well as broader cancer survivorship issues.

Prerequisite: KPE220H1
Recommended Preparation: KPE330H1
Course Category: Behavioural (B)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

KPE431H1 - Positive Psychology Coaching

Applicable to coaching across diverse areas of kinesiology practice, including sport, healthcare, and education, finding the best in people and inspiring them to focus on their strengths is one of the fundamental principles behind positive psychology coaching. In this seminar-style course, students will examine and appraise the concepts of happiness, thrive, flourishing, and wellness alongside the theory, research and practice of positivity and strength-based coaching approaches. Through class discussions and practical class assignments, students will develop the knowledge and tools to apply positive psychology practices and a strength-based approach to future career paths and day-to-day life.

Prerequisite: KPE220H1
Course Category: Behavioural (B)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

KPE438H1 - Special Topics in Kinesiology and Physical Education - Psychology of Body Image

This course will explore psychological theory and applications of body image in the context of kinesiology and physical education. Topics include body image conceptualization, psychosocial development, assessment, intervention, psychopathology, individual differences, and positive embodiment. The role of body image in the context of movement will be a particular focus. Implications for exercise training and testing will be considered. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to identify appropriate strategies to improve body image more generally, as well as within exercise, sport, fitness, and movement settings for a variety of populations.

Prerequisite: KPE220H1, KPE290H1/KPE391H1, KPE291H1
Course Category: Behavioural (B)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

KPE455Y1 - Kinesiology and Physical Education in Society

This course builds upon KPE350Y1/KPE355Y1 to further students’ theoretical grounding in the broader practice of Kinesiology and Physical Education in society. Topics covered in this course include, but are not limited to, emotional intelligence in the workplace, integrity in community relations, performance adaptability, diversity, creativity, ethics and professionalism, and work-life balance. Adopting a values-based approach to learning and development students will be encouraged to consider strategies for enhancing the practice of Kinesiology and Physical Education within society. As a part of this course, students will spend 100 hours in the field and will work closely with a mentor. Course evaluation activities include weekly class and tutorial sessions, written assignments, presentations, and examinations.

Notes: Classroom/tutorial sessions are two hours per week in addition to field experience. For more information visit the professional placement page on our website.

Please refer to the 'Fees and Financial Requirements' section of the calendar for details on ancillary fees.

Prerequisite: KPE350Y1/KPE355Y1; As well, you must have followed the appropriate pre-course procedures in the year preceding course enrolment, be entering 3rd year (or higher), and obtain instructor approval.
Exclusion: KPE450Y1
Course Category: Behavioural (B)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

KPE463H1 - Topics in Professional Kinesiology

Issues related to providing kinesiology services will be examined. There will be a focus on understanding professional practice as a registered kinesiologist. Career opportunities and their related pathways will be explored. Diverse issues such as how to integrate theory and science into practice, identification of roles and responsibilities within the health system will be explored.

The role of reflection and continued professional development in professional practice will be examined. Topics to be covered may include: informed consent and screening; liability issues and scope of practice; code of conduct and the evolving role of the College of Kinesiology and professional associations; case- and problem-based learning; standards of practice; practice models; and various professional opportunities of a Registered Kinesiologist.

Prerequisite: 3rd year standing
Course Category: Biophysical (C)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

KPE490Y1 - Advanced Research

In this course students will have an opportunity to undertake research on a topic relating to the study of physical activity and health. The faculty supervisor, selected by the student, gives counsel in defining the problem, conducting the study and preparing a research paper (thesis). In addition to submitting the research paper, students are required to attend some classes/workshops, and present their findings at the annual Bertha Rosenstadt National Undergraduate Research Conference. This course provides an opportunity for a student planning graduate study at this Faculty or elsewhere to gain experience in completing a small research study. Students may elect only one KPE490Y1 course or external equivalent.

*Notes regarding KPE390Y1, KPE490Y1 and KPE495H1:
1. For permission to enrol a student must: a) Obtain course information and application forms from Registrar’s Office website. Application forms are available in the spring for the following academic year. b) Find a faculty advisor. c) Complete the pre-requisite form (may do so with faculty advisor if desired). d) Complete advisor-student agreement form together with faculty advisor. e) Submit both prerequisite and student-advisor agreement form together to Registrar’s Office for review and approval by course coordinator.


2. Nominal funding may be available to subsidize some costs of KPE390Y1/KPE490Y1/KPE495H1 projects. See the course information package for application guidelines. **Please note that each faculty member can accept only a limited number of students.

Prerequisite: KPE390Y1, a minimum B average in the area of interest, and an application process.
Course Category: Behavioural (B)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

KPE495H1 - Independent Study

The purpose of the independent study is to permit students to extend beyond current course offerings and explore in detail a subject area of their choosing related to the study of physical activity and health. Students work closely with a faculty supervisor with a relevant background. Before pursuing an independent study, students are expected to have taken all the relevant courses offered by the Faculty in that sub-discipline. Students will research their topic of interest primarily through reading and writing a report on their findings. They are also required to attend some classes/workshops throughout the term and to present their reviews and/or findings at the annual Bertha Rosenstadt National Undergraduate Research Conference. Students may elect a total of no more than two half courses under KPE495H1 or external equivalents.

*Notes regarding KPE390Y1, KPE490Y1 and KPE495H1:

1. For permission to enrol a student must: a) Obtain course information and application forms from Registrar’s Office website. Application forms are available in the spring for the following academic year. b) Find a faculty advisor. c) Complete the pre-requisite form (may do so with faculty advisor if desired). d) Complete advisor-student agreement form together with faculty advisor. e) Submit both prerequisite and student-advisor agreement form together to Registrar’s Office for review and approval by course coordinator.

2. Nominal funding may be available to subsidize some costs of KPE390Y1/KPE490Y1/KPE495H1 projects. See the course information package for application guidelines. **Please note that each faculty member can accept only a limited number of students.

Prerequisite: Fourth-year standing and a minimum B average in the area of interest.
Course Category: Behavioural (B)
Mode of Delivery: In Person

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