Exercise science is the study of movement and of the responses and adaptations to movement. The field involves disciplines ranging from the study of how organ systems work at the cellular level to the biomechanical efficiency of work. The exercise scientist must understand the basis of exercise induced physiological responses; consequently, the degree program is rigorous, based on scientific theory and research. Graduates will be leaders in promotion and maintenance of health, activity, and fitness in the workplace or enroll in graduate professional programs in exercise science, physical therapy, or occupational therapy.
The exercise science degree program is housed in the Department of Physical Education, Sport, and Human Performance and requires 126 semester hours of coursework, including a 12-credit hour full-time internship. Coursework includes nutrition, diet and weight control, exercise testing and prescription, anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, strength and conditioning, health promotion, and physical activity among aging populations. Students planning for graduate study in physical or occupational therapy, exercise physiology, or physician assistant can select required pre-requisite classes such as chemistry, physics or psychology to fulfill entry requirements. The curriculum is designed to allow students to tailor course selections to meet career goals in exercise science or to fulfill requirements of graduate education in allied health disciplines.