Exercise Science

Note: This page is designed to assist students, faculty, and advisors by providing degree requirements and recommendations in an easy-to-use format. The course catalogue remains the official source of degree requirements -- please report any discrepancies with this page to the department chair.  

The exercise science major is a flexible, science-based curriculum designed for students wishing pursue a wide range of goals including working in the health and fitness industry, health professions including pre-medicine and pre-physical therapy, as well as graduate study in exercise science.

Initial coursework provides a solid background in human anatomy, physiology and psychology. Advanced courses investigate the theoretical and technical aspects of human physical performance within the context of physical fitness, athletic performance and pathological states. Students receive hands-on training using advanced physiological and psychomotor data acquisition systems. Opportunities exist to pursue advanced research and external internships depending upon individual interest.

Exercise Physiology Lab

The exercise physiology lab is equipped with state-of-the-art physical performance instrumentation including:

• Oxygen consumption and metabolic analysis system
• Body composition analysis via bioelectrical impedance and skinfold thickness
• Non-invasive blood pressure monitoring equipment
• Research-grade calibrated Monarch cycle ergometer
• EMG, ECG, and EEG instrumentation
• Blood lactate analysis

Major Requirements for Exercise Science Concentration

A minimum of 10 course credits, including the following core courses:

• Foundations of Physical Education (111)
• Exercise Psychology (206) 
• Systems Physiology (207)
• Anatomical Kinesiology (309)
• Physiology of Exercise (315)
• Exercise Testing and Prescription (362)
• Statistical Methods I (INT 201 )

And three courses selected from:

• Sports and American Society (212)
• Psychology of Sport (215)
• Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries (237)
• Nutrition for Health and Performance (310)
• Motor Learning (334)
• Wellness Seminar (368)
• Internship (380)

Recommended Course Sequence