Exercise Science

Mission

The goal of the Physical Therapy & Kinesiology Department is to prepare entry-level practitioners in exercise physiology and in physical therapy. Exercise Science (ES) is the study of acute and chronic physiological responses and adaptations resulting from exercise and physical activity. The undergraduate curriculum is broad based and includes courses in liberal arts, basic sciences (anatomy & physiology, chemistry, physics, biochemistry), and professional courses (exercise physiology, kinesiology, exercise prescription/program planning). The ES curriculum is sequential, comprehensive, and cumulative and prepares students for the capstone clinical practicum in the senior year. Students are assigned to either a cardiac or pulmonary rehabilitation setting or to a fitness setting for a semester. While working in the clinical practicum setting, students attend a weekly seminar to discuss issues that arise on clinicals.

Requirements of the Major

Learning Outcomes

The Exercise Science program prepares all students to be able to:
  1. Promote and guide healthy lifestyles that include physical activity, exercise, and wellness programs in diverse populations by utilizing current theories and research literature.
  2. Design exercise and wellness programs which maximize compliance, motivation, and prevents injury and illness.
  3. Apply analytical and critical thinking to advance exercise and wellness initiatives for individuals and communities.
  4. Collaborate with individuals, families, communities, businesses, and other health care professionals in the delivery of care.
  5. Develop a self-directed plan for professional development and lifelong learning which includes self- assessment, self-correction and self-direction.
  6. Demonstrate professional and ethical behavior during all professional interactions.
  7. Communicate effectively in ways that are congruent with situational needs, including appropriate body language, written communication, active listening skills and questioning.
  8. Develop leadership skills of accountability, delegation, education, and supervision.