BS Major - Exercise and Rehabilitative Science
72 - 81 S.H.(No Minor Required)
A student choosing to major in Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences may choose Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation, Exercise Science, or Movement Science. Each of these programs leads to a Bachelor of Science degree. The programs in Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences have been designed in accordance with the requirements of the leading national organizations: American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).
- Students interested in working with cardiac or pulmonary patients in a clinical setting should choose Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation.
- Students interested in exercise and health programming in a variety of settings such as fitness centers, worksite settings, or athletic programs should choose Exercise Science.
- Students interested in pursuing graduate studies in exercise or rehabilitative sciences (such as kinesiology, biomechanics, exercise physiology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician’s assistant, chiropractic medicine) should choose Movement Science. Additional information on exercise science career opportunities can be found at American College of Sports and Medicine, National Strength and Conditioning Association, and American Society of Exercise Physiologists.
Academic Requirements
For a checklist of the University’s graduation requirements, see the Academic Policies & University Requirements section of this catalog. Specific academic requirements for Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences majors are described within each major.
Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences: Exercise Science (ERES)
72 S.H.
This major prepares students to administer comprehensive health, fitness and performance programs to a variety of clients. Through coursework and other experiences, students learn how to design and administer appropriate strength, power, flexibility, agility, and cardio respiratory programs based on clients’ goals, needs, and abilities. Students also learn how to administer health appraisals, assess client needs, design and administer appropriate programs such as: smoking cessation, low back, blood pressure, weight control, and nutrition counseling. Employment opportunities include corporate facilities, fitness centers, hospital wellness programs, high schools, universities, community centers, and performance enhancement facilities.
Students may choose to specialize in areas such as strength training, personal training, nutrition, strength and conditioning with athletes, or working with unique populations through practicum and internship experiences. The Exercise Science major is designed to meet the requirements of the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Upon completion of the degree, students are prepared to sit for American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) certification as a Health Fitness Specialist and/or National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) certification as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist or Certified Personal Trainer.
A student may declare ERES as a major at any time; however, in order to complete their practicum, internship, and graduate, the student must:
- Attain a grade of “C” or better in all required major courses.
- Attain a 2.5 or better overall GPA.
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