Jodi DeMarco, Chair, Department of Health Sciences and Human Performance
Emily Kullman, Program Director
Description
The study of Exercise Science provides an understanding of human movement, physiology, and physical activity and how they can be used to maintain or improve health, physical fitness, and sport performance. Those in exercise science work across various industries like healthcare, education, nonprofit, and athletics. CSU students graduate ready to guide bodies to optimal health, peak performance and endurance that boosts quality of life.
What careers can this major prepare you for?
Students who earn a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science have many career opportunities as a health and fitness professional (see list below). Exercise Science also serves as an option for an undergraduate degree for those seeking clinical degree programs such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing, Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O). You may also pursue Masters and PhD programs in Exercise Science, Biomechanics, Kinesiology, Human Bioenergetics, or a related field. Through the study of Exercise Science, you may go on to a multitude of health-related careers and certifications, including: Personal Training, Physiologist, Strength and Conditioning, Professor, Sports Performance, Occupational Therapist, Cardiac Rehabilitation, Cancer Exercise Specialist, Pulmonary Rehabilitation, Group Exercise Instructor, Physical Therapist, Biomechanist, Kinesiologist, Community Health, Corporate Wellness, Athletic Training, Researcher, Coaching.
What skills are developed within this major?
Skills developed within this major include: Ability to assess an individual’s health and fitness status, including musculoskeletal abilities, cardiovascular fitness, and body composition; Testing sport performance parameters such as power, strength, speed, mobility, and agility; Prescribe appropriate exercise programs based on testing results and individual goals; Research skills as demonstrated through laboratory work, papers, and exams; Analytical skills; Communication skills; Time management skills; Problem solving skills; A passion for health and fitness.