Exercise Science, Bachelor of Science (BS) / Pre-Physician Assistant (SRU) (Traditional)

Program Overview

The Exercise Science program at Slippery Rock University equips students with a comprehensive understanding of exercise science principles and practical skills in exercise prescription and program design. Through a rigorous curriculum covering areas like exercise physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition, graduates are prepared for careers in the health and fitness industry, including roles as exercise physiologists, personal trainers, and wellness coaches. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through internships and practical exams, ensuring students are well-equipped to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

Program Outline

Outline:

Content:

The Exercise Science program at Slippery Rock University prepares students for careers in the health and fitness industry. The program provides a strong foundation in the scientific principles of exercise and human movement, as well as practical experience in exercise prescription and program design.

Structure:

The program is a four-year, full-time program that includes coursework in the following areas:

• Exercise physiology
• Biomechanics
• Nutrition
• Exercise psychology
• Exercise prescription
• Exercise program design
• Exercise testing and evaluation
• Exercise leadership

Course Schedule:

The course schedule for the Exercise Science program is as follows:

First Year

• Fall: Introduction to Exercise Science, Applied Anatomy, Exercise Physiology, Physics, Psychology, Rock Studies 2 Requirements
• Spring: Introduction to Exercise Science, Applied Anatomy, Statistics, Rock Studies 2 Requirements, Computer Competency Course (if needed)

Second Year

• Fall: Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Biology II, Chemistry I
• Spring: Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, Chemistry II, Medical Terminology

Third Year

• Fall: Research Methods in Exercise Science, Aerobic Exercise Leadership, Exercise Leadership: Resistance Training, Genetics, Organic Chemistry I
• Spring: Wellness Coaching and Program Management, Fitness Assessment, Exercise Prescription, Advanced Exercise Physiology, Medical Microbiology, Rock Studies 2 Requirements

Fourth Year

• Fall: Clinical Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science: Special Populations and Conditions, Exercise Science: Senior Synthesis, Nutrition and Exercise, Rock Studies 2 Requirements
• Spring: Exercise Science Internship

Individual Modules with Descriptions:

• Introduction to Exercise Science: This course provides an overview of the field of exercise science, including the history, scope, and career opportunities.
• Applied Anatomy: This course provides a detailed study of the human musculoskeletal system, with an emphasis on the anatomy of movement.
• Exercise Physiology: This course examines the physiological responses to exercise, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, and muscular systems.
• Biomechanics: This course studies the mechanical principles of human movement, including kinematics, kinetics, and energy systems.
• Nutrition: This course provides an overview of the principles of nutrition, with an emphasis on the role of nutrition in exercise performance and recovery.
• Exercise Psychology: This course examines the psychological aspects of exercise, including motivation, adherence, and performance enhancement.
• Exercise Prescription: This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to prescribe safe and effective exercise programs for a variety of populations.
• Exercise Program Design: This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to design and implement exercise programs for a variety of settings.
• Exercise Testing and Evaluation: This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct exercise testing and evaluation procedures.
• Exercise Leadership: This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead exercise classes and groups.
• Research Methods in Exercise Science: This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct research in the field of exercise science.
• Wellness Coaching and Program Management: This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide wellness coaching and program management services.
• Fitness Assessment: This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct fitness assessments.
• Advanced Exercise Physiology: This course provides students with an in-depth study of the physiological responses to exercise, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, and muscular systems.
• Medical Microbiology: This course provides students with a basic understanding of the principles of microbiology, with an emphasis on the role of microorganisms in human health and disease.
• Clinical Exercise Physiology: This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to apply exercise science principles to the treatment and prevention of chronic diseases.
• Exercise Science: Special Populations and Conditions: This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work with special populations, such as the elderly, children, and individuals with disabilities.
• Exercise Science: Senior Synthesis: This course provides students with the opportunity to integrate the knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout the program.
• Nutrition and Exercise: This course provides students with an in-depth study of the relationship between nutrition and exercise, with an emphasis on the role of nutrition in exercise performance and recovery.
• Exercise Science Internship: This course provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in the field of exercise science.

Assessment:

Students in the Exercise Science program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Exams
• Quizzes
• Papers
• Presentations
• Projects
• Practical exams

Teaching:

The Exercise Science program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are dedicated to providing students with a high-quality education. The faculty use a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Demonstrations
• Hands-on activities
• Case studies

Careers:

Graduates of the Exercise Science program are prepared for a variety of careers in the health and fitness industry, including:

• Exercise physiologist
• Strength and conditioning coach
• Personal trainer
• Fitness instructor
• Wellness coach
• Health educator
• Physical therapist
• Occupational therapist
• Physician assistant
• Nurse
• Dietitian