Program Overview
Belmont University's 3+3 Program in Exercise Science offers high-achieving students guaranteed admission to the university's doctoral programs in Occupational Therapy (OTD) or Physical Therapy (DPT) after completing only three years of undergraduate study. This accelerated program allows students to complete both their Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and their chosen doctoral degree in a total of six years, saving them one year of undergraduate study. The program emphasizes interprofessional collaboration and provides students with opportunities for hands-on learning through internships.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
Belmont University's 3+3 Program in Exercise Science offers high-achieving students a unique opportunity to gain guaranteed admission into the university's doctoral programs in Occupational Therapy (OTD) or Physical Therapy (DPT) after completing only three years of undergraduate study. This program allows students to complete both their Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and their chosen doctoral degree in a total of six years, saving them one year of undergraduate study.
Objectives:
- Prepare students for graduate programs in occupational or physical therapy.
- Develop students' professional leadership skills for fitness or wellness programming and implementation.
- Provide students with opportunities for interprofessional collaboration with graduate programs in physical and occupational therapy.
- Equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue various professional pathways in the healthcare industry.
Program Description:
This program is a rigorous, accelerated option that requires students to fulfill specific requirements, including completing major and prerequisite coursework, BELL Core, and WELL Core requirements within the first three years of undergraduate study. Meeting these requirements allows students to be considered for admission to the chosen doctoral program.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Exercise Science coursework:
- Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- Foundations of Exercise Science
- Kinesiology
- Laboratory Methods in Exercise Science
- Prevention and Treatment of Injury
- Exercise Physiology
- Principles of Nutrition
- Exercise Prescription
- Internship in Exercise Science
- Senior Capstone in Exercise Science
- Optimizing Human Performance
- Occupational Therapy Track:
- Completion of 96 of the 128 credits required for a B.S. in Exercise Science, including 24 credits of specified prerequisite courses for entry into the OTD program.
- Early Decision application to the OTD program through OTCAS a year prior to desired entry.
- Guaranteed admission to the OTD program with a cumulative and prerequisite GPA of 3.7 or higher.
- Completion of all specified requirements, including BELL Core and WELL Core, by the end of the spring semester of the third year.
- Physical Therapy Track:
- Completion of 110 of the 128 credits required for a B.S. in Exercise Science, including 41 credits of specified prerequisite courses for entry into the DPT program.
- Early Decision application to the DPT program through PTCAS a year prior to desired entry.
- Guaranteed admission to the DPT program with a cumulative and prerequisite GPA of 3.7 or higher.
- Completion of all specified requirements, including BELL Core and WELL Core, by the end of the spring semester of the third year.
Structure:
- The program is completed in six years, with the first three years focusing on undergraduate coursework and the final three years on the chosen doctoral program.
- Students can choose to pursue either the Occupational Therapy (OTD) or Physical Therapy (DPT) doctoral track. However, it is mentioned that students must complete all major and prerequisite coursework within the first three years of the program.
Individual Modules:
- Exercise Science Course Descriptions: However, it is likely that students are assessed on their knowledge, skills, and abilities related to the program's learning outcomes. However, the emphasis on interprofessional collaboration and internship opportunities suggests a focus on hands-on learning and real-world application.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Occupational Therapy (OTD):
- A licensed health care professional who helps patients reduce pain, prevent disability and improve or restore mobility.
- Work settings include hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and private practices.
- Physical Therapy (DPT):
- A licensed health care professional who helps patients reduce pain, prevent disability and improve or restore mobility.
- Work settings include hospitals, rehabilitation centers, sports teams, and private practices.
Career Opportunities:
- The program prepares students for a variety of career opportunities within the healthcare industry. However, the reputation of Belmont University and the high demand for healthcare professionals suggest that graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in their chosen fields.
Other:
Internship Opportunities:
- Students are required to complete a 150-hour internship, which can be tailored to their specific career interests.
- Internship opportunities are available in a variety of settings, including professional, minor league, and collegiate sport environments.
- Internship hours can be used to satisfy observation hours for graduate applications.
Overall:
The 3+3 Program in Exercise Science at Belmont University is a unique and accelerated option for students who are interested in pursuing advanced studies in occupational or physical therapy. The program provides a strong foundation in exercise science and prepares students for success in their chosen careers.
