The course introduces students to physical activity as a health determinant, domains of physical activity, current federal physical activity guidelines and the research behind them, and determinants of physical activity. Students will gain an understanding of the individual, social, and environmental factors that influence physical activity participation and ultimately physical fitness and health throughout the life cycle.
A minor in Exercise Science allows students to enhance or complement their major(s) from any LENS area to more closely align with their intended career path. The minor provides students with an introductory grounding in physiological and anatomical principles to understand how the human body responds to exercise stress and how the body changes with chronic exercise stress.
Degree Outcomes
Students will develop a foundational understanding of the scientific principles of exercise and physical activity as they relate to general health, wellness, and performance.
Students can apply basic exercise science concepts within their primary field of study, enhancing their ability to promote physical well-being in diverse settings.
Students gain introductory knowledge and skills that can support future study, certifications, or careers in health, fitness, and wellness-related areas.
Example Courses
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EXS 1003: Physical Activity and Health
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EXS 3123: Biomechanics
This course utilizes principles of physics, mathematics, and human anatomy and physiology to study the function/action of skeletal muscles and analyze human motion as related to sport activities, injuries, and sport techniques. Principles of statics, dynamics, and material mechanics are integral parts of this course to describe and understand human motion. Prerequisites: junior standing and at least C- in all of the following courses: MTH 1104 Precalculus, EXS 1003 Physical Activity and Health, and HSC 2024 Fundamentals of Human Physiology.
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EXS 4213: Strength and Conditioning
This course focuses on the anatomy and physiology of strength and conditioning theory and practice. It serves as preparation for the NCSA National Certification Exam for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification. Prerequisite: junior standing and at least C- in all of the following courses: EXS 1003 Physical Activity and Health, HSC 2014 Fundamentals of Human Anatomy, and HSC 2024 Fundamentals of Human Physiology.
View course catalog for all program courses and degree requirements.