Median Pay: $55,488

Typical Entry-Level Education: Bachelor's degree

Job Outlook: A 13% growth in employment opportunities for exercise science is expected between 2021 and 2032

Above information sourced from 2022 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

A minimum 2.0 GPA is the requirement for admission at Union Commonwealth University. 

Exercise Science Major Requirements (44-50 Credit Hours)

Science Core, 14-15 required hours including:

BIOL 101 Human Biology (3 Credit Hours)

An introductory study of the human body, including the basic structure and function of the tissues and major organ systems and the effects of diet, exercise, stress, and environmental change on human health. Strongly recommended for nursing and exercise science majors. Cannot be applied toward the biology major

Or

BIOL 109 Elements of Biology (3 Credit Hours)

An introduction to the principles of modern biology for nonmajors including: biological chemistry, cell biology, modern and classical genetics, cellular energetics, ecology, and evolution.

BIOL 330 Vertebrate Anatomy & Histology (4 Credit Hours)

The anatomical study of the tissues, organs, and organ systems of vertebrates with emphasis on human anatomy. The course includes a laboratory component that primarily involves detailed study of the human skeleton, other anatomical structures, and microscopic examination of vertebrate tissues. Prerequisite: BIOL 101, 109, 232 or consent of instructor.

BIOL 331 Human Physiology (4 Credit Hours)

A study of the functioning of the human organ systems with normal and clinical considerations. Prerequisites: CHEM 121

CHEM 230 General, Organic & Biochemistry (3 Credit Hours)

This is a foundation course designed in collaboration with nursing and health sciences. Students will be introduced to the basics of general, organic, and biochemistry to help them understand the role of chemistry in our lives and health. Both quantitative and qualitative descriptions of matter and the changes that matter undergoes will be studied. The interrelationships of chemistry with other areas/disciplines will be stressed. Chemistry boosts numerical, analytical, and problem solving skills which are valuable in the health professions and general education. Prerequisite: high school AP Chemistry or permission from instructor.

Or

CHEM 121 General Chemistry 1 (4 Credit Hours)

CHEM 121-122 is a 2-semester sequence. A systematic study of the fundamentals and applications of the experimental and theoretical laws of chemistry. Major topics include nomenclature, stoichiometry, chemical thermodynamics, equilibrium, acid-base reactions, atomic and molecular theory and structure, chemical kinetics, and nuclear chemistry. Examples and problems are drawn from all areas of chemistry. Laboratory experiments in general chemistry illustrate basic principles and develop laboratory skills. Experiments are coordinated with the General Chemistry topics. Inorganic qualitative analysis is included in CHEM 122. Three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite: A working knowledge of algebra such as is acquired in two years of high school algebra, or MATH 131 (which may be taken concurrently), or a composite ACT score of 21. CHEM 121 and CHEM 122 are prerequisites to all other chemistry courses.

Exercise Science Core, 27-30 required hours:

HMPF 441 Exercise Assessment & Prescription ($25 consumable) (3 Credit Hours)

This course covers laboratory and field tests used for assessing physical fitness components as well as principles of exercise prescription. Test results are used in developing individualized exercise prescriptions to improve cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness, body weight and body composition, flexibility, and balance. Prerequisites: PHED 410 or permission from instructor. Fee: $25 consumable items fee required.

PHED 241 History/Philosophy of Physical Education (3 Credit Hours)

Course is a study from primitive man through the present, with particular emphasis on Greek physical education, European systems, and development of physical education in North America. Includes some research into the history of various sports.

PHED 340 Motor Development (3 Credit Hours)

An examination of an individual’s motor development across the lifespan. Particular emphasis will be placed on the effect physical activity has on growth and development.

PHED 351 Tests and Measurement in Health & Physical Education (3 Credit Hours)

Evaluating health and physical education by the construction and administration of tests. Emphasizes reliability, objectivity, and validity of tests and grading systems. Students will be required to organize, administer a test, and evaluate and report the results. Prerequisite: students must have junior or senior standing.

PHED 361 Organization & Administration: Physical Education (3 Credit Hours)

Administration of physical education and athletic programs in schools, with special emphasis on philosophy and leadership styles. Includes budget and finance, office management, curriculum development, facilities, legal factors, and public relations.

PHED 410 Exercise Physiology ($25 consumable items fee required) (3 Credit Hours)

This course details the numerous effects our behavior (exercise, physical activity, inactivity) has on human physiology. Topics of emphasis will be explored at a systems level, integrating the neuromuscular, metabolic, neuroendocrine, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. Prerequisites: BIOL 331 or WELL 340, or permission from instructor. Fee: $25 consumable items fee required.

PHED 421 Kinesiology (25 consumable items fee required) (3 Credit Hours)

This course is designed to introduce the structures of human anatomy and explain how these structures are involved in human movement. A practical application of these principles will involve hands-on experiences performed on yourself or a partner to enhance the learning of human anatomy. Prerequisite: BIOL 330 or WELL 340, or permission from instructor. Fee: $25 consumable items fee required.

EXSC 485 Exercise Science Internship (3-6 Credit Hours)

Supervised experience in an exercise science related setting. Students will have the opportunity to put into practice the knowledge and practice skills they have learned in their course work. Students should take this course in their senior year of study. Pre-requisite: permission from the instructor.

WELL 131 First Aid and Safety Education (3 Credit Hours)

Designed to aid the student in developing an understanding of the basic principles of accident prevention as applicable to the home, the highway, and the school. First aid measures for various injuries and illnesses are discussed and practiced.

Activity Courses (3 Classes, 3-5 Hours):

PHED 111 Beginning Swimming (1 Credit Hour)

This course is an introduction to swimming covering front crawl, backstroke, and breaststroke skills. By the end of the semester, students are expected to be able to swim each of these three strokes, legally, for 50 yards, and perform and lead stretching routines designed for swimming activity. (Course is for non-swimmers only.)

PHED 112 Intermediate Swimming (1 Credit Hour)

This course is an introduction to swimming covering butterfly and individual medley skills. By the end of the semester, students are expected to be able to swim each of the four strokes, legally, for 50 yards, and perform and lead stretching routines designed for swimming. Prerequisite: PHED 111 or permission from instructor.

PHED 114 Water Aerobics (1 Credit Hour)

This course is an introduction to water aerobics routines in shallow and deep water. By the end of the semester, students are expected to be able to perform these routines for at least 30 minutes and perform and lead stretching routines designed for water aerobics activity.

PHED 116 Yoga (1 Credit Hour)

Yoga relaxes the mind and body, reducing stress and contributing to positive mental and physical health. Basic postures (asana postures), relaxation, and breathing techniques are taught throughout the semester. In this course, you will be introduced to the practice of hatha yoga, a yoga system of physical exercises and breathing control.

PHED 121 Team Sports (1 Credit Hour)

This course is to develop knowledge and increase awareness and appreciation for team sports. Students will learn teamwork and will be encouraged to improve their overall fitness through class activities.

PHED 122 Volleyball (1 Credit Hour)

Students will learn the fundamentals of volleyball. This will include individual and team skills. This class is a beginning-level volleyball course. It will cover all of the fundamentals of play including passing, setting, serving, spiking, defensive techniques, and rules of play.

PHED 132 Golf (1 Credit Hour)

Students are taught the common rules of golf so they will understand and have the ability to explain. Also taught are the proper mechanics and techniques of the golf stroke, the formulation and application of game strategy, and the development of a practical mental approach. Proper game etiquette is demonstrated.

PHED 133 Tennis and Badminton (1 Credit Hour)

Students are taught the common rules of tennis and badminton so they will understand and have the ability to explain. Also taught are the proper mechanics and techniques of both sports, the formulation and application of game strategy, and the development of a practical mental approach. Proper game etiquette is demonstrated.

PHED 134 Personal Fitness & Aerobic Activities (1 Credit Hour)

Course is to develop knowledge and increase student awareness and appreciation for aerobic activities and to encourage students to improve their overall fitness, through class activities, and to continue training throughout their lives.

PHED 136 Weight Training (1 Credit Hour)

Course is to develop knowledge and increase awareness and appreciation for Weight Training. Students will learn techniques and be encouraged to improve their overall fitness through class activities. 

RECM 190 Special Topics (1 Credit Hour)

This course is designed to offer different activity courses in Recreation. Examples: hiking and backpacking, adventure racing, climbing, and rappelling.

PHED 192 Lifeguard Training (3 Credit Hours)

Advanced techniques of lifeguarding for water safety and rescue, first aid and safety, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and automated external defibrillation (AED). American Red Cross certification (valid for two years) awarded to those who qualify at the end of the course. Prerequisite: successful completion of a swimming skills pre-test taken during the first class meeting.

Exercise Science Minor Requirements (26 Credit Hours)

26 semeseter hours in Biology are required. Students who declare the Exercise Science Minor may not declare a major or minor in Human Performance. The following  courses must be included:

PHED 351 Tests and Measurement in Health & Physical Education (3 Credit Hours)

Evaluating health and physical education by the construction and administration of tests. Emphasizes reliability, objectivity, and validity of tests and grading systems. Students will be required to organize, administer a test, and evaluate and report the results. Prerequisite: students must have junior or senior standing.

PHED 410 Exercise Physiology (25 consumable items fee required) (3 Credit Hours)

This course details the numerous effects our behavior (exercise, physical activity, inactivity) has on human physiology. Topics of emphasis will be explored at a systems level, integrating the neuromuscular, metabolic, neuroendocrine, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. Prerequisites: BIOL 331 or WELL 340, or permission from instructor. Fee: $25 consumable items fee required.

PHED 421 Kinesiology ($25 consumable items fee required) (3 Credit Hours)

This course is designed to introduce the structures of human anatomy and explain how these structures are involved in human movement. A practical application of these principles will involve hands-on experiences performed on yourself or a partner to enhance the learning of human anatomy. Prerequisite: BIOL 330 or WELL 340, or permission from instructor. Fee: $25 consumable items fee required.

HMPF 441 Exercise Assessment & Prescription ($25 consumable items fee required) (3 Credit Hours)

This course covers laboratory and field tests used for assessing physical fitness components as well as principles of exercise prescription. Test results are used in developing individualized exercise prescriptions to improve cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness, body weight and body composition, flexibility, and balance. Prerequisites: PHED 410 or permission from instructor. Fee: $25 consumable items fee required.

BIOL 330 Vertebrate Anatomy & Histology (4 Credit Hours)

The anatomical study of the tissues, organs, and organ systems of vertebrates with emphasis on human anatomy. The course includes a laboratory component that primarily involves detailed study of the human skeleton, other anatomical structures, and microscopic examination of vertebrate tissues. Prerequisite: BIOL 101, 109, 232 or consent of instructor.

BIOL 331 Human Phsiology (4 Credit Hours)

A study of the functioning of the human organ systems with normal and clinical considerations. Prerequisites: CHEM 121

PHED 340 Motor Development (3 Credit Hours)

An examination of an individual’s motor development across the lifespan. Particular emphasis will be placed on the effect physical activity has on growth and development.

WELL 131 First Aid and Safety Education (3 Credit Hours)

Designed to aid the student in developing an understanding of the basic principles of accident prevention as applicable to the home, the highway, and the school. First aid measures for various injuries and illnesses are discussed and practiced.