The Helwig Recreation Center boasts some of the most dynamic practice, strength and conditioning, athletic training and rehabilitation, and recreation spaces in the nation. Facilities Include: • Climbing wall • Indoor track • Basketball courts • Volleyball courts • State of the art practice turf • Weight and cardio equipment • Indoor cage space for baseball, softball, and golf

Undergraduate Programs

Program Requirements

Students who complete the major requirements for a bachelor science degree in physical education will be prepared for careers as fitness specialists, including personal training, group fitness leaders, and fitness consultants. In addition, many majors continue on to occupational therapy or physical therapy programs at the graduate level.

Major Requirements (BS)

44 hours of major coursework
120 total credits for graduation

A comprehensive exam is required. Students interested in pursuing graduate work should take BIOL 2930. Courses in Business, Marketing and Communications are recommended.

Academic Catalog  Core Curriculum

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Course Descriptions

The following descriptions are a sample of courses you may take as an exercise science major. For a complete list of required courses, please review the academic catalog.

Includes structure and organization of human organ systems emphasizing skeletal, muscular, digestive, circulatory, respiratory, nervous, and urogenital systems. Lab included with cadaver demonstrations. It is recommened that the student complete one year of high school laboratory science. This course is designed for students majoring in the sciences, healthcare, or nursing.


Introduction to applied statistical analysis. Descriptive, correlational, and inferential statistics; concepts of population, sample, sampling distribution; elements of probability; parameters of discrete distributions; hypothesis testing: analysis of proportions, means, and variance; linear regression. Computer applications required. Cross-listed with MATH 1490.


An overview of health/fitness professions and content areas including exercise physiology, biomechanics, and exercise programming. Career paths and professional ethics are also presented. This also offers the basic knowledge and skills required to work as a Personal Trainer.



Study of the dimensions of health and selected health topics with emphasis on how one's behavior affects health.


Systematic analysis of human movement. The integrated study of applied anatomy and applied mechanics to the analysis of movement. Movement terminology as well as muscular system function in sport will be studied.


Study of human physiology with emphasis on the acute and chronic effects of exercise upon the muscular and cardiorespiratory systems. Lecture and lab required. Cross-listed with BIOL 3160.


This course will introduce students to an evidence-based review of the direct effects of diet on health and physical activity. Specific topics addressed include nutrient metabolism, body composition management, hydration, health effects, supplement and food ethics.


Study of health issues as they relate to fitness professionals. Topics of study include weight management, stress management, and substance abuse. Counseling skills, screening instruments, and referral procedures will also be covered.


Knowledge and skills necessary to obtain health appraisals and conduct physical fitness assessments for diverse populations. Interpretation of results and application to fitness activities is also emphasized.


Class planning and exercise prescription based on test and appraisal results. Teaching group exercise classes and use of exercise equipment is also emphasized.


Classroom education and practical experience using advanced techniques of conditioning. Includes theory and practice of a variety of conditioning models, exercises, and equipment.


This course examines principles and practices of program planning and implementation, including marketing and promotion strategies. Legal issues related to Exercise Science are discussed. A unit on ethics will also be included.


Introduction to the care and rehabilitation of athletic injuries with emphasis on current methods of athletic training.


Develop an understanding of the principles of motivation, the importance of leadership and communication skills, and the different psychological skills athletes can use to improve performance.


Consent of instructor and chairperson of division required.


Please refer to internship requirements and guidelines in another section of this catalog.