Undergraduate Programs

Exercise Science

Exercise Science Fundamentals

Participation in recreational sports is at an all-time high as the general population seeks the positive effects sports and exercise has on their health and well being.

  • Exercise Science track prepares you to work in:
    • clinical fitness centers
    • rehabilitation programs
  • All students majoring in exercise science must choose an area of concentration in:
    • physiological sciences
    • sport management
    • pre-physical therapy
    • sport coaching/strength coaching

Professional Preparation

  • Affords students the opportunity to pursue a variety of employment opportunities to within the exercise science field.
  • Students will receive the skills and clinical proficiencies required to successfully sit for the certification examinations of the American College of Sports Medicine.

Our Faculty

  • are innovative and interactive
  • use multimedia technology to enhance classroom learning
  • are active in current research and national organizations

Learn more about this and related programs.


Akron Advantage

Hands-on Research

The Department of Sport Science and Wellness Education offers a variety of resources for its students, including:

  • state-of-the-art laboratory and equipment required for knowledge base
  • opportunities to aid faculty in a variety of research projects
  • mentoring experiences with area athletic health care Tech Prep students in small research projects

Real World Experience

  • Required practicum experience for each student, minimum of 120 hours
  • Service learning built into coursework

Education Student Organizations

  • SESC (Sport and Exercise Science Club) offers a chance for students to network and build resume experience.

Sample Curriculum

Bachelor of Science Degree in Exercise Science

First Year    Third Year   
English Composition I, II   Humanities Requirements
6
Introduction to Public Speaking or
Effective Oral Communications  
Exercise Leadership
Human Anatomy/Physiology I, II, Labs   8
Area Studies/Cultural Diversity Requirement
Mathematics requirement   Concentration Courses
6
Introduction to Sociology   Nutrition  for Sports
Introduction to Psychology 
3 Physiology of Exercise  
Stress Management 
Musculoskeletal Anatomy I, II  
First Aid and CPR for the Professional Rescuer 2
Exercise and Special Populations
Total 33
Total
34
 
 
 
Second Year   Fourth Year 
 
Natural science requirement
1
Exercise Prescription 3
Kinesiology
3
Organization and Administration for
Health Care Professionals
Concepts of Motor Learning and
Development  
3 Sport Science and Wellness Education Elective 
Adapted Physical Education 
Concentration courses
12
Care/Prevent of Athletic Injuries
3
Exercise Testing   
Concepts of Health and Fitness 
Diagnosis of Motor Skills
3
Health Promotion and Behavior Change 
3
Practicum
4-9
Medical Terminology 3
Exercise and Weight Control
Measurement and Evaluation in Physical Education 3
Total 
34-39
Nutrition Fundamentals
 
Humanities in Western Tradition I 4
   
Total  32
   

 

For More Information:

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Career Opportunities

Degrees and Preparation

A bachelor's degree in exercise science paves the way to a variety of career opportunities to
direct and oversee health-related activities. Career options include, but are not limited to, personal trainer, group exercise instructor, employee fitness director, exercise specialist, strength and conditioning coach, biomechanist and cardiac rehabilitation specialist.

  • Exercise Science graduates are employed in:
    • Community centers
    • fitness centers
    • businesses and corporations
    • sales
  • Exercise Science meets prerequisites for many graduate programs, such as:
    • physical therapy
    • occupational therapy
    • physicians assistant
    • chiropractic school

Career Outlook

Job growth will continue within the health and fitness field as demand grows for well-trained individuals who can work in the field of preventative health. In addition, companies continue to realize the benefits of better health and well-being of their employees.

Center for Career Management

Creates links among students, alumni and local professionals. You will have access to:

  • Career Resource Library
  • co-op/internships through Career Advantage Network
  • computer stations for resume writing and employment research
  • UA Career Fairs 

The University of Akron

302 Buchtel Common. Akron, OH 44325
Phone: 330-972-7111
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