Exercise Science Concentration

The Kinesiology – Exercise Science concentration will prepare individuals for careers in a variety of health and fitness environments, such as personal training, exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, etc. This rigorous on-campus program also prepares students for graduate programs to become sport psychologists, physical therapists, athletic trainers, occupational therapists, clinical exercise physiologists, physician assistants, chiropractors, etc.

The SMWC approach prepares students with compassion through the development of skills and knowledge to be a leader in this broad and growing field. The Exercise Science laboratories have state-of-the-art equipment that will set you apart in your career path, and the small lab experiences allow for developing a deep knowledge base regarding health and fitness.

Specific coursework includes exercise training methods, advanced fitness training, principles of human movement, fitness assessment and programming, sport and exercise physiology, health behaviors and prevention strategies.

Minors of possible interest to students in this major include Myoskeletal Massage Therapy, Psychology, and Business Administration.

The employment demand for exercise science-based careers varies.  Examples of projected increase by 2031, as per the Occupational Outlook Handbook, include:

• Physician’s Assistants 28%
• Massage Therapists 20%
• Fitness Trainers 19%
• Physical Therapists 17%

Concentration curriculum – 24 credit hours