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  • Campus: Macomb
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Undergraduate Majors, Minors & Programs of Study

Program: Exercise Science

Program Overview

All students pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science complete the Kinesiology department’s common core of five classes (15 semester hours [sh]):
Anatomy & Physiology I, Motor Behavior, Sport and Exercise Psychology, Physiology of Exercise, and Biomechanics.

Exercise Science majors also complete coursework in the following: Anatomy & Physiology II, Introduction to Physical Wellness, Fitness Activities for the Older Adult and Target Populations, Principles and Leadership of Stress Management Techniques, Leadership of Aerobic Exercise and Resistive Exercise, Exercise Stress Testing, Exercise and Wellness Programming, and Personal Training.

Exercise Science majors also complete a 12 sh internship at a site of their choosing during their last semester before graduation and a minor (16 to 20 sh) in fields such as nutrition, business, or other related areas. Students can also complete a block of classes in the area of strength training that is recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

Why Exercise Science at WIU?

The Department of Kinesiology offers small classes with accessible faculty in Brophy Hall, a modern and well-maintained facility located on the north edge of the campus. Several laboratory facilities provide opportunities for students to apply information presented in class to real-world situations. The Human Performance, Biomechanics, Perceptual Motor, Pedagogy, and Athletic Training Rehabilitation Labs contain state-of-the-art equipment. In addition, Brophy Hall has four electronic classrooms, a general-purpose computer lab, and wireless Internet access. Faculty in the Kinesiology department, together with faculty from the Departments of Health Sciences and Dietetics, Fashion Merchandising, and Hospitality are members of the Bella Hearst Institute for the study of the effect of Type I diabetes on college students.

Graduates in this field have successful careers in the following areas: corporate, public, and private health and fitness professions; education; research; strength and conditioning; cardiac rehabilitation; and personal training. Many graduates go on to complete certification requirements through the American College of Sports Medicine, National Aerobics and Fitness Trainer’s Association, the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and USA Weightlifting.