Exercise Science
Department - Mission Statement
The Exercise
Science department aims to meet the needs of our graduates to function more
efficiently as professionals in our discipline and to compete more favorably in
today’s job market by providing students with a variety of opportunities
to develop a scientific knowledge base, engage in practical experiences, and
learn, develop and master social and leadership skills. Students
acquiring this knowledge will be prepared to pursue unlimited opportunities
through occupations such as teaching, coaching, athletic training, as well as
other recreational, wellness, and fitness careers. The department also
endeavors to provide the students of
Objectives:
1. The professional preparation of skilled teachers of human movement and exercise forms as well as qualified persons in the allied areas of coaching, athletic training, and the field of fitness.
2. A meaningful program (individual, dual, and team activities) stressing the lifetime value of activity for all students.
3. Practical extracurricular experiences in health, fitness, exercise, and athletic training.
4. Professional leadership for the intramural, recreational, and fitness activities of the students.
Relationship of Exercise Science Goals to Four College-Wide Goals:
1. Learning as Inquiry: Exercise Science students participate in the capstone course, Senior Research Seminar, which involves them in active discussions of topical problems and issues in the discipline. They are also required to complete and present professional research that demonstrates mastery of the knowledge and activities required in their professional preparation program.
2. Critical Thinking as Problem Solving: This is an important component of our science (research methodology) focus. A basic principle underlying many of our professional preparation courses involves the utilization of problem solving models for effective decision making and planning. In a variety of practical experiences, students are able to apply problem solving techniques to real-world circumstances.
3. Communication as Intellectual Contribution: Effective written, oral, and non-verbal communication is essential to the leadership positions for which we prepare our students. Students study communication theory throughout the curriculum and continually demonstrate their abilities in practical experiences, culminating with the presentation of their senior research in a written paper, oral presentation, and professional poster presentation.
4. Action as Responsible
Application of Academic Learning: Exercise Science students are given
numerous opportunities to apply their professional preparation in practical
settings within the community. Students are required to gain practical
experiences in the local schools and within the community through observation
assignments in a variety of classes. The department maintains a
volunteer/part time employment directory of 30+ area service organizations
offering Exercise Science majors "hands on" experiences as
undergraduate students. Students in various concentrations are also
required to participate in student teaching, NATA internships (1500 supervised
hours), and Fitness and Leisure internships.
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