Exercise Science

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science offers a comprehensive foundation in exercise physiology, kinesiology, nutrition, and related disciplines that inform the study of physical activity, health, and well-being. Integrating classroom instruction with laboratory training, internships, and interactive coursework, the program emphasizes both theory and practice.

Students may pursue concentrations that reflect their professional interests, including allied health, health, and fitness careers. The pre-health professions concentration offers preparation designed for those preparing for graduate study in fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other health-related programs.

Purpose

The purpose of the Exercise Science program is to prepare graduates for advanced study in fields such as occupational therapy and physical therapy, as well as to equip them to design, implement, and teach exercise programs for a diverse population.

Objectives

The B.S. in Exercise Science graduate will:

Apply anatomical and biomechanical knowledge to human movement.
Apply physiological concepts to human movement.
Use a variety of technologies to support inquiry and professional practice.
Understand and apply the principles of fitness assessment and prescription to diverse populations.
Evaluate scientific literature in the discipline, with the ability to understand and synthesize information from the literature and to convey this information in both verbal and written forms.

Requirements for Admission to the Exercise Science Program

All students applying for the BSES degree must meet the required admission standards.

First-year admission to Valparaiso University

Biology, Chemistry, and science with a lab in the senior year
Math senior year
3.000 GPA and above
No grades below C-

Progression

Students must maintain a minimum cumulative and major grade point average of 2.000 to progress in the program. Students must also earn a C- or better in all Exercise Science (XS) and BIO 151 and BIO 152 courses. An XS course may not be repeated more than once. Dismissal from the XS program occurs when a student incurs two infractions. Infractions include: earning a cumulative grade point average that is less than 2.000; earning a major grade point average that is less than 2.000; or earning a grade lower than C- (1.700) in any XS course. Students who are dismissed from the program do have an opportunity to appeal the decision with the College of Nursing and Health Professions Academic Standards Committee.

Students are required to present evidence of a criminal background check and a negative drug screen, and any additional requirements as required by the agency prior to an internship placement or shadowing. Drug screening can be requested randomly. Students should refer to the most recent College of Nursing and Health Professions Undergraduate Academic Guide for complete requirements.

Minor

An Exercise Science student may declare a minor and should speak with their advisor. The minor is noted on the student’s academic record.

Course Intensification

An Exercise Science student may propose a special project to earn one extra credit in an Exercise Science course in which they are enrolled in a given semester. The following regulations pertain to this option for a student.

Student must have an Exercise Science GPA of 2.000 or above.
The course must be offered in the College of Nursing and Health Professions for 3 or more credits.
Student must meet with the academic advisor to determine if course intensification is appropriate. The initiative and responsibility for developing a satisfactory proposal lies with the student.
Student must submit a one-page proposal for the intensification project and the petition online. It will be forwarded to the advisor, the instructor of the course, and the dean for approval.

Transportation

Students are responsible for providing their own transportation to and from all community agency and practicum experiences. Access to a car is necessary for the practicum course.

Association of Aspiring Healthcare Professionals

All Exercise Science students are invited to join this interprofessional association in the College of Nursing and Health Professions.

Return to: College of Nursing and Health Professions