Exercise Science

Christopher Harnish, Program Director

A degree in Exercise Science prepares students to be leaders in clinical rehabilitation exercise programs and athletic performance, and job opportunities in public and private fitness centers, corporate wellness, and clinical health and rehabilitation programs. A Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Exercise Science will be prepared for graduate work and employed to conduct exercise programs as part of clinical trials. The Exercise Science major at Mary Baldwin University will prepare students to complete specialist certifications through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN). Students can specialize in tracks in Personal Training, Athlete Coaching and Performance, Strength and Conditioning, or Medical Fitness. Students will study human anatomy and physiology, exercise performance, and movement analysis. They will perform exercise evaluations, develop exercise prescriptions, and teach and lead exercise sessions. Students will show their professional knowledge and skills during an internship. The Exercise Science degree is designed to prepare students for graduate school in the exercise sciences, with only minimal additional coursework to apply for professional graduate work in Athletic Training, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physician Assistant, or Medical School. 

Additional course work is required for those planning to apply to professional graduate programs in Physical Therapy or Athletic Training, which typically require General Physics I (PHYS 201)and General Physics II (PHYS 202). Other courses required for application are included within the major requirements.