Exercise Science Major

Increased participation in competitive sport, along with booming interest in the development of elite athletes, has promoted new realms of professional expertise based in exercise science. The exercise science program offers a comprehensive curriculum in the study of human movement to help prepare students for a broad range of careers in the health and wellness field; as well as graduate study in allied health and medical fields such as physical therapy, cardiac rehabilitation, physician assistant or medicine.

In this major, students develop theoretical knowledge in academic areas that include exercise physiology, biomechanics, exercise and sports psychology, motor control, and sports nutrition. Students expand upon this theoretical knowledge through practical experiences in exercise testing and prescription, strength and conditioning, advanced exercise physiology, independent study in applied research and clinical internships. Degree requirements and course descriptions can be found in the Undergraduate Catalog.

Career Options

Exercise science majors can choose from a range of career paths in a variety of settings:

• Non-clinical exercise science professionals who promote healthy lifestyles may choose to work in private fitness clubs, community organizations, and employee fitness and wellness programs.
• Strength and conditioning coaches are often hired by professional athletic teams, by intercollegiate athletic programs, or by private fitness facilities that offer general and sport-specific conditioning programs.
• Clinical exercise professionals often offer medically-supervised exercise programs for chronic diseases such as heart and lung diseases or cancer in all types of health care settings.
• Professionals focused on helping senior citizens may work in community exercise facilities or nursing homes in positions comparable to clinical exercise settings.

Professional Certification

When you complete the program, you are encouraged to seek professional certification through the American College of Sports Medicine or the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

WHY TOWSON University?

Internships

Students have the opportunity to gain practical work experience, learn new skills, and develop professional contacts through internships. The internship must be completed under the direction of a worksite supervisor and must be approved by the Department of Kinesiology’s Exercise Science Internship Coordinator. 

For more information about an internship in Exercise Science, please click on this link:  Career & Internship Support

First-rate Faculty

More than 80-percent of undergraduate classes are taught by full-time faculty, who also have years of experience in the field. Your professors will encourage you to participate in internships and provide direct supervision and guidance.