Exercise Science, Bachelor of Science
Students interested in becoming a personal or athletic trainer or a physical therapist should consider majoring in exercise science. The exercise science curriculum combines coursework in both the basic sciences and exercise sciences, along with real-world internships to ensure our students are prepared to excel in a variety of professional health and fitness settings. This program provides students with a solid academic foundation and is structured in a way that students have the opportunity to develop the skills and abilities that are critical in the growing fields of health, fitness, medicine, athletic training and physical and occupational rehabilitation. Students will gain a deeper understanding of anatomy, physiology, mechanics, and exercise with GU's hand-on teaching and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's (SIUE) state-of-the-art lab technology.
The exercise science major requires the completion of 52 credits, six of which will be completed at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. During the 2019-2020 academic year, students completing the exercise science major will complete BIOL 105 Health and Nutrition to fulfill the PHED 102 Wellness: Physical Fitness general education requirement. The exercise science major leads to a bachelor of science degree.
Exercise Science Major Requirements
Core Courses
Physical Therapy and Athletic Training
Exercise Science majors who are planning to attend graduate school for physical therapy or athletic training should consider taking the following courses. Each graduate school program has slightly different course prerequisites, so each student should inquire with the graduate school of their choice to determine which courses should be completed at the baccalaureate level.
In addition to the major requirements listed above, students will need to complete a general education curriculum and elective courses to earn 120 credits which is mandatory for earning a Greenville University degree. Details about the general education curriculum can be found in the Academic Information section of this catalog. Some general education requirements are met through required major courses which reduces the number of required general education credits. Students should work closely with their advisor to put together an academic plan to make sure all degree requirements are met in a timely manner.
The outcomes for this program can be found on the Greenville University Institutional Assessment webpage.