Exercise Science
Exercise Science Program Coordinator, Stephen R. Samuel, Ph.D.
Faculty
Stephen R. Samuel, Ph.D.
The Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science is for those individuals with a passion for exercise and sports. This major will provide classroom, laboratory, and practical hands on experiences for students who are interested in applying scientific principles and research to various aspects of health and human performance. Students who complete the Exercise Science requirements will be prepared for future careers in a variety of areas dependent upon which concentration is pursued.
The Human Performance and Wellness concentration prepares students who desire to enter careers in performance enhancement/management, group fitness instruction, health club management, or health consulting. Students can get national certification as a personal trainer through the National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF) and sit for the exam right here at MVNU or study towards certification as a strength and conditioning coach.
The Pre-Professional concentration will prepare students who are interested in pursuing a graduate program for careers in athletic training, exercise physiology, sports medicine, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and other allied health fields. It is highly recommended that students who desire to enter graduate school have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Students entering the job market with the undergraduate degree in Exercise Science (without further graduate study) will be prepared for entry-level employment with corporate and community fitness programs, fitness clubs, and similar fitness-related industries.
Exercise Science Program Objectives
The courses and curriculum of the Exercise Science programs are designed to achieve the following student outcomes:
- Formulate a paradigm of the human body through the integration of scientific understanding and a biblical, Christian worldview.
- Demonstrate the basic care, prevention, and treatment of athletic injuries and rehabilitation.
- Analyze concepts of sport psychology, personal health, and community health as they relate to complete health and wellness.
- Apply knowledge of the physiological and biomechanical elements of the body that create leverage and movement.
- Investigate issues in exercise science, physiology of exercise, and fitness assessment.