Exercise Science
Why Exercise Science at Valpo?
Grounded in practical application, we radiate expertise. Valpo’s bachelor of science in exercise science takes shape in a detailed understanding of the physiological response to exercise. Our exercise science students grow to become experts in the behavioral, nutritional, physiological, psychological, and functional adaptations of movement and athletic performance.
This STEM-designated program combines top-tier academics with active learning experiences to prepare graduates to pursue advanced degrees in fields like occupational therapy and physical therapy, as well as to design, implement, and teach exercise programs for diverse populations. You’ll learn the ins and outs of biomechanics, human physiology, kinesiology, rehabilitation, sports nutrition, and more – everything you need to shine as a servant leader and help others grow into the healthiest versions of themselves.
Exercise Science Highlights
2 Complementary Concentrations
All Valpo exercise science students can choose between two concentrations to enhance their studies and prepare them for their dream careers: pre-health professions and fitness and human performance.
Certification Preparation
Our curriculum prepares students to attain essential certifications upon graduation or during their final year of coursework, including certified personal trainer (CPT), certified strength and conditioning coach, certified exercise physiologist, and sports nutrition specialist certifications.
Collaborative Workspaces
Our exercise science program is grounded in real-world learning, with specialized equipment and focus-specific software.
Exercise Science Major Requirements
Students transferring into Valpo’s exercise science program will work with a dedicated professional advisor to find resources, ask for advice, and benefit from a mentorship based on their needs.
Infused with our universal arts core, Valpo exercise science hits the ground running. Students start their Valparaiso University Experience (VUE) year one, expanding their knowledge of exercise science through critical thinking, cultural awareness, and empathy. Through these foundational courses, exercise science majors master the collaborative and communicative skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving field.
Our bachelor of science in exercise science is designed to provide students a strong foundation in exercise physiology, kinesiology, nutrition, and other key areas essential for careers focused in physical activity, health, and overall well-being. With a strong emphasis on practical application, students learn through intensive labs, internships, and engaging discussions.
Paired with one of our concentrations, our exercise science curriculum springboards graduates into successful careers in allied health, health, and fitness professions. Our pre-health professions concentration also helps prepare students to apply for future graduate programs.
| Exercise Science Courses: 37 Credits | ||
|---|---|---|
| XS 151 | Introduction to Exercise Science | Cr. 1 |
| XS 250 | Medical Terminology | Cr. 3 |
| XS 277 | Physiology of Exercise | Cr. 3 |
| XS 340 | Motor Learning | Cr. 3 |
| XS 370 | Kinesiology | Cr. 3 |
| XS 372 | Biomechanics of Sport & Exercise | Cr. 3 |
| XS 387 | Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription | Cr. 3 |
| XS 415 | Research Methods in Exercise Science | Cr. 3 |
| XS 450 | Certified Personal Training | Cr. 3 |
| XS 477 | Advanced Physiology of Exercise | Cr. 3 |
| HS 203 | Human Health and Disease | Cr. 3 |
| HS 440 | Exercise and Chronic Health Conditions | Cr. 3 |
| SMGT 310 | Psychology of Sport | Cr. 3 |
| One of the Following Concentrations: | ||
| Fitness and Human Performance: 26 Credits | ||
| XS 192 | Care and Prevention of Sport Injuries | Cr. 1 |
| XS 478 | Sport Nutrition | Cr. 3 |
| XS 479 | Principles of Strength and Conditioning | Cr. 3 |
| XS 486 | Internship for Exercise Science | Cr. 3 |
| CHEM 111 | Introduction to Chemistry | Cr. 4 |
| CHEM 111L | Intro to Chemistry Lab | Cr. 0 |
| 12 Credits of Open Electives, or a Healthcare Leadership Minor or Public Health Minor | ||
| Pre-Health Professions: 27 Credits | ||
| BIO 171 | Unity of Life | Cr. 4 |
| BIO 171L | Unity of Life Lab | Cr. 0 |
| BIO 172 | Diversity of Life | Cr. 4 |
| BIO 172L | Diversity of Life Lab | Cr. 0 |
| CHEM 121 | General Chemistry I | Cr. 4 |
| CHEM 121L | General Chemistry I Lab | Cr. 0 |
| CHEM 122 | General Chemistry II | Cr. 4 |
| CHEM 122L | General Chemistry II Lab | Cr. 0 |
| PHYS 111 | Essentials of Physics | Cr. 3 |
| PHYS 141L or 151L | Cr. 1 | |
| PHYS 112 | Essentials of Physics | Cr. 3 |
| PHYS 112L | Essentials of Physics Laboratory | Cr. 1 |
| PSY 235 | Abnormal Psychology | Cr. 3 |
| Arts and Sciences: 61 Credits | ||
| VUE 101 | Valparaiso University Experience: Exploring Values | Cr. 4 |
| VUE 102 | Valparaiso University Experience: Finding Your Voice | Cr. 4 |
| REL 100 | The Christian Tradition | Cr. 3 |
| BIO 151 | Human Anatomy and Physiology I | Cr. 4 |
| BIO 151L | Human Anatomy and Physiology Lab I | Cr. 0 |
| BIO 152 | Human Anatomy and Physiology II | Cr. 4 |
| BIO 152L | Human Anatomy and Physiology Lab II | Cr. 0 |
| BIO 210 | Microbiology | Cr. 4 |
| BIO 210L | Microbiology Lab | Cr. 0 |
| BIO 260 | Human Nutrition | Cr. 3 |
| PSY 110 | General Psychology | Cr. 3 |
| PSY 201 | Statistical Methods | Cr. 3 |
| PSY 215 | Life Span Development | Cr. 3 |
| MATH 124 | Finite Mathematics | Cr. 4 OR |
| MATH 131 | Calculus I | Cr. 4 |
| Writing Intensive Course: 3 Credits | ||
| Upper Level Religious Studies: 3 Credits | ||
| Cultural Diversity: 3 Credits | ||
| Social Sciences: 6 Credits | ||
| SOC 110 | Introduction to Sociology | Cr. 3 |
| One Additional Social Sciences Course | Cr. 3 | |
| Exercise Science: 1 Credit | ||
| XS 101 | Wellness and Stress | Cr. 1 |
| Humanities Electives: 6 Credits | ||
Exercise Science Career Outcomes
A 2023 report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects careers in exercise physiology to grow by 10% through 2033 – faster than the average! While at Valpo, students will gain hands-on experience through internships at corporate wellness programs, medical fitness centers, sports performance facilities, and others. Our recent seniors have served as interns for local institutions like Jacob’s Ladder Pediatric Rehabilitation Center, Opportunity Enterprises, Inc., Athletico Physical Therapy, and local schools and YMCAs.
Careers in Exercise Science:
- Cardiac rehabilitation specialist
- Community health educator
- Exercise physiologist
- Exercise specialist
- Group fitness instructor
- Health and wellness coach
- Nutrition and wellness consultant
- Personal trainer
- Sports performance specialist
- Strength and conditioning coach
Paired with the pre-health professions concentration, our program prepares exercise science students to apply for graduate programs that lead to careers in athletic training, chiropractic medicine, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and more.
Student Success
