The purpose of the Exercise Science Program at Carroll University is to develop entry-level professionals who can assess, interpret, prescribe, intervene, and manage health and fitness in apparently healthy individuals across the life span and promote positive lifestyle through basic interventions and referrals. The program is also designed to prepare students for appropriate professional organization certification exams and for post-graduate study in exercise science or other health related disciplines such as medicine, physical therapy, and physician assistant.

The exercise science program emphasizes the area’s body of knowledge, research, and practice. Constant reinforcement of content through practical experiences occurs through observations, exposure to clients in academic courses, practicum experiences, and full-time internships.  Graduates are qualified professionals who are liberally educated and possess the foundations for lifelong learning.

Individuals interested in health/fitness management are prepared to provide exercise and general wellness programs to apparently healthy individuals across the life span in safe and effective environments. Those interested in strength and conditioning are prepared  to provide training programs  to improve athletic performance  across the life span. Students are also well prepared for advanced study in either graduate school or a clinical health field. Students who intend to advance into Carroll University's Entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy Program must also satisfy the physical therapy program progression requirements described in the Admission section of this catalog.

To meet the university’s and the exercise science program’s educational mission, a variety of academic and professional disciplines are utilized. The curriculum includes core courses in health sciences, exercise science, and physical education as well as courses in supporting  academic areas such as chemistry and biology.

Learning Outcomes for Exercise Science

Upon completion of the Exercise Science Program, the individual:

1. Will possess the knowledge and skills for physical activity programming and lifestyle modification techniques and be prepared to work in a variety of health and fitness fields.
2. Will be able to collaborate with a variety of health care professionals through consultations  and referrals in a multi-disciplinary approach to wellness.
3. Will be able to think critically to effectively solve problems in a variety of dynamic environments.
4. Will understand the importance and process of becoming life-long learners in order to contribute  to the fields of health and fitness.
5. Will be an effective communicator  among health care providers, fitness pro- fessionals, clients, administrators,  family, and community in the delivery of life- long health and wellness.
6. Will practice with professionalism and integrity in their respective health and fitness field.

Fees

Specific courses that require use of equipment and disposable supplies are assigned a course fee.