B.S. in Exercise Science
prepare for a diverse career in health and fitness
With an increasing focus on health and wellness within our society, there is a demand
for qualified professionals to help those who seek to improve their quality of life.
Exercise Science will teach you not only the science behind how the body works, but more importantly how to apply that science to help you make a difference in someone's life.
Career opportunities are personal training, physical therapist, strength and conditioning and various other roles in the health and wellness industry.
Why Earn Your B.S. in Exercise Science?
Majoring in exercise science is designed for those who are looking to get into the health science field. Students who are looking to get into the career field of personal training, strength and conditioning, physical therapy or occupational therapy may find the exercise science degree the perfect fit. A degree in Exercise Science will help student propel themselves in either employment upon graduation or prepared for graduate studies in a variety of health-related fields.
About the Program
With an increasing focus on health and wellness within our society, there is a demand for qualified professionals to help those who seek to improve their quality of life.
Exercise Science will teach you not only the science behind how the body works, but more importantly how to apply that science to help you make a difference in someone's life.
Career opportunities are personal training, physical therapist, strength and conditioning and various other roles in the health and wellness industry.
Students majoring in Exercise Science will have access to the Human Performance Lab located in Saint Xavier's Center for Health and Wellness. This lab is dedicated to bringing our students the most up-to-date exercise and sport science technology, including:
- Full Weight Room
- GPS Tracking Technology
- Portable Force Plates
- Velocity-Based Technology
- In-Body Body Composition System
- Boothtooth VO2 Analysis System
- FMS
- VALD Performance Technologies, including Dynamometer, Jump Mat, and Laser Timing Gate System
- Dashr Laser System, and more.
- Students will get practical experience with the latest technology used within exercise science fields
- Courses throughout the 4-years will involve practical labs that help the student understand the material
- Students will have a chance to work as a personal trainer within the Center for Health and Wellness as a student worker to get real-life experience
- Students will take the senior seminar course that encompasses their 4-years of work as an undergraduate
In this program, students will obtain:
1. Foundational Knowledge in Exercise Science
- Outcome: Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles related to human physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, and the effects of nutrition in sports.
- Assessment: Success in core coursework, including exams, lab reports, and research papers.
- EXSC Courses: 130, 200, 201, 203, 275, 295, 319
2. Application of Exercise Science Principles
- Outcome: Apply principles of exercise science to design, implement, and assess individualized exercise programs for diverse populations (e.g., healthy adults, athletes, individuals with chronic conditions).
- Assessment: Practical assessments, including case studies, client assessments, and exercise program design projects.
- EXSC Courses: 130, 203, 366, 385
3. Health and Wellness Promotion
- Outcome: Analyze and promote physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle, with an understanding of the role of exercise in disease prevention, rehabilitation, and overall health.
- Assessment: Health promotion campaigns, community outreach projects, and wellness plan designs.
- EXSC Courses: 112, 130
4. Research Literacy and Critical Thinking
- Outcome: Critically analyze and apply research findings in exercise science to support evidence-based practice.
- Assessment: Literature reviews, research projects, presentations, and participation in research seminars.
- EXSC Courses: 203, 275, 295, 327, 366, 385
5. Professional Communication Skills
- Outcome: Effectively communicate scientific concepts, exercise prescriptions, and health recommendations to both lay and professional audiences.
- Assessment: Oral presentations, written reports, and professional interaction during internships or practicums.
- EXSC Courses: 295, 327, 366, 380, 390
6. Ethical and Professional Standards
- Outcome: Demonstrate knowledge of ethical issues in exercise science, including client confidentiality, informed consent, and professional conduct in various practice settings.
- Assessment: Case study analyses, ethics seminars, and supervisor evaluations during internships or practicums.
- EXSC Courses: 366, 380, 390
7. Assessment and Measurement Techniques
- Outcome: Utilize appropriate fitness assessment tools and protocols to evaluate physical fitness, movement patterns, and health status in a variety of populations.
- Assessment: Practical exams, fitness assessment projects, and competency evaluations in lab settings.
- EXSC Courses: 130, 203, 210, 275, 295, 327, 366
8. Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation
- Outcome: Demonstrate an understanding of injury prevention strategies and rehabilitation protocols, particularly concerning physical activity and sport.
- Assessment: Injury prevention plans, rehabilitation program designs, and practical exams with simulated patients.
- EXSC Courses: 120, 130, 210, 327, 366, 385, 380
Why should prospective students choose SXU for their degree?
- Knowledge in anatomy, biomechanics and exercise physiology
- Nutrition and exercise programming
- Basic expertise of human movement and the physiology of specific exercises and activities
- Understanding of kinesiology concepts through effective analyses
- Proficiency in diverse populations, a professional attitude and ethical behavior
Program Requirements
For more information, please review the program requirements and course descriptions in the SXU Academic Catalog.
Request Information
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Contact the Office of Admission
- 773-298-3050
- Toll Free: 844-GOTO-SXU (844-468-6798)
- Fax: 773-298-3076
- Email: admissionFREESXU
- M-F: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Student testimonials
"SXU is a great place for students to thrive athletically and academically. I loved SXU’s atmosphere and being part of the football team, and the friendships I made will last a lifetime. My exercise science professors did a great job of mentoring students and making class enjoyable"
Meet the Faculty
Joe Eisenmann
Associate Professor
Phone: 773-298-3625
Email: eisenmann@sxu.edu
Jatrele Irons
Field Experience Coordinator
Phone: 773-298-3626
Email: irons@sxu.edu
Eric Krasich
Lecturer
Phone: 773-298-3628
Email: krasich@sxu.edu
Anne Kuziela
Program Manager
Phone: 773-298-3813
Email: eastmankuziela@sxu.edu
Brad Leshinske
Divisional Director
Phone: 773-298-3720
Email: leshinske@sxu.edu