Exercise Science

Mission

The mission of the Department of Exercise Science is to educate students, conduct research, and provide public service related to the scientific aspects of physical activity. The Department is dedicated to studying and developing new knowledge related to physical activity in its many forms, including exercise for improvement of health and physical fitness, activities of daily living, work, sport, dance, and play in a variety of groups, including special populations such children and the elderly; persons with disability, injury or disease; and athletes. The causes and consequences of physical activity are examined from different perspectives that apply knowledge, methods of inquiry, and principles from traditional areas of study in the biological, behavioral and physical sciences. These areas include exercise and sport biomechanics, physiology, psychology; measurement; and sports medicine. An interdisciplinary approach involving several of these areas is often used in addressing problems of importance to society. Students in the Department are prepared for a variety of careers involving teaching, research, and delivery of services related to physical activity and fitness, health promotion, coaching, and rehabilitation and sports medicine in a variety of settings including schools, colleges and universities, public and private agencies, clinical environments, government, business and the military.