Program Description

As an SPU Exercise Science major, you examine the health and fitness benefits of physical activity and exercise, including injury rehabilitation, using science-based methods. This approach combines classroom learning, laboratory work, a research based senior project, and an internship in a professional setting.

An Exercise Science degree provides a strong academic foundation for careers in fields such as exercise science, personal training, physical therapy, occupational therapy, return to sport specialist, chiropractic care and many other health-related professions.

Entering and Completing the Major

In order to earn a degree, you must complete at least one academic major. SPU encourages students to explore various academic paths, so if you change your mind about a major, or want to include an additional program, you are able to do so, as outlined below.

Note that the University encourages you to enter your chosen major(s) as soon as you have determined it and are eligible to join it, especially by the start of your junior year. Students who transfer as juniors and seniors should enter a major within their first two quarters at SPU.

• If this is your first quarter at SPU and you identified a major in this department as your first choice on your application for admission to the University, you have gained entry to the major. To change or add a major, follow these instructions.
• If you are an SPU student with an SPU cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better, follow these instructions to enter a major in this department.
• The University requires a grade of C- or better in all classes that apply to a major; however, programs may require higher minimum grades in specific courses. You may repeat an SPU course only once for a higher grade.
• To advance in this program, meet with your faculty advisor regularly to discuss your grades, course progression, and other indicators of satisfactory academic progress. If your grades or other factors indicate that you may not be able to successfully complete the major or minor, your faculty advisor can work with you to explore options, which may include choosing a different major.
• You must complete the major requirements that are in effect in the SPU Undergraduate Catalog for the year you enter the major.

Exercise Science (BS)

80 Credits Minimum, Including 35 Upper Division (UD)

¹

Take CHM 1211 & 1330 if planning to study Physical Therapy

²

HHP 4899 Senior Capstone must be repeated until you have reached 5 credits.

Suggested Course Sequence

Below is the traditional 4-year Exercise Science degree pathway.

Notes

• You need to add an elective for 3 credits.
• You need to add MAT 2360 Introduction to Statistics for the Sciences (Statistics) = WKQR requirement.
• CHM 1211 General Chemistry I & CHM 1330 Survey of Organic Chemistry are for PT/OT students (requirements for grad school).
• CHM 1310 Survey of General Chemistry & CHM 1360 Survey of Biological Chemistry are for Exercise Science students.
• HHP 1109 Weight Training highly recommended for Freshman / Sophomore year Fall.
• Make sure you take all the prerequisites for each class.