Exercise Science
Major
Request Information
Overview
The Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation offers the Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. Exercise Science is the study of movement and the associated physiological and functional responses and/or adaptations. Exercise scientists must understand the scientific basis underlying exercise-induced physiological responses. In addition to the core, students complete either a clinical or non-clinical emphasis area as well as an internship and a student research project. While not required, many students also elect to complete a minor.
The goal of the Exercise Science program is to produce top caliber graduates who can contribute to the body of knowledge in the fight against diseases associated with inactivity and/or an unhealthy lifestyle and to conduct groundbreaking student and faculty research for the purpose of educating medical and health professionals on the importance of exercise in the health and well-being of humans. Because exercise science is a field with a multitude of specialties, the Occupational Outlook Handbook, hosted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is a fantastic reference to assist students in making a decision about which career path to examine.
Additional information
- About Degree
- Students Accepted into Professional and/or Graduate Programs
- Department Program Guide
- Career Options
The Applied Physiology Lab (APL) at Pittsburg State University serves as a student- and research-driven educational center dedicated to preparing students in the Exercise Science program to pursue careers as Physical and Occupational Therapists, Physicians, Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Specialists, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists (NSCA-CSCS), Certified Clinical Exercise Specialists (CES) or Certified Personal Trainers (CPT), and/or Master’s or Doctoral Graduate Students. The lab is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for measurements of body composition, maximal oxygen consumption, lung function, lactate threshold, power output, diabetes screening, muscle electrical activity, functional movement, and health and fitness parameters.
Students completing the Exercise Science program at Pittsburg State will be involved in classes that include hands-on learning opportunities that promote and develop important critical thinking skills. The required learning activities relate to the application of exercise physiology in either research, educational, or wellness settings.
Students who complete a major in Exercise Science will have the knowledge and ability to transition into careers such as, but not limited to:
- Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialists (CSCS)
- Certified Clinical Exercise Specialists (CES)
- Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Specialists
- Certified Personal Trainers (CPT)
Because exercise science is field with a multitude of specialties, the Occupational Outlook Handbook, hosted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is a fantastic reference to assist students in making a decision about which career path to examine.
About Health, Human Performance, and Recreation Department
The Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation (HHPR) is located in the new Student Recreation Center. The HHPR faculty possess a wide array of specializations. The department offers undergraduate degree programs in Exercise Science, Recreation Services, Sport and Hospitality Management, and Physical Education, seven minors and certificates in Dance, Coaching, and Hospitality Management, as well as a graduate program in HHPR. Within each of the degree programs, there are emphases/concentration areas from which students select the professional paths that best fit their needs.
Learn more about our program objectives.