The mission of the Undergraduate Exercise Science program is to prepare graduates for employment in an exercise science-related area, and/or to pursue advanced degrees in the exercise sciences or related disciplines by providing an education to students in the foundational knowledge, concepts, and laboratory skills of the exercise sciences. This
program’s focus is on kinesiology and how it relates to physical activity, which includes the study of the anatomical, physiological, biomechanical, psychological, and neurological aspects of movement in humans. The program is also focuses on the students; ability to effectively communicate within the discipline embracing openness and inclusive excellence through innovative strides in teaching practices and community engagement endeavors. Through foundational coursework, and hands-on experiential learning opportunities with community partners, the program supports and is consistent with the University mission of academic excellence. With the provision of practical and laboratory experiences throughout the curriculum in state-of-the-art facilities, students are provided the opportunity to learn innovative techniques in fitness evaluation and research thus enabling students to practice exercise science skills in a variety of settings to serve a diverse population of individuals. Our program and its faculty and students accomplish this through collaboration with community partners and by directly enhancing the quality of life for not only those in our community, but the global population. As educators and providers of allied healthcare services, instilling a strong ethical foundation in our students, informing their interactions with the community, participants, and clients, remains a pillar of our curriculum instructing excellence in cultural competence, compassion, integrity, and empathy with those we serve. Through our commitment to develop thinkers and leaders who serve those around them, our program is dedicated to economic development with the promotion of health and exercise, thus decreasing the global healthcare footprint and increasing the productivity and longevity of those we serve. Along with our community partners, we strive to facilitate community engagement across campuses and develop professionals who optimize the health and wellness of the communities we serve on a global scale. The program is currently going through the process of becoming accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs; Standards and Guidelines for the Accreditation of Educational Programs in Exercise Sciences (CAAHEP CAES, 2017), including competencies in health and fitness assessment, exercise prescription, behavior modification, psychology of physical activity and exercise, and risk management in exercise science disciplines. These foundational competencies are the cornerstones of our program and are the benchmarks for the success of our students.